PROTON has just taken the wraps off its 2020 Proton X70 SUV, built at the company’s newly refurbished plant in Tanjung Malim. The award-winning SUV introduces several key new features, headlined by the spanking new seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission (7DCT).
Variants
PROTON has dropped the all-wheel drive (AWD) variant and also introduced a Premium model sans a panoramic sunroof.
The CKD Proton X70 gets a new Space Grey colour option, complementing the existing Snow White, Armour Silver, Jet Grey, Ruby Red (formerly Flame Red) and Cinnamon Brown.
Pricing
- 2020 Proton X70 Standard 2WD – MYR94,800
- 2020 Proton X70 Executive 2WD – MYR106,800
- 2020 Proton X70 Premium 2WD – MYR119,800
- 2020 Proton X70 Premium X 2WD – MYR122,800
As standard, each 2020 Proton X70 will come with a 5-year warranty with unlimited mileage, 5-year data package (1GB per month), 5-time free labour service, low-interest rates from 2.32 percent per annum and premium insurance coverage.
Launch packages
For early birds, PROTON is offering an additional 4GB per month data package for five years (worth MYR1,740) and an accessories package worth MYR2,000.
New features
Right off the bat, there are no cosmetic changes from the fully-imported (CBU) version aside from the new Proton logo emblazoned on the front grille.
Here are a couple of new features that come with the 2020 Proton X70.
Firstly, the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7DCT). This replaces the six-speed automatic transmission (6AT) found on the CBU version. This tried and tested gearbox is one of the most efficient in the world, currently also used on the Volvo XC40 T5 Twin Engine PHEV and a variety of Geely and Lynk & Co models.
Co-developed by Geely and Volvo, the 7DCT delivers an overall efficiency figure of 94.6 percent, with a maximum figure of 97 percent. Benchmarked against Volkswagen’s dry clutch DSG transmissions, the 7DCT is not only super-efficient but also more durable, thanks to it being oil-cooled.
The 7DCT gearbox with a new engine map for the venerable 1.8-litre TGDi powerplant releases five percent more torque, bringing figures up to 300Nm. The quick-shifting gearbox also helps the SUV shave one second off the century sprint, topping 9.5 seconds.
Learn more about the new 7DCT here.
Based on my recent driving impressions and input from PROTON engineers, the 2020 Proton X70 has received some tweaks to its suspension to improve ride and handling further.
You’ll also find a new gear shifter in the cabin and additional buttons for different drive modes (Eco and Sport).
Modern, practical conveniences
Aside from the mechanical improvements and tweaks, PROTON also added some handy enhancements to the interior. The new Premium X variant gets ventilated front seats that keep the driver and front passenger cool.
PROTON has also introduced a height-adjustable powered tailgate across the board, with the Executive variants getting an additional foot sensor.
Lastly, the split-folding rear seat back now gains a recline function that boosts rear passenger comfort.
Pop the hood and you’ll notice a redesigned engine cover with the words PROTON and G-Power emblazoned on it. It’s the familiar 1.8-litre turbo gasoline direct injection lump, pushing 181bhp at 5,500rpm and now 300Nm of torque available from 1,750-4,000rpm.
The new gearbox-engine combination improves fuel consumption marginally, from 7.8 litres per 100km to 7.5 litres per 100km.
Familiar safety features as standard
Across the board, the 2020 Proton X70 is equipped with six SRS airbags, rear seat ISOFIX mounts with top tether anchorage, Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS), Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD), Brake Assist (BA), Auto Brake Hold, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Traction Control System (TCS), Hill Hold Assist (HHA), Hill Descent Control (HDC) and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS).
Also, as seen on the previous model, a 360 camera is offered on the Executive, Premium and Premium X variants. A Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) are available for Premium and Premium X variants.
The Proton X70 has a 5-star safety rating by ASEAN NCAP.
What do you think of the new 2020 Proton X70?
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