GGR Motor Unveils 300km Pantera EV Prototypes

on
0

New Proton X50 Review Why We Love It

on

 

Estimated reading time: 6 minutes


Key Takeaways

  • The new Proton X50 justifies its "all-new" designation with a refreshed design, a completely reimagined interior, and a more refined four-cylinder engine.
  • Proton has significantly enhanced the user experience inside, from the intuitive 14.6-inch infotainment system with advanced Bahasa Melayu voice control to clever ergonomic improvements like the steering column-mounted shifter.
  • The transition to a 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers smoother performance, improved fuel efficiency, and increased power, addressing previous model critiques.
  • Packed with advanced safety features, including unique offerings like Door Opening Warning, and competitively priced between RM89,800 and RM113,300, the new X50 offers exceptional value.
  • Driving dynamics are smooth and comfortable for daily commutes and long journeys, making it a highly versatile and dependable choice for Malaysian families.


Table of Contents


Unveiling the "All-New" X50: A Myth or a Masterpiece?

Could Proton truly deliver an "all-new" experience without a complete overhaul? This question has buzzed through the Malaysian automotive scene since the latest Proton X50 hit showrooms. With over 140,000 units sold since 2020, the X50 has already cemented its status as a beloved medium-sized SUV, praised for its reliability, comfort, and everyday usability. But can its successor truly push the boundaries, or is it merely a refresh disguised as a revolution? Discover why the new Proton X50 stands out! Our comprehensive review highlights its best features, performance, and key reasons we truly like this SUV. Learn more. We're here to cut through the noise, examine the changes, and reveal if Proton's bold claim is justified. Join us as we explore every facet of this highly anticipated vehicle – from its controversial design to its refined engine and groundbreaking interior – to determine if it's the ultimate choice for your daily drives and family adventures.


Crafting the Future: A Bold New Design for the X50

The moment the new X50 was unveiled, its design became a hot topic, dividing opinions much like any truly bold aesthetic. While it shares some DNA with its Chinese cousin, the Geely Binyue L, Proton has infused enough distinct character to make it undeniably its own. The front, in particular, is all new. That large, distinctive gape under the grille has certainly sparked conversation, and while some find it a bit too open, a custom body kit from local workshops in Sunway could easily tailor it to personal preference. The updated lighting signature with new LED headlights and the familiar three daytime running lights – echoing the S70 – seamlessly integrates the X50 into Proton's modern family aesthetic.

Proton's design team rightfully takes pride in the "ethereal bow" strip adorning the grille, a touch that elevates its premium appeal. However, a small quibble arises with the redesigned bonnet: those perplexing fake vents. In 2025, such elements feel like a nostalgic throwback to a bygone era, detracting slightly from an otherwise forward-looking design.

The side profile, particularly on the Flagship variant we reviewed, introduces a seemingly longer A-pillar, lending the X50 a more aggressive stance. The dynamic two-tone split, with a sleek black roof contrasting a more pronounced shoulder line and black plastic body panels (featuring what appear to be aerodynamic vents), adds a touch of sporty sophistication. While the functional purpose of these vents remains uncertain, their visual impact is undeniable. Around the back, the X50 presents an entirely new rear fascia. The LED taillights, connected by an elegant light strip across the boot, are a personal favourite. And in a refreshing turn, the quad tailpipes are genuinely functional, an authentic detail in a world often saturated with cosmetic fakery. This updated design language, despite its subjective elements, undeniably signals a new chapter for the Proton X50.


Stepping Inside: An Interior Reimagined for Malaysian Drivers

If the exterior sparked debate, the interior of the new X50 is where Proton's ingenuity truly shines. Despite initial impressions often dictated by the "big screen, small cluster" trend from China, this cabin is undeniably Proton's brainchild, aligning perfectly with the modern aesthetics seen in their e.MAS 7 and upcoming e.MAS 5 models. Prepare to be pleasantly surprised: the quality feels top-notch, ergonomics are spot on, and there are intelligent features here that make practical sense for Malaysian roads, even in cars far pricier.

