SHAH ALAM: Proton has officially launched its facelifted X70 C-segment sports utility vehicle (SUV) that's not only attractively priced, but also with higher levels of refinement and reliability.
Previously offered in four variants, the model now only comes in two variants starting with the Executive that's priced on-the-road without insurance at RM106,800, while the range-topping Premium goes for RM119,800.
Meanwhile, four colours of Snow White, Armour Silver, Jet Grey and Marine Blue are available for both variants.
The first 1,500 buyers in Peninsular Malaysia who register their X70 before March 31, will be provided with a RM7,000 rebate that drops the price for the Executive down to RM99,800 and RM112,800 for the Premium.
Additionally, the first 1,500 buyers will be provided with a boot tray, window sunshades, and door visors, trade-in overtrade support of up to RM2,000, an upgraded Proton insurance programme that provides special perils insurance coverage, personal accident coverage for passengers (up to RM15,000 per person), and additional flood relief coverage of up to RM2,000.
Standard provision will include a five-year unlimited mileage warranty that comes with six free services (labour), and an upgraded five-year in-car data package of 2GB per month.
To further entice, a special nine-year financing rate of 2.2% per annum (with margin financing of up to 90% can be had.
The main highlight of the facelifted X70 lies in the powertrain, which has dropped the previous 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder mill for a 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine - still paired to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.
While power is up to 181PS from 177PS previously, torque has also been improved from 255Nm to 290Nm - representing a 13.7% improvement that translates into a stronger low- and mid-range response.
Aside from this, the engine has also been enhanced with a 5.5% reduction in terms of fuel consumption at 6.9 litres per 100km, and better durability through the use of a toothed timing chain that requires zero maintenance - a part that's said to be able to last more than 200,000km.
Refinement is also said to have been enhanced, with the X70 gaining four layers of sound absorption and insulation to improve noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) against road, wind and powertrain noise - improving overall cabin comfort during daily commuting and long-distance cruising.
In terms of standard kit, the X70 Executive comes with LEDs for the automatic headlights with follow-me-home function, daytime running lights, front fogs, and welcome lighting.
Also provided as standard are automatic wipers, roof rails, remote engine start and a power tailgate with hands-free operation and 18-inch alloys fitted with 225/60 series tyres.
Inside, the cabin will feature a 12.3-inch infotainment touchscreen paired with a seven-inch digital instrument display.
Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto support is also provided, along with dual-zone automatic climate control, leatherette upholstery, a leatherette-wrapped steering wheel, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat, ventilated front seats, an auto-dimming rearview mirror, six speakers and five USB ports.
Safety comes in the form of six airbags, walk-away auto lock, a 360-degree HD camera with 180-degree transparent view, as well as front and rear parking sensors.
Further building on this, the Premium, which rolls on 19-inch alloys with 225/55 series tyres, gets the cabin's interior upgraded with Nappa leather for the steering wheel, before adding on a 72-colour rhythmic ambient lighting system, a six-way power-adjustable driver’s seat with lumbar support, a four-way power-adjustable front passenger seat with ‘Boss’ switch, and security window tinting.
A comprehensive suite of advanced driver-assistance systems will also be provided here, which includes autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, intelligent cruise control, lane departure warning and prevention, lane centring control, lane change assist, traffic sign information, intelligent high-beam control, rear cross-traffic alert, rear collision warning, door opening warning, tyre pressure monitoring system, and front parking sensors.
