Proton Holdings Bhd has pulled the wraps off its all-new Proton X50, a refreshed version of its best-selling sport utility vehicle (SUV), ahead of its official launch.
The 2025 model brings redesigned styling, improved safety features, and a new infotainment system that includes Bahasa Melayu voice recognition, a first for the national carmaker.
“The all-new Proton X50 will reinforce the brand’s position while attracting a broad range of buyers, from small families to first-time owners and tech-savvy urban drivers,” said Proton Edar Sdn Bhd deputy chief executive officer Zhang Qiang.
Exterior updates include a new grille and bumper, rear spoiler, quad exhaust tailpipes and redesigned alloy wheels.
The cabin has also been revamped with a floating floor console, column shifters, ambient lighting and a 14.6-inch infotainment screen supporting Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
Under the hood, the SUV is powered by a 1.5-litre turbocharged i-GT engine producing 133kW and 290Nm of torque. Proton claims a 0–100 km/h acceleration of 7.6 seconds and a 4.7 per cent improvement in fuel efficiency.
Safety upgrades include Level 2 Advanced Driver Assistance Systems with features such as rear side radar, auto park assist and a 360-degree camera with undercarriage view.
The new X50 will be offered in three variants, namely Executive, Premium and Flagship, with public previews and bookings set to begin in the coming weeks.
If you’re wondering if the new styling is an original design, you’d be mistaken. It’s based on the Geely Binyue L.
Most notably, the engine is now a 4-cylinder compared to 3 in the previous version, which should reduce the amount of vibration on idle, but early reviews suggests there isn’t much difference.
That and the support for Apple CarPlay out the box is a massive win.
