Part 3 of 4 - Proton S70 preview - The Handling test
Sometime in early November 2023 we were invited by PROTON to try out their new C segment sedan, the 2024 Proton S70 1.5T sedan which was launched just recently, 28 November 2023.
This is their first all-new sedan since Geely came into the picture. Based on their BMA platform, this B/C segment car is based on the Geely Emgrand but we now think of this as a full C segment sedan as the car is actually nothing like a B segment sized car. It is as wide, and as long as a C segment sedan (think Toyota Corolla size – Corolla has an overall length of 4,630mm while the S70 is 4,638mm on a slightly shorter wheelbase).
Anyway, this video presentation is divided into four videos - Parts 1 to 4
1. The specifications, exterior and interior
2. The acceleration test against PRICE SEGMENT competitors (note “price segment” as it goes against B segment cars which will tell you the estimated price of the S70 vs Japanese competitors I.e, its going to be cheaper than the equivalent C segment sized car from the looks of it)
3. The handling (up to 80km.h) test - It's actually not too bad you know!
4. Trying out new and improved Advanced Driving Assistance Systems (ADAS) level 2
The Proton S70 gets a 150ps, 226Nm 1.5litre turbocharged 3 cylinder engine found in the X50 and X70 SUVs here in Malaysia. It gets a 7 speed Dual Clutch Transmission powering the front wheels. Estimated 0-100kmh feels like it just slightly around 9.9seconds and feels good on the move at normal speeds (the test allowed speeds of up to 80-90kmh).
With a wheelbase of 2,650mm, it definitely is more C segment than B segment. It is also 1,820mm wide making it have plenty of elbow room too. It is actually has a wheelbase as long as the Proton Preve but is wider (Preve is 1,786mm wide).
The prices (otr before insurance Peninsular Malaysia):
1.5T Executive - RM73,800
1.5T Premium - RM79,800
1.5T Flagship - RM89,800
1.5t Flagship X - RM94,800
