Wednesday, March 11, 2026

2026 Proton X90 launched - Loses the hybrid system and ADAS 2 systems but gains the new 4 cylinder turbocharged 1.5l petrol and a lower price tag for all variants

So, PROTON just launched the 2026 Proton X90 full sized, three row SUV which now has Proton's Geely based 4 cylinder 1.5liter turbocharged petrol engine. The large SUV has now lost its 48v mild hybrid powertrain and the 3 cylinder 1.5liter turbocharged petrol engine with the earlier mentioned new engine. It keeps things simpler, but aside from that, the whole X90 is a simpler car, as the full Advance Driver Safety Suite has been removed. 



So no more lane keep assist, rear cross traffic alert, no adaptive cruise control (with a normal cruise control still available) and no blind spot warnings also. But the new price for the SUV is so much more affordable. It officially starts at     RM106,800 for the base X90 Lite and onwards to RM 122,800 for the flagship Prime X variant. Undercutting RM20,000 for most variants thereabouts.HOWEVER, there are early bird offers that bring the price even lower. Read the press release below for the details.


However, other additions include Apple CarPlay and Android Auto as standard for the infotainment system and there are also roof rails that actually have load bearing capability - 75kg for cargo can be carried on them which means you can mount something like a THULE roof box or even mount roof racks for bicycles. So you can actually carry 6 or 7 people with space for a lot of luggage on the roof if the space with all seats are utilised. 

Aside from that, we also note that all three variants now come with 18 inch wheels and tyres rather than 19inch for the top specified variant. The entry level Lite also gets PU leather rather than fabric so it makes the cabin look a little more luxurious. Small touches here and there aside from the large omissions in order to keep the price down. 


The main change is the engine. The 1.5liter petrol engine is now a 4 cylinder rather than a 3 cylinder engine. While the power output is close, with the new engine making 181ps and 290Nm, the older hybrid 48b setup made 190hp and 300Nm from the dual motor/engine setup. Proton claims the new engine is paired to the same front wheel driven 7 speed DCT dual clutch transmission but the gear ratios are now changed to suit the car even more. They also claim better fuel economy from the drivetrain - 6.9km/100km. This could be achievable as the X90 could have also benefited from the reduced weight from having a normal one engine setup over a hybrid setup which requires a ICE and an electric motor/battery setup. But a test drive in the real world would answer that question honestly. 

I personally think that this is a good move as keeping the drivetrain basic to just one engine and the omission of ADAS 2 systems actually allowed Proton to keep the price right. I have heard that inclusion of ADAS systems is actually up to RM20K addition to the price of a car in some cases. This is not cost price but more of what industry observers have told me what the perceived value of that systems add up to a car. So maybe just 6 airbags and a surround camera (which can be doubled as a blind spot alert if you use to manoeuvre in lane changes) are sensible options given as standard.

This RM100K pricing actually allows Malaysian to buy a full sized D segment SUV at a very affordable price. This is much cheaper than any Mitsubishi Xpander or super value for money if you buy this over a RM75K Perodua Alza, which is good, but compared to the size of the X90, is lacking. 

Maybe for some, space for mom and dad, and space for 5 kids is important and this X90 gives it to you in spades.

PRESS RELEASE IS BELOW. 



PROTON INTRODUCES THE 2026 PROTON X90 – MALAYSIA’S NO.1 7-SEATER D-
SEGMENT SUV WITH A NEW POWERTRAIN.

- A True 7-Seater Comfort SUV built to deliver space, comfort and practicality for more
Malaysian families.

Subang Jaya, 11 March 2026 – PROTON today unveiled the 2026 PROTON X90, the latest evolution of the model, now enhanced with a new powertrain that further strengthens its performance and driving
confidence. Since its introduction in 2023, the PROTON X90 has achieved strong market acceptance with more than 10,000 units delivered nationwide, becoming a preferred choice for Malaysian families seeking a spacious and capable seven-seater SUV.

With the latest update, the PROTON X90 continues to build on its strengths of space, comfort and practicality while delivering a more refined driving experience for everyday journeys and long-distance travel.

Built on T.R.U.E: The Four Pillars of the 2026 PROTON X90
The PROTON X90 is built on T.R.U.E pillars, representing the key attributes that define its performance, space, comfort and everyday assurance.


T – Turbocharged Confidence
At the heart of the 2026 PROTON X90 is the i-GT 1.5-litre 4-cylinder turbocharged engine, paired with a 7-speed Dual Clutch Transmission, delivering 181 PS and 290 Nm of torque for smooth acceleration, confident overtaking and composed highway cruising.
Supported by a multi-link rear suspension, selectable drive and steering modes, and Electronic Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold, the X90 delivers assured road manners while maintaining the ride comfort expected of a family SUV.


