Proton SUV based on Geely Boyue targeted for launch in H2 2018

By CARSIFU | 8 August 2017


The Boyue made its first appearance in Malaysia following a signing ceremony between DRB-Hicom Bhd and Geely in Kuala Lumpur on June 23. — Bloomberg


PETALING JAYA: Proton’s first SUV based on the Geely Boyue is expected to debut in Malaysia in the second half of 2018.

Two variants are likely to be offered, including a turbocharged version.

Just so you know, the Boyue sold in China is powered by a choice of powertrain options: an older 2.0L naturally aspirated engine with 161hp paired with a 6-speed manual and a 1.8L Turbo Direct Injection engine (181hp) mated to a dual clutch automatic transmission. A 2.4-litre non-turbo mill is offered in the Middle East instead of the 1.8T.

The Boyue is one of the biggest vehicles in the compact SUV segment, allowing Geely Auto engineers and designers to maximise the level of comfort.

Safety features include a 360-degree camera system and lane departure alert system. The Boyue features an air purifying system to keep the interior air quality clean. The Boyue is the first Chinese SUV to feature CarPlay, and it is unclear at this point if the Proton SUV would be specified with it.

Created by ex-Volvo designer Peter Horbury, the Boyue is aimed at younger buyers who seek a vehicle that has good aesthetics, is technology-laden and offers connectivity to cater to their daily lives.

Geely Holding bought a 49.9% stake in Proton for RM460.30mil, of which RM170mil is cash and the remaining RM290m will be in form of a transfer of the former's sports utility vehicle (SUV) platform Boyue.

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