Proton’s first SUV will only be launched in Q4 this
year, but the national carmaker is giving the public a more informational preview
of the model ahead of that. On display here is a mock-up of the SUV’s face,
which doesn’t look that much different from what you’ll find on the Geely Boyue
– the Proton SUV is based on this model.
The lower apron mimics that of the facelifted Boyue,
with a sportier bumper that features LED fog lamps integrated into the lower
corners – the fog lamp enclosures themselves are pretty angular in shape as
well. Other revisions will involve the grille, where Geely’s “expanding cosmos”
look will be likely be replaced with Proton’s own design.
Based on the safety and driver assist systems being
touted for the Proton SUV, it isn’t far-fetched to say the rest of the vehicle
will follow the updated Geely SUV too.
Firstly, a blind spot monitor will be available,
which was an addition that came with the Boyue facelift. This joins the list of
existing driver assists, including autonomous emergency braking, adaptive
cruise control, lane departure warning and auto high beam.
As for other features, the Proton SUV gets a smart
air purifier, tyre pressure monitoring system, 360-degree camera and an
eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system. The last two items also came with
the facelift, with the latter offering 4G connectivity, online apps and
something called smart phone remote control.
Lastly, there’s finally a mention on the engine that
will power the Proton SUV, which will be a TGDi unit. This could be the 1.8
litre turbo four-cylinder petrol engine offered in China, which serves up 181
hp and 285 Nm when paired with a six-speed automatic. The setup can be ordered
in either front- or all-wheel drive over there, but it remains to be seen what
we will get here.
Cr : Paultan
