DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

Geely’s acquisition of Proton was the biggest automotive news story of 2017. It was the culmination of the national carmaker’s government-mandated year-long search for a foreign strategic partner, and brings to a close a series of short-lived joint ventures with companies like Mitsubishi, Honda and Suzuki.

The move to sell a stake in Proton highlights a key problem that has beleaguered the company for the better part of a decade. The Malaysian market is tiny in the grand scheme of things, and a falling market share means that Proton cannot survive through domestic sales alone.

To its credit, it has been hard at work developing a range of technologies – such as new direct-injected engines and torque converter CVTs – in an attempt to break into export markets, but it just doesn’t have the capital to keep going. Now, Proton has a foreign partner that it hopes will provide it with the funds and the tech it needs to succeed, both locally and abroad.

Now, all hopes rest on the first product to come from the collaboration – Proton’s first SUV model, based on the Geely Boyue and set to arrive in showrooms next year, will enable the company to break into a lucrative market segment. But will it be any good? We took the donor car for a quick spin in China to see what it’s like.

DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

Launched in China in March last year, the Boyue has been a runaway success in its home country, with over 20,000 units sold each month – and that’s with demand still outstripping supply more than a year on, Geely’s spokespeople claim. The car is also on sale in Middle Eastern markets such as Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), where it is badged the Emgrand X7 Sport.

Measuring 4,519 mm long, 1,831 mm wide and 1,694 mm tall, with a 2,670 mm wheelbase, it’s smack in C-segment SUV territory, being slightly smaller than the Mazda CX-5. Against the all-conquering Honda CR-V, the Boyue is 77 mm shorter, 24 mm narrower and 15 mm taller, and has a 10 mm longer wheelbase.

Styled under the direction of design chief Peter Horbury, the Boyue is a well-resolved effort from a company that until quite recently hasn’t been known for world-beating design. The company’s nascent design direction, introduced on the Borui midsize sedan, can also be seen here, with the concentric grille being a key identifier. This is flanked by sharp headlights optionally available with LED technology.

Along the sides, the prominent front haunches flow into the strong shoulder line that leads into the broad LED tail lights, while the beltline features a slight kink aft of the rear doors, creating a little bit of visual drama. Blacked-out pillars give the Boyue a slightly Land Rover-like look.

As is usual for a Chinese car, there’s plenty of brightwork, the most prominent of which frames the front air intake and fog lights, but it doesn’t look overwrought. Front and rear skid plates add a bit of ruggedness to the Boyue’s design, and the 18-inch wheels seen here fill out the arches convincingly.

So, it’s handsome on the outside, but we’ve seen plenty of good-looking cars from Chinese carmakers before. Where they have tended to struggle in the past is making an interior that isn’t poorly designed or hastily constructed using cheap, brittle materials. Thankfully, the Boyue sidesteps most of these errors.

Instead, what you get is something that looks smart and attractive. The dashboard is clean and well laid out, and items like the flat-bottomed steering wheel and the tall centre console with Porsche Cayenne-style grab handles on either side give the Boyue a modern, contemporary look.

Much of it stands up to the touch too. The upper dashboard and door cards are finished in soft-touch plastics that would embarrass many premium cars, and the seats and all the major touch points are wrapped in Nappa leather. The satin aluminium-effect trim, meanwhile, does much to help lift the cabin ambience – the door pulls and handles look especially gorgeous – and are pleasingly metal-like in feel.

DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

It’s not all perfect, however. The silver plastic slathered across the dashboard is reminiscent of a mid-2000s BMW, and it feels cheap. And while the powered front seats are a nice touch and offer plenty of adjustment, the same cannot be said of the steering wheel – even though it’s adjustable for reach as well as rake, it doesn’t come far enough towards you, and it’s set at an angle so you feel a bit like driving a truck.

Still, it’s very spacious, especially – and unsurprisingly for a car targeted at well-heeled Chinese customers – at the rear. There’s lots of head- and legroom to spare even with the panoramic roof, and the flat floor means that three-abreast seating won’t result in a mad squabble for foot space.

One thing of note is that while rear air-con vents are always welcome, there’s only one of them here, so those at the back will have to fight for airflow. The boot is on the shallow side too and has quite a high sill, making it a little difficult to lift heavy items into the cargo area; on the plus side, the load bay is wide, deep and rectangular in shape, so it’s easy to stack suitcases on top of each other.

There’s not much to complain about when it comes to toys. Aside from the aforementioned electric seats, buyers can also get keyless entry, push-button start, a seven-inch digital instrument cluster, dual-zone climate control, all-around one-touch power windows, an auto-dimming rear-view mirror, a panoramic sunroof and a 360-degree camera with a three-dimensional view – much like you’d get on the G12 BMW 7 Series.