A prime example is the semi-transparent sun visor, a clever carryover from the Geely Binyue L that functions much like a pilot's sunshade, significantly reducing glare – a godsend during a tropical afternoon downpour or glaring sun. At the heart of the cabin lies a gargantuan 14.6-inch infotainment system, boasting wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto for seamless smartphone integration. But the real game-changer is the Bahasa Melayu voice control system. Proton invested over 330,000 man-hours to develop it, ensuring it understands not just standard BM but also four distinct dialects, including the notoriously challenging Kelantanese dialect, making it incredibly accessible and user-friendly across Malaysia.

While many cars are ditching physical controls, the new X50 thoughtfully retains hard buttons for air-conditioning – a welcome touch for intuitive adjustments on the go, though the on-screen controls are surprisingly easy to use even while driving. The innovation continues with the gear selector's relocation to the steering column. This brilliant move frees up the centre console, allowing for practical additions like dedicated cup holders, the aforementioned A/C buttons, and even twin phone holders, one with a Qi wireless charger. For those who worried about accidentally shifting into reverse, fear not; extensive testing confirms it only nudges into neutral, with no risk of gearbox damage as some online discussions suggested.

Other interior highlights include the expansive panoramic roof, enhancing the sense of space and light. While the seats are largely carried over, offering decent comfort, a touch more padding could elevate them for extended journeys. Spaciousness throughout the cabin and the generous boot space, which thoughtfully accommodates a space saver spare wheel, remain as practical as ever. The new X50's interior truly sets a high standard for its segment.


Under the Hood: The Heart of the New X50 Roars to Life

A collective sigh of relief echoed among X50 enthusiasts when Proton announced the departure of the previous three-cylinder engine in favour of a more refined four-cylinder unit. While the old engine was by no means problematic, its diesel-like sound, occasional odd quivers at startup and shutdown, and sometimes less-than-smooth operation were common points of feedback. The new engine addresses these concerns head-on, delivering a significantly enhanced powertrain experience.

Maintaining a 1.5-litre displacement, the new engine is still turbocharged but now offers a noticeable boost in power, churning out 181PS and 290Nm of torque – an increase of 4PS and 35Nm, respectively. This translates to a quicker 0-100km/h sprint time of just 7.6 seconds, giving the X50 a more spirited feel on the road. Power is efficiently delivered to the front wheels via the same tried-and-tested seven-speed dual-clutch transmission, renowned for its smooth and responsive shifts.

What's truly impressive is the new engine's efficiency. Despite gaining an additional cylinder – which theoretically should increase fuel consumption – the X50 actually boasts a remarkable 4.7% improvement in fuel economy. This achievement underscores Proton's commitment to not only performance but also sustainability. Furthermore, the timing belt has been replaced with a more robust timing chain, promising enhanced long-term durability and lower maintenance concerns for owners. This engine upgrade is more than just a numbers game; it's about delivering a smoother, more powerful, and more efficient driving experience that truly elevates the new Proton X50.


Hitting the Road: Driving Dynamics That Impress

Stepping into the new Proton X50, the most immediate and appreciated change is the remarkable smoothness of the ride, a direct benefit of the new four-cylinder engine. As someone who has always found three-cylinder engines to be a bit off-balance with an uninspiring rattle, the X50's refined powertrain is a revelation. The vehicle offers four distinct driving modes – Eco, Normal, Sport, and an innovative new Adaptive mode. The Adaptive mode intelligently learns your driving style and adjusts accordingly, a feature I found so effective that I left it engaged for the majority of my drive to Melaka and back, allowing the car to seamlessly optimize its performance for varied conditions.

The suspension system strikes an excellent balance, being firm enough for confident handling yet comfortable enough to absorb road imperfections, ensuring a pleasant journey whether you're navigating city streets or cruising on the highway. Refinement levels are surprisingly decent, providing a quiet cabin experience up to around 110km/h. Beyond this speed, you might notice some road roar from the Continental tyres and a hint of wind noise around the screen. However, this is hardly a deal-breaker, as very few cars in this segment maintain absolute silence at higher velocities. Crucially, once accustomed to this, the X50 proves itself to be a capable long-distance cruiser, happily maintaining speeds of 140km/h all day without fatiguing the driver.

Adding to the driving comfort is the adaptive cruise control with a stop-and-go function, a highly convenient feature that significantly eases the burden of managing stop-start traffic. This system contributes to a relaxed driving experience, making the X50 an ideal companion for both daily commutes and extended road trips. Overall, the new Proton X50 delivers a driving experience that is not just improved, but truly impressive for its class, blending performance, comfort, and advanced features seamlessly.


