After plenty of spyshots of the 2016 Proton Perdana in range-topping 2.4 litre guise, here’s our first look at the base 2.0 litre model (the trim level is shown on the key fob in one of the photos), thanks to reader Will Yap. These photos show several differences in spec compared to the more luxurious variant.
Firstly, the car seen here doesn’t have the bodykit that is fitted on the 2.4 model, although the bootlid lip spoiler remains. The wheels, however, look to feature the same design as on the 2.4, despite Proton saying that the 2.0 litre model will get a different design – albeit in the same 17-inch size.
Inside, there’s a full-black interior as previously reported, rather than the 2.4’s two-tone black-and-beige scheme. Other changes include greyish trim panels compared to the wood trim found on the higher-end model, along with leather-fabric combination upholstery (the 2.4 litre model features full leather). Otherwise, the cabin looks to be identical to the top-spec variant, right down to the large twin centre displays.
Other than what can be discerned visually, there are other equipment differences which Proton has confirmed. These include manual adjustment for the driver’s seat – rather than electric on the 2.4 litre model – as well as the omission of stability control. Both models get four airbags, however.
To be built at Proton’s Medium Volume Factory in Shah Alam (current government-only Perdana is made by Honda Malaysia in Melaka), the 2016 Perdana is expected to launch later this month – with the order books already opened – retaining the Accord’s 154 hp/189 Nm R20A3 2.0 and 177 hp/222 Nm K24Z2 2.4 litre i-VTEC engines and five-speed automatic transmission.
A revision is slated to arrive by the end of 2017, with the Perdana set to receive a new NE01 2.0 litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine, acquired from Petronas in 2012. Also being considered is Proton’s new 1.5 litre turbocharged, direct-injected TGDI engine, claimed to be able to produce 180 hp and 250 Nm. Whichever powertrain ends up being slotted in, a new torque converter CVT automatic is expected to become standard fare come end-2017.
GALLERY: 2016 Proton Perdana teased
GALLERY: 2016 Proton Perdana rendered
