Proton is set to expand its newly established SUV portfolio to include a new B-segment compact SUV based on the Geely Binyue (SX11), which many are tentatively calling the X50. Recently, camouflaged examples of the Binyue have been spotted in the country, as seen in these photos posted by The Ajerul Facebook page.

The vehicles seen here are all left-hand drive units, and are likely used for development purposes similar to what we’ve witnessed with the X70 prior to its debut. According to the source, standard and “sports” versions of the Binyue are being tested; the latter is identified by its bumper design that features smaller fog lamp enclosures, quad exhausts and a prominent rear wing.


If the X70 is any indication, the Binyue should get its fair share of personalised revisions in terms of design and equipment to better suit the local market before it goes on sale. However, just when that will take place, what it will actually be called, and more importantly, for how much, remains a mystery only Proton can answer.

The national carmaker is in the midst of upgrading its Tanjung Malim facility to cater to the manufacturing process of its X70, as well as next-generation Proton models, which should include the Binyue-based model. As the Binyue rides on Geely’s B-segment Modular Architecture (BMA), it wouldn’t be too far-fetched to assume Proton’s RM1.2 billion investment will include support for building the platform. Whether this extends to include the CMA used by Lynk & Co models is still unknown.


In China, the Binyue is available with a choice of two turbocharged, direct-injection three-cylinder petrol engines. The first is a Geely and Volvo co-developed 1.5 litre unit (174 hp and 255 Nm) paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic, while the second option is a 1.0 litre unit (134 hp and 205 Nm) available only with a six-speed manual transmission.

Available equipment for the Binyue in China includes Level 2 autonomous driving features (adaptive cruise control, parking assist), GKUI system, autonomous emergency braking, seven-inch LCD instrument panel and 10.25-inch main display, among others. Prices range from 78,800 yuan to 118,800 yuan there. As a recap, the national carmaker has already secured the use of intellectual properties (IP) and the rights to manufacture and sell three Geely models – the Boyue, Binyue and Jiaji (VF11).