As befits tech-savvy China, most models get a G-Link infotainment system with an eight-inch touchscreen and Bluetooth connectivity, and navigation is also available, as are up to eight speakers. Range-topping variants receive the fully decked-out G-Netlink unit that throws in 3G conectivity with a dedicated SIM card slot, a WiFi hotspot and Apple CarPlay compatibility.

The system also features voice control, and while it only recognises Mandarin at the moment, it appears to be a very comprehensive Siri-style system – you can name the car and it will respond to you calling it, and it can handle questions about general knowledge and even where the nearest McDonald’s is and how to get there.

Proton officials have said that the full G-Netlink system will be offered on our market, and that the voice recognition will be translated into English for our market. It would be very impressive if all of these functions work as well here as they did in China.

Safety-wise, dual airbags, ABS with EBD and brake assist, stability control and auto brake hold come as standard, and as buyers go up the range they can get hill descent control and up to six airbags.

Those who splurge for the high-end models gain autonomous emergency braking, active cruise control, lane departure warning and auto high beam, which is very impressive indeed – although whether or not the Proton version will get all of these features remains to be seen.

In China, the Boyue is available with a choice of two engines, with the base power plant being a 2.0 litre naturally-aspirated four-cylinder petrol engine making 139 hp at 4,000 rpm and 178 Nm from 4,000 to 4,500 rpm. This engine is only available with a six-speed manual transmission and front-wheel drive.

There’s also a 1.8 litre turbocharged, direct-injected mill that puts out 161 hp at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm. That’s with the manual; opt for the six-speed automatic and outputs are bumped up to 181 hp and 285 Nm, and you’ll also get the option of all-wheel drive.

Other markets receive a 153 hp/225 Nm 2.4 litre naturally-aspirated mill mated to the auto gearbox. As far as we know, there has been no confirmation of which engine and transmission options will be offered on the Proton version, but the turbo 2WD auto variant that we sampled looks to be the most likely candidate.

DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

Initial impressions on the short test drive were mixed. Despite the healthy outputs, the turbo model just didn’t feel all that quick, blunted by the 1,670 kg kerb weight (75 kg more than the heaviest CR-V), a slightly sluggish throttle response and the transmission’s hesitance to kick down under hard acceleration. The Sport mode did little to hasten progress.

But what the powertrain lacked in relative pace, it made up for in other areas. The engine was hushed and remarkably free of vibration even when extended, and when the gearbox did decide to shift, it did so in a deft, almost imperceptible manner.

There was also very little road and wind noise at speed. President of Geely’s new Hangzhou Bay research and development centre Zhengnan Hu said that Chinese customers are very particular about noise levels inside a car, and it certainly showed with the Boyue. Ride quality was also very impressive, with the suspension effortlessly soaking up the undulations and speed bumps that dotted our route.

That level of comfort seemed to have been achieved at the expense of handling, however – although the arrow-straight roads meant we didn’t get to test the Boyue’s roadholding, manoeuvring the car around the course showed that it was softly sprung, so there will likely be plenty of roll in the corners.

DRIVEN: Geely Boyue – first impressions review of what will be Proton’s first ever SUV, coming in 2018

The steering, while precise, is also overly light and devoid of feel, and it makes the car feel rather nervy at highway speeds. The good news is that Geely officials have indicated that Proton will be able to make its own changes to suspension tuning (unlike the Perdana and Ertiga before it), so the car that we’ll get should strike a better balance between ride comfort and handling ability, as we’re used to from the company.

So, with our brief seat time over, what were our thoughts on the Geely Boyue? It’s clear that while the car has been designed by an international team of designers and engineers for the global market, the unit that we tested at least was tuned specifically for Chinese buyers, with a powertrain and chassis that prioritises comfort and ease-of-use rather than all-out performance and dynamic capabilities.

Fortunately, most of the Boyue’s flaws can be easily rectified, and we have no doubt that Proton’s chassis expertise will continue to shine through on the local models. More importantly, the rest of the car is thoroughly competent – it’s good-looking, has a premium-feeling interior, is plenty roomy and is packed to the gills with kit and tech. If Proton can price its version competitively, it’ll be an attractive proposition indeed.

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Jonathan Lee

After trying to pursue a career in product design, Jonathan Lee decided to make the sideways jump into the world of car journalism instead. He therefore appreciates the aesthetic appeal of a car, but for him, the driving experience is still second to none.

 

Comments

  • tokmoh. on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:22 pm

    Geely > all
    Proton > all

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 37 Thumb down 25
    • Abang Alza Pakai Topi on Aug 14, 2017 at 11:14 pm

      That “easy rectification” better not cost us tax payers another RM1.5 billion.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 8
    • Question to Ponder on Aug 15, 2017 at 7:26 am

      Has anyone wondered why the Geely Boyue is not sold in Europe, US, Japan and Australia/NZ?

