Automotive visual rendering maestro Theophilus Chin has given his take on the upcoming 2016 Proton Saga, which has been spotted testing in camouflage, and is the third sedan model the company appears to be readying for launch this year after the Perdana and Persona.
We are aware that leaked photos of the budget sedan have circulated on the Internet, showing the entire car uncovered, but those were shot inside Proton’s own compound. We make it a point not to publish pictures that were leaked internally, as that would not be legal, strictly speaking – hence the commissioning of these renders based on the leaked images.
Starting from the front, the Saga appears to borrow design cues from the Iriz hatchback, albeit with a slimmer twin-bar front grille design compared with that on the Iriz, as well as a redesigned front bumper with a smaller air intake. The headlamps are projector units here, although given the car’s entry-level positioning, we expect the actual car to come with reflector items, like the Persona.
Progressing to the sides of the Saga, Theophilus’ rendering shows the main swage line pass through the door handles, as well as a finer, secondary swage line lower down the middle of the doors. At the rear, the Saga gets trapezoidal tail lamps – which appear to use regular bulbs, rather than the current LEDs – linked by a chrome bar. A rear diffuser-esque insert with an integrated fog lamp complete the look.
Technical details for the upcoming Proton Saga are still unknown, though it can be expected to launch with the 1.3 litre VVT petrol engine from the Iriz, paired to either a five-speed manual transmission or a CVT.
Later on, Proton’s new naturally-aspirated 1.0 litre and 1.2 litre VVT three-cylinder engines may appear on the Saga, while a turbocharged version of the 1.0 litre engine could also be featured. With the smaller engines expected for the Saga, it appears set to be positioned as an A-segment sedan slightly below the Persona expected this month, which rounds up the three sedans planned for launch this year.
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AI-generated Summary ✨
Comments on the Proton Saga 2016 preview are mixed, with some praise for its more modern, proportionate design and its potential to rival Perodua Bezza. Enthusiasts hope Proton can improve safety features and engine reliability, criticizing past models' outdated engines and unsafe ratings. Some comments express disappointment with the front-end looks, comparing it to older cars or finding it bland, while others wish Proton would better differentiate its design and be more adventurous, aiming for a stylish yet understated look. Leaked images have sparked speculation and some negativity, but many are excited about the new model, hoping Proton can make a successful comeback. Overall, there's cautious optimism paired with concerns about engine tech and design execution.