Proton GEN2 CPS Highline Manual Test Drive
The new Proton Gen-2 CPS was unveiled earlier this year and has attracted a lot of interest from the public as the Malaysian auto maker fitted the new Campro CPS power plant. Proton has also made various revisions on the exterior and interior.
Will it be just another disappointing product of Proton, or is there light at the end of the tunnel? We shall see in our test drive report.
Looks
At first glance, you’ll notice that the new Gen-2 is treated with refreshed front and rear bumpers, blacked-out head lights up front and an addition of a rear spoiler. You will also notice the grey-painted 15 inch alloy wheels.
Personally, the Gen-2 isn’t the best looking 4 door hatchback out there but with all those exterior improvements it certainly looks better than the its predecessor as it outlines a more aggressive and sportier characteristic of the car. When you look it, it does make you think ‘”hmmm, I wonder what is under that hood?”, which is a good actually.
Interior
Interior wise, it is very much similar to the Proton Persona as the odd-looking clock on the center of the dashboard is removed, and a handier glove compartment is made available. The colour scheme is grey now instead of beige.
The Red-Black sporty schemed interior of Gen-2 CPS is also fitted with leather seats. Another improvement made is relocating the power window switches from the center console of the old Gen-2 to the driver’s door panel. The door panels are also carried over from the Persona and have a much more practical layout now.
Drivers and passengers will also enjoy 4 cupholders as 2 are placed in the center console up front and another 2 are featured at the rear end of console for the rear passengers. The interior feels and looks much better than the old one, but yet again, Proton is still lacking when comes to the quality of the interior.
The dashboard has uneven gaps and lose bits here and there and I cannot help but notice the dodgy steering wheel as the center silver finish isn’t aligned properly, and it worries me that if even a simple alignment such as that cannot be got right, what about the airbag inside? The quality of the sun visors also look pretty shady, pun intended.
The row of buttons above the head unit are also not very functional in terms of human interface design. They offer no tactile response whatsoever to let you know whether you’ve successfully pressed it or not. You can only tell whether some of the buttons are activated or not at night - its colour changes from orange to green but you cannot see the difference during the day.
Lets look at the brighter side of it, the interior is very roomy in terms of leg room for both front and rear passengers, although you would notice that due to the body frame design of the Gen-2, the head clearance for the rear passengers isn’t something Proton can be proud of. This is fixed in the Persona which has a different roofline. The slim center dash area (where the air conditioning controls are) allows for a larger footwell and knee space for the front passenger and driver. The trunk space is rather large for a hatchback, and the rear seats are foldable.
Performance
To my surprise, the new 1.6 CPS engine performs really well, definitely the best performing engine fitted in any Proton. Proton claims that the CPS power plant in the refreshed Gen-2 has a total of 125 hp at 6500 rpm, enabling it to offer a 0 to 100km/h acceleration time of 10.6 seconds and a top speed of 190 km/h.
In the first 20 kilometers of my test drive, I found out that it does live up to its expectations. When I drove it hard, I noticed that both the CPS (Camshaft Profile Switching) and the VIM (Variable Intake Manifold) systems worked when they were supposed to at their designated engine speeds. The rev happy engine feels very light.
I definitely felt like pushing the car to its limits whenever I got into the car, plus sounds really good too. It really makes me wonder how it would perform if a 1.8 or 2 liter CPS motor is fitted. The gear change is also smooth and precise.
Fuel consumption is reasonable as well; I’ve learned that when I was driving it around town, it was consuming about 7.2 liters for every 100 kilometers according to the trip meter. The only complain I have is that whenever I drive the car; the A/C compressor sucks up a very noticeable amount of engine power when it’s turned on.
Click to view hi-res image
We dyno-ed the Campro CPS engine to find out how much it makes on wheel. The results are as above. With an ambient temperature of 36.5 degrees celcius, we managed to get 109.9 horsepower at 6,422rpm and 129Nm of torque at 4,763rpm.
We checked with Proton’s Race Rally Research division to find out how much of transmission loss should be taken into account with the 5-speed manual gearbox and found out it was about 12%.
109.9hp on the wheel is about 124.89 at the engine, which is very very close to the 125hp figure Proton provided. Torque at the wheel of 129Nm is about 146.6Nm at the engine, a few newton meters lower than the 150Nm figure quoted by Proton. These figures were obtained during a hot afternoon - expect this to get better on a cool night.
Ride and Handling
As we all know, Lotus has put its talent and specialty into the ride and handling of this Gen-2 CPS. There is not much I can say about the ride and handling, other than its balanced quite well. Both on low and high speeds, the car feel composed.
I felt only a slight bit of very composed body roll and under steer when I pushed it. It felt nimble and very responsive. The ride is a bit on the stiff side, but there were no complaints when I had passengers on board and cruising at about 160 km/h on the freeway.
Verdict
Safety features of the Gen-2 CPS include two SRS airbags, ABS and EBD. Another interesting fact is that Proton offers extended warranty with 150,000 kilometers or 5 years warranty (which ever comes first) and that is fantastic news. I hate to say this, but I actually really like the Gen-2 CPS!
It looks reasonable, packs a punch and you don’t need to work hard to keep it on the road. Its truly a fun car to drive. Although the interior quality is something you can scream at Proton for, but, so what? At RM 57,488.00 it’s worth every cent.
So, the question is, would I buy it? Yes, I would, for its sweet motor and crisp handling.
Story by Harvinder Singh Sidhu, photos by Paul Tan and Leong Tik Tsin
PHOTO Gallery: Proton GEN2 CPS Facelift
Click thumbnails to view high resolution photo
August 13, 2008 @ 6:44 pm
this car is junk
August 13, 2008 @ 6:48 pm
Too little,too late Proton! Ppl have moved to other makes..I doubt anyone would risk more money in either this or the new Waja Cps too.
August 13, 2008 @ 6:49 pm
wahlaueh…
not sure wat P1 is thinking. Why dun put CPS in persona & make same suspension tuning??…. it will becomes a lot more good response from public…
*_* ???
August 13, 2008 @ 7:06 pm
come on.. not everybody like comfortable sedan….some like sporty hatchback….anyway this is my target car.
August 13, 2008 @ 7:08 pm
nice! very nice indeed.. always think that gen2 is a great looking car.. n now with d CPS, lotus ride and handling, etc etc.. really like proton’s european-like driving dynamics..
noticed that proton also made better, if not very great progress. at least we get to hear from proton every now and then..
goodluck proton & nice photography
happy motoring!
