Proton’s bread and butter models include the Persona and Saga. Without these two models, it is hard for Proton to secure a sizeable market share.
Considered as the entry-level model, the Proton Saga is the company’s first-ever model, with a history that stretches back nearly 30 years ago. Now in its third generation, let’s see what Proton has to offer with the new Saga, which is slated to arrive in September.
For starters, we do know that the new Saga continues to utilize the outgoing model’s platform, though with heavily revised body panels. From the outlook, there’s little to relate the new Saga to the old model, though sharp eyed readers may notice that some structure points around the new Saga is similar to its predecessor. Given that the new model uses the platform of the its predecessor, we can also expect the Saga to be fitted with a hydraulic power steering system.
The sharing of platform with the older model means that the new Saga continues to utilize front MacPherson struts and a torsion beam rear suspension. For a bread and butter model, this combination is sufficient. Furthermore, expect to see the same ventilated discs up front, with drum brakes at the rear.
Exterior wise, it is a mixed bag. We certainly appreciate the fact that Proton has given its most basic model some styling cues, as evident from the door creases, rear quarter glass and a rear boot that slopes upwards. Unlike the outgoing model’s single piece tail light, Proton has now given the Saga a two-piece tail light, potentially increasing the car’s appeal. Despite that, the tail lights are bulb illuminated, as opposed to the LED units on the outgoing model.
Looking at this particular spyshot, it appears that this could very well be the range-topping Premium variant of the Saga. We can see that this Saga is fitted with a bodykit that goes all round the compact sedan, plus a small boot lid spoiler. In addition to that, a reverse camera can be seen peeking at the top left of the number plate recess. Also pictured is the set of 14-inch alloy wheels with some rather intricate design. A lone rear fog light can be spotted in the middle of the rear bumper.
Thanks to a alleged tentative price list, it appears that Proton is working on five variants of the new Saga, ranging from the Saga Standard (Auto/Manual), Saga Executive (Auto/Manual) and the Saga Premium (Auto only). Tentative prices are expected to start from RM32,888 for the manual-equipped Saga Standard, all the way up to RM46,338 for the Saga Premium.
Under the hood, we can foresee that Proton will fit a 1.3-litre Campro VVT into the engine bay of the new Saga. Transmission choices will include a Punch-sourced CVT and a Getrag-sourced five-speed manual. We can also expect to see at least two airbags to be offered on the Saga.
Prices and specifications are subject to change, as Proton has yet to officially launch the new model.
Tentative price via Lowyat Forum
