This Malaysian-assembled 2020 Proton X70 launched in February 2020, exactly one year ago and has been a massive success for the national carmaker since its first launch in 2018 having sold more than 26,000 units making it one of the company’s bestsellers. This achievement has sown the seed of change in customer perceptions of Proton. Under the Proton X70’s hood is a 1.8 litre T-GDI turbocharged engine with 184 PS of power and 300 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm. The biggest highlight however is the new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission as this wet DCT was developed by Geely and Volvo.
There are a few design elements incorporated into the X70 to distinguish it from the Geely Boyue, especially at the front of the SUV. A new grille design is used and it is referred to as the “infinite weave”. It is inspired by the batik and Malaysian wood carvings, and the design is also used on the inside for the speaker covers. A chrome surround is added on the grille and is inspired by a hunting bow, one of Malaya’s traditional weapons. To further showcase Proton’s identity and evoke the appearance of a tiger, the muscular body surfacing of the X70 is also accompanied by a headlight design inspired by the eyes of a tiger.
Keeping occupants safe is a comprehensive list of safety equipment. All variants are 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). As with the previous model, a 360 Camera is offered on Executive, Premium and Premium X variants but the Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) and Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) suite is only fitted to the latter two.
Consisting of active and cognitive safety systems including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Blind Spot Information System (BLIS), Door Opening Warning System (DOW) and Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC), the ADAS suite provides an additional layer of safety helps reduce the risk of accidents. Overall, the comprehensive safety equipment provided on the 2020 Proton X70 has seen it awarded a 5-Star safety rating by ASEAN NCAP. Powering all these sensors and ensuring a stable flow of electricity to the ECU requires a car battery like no other. The VARTA 80D26LMF is suitable for the new CKD while the VARTA DIN75MF will suit the 2018 CBU model.