Proton has talked up exports of the Iriz for some
time, but so far it has yet to happen. However, Indonesian auto portal
AutoNetMagz.com has managed to scour photos of the B-segment hatchback in
Jakarta, which hints of an impending launch in the archipelago.
The Atlantic Blue unit was spotted at a hotel with
its badges taped up, but was otherwise undisguised. By all appearances, this is
the base 1.3 Standard manual model, judging by the black door mirrors and
handles, as well as the lack of a bodykit, front fog lights and rear wiper.
The interior is standard, ahem, Standard fare as
well, with a Bluetooth-equipped head unit and a non-multifunction steering
wheel, although the angular gearknob on Malaysian-spec cars has been replaced
by a round one from cars like the Savvy and Satria Neo.
Under the bonnet is almost certainly the 94 hp/120
Nm 1.3 litre VVT engine mated to a five-speed manual, just like we get over
here. Expect specifications and equipment to mirror those offered over here,
although it is rumoured that Indonesians could receive a 1.3 Premium CVT model
that isn’t available in Malaysia.
Proton’s Indonesian arm has been quiet for some time
now, with the last car introduced being the Suprima S in 2013. The Iriz was
apparently slated to be launched in May 2015, then was reported to have
undergone type approval that October. Could this be the year the Iriz finally
makes it to Indonesia?