Today we’re back with an expert review of the Proton X70. In 2019, Al Haj Automotive signed an agreement with Proton Malaysia as their authorised dealers in Pakistan, through which they initially started selling CBU units. Although the CBU units were meant to be on the road at the start of 2021, customers received their deliveries in 2022.
Proton then announced the local assembly of the X70 and has now started to achieve market equilibrium after a somewhat hiatus. After a successful run in the Malaysian market, let’s find out whether the Proton X70 lives up to its expectations in Pakistan.
Engine
The Proton X70 is powered by a 3-cylinder 1.5 liter T GDI engine producing an impressive output of 177 hp and 255 nm of torque. This engine is configured with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission. Both all-wheel drive and front-wheel drive variants are offered while we review the top-spec 2WD premium variant.
Exterior
Proton X70’s exterior is rather distinctive from its competitors. The front features sleek LED headlamps with an eyebrow-styled DRL along with a very bold garnish around the disguised fog lights, adding a bit of character to the front end. Coming along the sides, the 19-inch alloys look amazing and are paired with Continental tyres; a one-up from competitors.
Character lines are edgy and pronounced, which contour the side body very well. The rear end is where the car makes its presence known, the LED tail lights are mounted relatively high with a small rear windshield, and the rear fog light adds a good touch. The rear diffuser gives a prominent extension to the bumper with integrated dual exhausts.
Interior
Coming to the interior is contrasted with three major colours: brown, black, and silver. It is the only car in its segment that comes with Nappa leather seats and is very comfortable. The overall layout of the interior is modern, with a brushed silver panel on the dash; materials are solid and don’t feel flimsy.
The interior also has a boss seat through which the front passenger seat can be adjusted from the rear. Space is exemplary; the large cabin means no problem with headroom or legroom. Rear seats are also very spacious and can accommodate three adults even on long journeys. The digitised instrument cluster and controls also add to the interior aesthetics.
Features
Talking about the features, as per Proton, “this is the most intelligent vehicle in its segment.” The Advanced Driver Assistance (ADA) includes lane departure warning, adaptive cruise control, automatic high beams, blind spot monitor, and 360-degree camera, and the 2WD Premium also gets autonomous braking. Moreover, it comes with a voice-activated command that lets the driver access several features by speaking.
Other than that, it comes with tyre pressure monitoring system, electric ventilated seats, an electric tailgate with a foot sensor, dual-zone climate control, an air purifying system, a SONY sound system with a factory-fitted subwoofer, and much more. Safety features include six airbags, parking sensors, ABS brakes, EBD, traction and stability controls, etc.
Drive Performance
3-cylinder engines are generally known to have problems regarding excessive engine sound, rough idling, and engine knocking; however, X70’s engine is refined and smooth. The engine is very quiet, and the cabin noise is close to none; the power generated from the 1.5-liter turbo engine is very impressive.
The car does 0 to 100 in under 10 seconds and is very responsive. The top end is also good, the DCT transmission is very efficient, and the car feels comfortable even at high speeds. Suspension is on the softer side, and due to the extra ground clearance, the X70 is also suitable for mild off-roading.
Fuel Average
After thorough testing, the maximum fuel average this car gives is 11 km/l within the city, that too if driven at low RPMs. The average comes down to 9 to 10 km/l if harshly driven. On highways, the average increases by the slightest of margins; if driven at stable speeds, it gives around 12 to 13 km/l, which is not bad at all.
Price
At the time of review, the price of the Proton X70 started at PKR 6,740,000 for the AWD Executive variant and PKR 7,190,000 for the top-spec 2WD Premium.
Proton is rising slowly but steadily.