THE Proton S70 has always been an interesting proposition because it gives buyers the size and cabin space of a larger sedan without demanding C-segment money.
The new S70 i-GT 1.5 Prime takes this formula further.
Instead of the turbocharged engine and dual-clutch transmission used by higher-spec variants, it gets a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre four-cylinder engine and a CVT with a torque converter.
The result is not a faster S70, but a calmer one.
At RM62,800, the S70 Prime sits RM3,000 above the Lite and brings equipment such as LED headlamps, 17-inch wheels, leatherette seats, automatic climate control, front parking sensors and folding side mirrors.
Smooth rather than sporty
The 1.5-litre i-GT engine produces 120PS and 150Nm which are modest figures compared with the turbocharged S70.
But the naturally aspirated engine has a predictable power delivery that suits relaxed everyday driving.
There is no sudden surge of torque. Instead, the S70 Prime builds speed progressively and predictably, aided by the smooth-shifting torque-converter CVT.
This is probably the biggest change compared with the turbocharged S70 that we noticed during our drive in Sekinchan.
The Prime feels more at home when driven with a little patience.
Mash the throttle pedal into the floor and the engine roar becomes very obvious.
However, when driven sensibly, it is perfect around town and will also cruise comfortably at highway speeds, though overtaking requires more planning, particularly with a full load of passengers.
The CVT also does not try too hard to imitate a conventional automatic.
Its simulated ratios are useful when more engine control is wanted, but the drivetrain’s natural character is smooth and unobtrusive.
Stability is still a strength
Where the S70 Prime does not feel like a budget build is in its road manners.
The suspension has a comfortable bias but does not allow the body to float excessively.
On uneven roads, the car absorbs bumps fairly well, maintaining a reassuring sense of control.
At highway speeds, the S70 feels planted.
It tracks straight without requiring constant steering corrections.
The long wheelbase of 2,627mm contribute to a sense of stability that is welcomed on lengthy journeys.
There is some body movement when pushed through tighter corners, but this is a family sedan, not a sports sedan.
More importantly, the chassis remains predictable and composed.
The lighter naturally aspirated powertrain also makes the front end feel relatively easy to place into corners.
In short, the S70 Prime retains the driving manners that is one of the S70’s more convincing qualities, even though the powertrain is aimed more at comfort than performance.
A comfortable cabin
The S70 Prime’s biggest selling point is the cabin.
For its price segment, the sedan’s proportions provide generous legroom for rear passengers as well as headroom.
The seats are reasonably comfortable for longer journeys, while the leatherette upholstery and soft-touch surfaces give the Prime a more upmarket feel than its price suggests.
Rear air-conditioning vents, five USB ports, remote engine start and electronic parking brake with Auto Brake Hold also make the car well suited to family use.
Proton lists the S70’s cabin as one of its key strengths, with particular emphasis on space and comfort.
There is also a 500-litre boot which make the S70 practical for luggage and everyday family duties.
What works
Good ride and stability: The suspension strikes a balance between absorbing road imperfections and keeping the body under control.
Spacious cabin: Rear-seat space is one of its strongest attributes, particularly for buyers moving up from smaller sedans or hatchbacks.
Smooth powertrain: The naturally aspirated engine and torque-converter CVT are easy-going and predictable.
Useful equipment: The Prime gets LED lighting, leatherette seats, automatic climate control, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, six airbags and rear-side radar safety features including blind-spot detection and rear cross-traffic alert.
What could be better
Performance is only adequate: With 120PS and 150Nm of torque, the Prime does not have the effortless mid-range punch of the turbocharged S70.
No front-camera ADAS: The non-turbo S70 variants do not get forward collision warning, autonomous emergency braking, adaptive cruise control or lane-keeping assistance.
Some cost-cutting is visible: The black grille, lack of rear light bar, analogue instrument cluster, missing rear armrest and fixed rear headrests remind you that the Prime sits below the turbo variants.
The 17-inch tyres: They look good and help the car’s stance, but replacement costs will be higher than for the Lite’s 16-inch setup.
The bottom line
The S70 i-GT 1.5 Prime is not to replace the turbocharged S70 as the performance choice.
Instead, it expands the S70’s customer profile.
Buyers hungry for power will still look to the turbo variants.
But for buyers who spend most of their time commuting, carrying passengers and travelling on highways, the Prime’s relaxed character makes sense.
The naturally aspirated engine also removes some complexity associated with turbocharging, while the torque-converter CVT makes low-speed driving particularly smooth.
Hence, the S70 Prime makes a strong argument that a reasonably priced family sedan does not have to compromise on comfort nor space.