August 13, 2008 @ 7:27 pm
As usual interior fit and finish sucks! Proton oh Proton! If not for a Lotus involvement balancing the chassis and tuning the suspension, there’s nothing to praise about.
August 13, 2008 @ 7:31 pm
i do hope the engine design development soon capable to push the fleet at 2500rpm at 100kmh,
August 13, 2008 @ 7:41 pm
another junk from proton, please close shop proton
August 13, 2008 @ 7:53 pm
I actually like the car, only that i cannot seat behind without my head forever hitting the roof. Savvy has better rear headroom than this. Can they not make the cushions thinner or something to give more heardroom?
August 13, 2008 @ 8:33 pm
paul, finally the report for tis! yeah! hehe anyway, what i know from proton tech day, there is a list of ppl book s.neo cps auto, means s.neo cps auto is coming soon right? end of this month?
August 13, 2008 @ 8:38 pm
I see more bashers, woah!
btw good one from proton! the new engine and interior sure make it a worth buy.
August 13, 2008 @ 8:45 pm
hmm really dont understand malaysian mentality even tho im malaysian, some of them i dont even have to waste saliva to talk to them…previous few post…
anyway, kody, if u wan persona to perform a bit more sporty, u always can bring ur persona to r3 to let them tune for u, no point for proton to purposely release sport persona tat wont sell much as original persona. thats y aftermarket parts r around for u.
proton want persona to be family sedan, this gen2 cps to cater sporty ppl, i dont really like sporty sedan, as the heavy tail will tend to make ur car less nimble in cornering n it adds weight, dont forget chances of oversteer cz of the heavy tail!
August 13, 2008 @ 8:48 pm
It’s nice. Come on Proton, work harder and release a CPS for Persona. What is taking you so long?
August 13, 2008 @ 8:48 pm
i dnt c bashers, i just see selfish ppl around…do u guys so naively think when nap is gone toyota n honda or any other foreign make will lower the price in 3yrs? emotional clouded these poor soul, tats all i can say…go make ur own money rather than complaining its expensive cz u cnt get it! bunch of losers/bashers
August 13, 2008 @ 8:49 pm
probably most of the basher are Julianlee with duplicate account
August 13, 2008 @ 8:50 pm
classy proton… late as usual… but pretty good value… the wheels looks a bit nerdy though… otherwise, i have no problems with the CPSed GEN2… or was it a GEN2andahalf…?
August 13, 2008 @ 8:58 pm
I prefer this rather than overpriced japanese “cheap car for S.E.Asia market” which uses torsion beam rear suspension (evidence of cheapness) and plastic interior (wierdly no one complaint bout that). Gen 2 is a properly engineered car. Good JOB & Keep it UP. Im happy 2 drive it rather than driving city, vios and even sentra, corolla ……all company car btw, not mine.
August 13, 2008 @ 8:59 pm
Good delivery but its’ too late. This should be a good balance for those new learners. Gen2 is way better than my Myvi and I would love to test drive Gen2 after my exams. Haha.
August 13, 2008 @ 9:14 pm
Proton GEN2 CPS Highline Manual Test DriveAugust 13, 2008 at 6:28 pm · Filed under Cars, Malaysian Makes, Proton, Test Drive Reports.
PROTON SUCKS said,
August 13, 2008 @ 6:44 pm
this car is junk
maserati said,
August 13, 2008 @ 6:48 pm
Too little,too late Proton! Ppl have moved to other makes..I doubt anyone would risk more money in either this or the new Waja Cps too.
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you have to admired them. 16 and 20 minutes apart from when PT posted this article, they are here already with negative comments.
not a bad car, better than some Japanese B grade. atleast Proton is taking heed and improving it’s product.
August 13, 2008 @ 9:38 pm
kingbrutal,
Looks like we got 2 type of readers.
Those who love P1
and those who love to hate P1.
anyway, looks like any article on P1 would gather much more attention than of other makes.
I think they love P1, but too proud to admit it
rt.
.
August 13, 2008 @ 9:42 pm
already become one of my fav car(not the old gen2..but this new gen2)… fell in love with the interior..niceee.
August 13, 2008 @ 9:43 pm
Call yourself a dumbie if you skip this car and go for japanese buatan malaysia cheapo rubbish car.
August 13, 2008 @ 9:53 pm
Don’t ya guys think it’s a bit too late? But better late than never…
August 13, 2008 @ 10:05 pm
yup rt… too ptoud..
yes, a bit or could I say too late… but it is here, thats what is important.
IMHO, all car have a niche to fill, be it family, teenager, or the showing off type. you might not notice this, but most of the buyer of GEN-2 is the racer boy/girl wannabe. admittedly, this is a sporty car (in terms of look) and the enhancement of the heart is a most welcome addition.
maybe Proton should launch a strip-down version, like the Megane R26 with bodykit, adjustable suspension, a tuned-up ECU and engine, racing wheels. (just a L.E) organize a one make racing league for each state, with the winners to compete in Sepang for a grand finale. who knows, maybe Proton can build a racing reputation like Mitsu and Scooby.
August 13, 2008 @ 10:06 pm
yup rt… too ptoud.. <<<should be ‘proud’… sorry, typo..
August 13, 2008 @ 10:11 pm
Since Proton owns Lotus, why isn’t Proton using Lotus styling & engineering on their line of products?
Why are they preferring to use the catch phrase “Ride & Handling Tuned by Lotus”?? Does that make a lousy car sell better?
August 13, 2008 @ 10:19 pm
Paul,
I wonder how the auto version will feels like. I personally tested the manual Gen2 CPS as well, it is a great car. But I perfer auto transmission if I am going to buy this car. Any chance that you can post a auto transmission test drive review?
Paul Tan says: yes, will request for an auto. stay tuned.
August 13, 2008 @ 10:21 pm
P1 should improve interior quality and finish and maybe a 1.8 CPS in the Gen2 would be nice.
Waja replacement is needed soon.
August 13, 2008 @ 10:23 pm
really nice car just needs some refinement. come on proton just a little bit more.
