Malaysian brand, and recent arrival on the South African market, Proton, has surprised by launching its new Proton Arena on the local market yesterday.
Malaysian brand, and recent arrival on the South African market, Proton, has surprised by launching its new Proton Arena on the local market yesterday.
by Hannes Oosthuizen, CAR Associate Editor
Aimed at vehicles such as the Opel Corsa Utility and Ford Bantam, three model variants are on offer, the 1,5i at R79 995, the GL at R99 995 and the top-of-the-line GLX, at R112 995. Proton says the Arena offers unrivalled practicality and unbeatable value for money.
The Arena has a 1,63 metre long flatbed that can take a maximum payload of 645 kg and has a load capacity of 800 litres. The rear tailgate can withstand loads of up to 300 kg, and can also be removed if needed. GL and GLX models are fitted with quite the most substantial roll bar I have ever seen. It extends right to the back of the vehicle, making the Arena looking a bit like a wheelbarrow from behind. However, it seems sturdy enough.
Overall the appearance is not that offensive. The front end is typically previous generation Proton (which was, in turn, previous generation Mitsubishi), but the flanks and rear view (roll bar excluded), are stylish enough. A protective rear window grille is fitted to prevent cargo from smashing into the interior in the event of a collision or under heavy braking.
Being based on the basic design of a previous generation Proton passenger vehicle, the Arena’s cabin would compare well with a budget car of today, or a small family car of a generation or two ago. Surprisingly, the dashboard is soft-touch, and general quality of build is good, although I did notice one or two flimsy bits and pieces. Also, the horrid silver painted facia panel will scratch easily. We’ll have to wait and see exactly how well it will stand up to the rigours of real commercial use. However, I don’t believe many Arenas will end up being hard workers. I think they are much better suited to a leisure lifestyle type of role.
The front monocoque section of the Arena comes from a Proton passenger car, while the rear load area is fitted on top of a ladder-frame section. Joining the two parts proved to be quite a challenge. Proton’s engineers came up with what they have termed a transverse torque box, which is essentially a structure that links the two parts in a rigid way. This innovation is also claimed to dissipate energy and shield occupants in the event of a side impact.
The Arena rides on Lotus-tuned MacPherson front and a rigid axle, leaf-spring rear suspension. But don’t let the Lotus part fool you into thinking the vehicle handles like a sports car, although the Arena’s ride and general handling is actually quite good for what it is.
Ventilated front discs are fitted to all models, as well as a load-sensing brake proportioning valve that ensure the optimum braking efficiency remains available under heavy loads.
The Arena is powered by a four cylinder, 1,5-litre engine that delivers 64 kW at 6 000 r/min and 126 N.m of torque at 3 000. Up at Gauteng altitudes the Arena didn’t struggle at the types of speeds you’ll be travelling in the city, or on gravel roads, but the oomph sort of disappeared when travelling speedily up the hills.
Standard equipment on all models includes power steering, tilt-adjustable steering wheel, remote fuel lid opener and front and rear mud flaps.
The GL version adds the aluminium roll bar, rear step, central locking and air-conditioning, while the GLX also has a Clarion radio/CD, 14-inch alloy wheels, electric windows, cloth seats, sporty side mouldings, tonneau cover, electric mirror adjustment and a plastic load liner.
A three year/60 000 km vehicle warranty is included, as well as three year AA roadside assistance and a 3 years/unlimited km paint warranty.
The base 1,5i model will only be going on sale in May, while the GL and GLX are available immediately. Proton expects monthly sales to equal three to four per cent of the small pick-up market.