Following the recent launches of Proton’s Gen.2 and Arena ranges, Pearl Automotive, local distributors of the Malaysian brand, has rolled out the unconventional Savvy light car. With prices starting at R99 995, the 1,2-litre Savvy is arguably Proton’s most competitive offering on the local market – thus far.
Following the recent launches of Proton’s Gen.2 and Arena ranges, Pearl Automotive, local distributors of the Malaysian brand, has rolled out the unconventional Savvy light car. With prices starting at R99 995, the 1,2-litre Savvy is arguably Proton’s most competitive offering on the local market – thus far.
Although we have yet to see it in the metal, the chunky styling, upright stance and MPV-inspired dimensions of the Savvy will probably help it stand out in a crowd. The 1,2-litre light car will be offered with a choice of two transmissions – a five-speed manual or five-speed automatic/manual sequential (AMT) unit – and in two specification levels. It will compete against models such as the Daihatsu Sirion, Fiat Palio, Toyota Yaris, Opel Corsa, Renault Clio and Hyundai Getz.
The Savvy’s 16-valve powerplant produces maximum power of 55 kW at 5 500 r/min and peak torque of 105 N.m at 4 250 r/min. The Malaysian light car newcomer has a MacPherson strut, coil spring and stabilizer bar front-, and torsion beam rear, suspension configuration and its safety package includes side impact bars, crumple zones, pre-tensioning seatbelts (with warning indicator), driver and front passenger airbags and ABS system with EBD.
Pearl Automotive claims the both manual and AMT models will reach a top speed of 170 km/h, but the former will accelerate from zero to 100 km/h in 12,6 seconds and the latter in 14,5 secs. An optimum fuel consumption figure of 5,3 litres per 100 km is quoted.
Standard specification includes hydraulic power-assisted steering, front electric windows, height-adjustable drivers seat, a pair of cup holders, driver’s footrest, two vanity mirrors, direct remote door mirrors, air-conditioning, semi-automatic headlamp levelling, rear park distance control, clarion CD front loader with four speakers, 15-inch alloy wheels, front and rear fog lamps, remote central locking and alarm/immobiliser.
The 1,2 manual costs R99 996 and the AMT model (scheduled for introduction in May) R112 995. A three-year/60 000 km warranty and three-year roadside assistance are standard, and apart from a body kit, Sport models (1,2 manual costs R109 995 and AMT R122 995) include a two-year/45 000 km service plan, Pearl Automotive said.