August 13, 2008 @ 10:54 pm
dude, autos are for fat blokes, lazy people, and people with gout or elephanthiatis… aka old people… because they can’t change gears for themselves… manual rocks… you’ll feel connected to the car… no offence but i think autos suck.. also, I am not a big fan of any of proton’s manual because i think the ratio isn’t right/optimized…
August 13, 2008 @ 11:02 pm
Oh No! Why I don’t desereve this beauty?
But there are drawbacks with gen 2. I don’t know about this CPS, I am driving a Gen2 1.6 (enhanced version so called) which caused me RM53,000! I drove this car since April 2006 and being frank, I like the handling and the fierce roar made by the engine. Performance wise…. I cannot compare with the CPS as I knew there are lots of improvement. But there are something I should remind those who are interested in buying 1. I sent my car to the Center Of Excellence (COE) in Shah Alam numerous times with a few repeated problems.
No 1 - My dashboard paint start to peel off (My dashboard comes with two toned colours - black and beige.
No 2 - My door panel rubber peels off the 3rd month and the 26th month.
No 3 - My rims’s paint start to peel off within a year (which resulted for me to skim my rims and indeed it looks good!)
No 4 - My drive shaft is give me problem (And I have to warranty it twice)
No 5 - My boot’s “bracket” which I don’t understand is not properly fitted in and cause my car to have rattling sound when my car is on uneven road.
No 6 - My fuel lid and my steering center silver finish isn’t aligned properly as well. (warrantied but it came back like this after 4 months.
Lastly - My air cond will have some HUMMING sound after I witch off my car. I always joke that my car sings. (Proton tried to rectified it, but nothing can be done till now. And my car is not under warranty anymore.
I don’t know whether other gen 2 owners are facing the similar problem with me. Or perhaps I am too fussy and I should not hope that much for a national car which I adore since I was small. 1 more thing is the attitude by the staff from the COE. They really need to improve their manners and the way they treat customers. They are rude, not well equiped and cunning also. I strictly remember 1 of the staff told me once… “Tak apa punya, bising sikit takkan mati punya, proton memang macam ini. cukup complain la.” I was so mad that I get to know the manager and I knew him that well that I bought him hampers during Raya season as he is the only one, ONLY ONE, that has the proper attitude, smile, greet and knowledge about serving customer. Since, then, I insist him to serve me and my car! (A priviledge for me, hehe). I don’t expect them to do like what they show in the commercial ad but PLEASE, these “TIDAK APA” attitude must go.
Proton is not poor in terms of design, or performance. To me, its the quality and attitutde that tarnish Proton. To be frank, Proton cars looks far better than any P2 cars. But thats my 2 cents…
Anyway, good job proton for improving the GEN 2 but too bad, I have lost confidence in Proton and I am trying my luck with the Koreans and French.
August 13, 2008 @ 11:37 pm
I guess any ’sport car’ will not have good headroom for rear passenger; and this is reasonable for Gen-2. The front grill is a lot better now. But the rear lamp is still a ’shit’. The steering is still the old ugly one. Why not a larger alloy rim?
August 14, 2008 @ 12:02 am
1st ly, i wanna say CONGRATS PROTON ! nice car and performance, only that ur vendors is like S**T !
Let me be ur vendor and supplier, sure i will give u guys more quality parts ! Rather than rattle snake parts !
It is not that Protons fault, it is their vendor, their vendors fault coz ur QC so blind to check all the parts, QC so blind coz no training, no training coz no budget, or bla bla bla…
Do Proton got the 5Y system? Use la… !
Anyway i still blame the management on this, coz it all starts with the management !
August 14, 2008 @ 12:04 am
hurmmm well protonean hehe for those who work wif proton….
u guys need to voiced up to the higher people in p1 about the quality. teh design is there. quality need to improve. need to be more strict in Q check dude. So once the quality issue is over there u go. imperfection will become almost perfect (no car is perfect). but it will not take over night. So, what are u waiting for. do sumthing. i really hope when i’ll be in Malaysia again, P1 is ready for me. hehehe.
August 14, 2008 @ 12:05 am
from my experience, coe ppl r too cocky, i never wan2 send car to them after i tried 1st, either go to proton edar glanmarie or pj s13 or pj jalan222 would be good attitude, they even ask me how my car doing after their service, they r more initiative than CockyOfficialEmployees(COE)
August 14, 2008 @ 12:09 am
quality issue is the responsibility of factory n dealer, dealer hv the most responsibility n not just look at profit pls! i saw s13 SC done a great job there, most of the cars tat going out to customer r going thru QC in tat SC, quite good, but other SC i dnt c them doing tat! tat makes me feel damn angry at those lazy dealers! not just proton, perodua as well! man i still rmb the myvi experience i n my friend went thru…really wan2 complain! those dealers just sucks! pls be responsible! ur shop is hanging some1’s logo infront!
August 14, 2008 @ 12:19 am
How can you improve a crap car? You can’t. All you get is improved crap. How can the reviewer say that it is alright to pay, even for less than 50k, for such crap interior? Silly little buttons, cheap steering wheel. Are we still third world? We spend most of our time inside, and therefore interior comfort and quality are deemed the most important. Honestly I would rather work much harder, get a second job, and pay 10k more for a better product. Korean anyone?
August 14, 2008 @ 12:21 am
ppl + victims bash proton = losers.
proton invested by G, protected by G, back ups by G, NAP, failed many standard test = Winner = proton supporters.
i just cant see how the equations fit. perhaps im just plain stupid. i know! i should be a proud winner too by getting another proton and have my nightmares start all over again. Or, maybe i’ll be a hypocrite too and praise proton while im driving cars with other made.
PS: there are people who cant earn that much to owe a dreamt comfy decent foreign car, so you guys also want to TAKE away their RIGHTS to rant, expression of feelings and complaints? in which, you guys considered as bashing. well then, i see you guys are no diff from the proton either.
August 14, 2008 @ 12:30 am
Sorry, it’s >60k, it is more expensive than it looked/feel.
August 14, 2008 @ 12:37 am
ignas…..there’s absolutely nothing wrong with not earning alot and getting a decent affordable car. But please compare what affordable cars other makers are making, and take a look at what we have here. It’s a whole different world! A cheap car does not make it low quality.
August 14, 2008 @ 12:53 am
sry if i benchmarked foreign cars as a standard. japs made, thats the closest we can get. pls, dont ask me to compare with india or china, we’re advancing, not downgrading. proton offers crappy expensive cars is a fact.
cheap or expensive does not define the quality of the cars especially in m’sia. its proton versus foreign cars in its respected classes.
