Proton has officially launched a new and slightly cheaper version of X70, the best-selling SUV in Malaysia last year. Locally assembled at Proton’s plant in Tanjung Malim, the new 2020 X70 is available in four variants – Standard 2WD, Executive 2WD, Premium 2WD, Premium X 2WD. The Executive AWD variant previously available has been omitted from the range and replaced with the Premium X 2WD variant.
On top of visual changes that can be seen from the presence of Proton’s all-new logo – at the front grille and on the steering wheel – the 2020 X70 comes equipped with better technology and features when compared with the 2019 X70. Let’s take a closer look at these and a few of the notable features for the latest X70.
Engine and Power
Mechanically, the new X70 features the same 1.8-liter turbocharged T-GDI petrol engine that outputs 181 hp and 300 Nm of torque from 1,750 to 4,000 rpm. However, the previous six-speed automatic gearbox has been replaced with a new seven-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.
The Drive mode selection of Normal, Eco and Sport remain, as well as the manual shift mode. The benefits gained from the new transmission comes with an added 15 Nm of torque and a one-second gain from the 0 – 100 km/h sprint to 9.5-seconds. An improved fuel economy of 7.6-liters per 100 km represents a 13 per cent improvement from the previous X70. The fuel tank capacity remains the same at 60 liters.
Added features
Apart from the new transmission, Proton added new features to the 2020 model based on customer feedback. Notable is a new powered tailgate with a foot sensor. Present only in the Executive variant up, the feature offers the hands-free operation of the tailgate from a motion sensor underneath the vehicle. The tailgate also has programmable height adjustment and anti-trap for safety.
Continuing the list is front ventilated driver and passenger seats that have independent adjustments for driver and front passenger with three fan speeds. Another feature exclusive to the Executive variants and above is the cool air circulating from the base of the seats, which improves ventilation and comfort.
As standard, the seat design for the rear passengers now comes with a two-step recline of 27 and 32-degree angles. The seats can be independently adjusted on the left and right side based on a 60:40 split.
Why is the X70 selling like hot cakes
One of the reasons why the X70 has been Malaysia’s best-selling SUV for 2019 is its highlight features which come as standard across all variants. When it comes to being high tech, the X70 has you covered with cruise control, auto dual-zone air-conditioning with an air purifier system, infotainment unit with online music streaming, navigation and weather forecast. The X70 also comes equipped with 4G and Wi-fi, connectivity with Proton’s Link app for vehicle status and remote control, and six USB A ports.
On the safety front, all variants come standard with six airbags (front, side and curtain), ABS, EBD, Brake Assist, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, Hill Hold Assist, Hill Descent Control and Auto Brake Hold.
The new Premium variants take safety further with the addition of Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Adaptive Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning, Blind Spot Information System, Door Opening Warning System, Intelligent High Beam Control and Tire Pressure Monitoring System.
Tested in Malaysia with an improved ride
The 2020 X70 was put through its paces by the Proton development engineers with over two million kilometers of testing to ensure it meets Malaysian driving conditions. Adjustments were also made to the suspension, which resulted in refined, nuanced driving experience and improved ride.
Price, ownership and launch packages
The X70 Standard 2WD is priced at RM94,800, followed by Executive 2WD at RM106,800, Premium 2WD at RM119,800 and Premium X 2WD at RM122,800. The new prices represent a saving of between RM1,000 to RM5,000 across the variants when compared to the 2019 X70. Ownership comes with a five-year warranty with unlimited mileage, five-year data package with 1GB of data monthly, five times free labor scheduled service, low-interest rates from 2.32 per cent per annum.
In conjunction with the launch, the first 3,000 early bird customers will receive an additional 4GB per month data package for five years’ worth RM1,740 and an accessories package with a dash cam, floor mats, door visors, boot tray, sunshades and trunk organizer worth RM2,000.
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