Last week, on the 8th of January 2026, PROTON launched the 2026 PROTON X70. This is the brand's flagship C-Segment SUV and it comes with improvements, most notably is the new 4 cylinder 1.5liter turbocharged petrol engine over the previous 3 cylinder 1.5liter engine which is technically a smoother engine overall . According to Proton, the 2026 X70 aside from the engine, has enhancements in comfort and convienience too, and has been developed by strengthening the areas that matter most throughout the ownership period and also finely tuned after considering customers’ feedback.
Since its launch in 2018, the PROTON X70 which was the first ever Geely based model sold as a Proton, is based on the Geely Boyue platform. The Boyue and the X70 has sold over 2 million of units sold worldwide and the model’s success here has been anchored on reliability, comfort and value. With this new improved model, it should carry on its path of success as as that new engine, with its improved performance characteristics should make it an even better drive.
As stated above, the main change is the engine. The 2026 Proton X70 now features a petrol powered i-GT 4-cylinder 1.5TD (turbocharged direct injection) engine. It is front wheel driven and is paired to a 7-Speed Dual Clutch Transmission. The engine makes 181 PS and 290 Nm, which is up from the 177ps and 255Nm torque from the 3 cylinder engine. Inherently smoother than a 3 cylinder engine, the new 4 cylinder engine should give improved refinement (especially on the higher end of the rev range) and with the extra performance, should give the X70 improved fuel efficiency due to better power to weight ratio. This is the same engine in the new 2025 onwards Proton X50, and having driven that model, the engine feels smooth and torquey enough for Malaysian roads. It should work better in this heavier X70 and will report to you guys if and when I have a chance in this SUV.
With its finely tuned chassis, suspension calibration and ride and handling expertise (which has been done to suit the weight and balance after putting in the new engine, the X70 should offer confident road manners and a composed driving experience across both urban environments and at highway speeds
The engine change is the biggest and most important change for the X70. The extra performance will make it more fuel efficient and a little bit better to drive. Most of the changes you see in this SUV is to the engine and the suspension so that it copes with the new engine weight up front. This has slowly made the X70 gain back some lost performance which is had when it was first launched in 2018 with a 1.8liter engine. That model has 185ps and 277Nm torque going through a 6 speed torque convertor gearbox. So now, we get close to that performance - slightly less ps but more torque, which is a good balance versus the 1.5liter 3cylinder which was around since 2020 till now. So, this new model could be the best of both worlds.
According to Proton, the 2026 PROTON X70 has been developed around three core pillars that define its appeal to practical, value-driven families.
Comfort & Convenience – Refined for Everyday Use
Comfort has been further enhanced through improvements in ride quality and cabin refinement. Leveraging PROTON’s ride and handling expertise, the 2026 PROTON X70 delivers a smooth, composed and confident driving experience across both urban and highway conditions. Improved Noise, Vibration and Harshness (NVH) refinement contributes to a quieter cabin, while the spacious interior ensures comfort for families during daily commutes and longer journeys.
In-car convenience is supported by a 12.3-inch infotainment head unit with wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM, complemented by the “Hi PROTON” voice command system for intuitive and seamless operation. This has been seen firstly during the launch of the 2024 major facelift. You can find the video review of that car here- This time around, I happened to be a little bit busy and wasn't able to attend the preview of this new X70.
Cost – Smart Value Without Compromise
The 2026 PROTON X70 delivers smart value through a balanced combination of efficiency, durability and lower long-term ownership costs. With fuel consumption rated at 6.9L/100km, the 4-Cylinder engine provides everyday efficiency without compromising performance. The use of a timing chain further enhances durability and reduces maintenance requirements over time, contributing to lower ownership costs and reinforcing the X70’s value-driven proposition in the C-Segment SUV category.
Care – Confidence and Peace of Mind
Safety remains a key focus for the 2026 PROTON X70, which is equipped with Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) Level 2 comprising 13 safety features. This comprehensive suite of driver assistance technologies provides enhanced situational awareness and support through features such as Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Lane Keep Assist (LKA) and Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), among others.
Combined with PROTON’s nationwide aftersales network of 172 authorised 3S and 4S outlets, supported by strong spare parts availability, the X70 is designed to offer peace of mind not only on the road, but throughout ownership.
“The 2026 PROTON X70 reflects PROTON’s commitment to continuous refinement and delivering what our customers truly value,” said Dato’ Ir Rashid, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON. “Rather than chasing trends, we have focused on strengthening performance, comfort, cost and care — ensuring the X70 remains a dependable SUV that families can trust and own with confidence over the entire ownership period.”
Early Bird offers - Unmatched Confidence and Convenience with Exclusive Launch Benefits
The 2026 PROTON X70 is available in four elegant exterior colours – Snow White, Armour Silver, Jet Grey, and Marine Blue – each designed to complement the modern SUV lifestyle.
Every purchase of the 2026 PROTON X70 comes with a comprehensive Standard Package designed to deliver confidence and connectivity from day one. This includes Pro-Warranty*, offering a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and six times free labour service, alongside Pro-Connect*, which provides a 5-year data package with 2GB per month, enabling seamless access to connected features throughout ownership.
In addition, Pro-Finance* is available to all customers, offering financing options of up to 9 years, with interest rates starting from 2.2% per annum.
To further elevate the ownership experience, PROTON is offering a Special Launch Package for the first 1,500 customers who register their 2026 PROTON X70 by 31 March 2026. Eligible customers can enjoy Pro-Trade-In*, with overtrade support of up to RM2,000 when trading in their existing vehicles.
They may also opt for the PROTON Insurance Programme, Pro-Shield*, which provides upgraded protection including Special Perils coverage, enhanced flood relief coverage of up to RM2,000, and passenger personal accident coverage of up to RM15,000 per person up to 4 passengers. These come on top of the existing insurance benefits such as betterment waiver up to 10 years, agreed-value protection, all-driver coverage, key replacement, personal accident coverage for policyholder, and 24-hour roadside assistance.
In addition, eligible customers will receive a RM7,000 rebate, together with an Accessories Package worth RM700 comprising a boot tray, sunshade, and door visors.
As part of its ongoing efforts to improve the ownership experience, PROTON is enhancing its after-sales support and service standards. For the 2026 PROTON X70, Fast Service* is available for basic service intervals when customers schedule their visit in advance and choose to remain on-site while their vehicle is being serviced.
In addition, PROTON is introducing 1-Day Service Delivery*, where vehicles will be returned within 24 hours whether customers walk in or book ahead. For situations where repairs require more than three working days*, PROTON service outlets will provide a relief car and a one-time free service (including service parts and labour), ensuring minimal inconvenience and reinforcing PROTON’s commitment to support owners throughout their ownership journey.
On-the-road prices without insurance:
Variant / Peninsular Malaysia ./ East Malaysia
1.5TD Executive / RM106,800 / RM108,800
1.5TD Premium / RM119,800 / RM121,800
The prices after rebate* are:
Variant Peninsular Malaysia East Malaysia
1.5TD Executive RM99,800 / RM101,800
1.5TD Premium RM112,800 / RM114,800
*Registration before 31st March 2026
To learn more or to place a booking for the 2026 PROTON X70, visit any PROTON authorised outlet nationwide. Don’t forget to follow Proton Cars Official on all major social media platforms for the latest updates, promotions, and exciting activities related to the 2026 PROTON X70.
*Terms and Conditions apply
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