August 14, 2008 @ 12:55 am
Paul, proton’s cars always suffered from the aircond kick-in power loss to the wheel….japanese car doesn’t seems to suffered from this sickness……
August 14, 2008 @ 12:56 am
thanks for the comforts by the way, alcool31. i know u mean good.
August 14, 2008 @ 1:05 am
As has unfortunately been the case with P1, they have been late with coming out with the goods. We have had to wait…what?… 8 years for the full spec engine. What a let down…
BUT… I am a supporter of our national car company (mind you… the engineers and present top people only… esp the MD), so it is better late than never to demonstrate what the company truly is capable of.
Hats off to them… not wanting to put pressure, but if the Savvy, Persona, new Saga, CPS Waja and CPS Gen2 is anything to go by… I am looking foward to the MPV and Waja Replacement Model.
August 14, 2008 @ 1:51 am
Too little too late is right. One doesn’t need to be a Proton bashing troll to see that. For instance, here’s a cold hard fact:
Latest and best Gen.2 with Campro CPS’ fuel consumption: 7.2 l/100km (as stated by paul)
Honda City DSI’s consumption: 3.8 l/100km (Results of road test, also covered by paul)
Even with the Honda retailing at a price 50% higher (due to protectionism no less) , one is paying nearly 100% more for fuel in a Gen.2, and over the long term a Honda’s total cost of ownership works out to be less. So tell me lah, with petrol at 2.70/litre, HOW is this latest proton NOT too little too late?
August 14, 2008 @ 5:23 am
I was reading this part “….including not to 100km/m in 10.6 seconds… ” and wondered for a second what it means….
I think it should read … including NAUGHT to 100km/h!…
ha ha, sorry for being a grammar police.
August 14, 2008 @ 7:06 am
Wonder is there any plan to put CPS into Persona auto? Any test drive plan for this Paultan?
August 14, 2008 @ 8:18 am
ignas, compare n show us some COLD HARD FACT what u meant? n i do not agree on this “proton invested by G, protected by G, back ups by G, NAP, failed many standard test = Winner = proton supporters.”, what u want2 prove? if u think proton dnt suit u, get cars from other marque, if u cnt afford it dnt blame others while its u cant afford it. no people shove proton up ur ass and say u MUST get proton! u cnt afford it n yet u blame others, tats who i call losers.u want 1st world facilities but with ur 3rd world mentality? i dnt think the equation is correct. yes, ppl can be poor, but sometimes, u r wealthy or poor still depends on urself. no free lunch in this world, even when it looks too good to be true, there r terms n condition to apply to. malaysian r just over pampered by previous PM…tats my rant! if u wan2 rant, use fact, if u dnt, its call trolling
anyway, by any mean, which part of proton’s product is “proton offers crappy expensive cars is a fact”? i agree their suppliers give shitty products, but u hv to remember 1 thing, its the gov that control proton, no matter how proton wants to improve, its still the gov that says no to advancement as gov want proton to produce people’s car…all u guys blame proton for shitty restriction that gov give them?
August 14, 2008 @ 8:19 am
viceice said,
August 14, 2008 @ 1:51 am
Too little too late is right. One doesn’t need to be a Proton bashing troll to see that. For instance, here’s a cold hard fact:
Latest and best Gen.2 with Campro CPS’ fuel consumption: 7.2 l/100km (as stated by paul)
Honda City DSI’s consumption: 3.8 l/100km (Results of road test, also covered by paul)
Even with the Honda retailing at a price 50% higher (due to protectionism no less) , one is paying nearly 100% more for fuel in a Gen.2, and over the long term a Honda’s total cost of ownership works out to be less. So tell me lah, with petrol at 2.70/litre, HOW is this latest proton NOT too little too late?
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this is my answer from previous post,
awak said,
August 13, 2008 @ 9:15 am
most importantly proton to have the kind of engine is continously tuned at every rev range so that the torque band is stay high at any revs,
thats what the modern engine does, suffix like i intelegent C continous D dynamic means that the engine is tuned its ignition, timing, valving, at every range of engine speed and load, very useful at lower end,
for the cps or v-tech cam changing like is an extra for higher power band is an extra gain,
and the VIM covers generally said between the begining of the rpm towards 3500 where the most usable range for everyday use, of course it does cover lower ends,,, but generally not thoroughly,
but i ,C, D will raed and changes at 0 500 1000 15000 2000 2500 3000.. or even at a very closer intervals therefore we can feel livelier and the delivery is at the very tad of the pedal, the character does enhance batter fuel economy and lower emission,
and
awak said,
August 13, 2008 @ 10:52 am
so,, this continous valve control ,so far i havent found it by lotus,
of course it has CPS, thats great
but what matters is continous valve timing control is almost todays standard, as far as the fuel efficiency counts,,, where it is by lotus engineering?. how do we aquire such technology,?
when most people now are talking about technology and efficiency,
this aspect is also part of the determination of resale value of a car.
clearly what happened now late lotus car employs toyota engine, as found in late exige and its latest evora,
this need to be solved by proton
August 14, 2008 @ 8:29 am
well for honda city the engine is specially trimmed to save fuel,
torquey 8 valve 2spark engine coupled with cvt, and high performance attitude is retarded with non-existance of racy cam as well as single intake and exhaust,
intelligent Dual Spark ignition, enhance thorough combustion evev at low engine speed,
so proton can think some of this trick, how?,,,,think of something ,because smaller engine not necessarily save fuel, 1.3 for instance,
August 14, 2008 @ 8:32 am
y some1 is comparing proton to japs?
y not comparing it to korean?
they used to sell crappy car but managed to improve
it is too late for proton indeed…
now it is common to find car wit dvvt.cvvt,vvt-i
it seem that proton need a special team to develop/improve campro engine (go head hunting)
August 14, 2008 @ 8:44 am
haroldz, yea kor cars used to be crappy, but after they hired european lead designer, their design takes off! while engine tech cooperate with mitsu,global engine org, their cvvt is born…which by all means, not developed solely by themselve, but it gets the job done what so ever.
proton’s engineers always wanted better tech, but it still need approval of MD n Gov to proceed…but at least for metal welding job, i see perodua’s car done it worse than proton’s…try to spot welding spots on myvi/viva compares to s.neo/persona/saga…n myvi/viva’s trimming…they could hv made it better…but they din, n yet at those price…im not supporting proton like fanboy, i just dnt satisfy for what i get isnt worth the money, or even dont looks worth it…too many exposed welding…door, tail gate, area around doors…it just tak sedap to look at, n i hv to look at it almost everyday…
August 14, 2008 @ 9:08 am
I hate to say this too.. -.-”
But I like this car as well.. GDI…
August 14, 2008 @ 9:48 am
Jie,
The spelling for “Naught” is actually “NOUGHT”.
