Proton has released a video teaser of the new Proton Persona, which will be officially launched next week. The 15-second clip posted on the national carmaker’s Facebook page appears to be a short version of a launch “movie”.
It certainly has box office credentials. Produced by KRU Studios, helmed by Polis EVO director Ghaz Abu Bakar and featuring big local stars Nur Fazura and Zul Ariffin, the “Faz & Fairuz” film obviously takes inspiration from Hollywood’s successful Fast & Furious franchise.
The two stars find themselves in a mission to “hijack” the new Proton, and the very lawa actress comments that the Persona is lawa. Our macho man then thumbs the push start button of the sedan, which rolls out of a truck on to the road. The sporty and bodykitted face of the Persona is shown briefly at the end.
But you’ve already seen the face of the new Proton, which is now open for booking. The refundable booking fee is RM300, with an indicative price range of RM47,000 to RM61,000 in Peninsular Malaysia and RM49,000 to RM63,000 in Sabah/Sarawak.
For that, you’ll get an Iriz-based sedan powered by a 1.6 litre naturally-aspirated VVT engine as the B-segment hatchback, making 107 hp at 5,750 rpm and 150 Nm at 4,000 rpm. The Standard variant gets a choice of either a five-speed manual gearbox or a CVT; all other models (Executive, Premium and Premium SE are the other trim levels) are only available with the CVT.
Active safety kit – including ABS with EBD and brake assist, Vehicle Stability Control (VSC), Hill Hold Assist (HHA) and Isofix child seat anchors – comes as standard across the range.
Kit count on the Standard variant includes dual airbags, grey 15-inch turbine design alloy wheels, power-adjustable side mirrors and a single-DIN Bluetooth-enabled radio. Move up to the Executive and one gains body-coloured side mirrors and door handles, front fog lights, a bootlid lip spoiler, a double-DIN head unit, USB charging ports and a 60:40 split-folding rear bench.
At the top of the range, the Premium gains six airbags, silver wheels, black B-pillar trim, power-folding side mirrors, keyless entry, push-button start, an Android-based touchscreen infotainment system with navigation and a reverse camera and leather upholstery. Premium SE adds on a dual-tone bodykit.
Buyers can choose from six colours – Cotton White, Fire Red, Sterling Silver, Graphite Grey, Quartz Black and a new colour for the carmaker, Carnelian Brown, which is the hero colour for the second-gen Persona. Proton is offering three years free service (parts and labour included) for bookings made by September 30.
We’ve driven the new Persona – read our first impressions test drive report to learn more.
