There’s more to come for the new Proton Iriz, it seems. A closer look at the new B-segment hatchback’s rather small instrument cluster (pictured below) reveals a number of new features that may be introduced to Proton’s global car in the future; these being automatic engine start/stop system, cruise control, tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), front parking sensors and rear fog lights.
Icons for all these features are clear to be seen, either within the meters or on the top row of indicators. It’s not uncommon for car manufacturers to do such a thing – BMW instruments, for instance, often carry unlit symbols of features not fitted to that particular model. It just saves them of the unnecessary work and cost of making a different component to suit each model variant, which is totally understandable.
The auto start/stop function (not to be confused with the push start button already available on the Iriz 1.6 Premium) will likely be used on models headed for the UK first, where reduced CO2 emission levels would be absolutely crucial. Once fitted, it will work in tandem with the new VVT engine’s Smart Alternator system.
“The Iriz is prepared for Proton’s present and future,” said chief technical officer Abdul Rashid Musa. Also in the pipeline for the Iriz is the ADAS active safety system developed with LG Electronics, which will include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Warning, Traffic Sign Recognition and Lane Departure Warning.
Also future-proofed is the Iriz’s 240 km/h speedo, a hint of faster things to come.
