Proton Saga 2024 is a subcompact car produced by the Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton. It was first launched in 1985 and became a major milestone in the Malaysian Automotive industry. It is one of the longest-running numberplates of Proton with more than a million units produced over 35 years.
The first-generation Proton Saga 2024 was developed in collaboration with Mitsubishi Motors and was available in two variants. It became an instant hit and received awards and accolades for its design and performance. It was produced till 2008 and was exported around the world due to its high demand.
In 2008, the second-generation Proton Saga was launched in three variants and received record bookings within two weeks of its launch.
The third-generation Proton Saga was launched in 2016. The car featured an improved security system with electronic stability control and a 20% stronger body. It received a facelift in 2019 which featured an upgraded trim.
The Proton Saga was launched in Pakistan in collaboration with the Al-Haj Group. The car has three variants - Proton Saga Standard MT, Proton Saga Standard AT, and Proton Saga Ace.
Proton Saga Exterior
The new Proton Saga 2024 comes with a smooth and attractive design that features curves and a round design language. The front of the car houses Proton’s signature “infinite weave grille” which is coupled with a front bumper. Halogen headlamps are a standard feature in all the variants but the Ace variant also has LED daytime running lights (DRLs).
The side of the car has electric side mirrors with LED turn signal lamps which make it unique among its competitors.
The rear of the car is simple with a rear bumper and the Ace variant comes with a rear spoiler as well. Remote trunk release is another standard feature supported by all the variants of Proton Saga 2024.
Proton Saga Interior
The new proton Saga 2024 has a spacious and comfortable interior. The urethane-wrapped steering wheel comes with a tilt adjustment feature. The Ace variant also has steering switches for audio and telephone control. Behind the steering wheel is an LCD integrated meter combination with a multi-information display.
All the variants of proton Saga sport ECO Drive Assist, power windows, keyless entry, a 12V power socket, and driver’s seat height adjuster. The Ace variant comes with some additional features such as a luggage lamp and 3 USB ports in the car.
The infotainment system in the Standard AT and MT variants is a standard audio system with two speakers and Bluetooth connectivity. On the other hand, the Ace variant has a 7-inch floating touchscreen that supports Bluetooth and smartphone connectivity and has 4 speakers.
Other common features in the Proton Saga 2024 include sun visor, map lamp, and bench-type rear seat fold.
Saga Safety
The new Proton Saga 2024 has several safety and security features such as front airbags, front seatbelts, immobilizer, anti-theft alarm, and parking sensors to name a few. Other safety features include Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic brake-force Distribution (EBD), and Brake assist in all the trims.
The Proton Saga Ace comes with some additional features such as electronic stability control, hill hold assist, and traction control system.
Saga Engine
All the variants of Proton Saga 2024 come with 4-cylinders, In-line 16 valve DOHC VVT 1299cc engine which generates a maximum output of 91/5750 kW/rpm at a maximum torque of 117/4000 Nm/rpm.
The Proton Saga Standard MT comes with 5-speed manual transmission while the other two variants have a 4-speed automatic transmission.
Proton Saga Ride & Handling
Proton Saga 2024 is an easy-to-ride vehicle. The car shows impressive control at high speeds and its suspension absorbs most of the potholes and bumps on the road.
A drawback of Proton is its slow responsiveness which makes its handling a bit difficult. Overall, the car provides a comfortable ride in exchange for the paid amount.
Saga Maintenance
The maintenance of Proton Saga is convenient as its auto parts are affordable and easy to find. Its 5-year warranty is also a huge plus.
Saga Competitors
In Pakistan, Proton Saga competes with Changan Alsvin, Honda City, and Toyota Yaris.
Since its introduction in Pakistan over a decade ago, Honda City has been sold in massive numbers. However, its appeal has been fading because there is no new feature in this car, which is being sold at a considerably higher price than its competitors.
Toyota Yaris was a new addition in the market last year which made the consumers excited for something new and was sold in large numbers. Both of these cars are a lot more expensive than the Proton Saga which makes Saga a more desirable choice.