Proton has recently launched its fifth model, the new Persona. The Malaysian car manufacturer adds this car to its current line-up, which already features the Arena, Gen.2, Savvy and Satria Neo.
Striding into the territory of such models as the Volkswagen Polo Classic, the Persona will require a strong specification and vastly improved quality over its predecessors in order to make a strong case for itself in this segment.
Although this is a new model the pictures suggest there to be some cross pollenation between the Satria Neo and the Gen.2 in the overall styling. The new Persona is 4 477 mm long, 1 725mm wide and 1 438 mm high..
The aerodynamic styling is enhanced by the advanced design up front, with an elaborate front grille and stylish high tail design. The interior is fairly roomy and although it is largely trimmed in dark-grey for practicality, thre are some chrome details to add a bit of class.
Managing Director, Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir, expressed optimism that the Persona will be “a car that excites, with its stylish yet practical exterior and interior.”
The Persona is powered by Proton’s Campro engine, pumping 82 kW at 6 000 r/min, and 148 N.m at 4 000 r/min. It’s available in five variants – the 1,6 base-line automatic and manual; 1,6 medium-line, automatic and manual; and 1,6 high-line automatic only. The Base Line model has 195/60 R15 steel wheels, while the Medium and High Line Models come standard with sporty 15-inch alloys.
Comfort features include electric windows, central locking, alarm with immobilizer, ABS with EBD, CD and MP3 Player, multi-function steering wheel and front fog lamps.
“We are extremely proud of this new product as it was built in accordance with PROTON’s new philosophy of producing the right car for the right market at the right price,” chairman of Proton, Dato’ Mohammed Azlan Hashim, said.
According to a local company spokesman, the Persona should be making its way here early next year sometime, though Proton South Africa are still deciding on the specification line up and pricing.