The Verdict: Is the New Proton X50 Your Next SUV?

It's rare to say this, but the new Proton X50 is one of those vehicles that genuinely justifies a lateral move. If you're currently driving a previous-generation X50 and are considering an upgrade, the latest model feels like a substantial step up, offering tangible improvements across the board. In a highly competitive segment, the new X50 confidently challenges rivals like the Honda HR-V, offering a compelling blend of features, performance, and value that's hard to ignore.

With an attractive price range starting from RM89,800 and topping out at RM113,300, the X50 represents a true bargain considering the comprehensive package it delivers. It comes equipped with an impressive list of active and passive safety systems, including a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) that enhance both driver confidence and passenger protection. What truly sets it apart, and frankly, leaves me in awe, is the inclusion of a Door Opening Warning feature. This unique safety system alerts you to oncoming obstacles – be it pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists – when you're about to open your door, preventing potential accidents. Such a thoughtful feature is typically found in much more expensive vehicles, making its presence in the X50 a significant value proposition that distinguishes it from almost all its direct competitors, perhaps only seen in the Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid in this price category.

At these current price tags, which are even slightly cheaper than before, the new Proton X50 isn't just an incremental improvement; it's a genuine bargain that redefines expectations for a compact SUV in Malaysia. It's reliable, comfortable, packed with innovative features, and a joy to drive. The new X50 is more than just a car; it's a smart investment in your daily mobility and family's comfort.

Specifications:

  • Engine: 1.5-litre turbocharged 4-cylinder
  • Power: 181PS
  • Torque: 290Nm
  • 0-100km/h: 7.6 seconds
  • Transmission: 7-speed dual-clutch
  • Fuel Consumption: 4.7% improvement over previous model
  • Price: RM89,800 - RM113,300

What we like: Interior feel, smooth new engine, comprehensive safety features, value for money.


Further Your Proton X50 Journey!

Has our in-depth review sparked your interest in the new Proton X50? We hope you're now equipped with all the insights needed to make an informed decision. This SUV isn't just a vehicle; it's a statement of Proton's commitment to innovation and value for the Malaysian market. If you've driven the new X50 or are considering one, we'd love to hear your thoughts! Share your experiences in the comments below or join the discussion on our social media channels. Don't forget to explore related content on our site, perhaps comparing the X50 against its rivals or diving deeper into specific ADAS features. Your next adventure awaits, and the Proton X50 could be the perfect partner!


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Is the New Proton X50 genuinely "all-new"?
Yes, despite carrying over some underpinnings, Proton is justified in calling it "all-new" due to a completely redesigned exterior, a significantly upgraded interior, and an entirely new, more refined four-cylinder engine. These changes fundamentally transform the driving and ownership experience, distinguishing it substantially from its predecessor.

What are the significant interior upgrades?
The new X50 boasts a 14.6-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a sophisticated Bahasa Melayu voice control system (understanding four dialects), and a reconfigured centre console with the gear selector moved to the steering column. This frees up space for practical features like twin phone holders with wireless charging, and dedicated hard buttons for climate control, enhancing ergonomics and user convenience.

How does the new engine compare to the previous one?
The new 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine is a significant upgrade. It delivers a smoother, more refined performance compared to the previous three-cylinder unit, with increased power (181PS, 290Nm) and an improved 0-100km/h time of 7.6 seconds. Remarkably, it also offers a 4.7% improvement in fuel consumption, making it both more powerful and more efficient.

Is the New X50 good value for money in Malaysia?
Absolutely. Priced between RM89,800 and RM113,300, the new Proton X50 offers an exceptional value proposition. It comes packed with advanced features, a comfortable and high-quality interior, a refined engine, and an extensive suite of safety technologies, including unique offerings like the Door Opening Warning, making it a highly competitive choice in its segment.

What unique safety features does the X50 offer?
Beyond comprehensive active and passive safety systems (ADAS), the new X50 includes a standout feature called Door Opening Warning. This innovative system alerts occupants to approaching obstacles like pedestrians, cyclists, or motorcyclists when a door is opened, significantly enhancing safety in urban environments – a feature rarely found in vehicles within this price category.

Comments

Post a Comment