Proton has just launched the facelifted Iriz hatch which receives a multitude of new features and improvements – amounting to a total of 367 changes – wrapped i n a fairly substantial redesign. The new Iriz range kicks off around RM3,700 cheaper than before – despite the addition of around RM 1,400 worth of upgrades and added kit, according to Proton – at RM 36,700 for the 1.3 Standard MT, rising to RM 39,700 (down RM 1.1k) for the CVT version and RM 44,700 (down RM 1.7k) for the 1.3 Executive CVT.

The facelift sees the reintroduction of the RM 46,700 1.6 Executive CVT variant, which was discontinued in 2016, while the range-topping 1.6 Premium CVT goes for RM 50,700 (down RM 4.1k). All prices are on-the-road without insurance, inclusive of an unchanged five-year/150,000 km warranty.


The entire front end has been given a revamp, with the Iriz now sporting the Persona’s reflector halogen headlights (projectors previously), joined together by a full-width chrome strip. This strip has what Proton calls an “Ethereal Bow” design, with a scalloped centre section that goes under the badge. Moving to the rear of the car, there’s now a gloss black strip that joins the tail lights, complete with the Proton script that replaces the shield-shaped badge. The bumper gets a larger diffuser with the same chrome trim as the front, framed by fake air vents. New 15-inch two-tone alloy wheels on the Executive and Premium models (the latter also gets a black roof) complete the look.

Inside, the changes are fewer but no less significant, with the addition of black headlining and – on the Premium variant – a frameless rear-view mirror and a black-and-silver gearknob from the X70. There’s also a redesigned instrument cluster with clearer, more legible silver-ringed dials and a colour multi-info display on the Executive and Premium models. These variants also gain a new infotainment system with a seven-inch touchscreen – a version of the Geely’s Global Key User Interface (GKUI) found on the X70, developed in partnership with Chinese tech company ECARX. The Premium model gets 4G connectivity (1GB free per month for five years) that adds the “Hi Proton” voice control, online music streaming and live navigation data, plus a WiFi hotspot for your devices.


Also unchanged are the engines, which consist of two VVT naturally-aspirated petrol engines. The 1.3 litre version produces 95 PS at 5,750 rpm and 120 Nm of torque at 4,000 rpm, while the 1.6 litre unit bumps those figures to 109 PS and 150 Nm. An improved CVT – which has been worked on to improve response and fuel efficiency, combining its learnings with Geely’s – is fitted across the range, with the Standard model also getting the option of a five-speed manual gearbox. Changes have also been made to enhance braking performance, improve build quality and reduce noise, vibration and harshness.