PETALING JAYA: Proton is refreshing its S70 1.5TD range, comprising the upcoming RS Premium and range-topping Sportline variants featuring improvements to styling, cabin technology, safety equipment and powertrain refinement.
The S70 RS Sportline gets a more distinctive appearance, with additional exterior and interior features over the Premium variant, while both vehicles benefit from a redesigned cockpit, enhanced connectivity and an expanded driver assistance package.
The enhanced turbocharged range will replace the current S70 1.5TD Premium, Flagship and Flagship X line-up.
The naturally aspirated S70 will meanwhile be offered in Lite and Prime variants, which will not receive the upgrades introduced to the RS range.
Both S70 RS variants retain the i-GT 1.5TD engine paired with a 7-speed DCT, producing 181PS and 290Nm of torque and a claimed 0-to-100kph acceleration time of 7.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption is rated at 5.7 litres per 100km.
The engine also features a toothed timing chain, which is designed to operate more quietly than a conventional timing chain.
Adaptive Driving Mode is included to allow drivers to select settings according to their driving preferences and conditions.
The S70 RS receives a redesigned front grille and bumper, sculpted bonnet and revised rear bumper, giving it a more assertive appearance.
Both variants get new dark grey 17-inch alloy wheels, automatic LED headlamps, rain-sensing front wipers, an LED rear light bar and Walk Away Auto Lock.
The Sportline adds Quartz Black finishing for the roof, door handles, side mirrors and rear spoiler, along with red brake callipers and exclusive side skirts carrying the Sportline "S" emblem.
Its rear styling is further distinguished by a diffuser with dark grey quad exhaust finishers.
Inside, the Premium gets an all-black cabin, while the Sportline features a dual-tone interior with red stitching, sporty red seatbelts, 256-colour rhythmic ambient lighting and illuminated centre console.
The Sportline also gets exclusive door scuff plates, security and solar tint and a front digital video recorder (DVR).
A major change to the cabin is the new 14.6-inch infotainment head unit, replacing the outgoing 12.3-inch display. It features a new interface and a 16:9 widescreen layout.
Connectivity includes wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, although Android Auto is scheduled to only be available by January 2027.
The system also offers built-in navigation, TikTok, Spotify, JOOX and SYOK music streaming, weather forecasts and split-screen multi-application functionality.
A new Commander Dial on the centre console provides convenient access to audio volume, ambient lighting, desktop selection and driving modes.
Proton has also retained physical controls for frequently used air-conditioning functions, including fan speed, temperature adjustment and rear defroster operation.
The automatic column-mounted gear selector frees up space in the centre console, which incorporates an illuminated 10-litre storage compartment.
Other equipment includes an 8.88-inch TFT instrument display, six-way electrically adjustable driver's seat, wireless phone charger, five USB ports and six speakers.
The "Hi Proton" voice command system supports Bahasa Melayu and English, allowing occupants to operate selected functions such as the windows and air-conditioning, play music and request navigation directions.
The new S70 RS also receives Proton Link 2.0, with Huawei Watch integration.
Through the mobile application, owners can remotely operate selected vehicle functions, including the horn and headlights, boot, windows, door locks, air-conditioning and engine.
Both variants are equipped with Level 2 advanced driver assistance systems (ADAS), comprising 15 functions.
These include Front Departure Alert (FDA), Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) with Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC) with Stop & Go Intelligent Cruise Control (ICC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW), Lane Departure Prevention (LDP) and Lane Centering Control (LCC).
Other functions are Traffic Sign Information (TSI), Intelligent High Beam Control (IHBC), Lane Change Assist (LCA), Blind Spot Detection (BSD), Door Opening Warning (DOW), Rear Collision Warning (RCW) and Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA).
Other safety equipment includes a new 540-degree high-definition camera system, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) and six SRS airbags.
The S70's body structure incorporates over 60% high-strength steel and 6% hot-stamped steel. The original S70 received a five-star ASEAN NCAP rating following testing in October 2023.
Proton values the upgrades to the new S70 RS at RM15,000, covering its revised exterior and interior styling, new infotainment system, additional convenience features and expanded safety equipment.
The Sportline offers a more distinctive sporting appearance and additional equipment over the Premium, while both variants share the same turbocharged powertrain and core technology and safety features.
Pricing and full market specifications will be announced on launch day, which is expected to be in a month’s time.