Haha. Sorry for being a spelling Police.
August 14, 2008 @ 9:52 am
Paul, Heard that Neo CPS will roll out this year. Do u have any info on this? Noticed that the old Campro have kind of rattling problems with the engine when being pushed up until redline. Is this problem present in CPS…
August 14, 2008 @ 10:10 am
I have been waiting for a review on the Gen 2 cps, as usual the finishing touch of the interior can be quite bad. But it’s still better than the previous gen2. good hear another positive review on the car again. I might be considering this car
August 14, 2008 @ 10:11 am
But ignas, why do we compare ourselves with China and India? why not Japanese or cheaper eastern European, international standards manufacturer? If we keep on thinking we’re better than the average, we will never get there. All this mentality has to change. I cannot deny it does not give me the pleasure to say all this, and someday i would like to own a proton that i actually like and be proud of, but i dun see that day coming anytime soon, if they keep on churning out cars like these.
August 14, 2008 @ 10:24 am
paul.. how many % of bhp is lost on the wheel if it was an Auto transmission?…
August 14, 2008 @ 10:37 am
This may attract some flames, but in a competitive motoring market, proton still have some improvements to go.
http://fifthgear.five.tv/jsp/5gmain.jsp?mnk=201_1&model=969&desc=Proton+Gen2
August 14, 2008 @ 12:23 pm
viceice said,
August 14, 2008 @ 1:51 am
It’s the sheer driving pleasure that matter.
I hate ‘chicken’ torsion beam suspension, numb steering, ride that has no feedback otr, handling that is as good as kancil, and PLEASE ACCEPT the fact that they’re more expensive.
I have money, I am able to pump more petrol, most important is ‘SONG’!
August 14, 2008 @ 1:25 pm
This may attract some flames, but in a competitive motoring market, proton still have some improvements to go.
http://fifthgear.five.tv/jsp/5gmain.jsp?mnk=201_1&model=969&desc=Proton+Gen2
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If I were in UK, i won’t even consider a Proton, as there is some many better choices with the $$ you are paying.
But due to our automotive policies, for the price you pay for a Waja/Gen2 CPS, you are getting quite a good deal in terms of equipment vs. price.
I am driving a Waja CPS and I have no regrets buying it .
August 14, 2008 @ 1:36 pm
I fully agree with pulltea.
No matter how powerful it is, it must also consider other area such as SAFETY is an essential. Their marketing strategy sounds to me like power, can run, can stop ? quality build ? they are putting buyer at risk. lot of room to improvement from their management.
August 14, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
i own this gen.2 cps..
i could say the performance of the engine is superb for 1.6. some more can cucuk2 angin with v-tec..dun believe??..try it urself, but if caught by the traffic cop, then sendiri mau ingat..
some more, i’ve seen a slide show for trainin purposes at SC, shows CPS vs v-tec & CPS vs vvt-i..from the results, cps tapoww both v-tec &vvt-i..
August 14, 2008 @ 1:45 pm
Dear viceice,
Gen2cps is a sport hatchback. If you really want to compare, compare it with city v-tech. That what we call apple to apple. Both car are for performance and power. City idsi could be compared to gen2 AIFM. Proton market and design Gen2 CPS for power and performance same like city v-tech. Gen2 AIFM is for moderate and FC saving (if there is any significant saving) and comparable with City IDSI.
After some research, there is no way that cost of ownership of Honda v-tech could be less than owning Proton gen2. The different in price of both car is 28k (58k vs 86)If you do travel 10k a month; (10% deposit, 3.88% interest rate).
Instalment per month= gen2 cps RM 765 city V-tech RM 1148 different= 376 (worth of 139.2 liter worth of petrol or 1933 km travelled, about a month worth of petrol if you do drive 50km everyday)
Paul tan in this review rated it at 7.2 liter/100km. Most of website rated city vetch average consumption at 13.03 km per liter (around 7.5l/100km).
City v-tech fc
http://www.oneshift.com/pdb/lcmuserfc.php?pid=159&cb=/pdb/lcmuserfc.php
city idsi fc (avg 5.83l/100km)
http://www.oneshift.com/pdb/lcmuserfc.php?pid=156
anyway if you do really rate the fc is 3.8l/100km, if you do travel 10,000km a month, you still save 160 ringgit a month on buying gen2. This cost of instalment plus petrol cost. (gen2 cps vs city idsi).(assumption: 3.88% interest rate, 7 years loan, 10% deposit, gen2 cps 7.2 l/100km, city idsi 3.8l/100km, 10,00km travel a month)
maybe before this when interest rate were subsidies by Japanese Company, (at 2.88%) you maybe could save a little on instalment. Now both car interest rate is the same 3.88%. So tell me where are the
August 14, 2008 @ 2:14 pm
PROTON JUNK 2…
August 14, 2008 @ 2:15 pm
i am using an old gen2 manual for quite some time, and my friend bought this new fl gen2 cps automatic high line. i tested his car and from what my experience is, the automatic lacks power. maybe because the transmission take away lots of its power, and i think the manual version of gen2 cps would have better performance. i even tried 0 to 100 kmh with him and the different is just like his car nose 2 meters in front of my car. i really need to try the manual one. did anyone know how to convert normal campro to cps? or is there a kit to upgrade them?
for the interior wise, its way much better than my old gen2. it is basically using the same design as persona, with a trim on the leather and color. it look even sportier than the rest of the second class-japanese-assemble one (city, vios, etc).
once i got an challenge on the way to kedah in plus hiway by a vios. from the looks, that vios is a racerboy tune (the spoiler, stripes, ride height) against my old-stock gen2. i outpace him starting from 160kmh and he cant even cope up with me at 185kmh. with the city even worse. totally lacks of power i must say.
i am not a p1 lover, bought the car because of tight budget that time. all this while, the problem i get is broken back power window, while it is still under warranty. nothing else. if i get a better budget, maybe in next 2 years, i would rather buy a CBU lancer or toyota camry
August 14, 2008 @ 2:39 pm
Shlee76,
You should learn a bit about market segmentation. Some customers are looking at horsepower and torque, some looking at brand some look at fc and so on. Just like Honda City, City Idsi for fuel efficient car, City V-tech for power. Proton need to cater this two major type of customer and that why Gen2 CPS is for, for boy racer and petrolhead and Gen2 Aifm for moderate and sedated driver. Then there are always Persona for the family oriented driver.
