Proton X70 MC2: Discontinuing 1.8L Turbo Engine, Upgrading to Android Auto/Apple CarPlay, Expected to Debut in May.
Actually, it's no longer a secret that the Proton X70 will undergo a significant minor facelift in 2024. According to local media outlet "Funtasticko.net," this vehicle has already entered the pre-production stage before the Ramadan holiday. They anticipate that it will officially go into production after Ramadan and there are rumors suggesting that the manufacturer is already shooting promotional videos for this car. Therefore, barring any unforeseen circumstances, the new car is highly likely to be officially released in May, as previously rumored.
According to the information we currently have, it's reported that the new car will adopt the exterior design of the Geely Boyue Pro/2022 Boyue, including adopting the same bumper design as the Chinese version of the Boyue Pro. Additionally, it will feature the latest Proton family grille design, similar to the starry grille design seen on the X90. Furthermore, there will be changes in the design of the headlight assembly, resulting in an overall different design compared to the current model. It's also rumored that there will be improvements at the rear of the car.
Although we haven't obtained detailed information about the interior yet, it is expected that the manufacturer will upgrade it to feature the same central touchscreen unit as the X90. This unit in the X90 measures 12.3 inches and is equipped with the E02 processor, along with 6 GB + 64 GB of memory. Additionally, during a test drive event for the S70 earlier, Proton's Deputy CEO, Roslan Abdullah, mentioned that the company has partnered with Apple and Google. He hinted that their next model will start supporting Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. While he didn't specify at the time, it's widely believed he was referring to the X70 MC2, especially since current Proton models lack this crucial feature. Adding it would undoubtedly enhance its competitiveness in the market.
In terms of the engine, due to reports of the current 1.8L TGDI engine being discontinued, the manufacturer will reportedly discontinue this model. Therefore, after the minor facelift, this car will only offer the option of a 1.5L TGDI engine locally. This engine delivers a maximum horsepower of 174 Hp and a peak torque of 255 Nm. It will still be paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission. Essentially, there are unlikely to be any surprises in the engine department. Additionally, with the cancellation of the 1.8L model, the new car will only offer four trim options locally: Standard, Executive, Premium, and Premium X. However, there's no indication whether the Executive AWD model will continue to be available. This will have to wait until the new car is officially released to be confirmed.
20 Apr 2024