Proton has garnered 1,100 bookings in ten days for its Inspira sedan, which is scheduled to be officially launched on November 10. Bookings can be made at Proton dealerships with a RM1,000 deposit.

Described as “jointly-developed by Proton with Mitsubishi Motor Corporation of Japan under a new strategic alliance that is based on the global ideology and benefits of product sharing,” the Inspira comes with 1.8L and 2.0L MIVEC engines. A CVT gearbox is paired to both engines, but those who like the good old manual ‘box will be happy to hear that a five-speed stick shift is available with the 1.8. It’s a rare commodity these days, a C-segment car with a manual box.

“The enormous level of interest shown since we first announced the introduction of the new model is certainly a big sign of approval from car buyers. Proton would like to thank all those who have placed a booking for the Inspira and believe me, they will not be disappointed with the new generation of Proton cars coming their way,” said Proton MD Dato’ Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

“The new strategic relationship with Mitsubishi is based on the fundamentals of knowledge exchange, and one that brings Proton to a new and higher level in which we can benefit from technologically in our pursuit of evolving into a global car manufacturer. It is a win-win partnership, one that is in the true spirit of product sharing to enhance the business of both companies going forward in our respective markets,” he added.

We have driven the Inspira already! Find out what Paul Tan thinks about Proton’s latest here. Click here to see images and a video from the October 14 soft launch.