Gen2 cps are given ABS, EBD and 4 disk brake. How much power do your need for your stopping power. The airbags are there. How much safety do you want? The best thing if you really wish for absolute safety, stay at home or use public transport. If you are saying proton put buyer at risk, then all the Bmw, Volvo, Swift sport, Honda v-tech (big vetch), celica, RX7, RX8 (continue yourself…) and other sports car should be banned as it can run very fast and obviously putting buyer at risk. How logic is your statement. So, everybody just drive kancil or kelisa and drive slowly as you might drive? (assumption your drive at slow pace). That what we call freedom of choice.
August 14, 2008 @ 2:39 pm
that pic with the dude sitting at the back is very funny.. it looks like hes stcuk there forever..lol.. anyway, good review paul, i was waiting for your review on this for a long time. since when i wanted to buy a car.
PAUL, what about the front passenger seat? last time i sat in a gen2, my back was aching after 20 minutes..lol..
August 14, 2008 @ 2:40 pm
hehehe..
have u driven the gen2 cps?
i haven’t, so i won’t comment much on that.
but i’d loved to try
moral>>try dulu baru komen, xtry jgn kondem.
currently driving my mom’s non-cps gen2 HL auto.
FC 7.2l/100km, driving style mixed, driving route mixed.
for those who are driving gen2 auto, try “kick down”.
u will notice the power of campro..
ehhh..dah 150km/h?
but don’t do that too often, or else, gearbox can kaputt.
my only wish is Proton to provide the customers with
QUALITY PRODUCTS & QUALITY SERVICE.
& why Polyphony Digital didn’t put Proton in their car list?
August 14, 2008 @ 3:36 pm
awak said,
August 13, 2008 @ 10:52 am
so,, this continous valve control ,so far i havent found it by lotus,
of course it has CPS, thats great
but what matters is continous valve timing control is almost todays standard, as far as the fuel efficiency counts,,, where it is by lotus engineering?. how do we aquire such technology,?
when most people now are talking about technology and efficiency,
this aspect is also part of the determination of resale value of a car.
clearly what happened now late lotus car employs toyota engine, as found in late exige and its latest evora,
this need to be solved by proton
dear awak,
continous valve timing mechanism technology already available in new proton V6 engine. if continously variable cam phasing work in same mechanism as continous valve timing mechanism then the technology is there. it was shown at the proton technology week. Wait and see. Rumours said that new MPV will be using vvt + cps. So wait and see they implement the technology in campro next.
August 14, 2008 @ 3:53 pm
dear tebuan,
which new v6 you are refering to, is it in current perdana?
but if what you say is to be the truth,
dynamic vvt + cps will equate VVTL-i
thats efficient and sport,
ill keep your word at the moment.
August 14, 2008 @ 3:57 pm
turbo tis cps!!
August 14, 2008 @ 4:38 pm
My ‘92 stock 1.3 manual Saga have slightly a better mileage than this car 6.8L/100km. In city driving some more…lol
Still, i would prefer if Proton make enhancement to Persona instead. IMO, the take up would be much more if Persona was introduced instead of GEN2.
August 14, 2008 @ 5:01 pm
awak,
I think tebuan meant was the development V6, not the current Perdana V6.
The one we see in the technology week.
Did you go there?
ReactiX,
I think City and Vios was ECU rev-limited to 170kph only.
That’s why you could smoke them
rt
August 14, 2008 @ 5:06 pm
nice car, waranty also long period..
August 14, 2008 @ 5:21 pm
Salamz and Hello to fellow forumers,
I’m one of the leading Proton Basher blogger in here. Just check out some of my work-of-art I’ve been posting in here since last year, not to mention, some of it are removed by Paul.Tan because it is “too hot” to be handled in here (closed door forum perhaps?).
Anyways, if Proton decided to implant Campro CPS into Persona and accelerate their Hybrid Cars to come out sooner and revised Gen.2, Perdana and Wira designs; I swear I will not bash Proton anymore. Proton, you better perform or perish.
August 14, 2008 @ 6:16 pm
rt,
Yup the prototype engine proton v6 3.0 and 2.2. That engine cooperate continously variable cam phasing inside. Hp for 2.2 engine rated at 200hp at 7250 rpm. max torque at 210nm@5000rpm.
on the city and vios, i don’t think there is any rev cut 170km/h. There are picture show vios top speed at 190km/h. But how long to reach that speed, beat me. Japanese official top speed cut at 180km/h for all their domestic car production.
sYoh,
gen2 cps is a revised gen2. How to revised the latest revision? Wira is no longer will be revised. Revised wira should be the persona. Perdana is on the way but how many will buy over 2 liter engine nowdays?
August 14, 2008 @ 7:55 pm
farghmee,
if Polyphony Digital put proton on their list, granturismo5 will become rubbish cars racing
August 14, 2008 @ 9:09 pm
ALPINA BMW said,
August 14, 2008 @ 7:55 pm
farghmee,
if Polyphony Digital put proton on their list, granturismo5 will become rubbish cars racing
—————————————————————————
lor… ada gak… :D. thought he/she would be sitting out of this Proton discussion… apparently no…
even if Proton will be able to produce a powerful engine, whats the purpose? you still have to obey the speed limit. (or as same may say, the law is meant to be broken? :D)
we are forgetting something essential here… when comparing Proton to Japanese make, the main thing is your budget. If you can fork out the extras needed to purchase the Japanese car, by all mean go ahead. But most Malaysian do not have the luxury to do that. I won’t call it stuck with Proton but reality is, Proton is a savvy choice especially with the current and up coming models. Agree, there is room for improvement but aren’t all car need to be improved time after time? did you ever see a perfect car? the one that don’t need improvement? yes, they should improved on the build quality and I do see an improvement over the previous generations.