R – Room for All
True 7-seater capability remains a defining strength of the PROTON X90. Designed with spacious three-row seating, the cabin comfortably accommodates growing families and their daily needs.
With up to 2,050 litres of luggage capacity, the X90 adapts seamlessly from school runs to festive balik
kampung journeys, road trips and weekend adventures. Roof rails capable of supporting up to 75kg further extend its versatility.

U – Ultimate Comfort
Comfort remains a key highlight of the PROTON X90, with premium features designed to enhance both daily commutes and long-distance journeys.

These include Nappa leather seats, ventilated seats for the first and second rows, a 6-way driver power seat with lumbar support, a 4-way front passenger power seat with ‘Boss’ switch, dual-zone automatic air conditioning with air purifier, and dedicated air vents for second and third-row passengers.
The 12.3-inch infotainment system with Wireless Apple CarPlay® and Android AutoTM further ensures
seamless connectivity for drivers and passengers.

E – Everyday Assurance
The PROTON X90 continues to prioritise everyday driving confidence with features such as a 360° HD
Camera with 180° Transparent View, Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and six SRS airbags.
Additional conveniences including Walk Away Auto Lock, Follow Me Home lighting, rain-sensing wipers and multiple parking sensors further enhance practicality and ease of use in daily driving situations.

Designed for Malaysian Families
“The PROTON X90 has earned strong acceptance among Malaysian families because it delivers what many customers look for in a large SUV — space, comfort and confidence in a genuine seven-seater,” said Mr. Zhang Qiang, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of PROTON Edar., “With the 2026 model, the introduction of a new powertrain further enhances the driving experience while maintaining the practicality and comfort that have made the X90 a trusted choice for family journeys and everyday mobility.”



Ownership Confidence with Exclusive Launch Benefits
The 2026 PROTON X90 is available in three variants – Lite, Prime and Prime X, offering customers flexibility in choosing a model that best suits their lifestyle and needs.
The SUV is offered in a refined range of exterior colours including Quartz Black, Marine Blue, Armour Silver, Snow White and Jet Grey, complementing its confident and premium presence.
Every purchase of the 2026 PROTON X90 comes with PROTON’s Standard Ownership Package, designed to deliver confidence from day one. This includes:
• Pro-Warranty* – 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage and 5-year free labour service
• Pro-Finance* – financing options of up to 9 years with interest rates starting from 1.95% per annum
• Pro-Xchange* – RM4,000 support for deregistration of non-roadworthy trade-in vehicles

To celebrate the launch, PROTON is offering a Special Launch Package for the first 2,000 customers who register their vehicles before 30 June 2026, including a rebate of RM7,000 along with additional ownership benefits. Among the benefits is Pro-Trade-In*, which provides overtrade support of up to RM3,000 for customers trading in their existing vehicles.

Customers may also opt for the PROTON Insurance Programme, Pro-Shield*, which provides enhanced
coverage including special perils protection, flood relief coverage of up to RM2,000, and passenger personal accident coverage of up to RM15,000 per person for up to four 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.

As part of PROTON’s continuous efforts to elevate the ownership experience, the company is further
strengthening its after-sales support and service standards. For the 2026 PROTON X90, Fast Service* is
available for scheduled basic maintenance, allowing customers who book in advance and remain on-site to have their vehicles serviced efficiently with minimal waiting time.

In addition, PROTON has introduced 1-Day Service Delivery*, ensuring vehicles are returned within 24 hours, whether customers walk in or make a prior appointment. Should repairs require more than three working days*, PROTON service outlets will provide a relief car along with a one-time complimentary service, inclusive of parts and labour. These initiatives are designed to minimise inconvenience and reaffirm PROTON’s commitment to delivering peace of mind throughout the ownership journey.

On-the-road prices without insurance:

Variant Peninsular Malaysia East Malaysia
1.5TD Prime X RM122,800.00 RM124,800.00
1.5TD Prime RM116,800.00 RM118,800.00
1.5TD Lite RM106,800.00 RM108,800.00
The prices after rebate* are:

Variant Peninsular Malaysia East Malaysia
1.5TD Prime X RM115,800.00 RM117,800.00
1.5TD Prime RM109,800.00 RM111,800.00
1.5TD Lite RM99,800.00 RM101,800.00
*Registration before 30 June 2026

The 2026 PROTON X90 comes with PROTON’s comprehensive ownership support programmes, including warranty coverage, insurance programme and flexible financing options. Customers can also enjoy exclusive launch packages and value-added benefits for a limited time.
For more information or to place a booking, visit any authorised PROTON outlet nationwide or follow Proton Cars Official on major social media platforms for the latest updates and promotions related to the 2026 PROTON X90.
*Terms and Conditions apply




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