Even if Proton manage to attain the same level as the major players, the problem still lies with the economic of scale due to market limitation in Malaysia. thats why the China, Iran and India market is important for Proton to achieved the economic of scale required for them to bring the cost down and invest more in R&D. For Proton to succeed in this countries, they have to improve the build quality, marketing, brand image and so forth. The greater the market share they get, the more beneficial it is for the consumer provided they don’t revert back to the snobby attitude that success brings.
August 14, 2008 @ 10:09 pm
good timing… paul posted the review on the facelifted Gen-2 and Fifth Gear UK also did a review on the Gen-2:
http://fifthgear.five.tv/jsp/5gmain.jsp?mnk=201_1&model=969&desc=Proton+Gen2
I dont want to be a Proton basher but judging by these comment, Proton will not survive any longer, unless it continues sucking Malaysian rakyat’s money (or blood). Quoting from the review:
“QUALITY + RELIABILITY: Truly, madly, deeply awful. From the nasty featherweight little key to the way the boot crashes shut, you just cannot believe that anyone could still make a car this way.”
“In a world full of extremely competent Skodas, Hyundais and Kias, there is really no need to choose something that feels like a latter-day Lada.”
Skoda was a laughing stock in the old days but not anymore. Nowadays, even the Brits respect Korean & Eastern European cars especially when they gives excellent value for money and a certain level of quality but our Proton, instead, have now become the old Skoda or Lada, the new millennium laughing stock.
Enough said.
P/S: Please don’t try to say the UK media are biased etc. On this evidence, they will give credit where it’s due if it’s due. Eg. “In the past, Protons had a reputation for not breaking down but, on this evidence, we are making no predictions as to the longevity of current versions.”
August 14, 2008 @ 10:23 pm
Paul, compared to Waja CPS that you have tested earlier, which one of these Proton’s CPS-based models accelerates quicker?
According to ProtonEdar brochures, Waja CPS weighs lighter than Gen2 CPS, as well as the 0-100kph acceleration, which shows Waja CPS outperforms Gen2 CPS by a fraction of seconds (due to the lighter weight; as they claimed). plus, with a much better interior, Waja CPS wins in every single aspects. but, i am still doubting the weight. Does Waja CPS really weigh lighter than Gen2 CPS?
so, as both of them are CPS-equipped, which means equal power, the WEIGHT is one important thing that need to be considered, in order to achieve higher power-to-weight ratio, which defines the true performance.
since you have tested both of them, do you mind to tell us, in your opinion, which one of these Proton’s new babies accelerates quicker?
August 14, 2008 @ 10:26 pm
Proud owner of Gen.2 CPS MT
Please introduce yourself here
Well, I start 1st, ONE
August 14, 2008 @ 11:16 pm
mr_em
Fifth gear’s review is a new review about the old Gen2.
We are talking about Gen2 CPS. the new Gen2
You could say it is Gen-2.1
./
August 14, 2008 @ 11:18 pm
This morning. I tailed a Gen-2 CPS with my rusa…
ha ha ha…
He could not tapau me..
Even though he cilok here and there.
Morning jam maa… No use driving aggressively.
Just relax la… Wasting your gas…
August 15, 2008 @ 8:53 am
hey, at least my american friend here said the car looks effing cool! hows that haha.
Paul i cilok the black and white photo and set it as my wallpaper. gigidy gigidy goooo
August 15, 2008 @ 9:46 am
Persona SE to be launched on 26/8/08.
Surf http://www.proton.com for details.
August 15, 2008 @ 10:58 am
rt
thanks for highlighting. they are not reviewing the revised Gen-2? I certainly hope so (may be revised Gen-2 CPS can get 2 or 3 stars, not a hopeless ONE STAR!!!!). But they did also put a facelifted Gen-2 pic in their gallery.
Hmm… may be they do not care about Proton anyway. No one would take us seriously anymore these days. Whether it’s revised or not, admittedly, we still have a long way to go to match the rest of the automotive world (let’s exclude undeveloped or developing countries). We just need to open up ourselves to competitions, only then will we see some REAL improvements. But we have been dilly dally about this. At the end, its the consumer who suffers, not Proton or Govt (someone is making money somewhere along the supplier-chain, be it cronies or not).
August 15, 2008 @ 12:16 pm
1.6 liter with 125hp is consider really good in its class…
but please do not race with vios eventhough vios only have 109hp 1.5 .
Vios only need 10.5 sec from 0-100km/h which almost same as New Gen 2 1.6 MT.
but the weight in Vios is lighter, definitely New Gen 2 will loss in cornering and braking with heavy weight in New Gen 2….
still is a pathetic car from proton…
the only good car produce by proton so far only satria gti…!
August 15, 2008 @ 12:18 pm
not bashing but..the GTi engine was also a Mitsubishi engine… *lol.
only give the chasis credit to Proton.
August 15, 2008 @ 12:24 pm
those red engine cover and interior trm is pathetic, i know that it’s abit more powerful, but it’s no Civic EK9 is it?
August 15, 2008 @ 2:25 pm
ALPINA BMW said,
August 14, 2008 @ 7:55 pm
farghmee,
if Polyphony Digital put proton on their list, granturismo5 will become rubbish cars racing
________________________________________________________________
If you think more about it,
GT5 doesn’t put ‘normal’ cars as i call it, into their list.
Go figure.
August 15, 2008 @ 2:50 pm
3s,
Obviously you had never drive gen2 or Gen2 cps. I drive manual cam tak pro engine gen2 and i would have to disagree with your statement, don’t race with vios. On highway road gen2 could smoke vios and city vtec any time. Since when vios are known for it handling and cornering? With beam axle rear suspension and comfort setting, there is no way vios could beat gen2 in cornering. Campro is revv happy car, a proper driven gen2 could easily outmanourver vios or city in the way to genting or from genting. You could take high speed cornering with confident and the handling are above vios or city vtec. Don’t believe me, drive a manual gen2 cps or aifm to genting with vios.
On handling and engine performance gen2 rules. I never saw vios and city join in MME or any circuit racing before. before. How in god earth vios become a legend in handling and performance.
August 15, 2008 @ 2:51 pm
hehehe..did i mention GT5 or Polyphony series as whole?
i’m playing GT just for fun, not for politics
hmm..i really doubt vios could beat gen2 at corner..
even gen2 braking ability is on par with vios.
i was driving this close at fed. hiway fastest lane when suddenly i heard a screeching sound. damn, the vios in front of me did hard-braking & i could see the dust(?) from the tyres. i slam the brake immediately. thank God i’m save. FYI, i trust this gen2 on it’s braking power.
August 15, 2008 @ 3:01 pm
vios handles like sh** trust me ive driven both car
August 15, 2008 @ 4:43 pm
Thanks for your comments “Tebuan” ,farghmee , nmh ,but can anyone of you able to get the details 100km/h - 0 km/h from both car..?
i really would like to know both car will take how many sec and distance to stop the car.
i drove vios before and i beat gen-2 ( maybe is CPS ).that is why i come out with this statement …Hmm…maybe tebuan is right also..since every 1 of you giving the same comment about vios.
August 15, 2008 @ 4:49 pm
this is afterall boleh-land and who cares bout 100-0kmh?
As long as got 4 disk brakes + ABS is good enuff.
August 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
when we push the car to the limit, this data really could help you to decide or what is the correct timing to press the brake pedal.
somemore, when you use these data to compare different brand of car, you will know which car is more safe during braking….which brand of car is weak in braking..then you can overtake them by using braking powder in the car.
please correct if i m wrong. Thanks
August 15, 2008 @ 5:25 pm
when we push the car to the limit, this data really could help you to decide or what is the correct timing to press the brake pedal.
somemore, when you use these data to compare different brand of car, you will know which car is more safe during braking….which brand of car is weak in braking..then you can overtake them by using braking powder in the car.
please correct me if i m wrong. Thanks
August 15, 2008 @ 7:02 pm
or… if anyone that has drove Gen2 CPS and Waja CPS, could you tell which one accelerates quicker? and that will explain which one is lighter/heavier and has more braking power… also the fuel consumption… this one big thing is really matter now, rite?
i really like to know, thanx!
August 15, 2008 @ 7:11 pm
i agree its kinda late. although designed by lotus, yes.. go do some research, the styling of this car is done by lotus..
but it is an old model. and done many years ago. to really look where proton is headed today, we need to see whats been done by the new management. and we can see that with the large sales of persona and the new saga, and a potentially successful MPV next year.
to compare with the likes of skoda, or even the koreans is a little premature . proton is definitely not there yet. skoda, and most korean makes are companies that are over 50 years old. proton today is only 20 something years old. i think one cannot expect a relatively small car company like proton to be the same in half the time.
but i have driven this gen2. cps.. and its a great little car.. the handling is definitely the highlight, but the quality has improved a lot f.rom previously
August 15, 2008 @ 10:23 pm
Well lanuncyber..The Gen-2 is lighter than the waja..the gen2s accelration is alot quicker form standstill-100…
Anyway some of u all have been complainin bout the roofline..yeap it was once indeed a pain but since persona is there n they are marketin the gen2 cps as a sports hatchback it makes sense now..
and another thing has anyone of u sat in the volvo S40 the rear roofline seems high on the ouside but i have sat in it 3 times at roadshows n its actually the same as gen2, cz the seats are lill pushed bac if cud say towards the windscreen..but no1 complains bout dat??the puzzles me cz dats a conti car whic is marketed at not the sporty buyers excactly.but no1 complains bout dat cz itz fine..hmmm
Anway i haven test driven this car..but the interior quality has improved tremendously frm its previous form..its actually better in terms of plastic quality than the 2005 hyundai accent n even the previous vios…(the vios aint a perfect car 2) very2 fuel economical
August 15, 2008 @ 10:25 pm
according to official figure by proton, waja cps slightly faster than gen2 cps. But in the real world, I dont know…hehe
August 15, 2008 @ 10:26 pm
paul i no u would have noticed that 2..:-)
cheers man a juzt want 2 let you no a great site u have..and dont mind if u could do a review on hyundai elantra 07…
August 15, 2008 @ 10:54 pm
for me this gen2 looks sporty. i like it.
August 15, 2008 @ 11:03 pm
hehehe..
try 1st, then comment.
i was that sceptical when my mom decided to buy the gen2.
after i drove it for the 1st time, then i know i was wrong.
it’s not a shame to notice our own prejudice
about 0-100km/h thing, i dun really care.
why?
i got the auto, everyone knows auto is no better than manual, right?
so no point.
let me tell u, handling is very important if u drive the car fast.
i noticed my father corolla 1.6 seg has better acceleration, but then
at high speed i wouldn’t prefer to drive that corolla.
after driving gen2, i seldom drive the good old ‘97 wira.
i’ve driven kancil, viva & 3rd gen civic also..
i would like to drive the Fünfer
ah~about the car safety features vs. driving skill, i won’t comment on that.
most of the commentors here have heard of that argument here in PTforum few months ago.
i know there are a lot of good cars out there.
just choose 1 (or >1) that suits u.
don’t trust everything that u heard.
btw, i’d love to drive a vios the same way as i drive the gen2.
could i test drive one?
it will not be a cruise-driving of course
i’m not connected to proton by any means, excluding driving the gen2..
August 16, 2008 @ 1:19 am
Nothing to be proud of Gen 2 CPS, Proton still behind other car makers in terms of technology. what people want right now is a car with low fuel consumption engine. Proton, please wake up. Still with tidak apa attitude !!!!!
August 16, 2008 @ 1:53 am
save fuel?
take persona iafm instead
August 16, 2008 @ 12:03 pm
ALPINA BMW said,
August 14, 2008 @ 7:55 pm
farghmee,
if Polyphony Digital put proton on their list, granturismo5 will become rubbish cars racing
________________________________________________________________
If you think more about it,
GT5 doesn’t put ‘normal’ cars as i call it, into their list.
Go figure.
er, there are plenty, for example, the toyota yaris, honda jazz, ford ka, citroen xsara etc…..
August 16, 2008 @ 12:23 pm
Lucky for me to choose Waja rather than Gen2 at first place..now still happy with my Waja..
August 17, 2008 @ 2:13 am
If you are looking for a powerful hatchback and low fuel consumption, it has got to be an electric motor. This has been proven. See Lotus Engineering website and have a look see at the Eve Hybrid. It tells the story where you can have the most savings. In this case its a Campro with an electric motor asisting the power from the IC. Oh and the test vehicle is a Gen2. Don’t look for low fuel consumption AND power in a petrol IC engine. A diesel m