      It is only sold in China. Why?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 13
      • tokmoh. on Aug 15, 2017 at 10:46 pm

        Bcuz they have Volvo to kawtim European, American, Japan/Korea, Australian/NZ market?

        Too premium? No worries, Lynk & co is coming up soon.

        And no, it’s not only sold in China, Boyue is also sold in Oman, UAE, Saudi Arabia.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 25 Thumb down 2
      • europe is complicated market and some countries too….but they’ve volvo to tackle this kind of market…

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 0
  • 1.5 turbo pls. If CRV can do, proton chilli sure can also.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 23 Thumb down 20
    • 12yrsold on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:01 pm

      Why would U want a 1.5 turbo when they have 1.8 turbo??

      Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 93 Thumb down 4
      • Albert Yong on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:27 pm

        Don’t forget one thing, this car is not sold in US, Europe or Japan. Only market is China. And now in Malaysia.

        Does Proton know what it is getting itself into? Have you asked why US, Japan, Europe and even Australia/NZ have REJECTED this Boyue?

        Geely cannot sell in these countries cause it fails all design and quality requirements.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 62
      • Albert Yong on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:33 pm

        Bulk of Proton fans are the Saga and Persona category. Anything over RM70k just fails. Look at Preve and Perdana.

        So, who will buy at RM99k?

        Even till today, Proton buyers are from the lower income. There are some rich people using Proton but let us face facts, most Proton buyers are from the lower income.

        You think they can buy RM99k?

        Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 111 Thumb down 15
        • Diss-illusions on Aug 14, 2017 at 10:49 pm

          It’s called moving up the value chain lohr… You young guns are spoiled with parent-sponsored Hondas n Toyotas.. Just look at the price of Waja and the price of Preve today. Factor in inflation and the additional safety specs, the price is virtually stagnant if not got cheaper.

          Hyundai last time was dirt cheap also.. Look at it today… still cheap relative to the Sushis but it still costs you a fair bit to go Korean and well above Proton.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 33 Thumb down 0
        • Dedak In The House on Aug 14, 2017 at 11:47 pm

          I earn 15k per month, owner of preve.. so ur point?

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 30 Thumb down 9
        • How does Preve fail? Theres plenty on the roads. And AFAIK Preve priced <70k.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 6
        • Shamsul on Aug 15, 2017 at 9:33 am

          Proton client base is only Putrajaya workers. Average gaji there is RM1200. How to get loan for RM100k?

          Non Putrajaya people who can afford RM100k just ad RM15k more and buy X-Trail or Forrester.

          Geely Boyue vs X-trail or Forrester?

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 27
        • sam123 on Aug 15, 2017 at 12:00 pm

          yes agreed, pls put a 1.6L Premium CVT and sell at
          RM68,800.00 Auto RM58,800.00 Manual

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 3
        • Perhaps they can target the corporate for company car with their 4wd.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
        • fraz006 on Aug 17, 2017 at 11:20 pm

          Our Safety manager drives cute little 2016 saga (only car he owns now) he earns 24K a month. U spoiled budak. when u grew up, u realize car is just from getting u from point A to B adequately safely, comfortably(not to the extent kena pakai saga 90s pulak, saga 2017 ok la,new, maintenance cheap, parts cheap, any kedai got sell parts) , why pay premium for spare parts , services, fuel etc. cars are simply money spent, period.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 28 Thumb down 4
      • PlaySafeDriveSafe on Aug 15, 2017 at 10:27 am

        Lower cc with big output means lower cost for road tax lorrr…

        Let’s see what they gonna do with the Petronas engines.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 1
    • turbo pls, manual pls, cvt pls, … all these false hope given to them to continue syok sendiri

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 38
      • How does manual and CVT play in same car? Which car has such tech?

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 21
        • firdaus on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:11 pm

          CVT for auto version lah….adoi!!

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 4
          • For such a big car, u sure u want to drive it manual? For 4WD, theres oso Low and High gearing, u know?

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 6
    • Smallest engine in Boyue range is 1.8T.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 6
  • lilytan on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:48 pm

    Had the chance to ride in one. Quality feel is very good indeed. Beats any proton current offering hands down. Probably better than equivalent honda and toyota, but at par with mazda.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 48 Thumb down 19
    • Dun syok sendiri lah. If its better than honda, toyota, it will be geely sitting on top as biggest auto company. It is just a geely.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 20 Thumb down 93
      • Korean Fan on Aug 14, 2017 at 6:47 pm

        Haiya, many European and American car outbeat Toyota and Honda in term of build and comfort but they also don’t sit on top as biggest auto company. We are talking about Quality feel, not market size la.

        Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 61 Thumb down 5
        • Kelab John dan Kunta on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:50 pm

          According to this amoi’s logic, audi sold less than toyota making audi inferior than toyota in all aspects.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 31 Thumb down 2
          • Based on your logic, Suprima sold much lesser than a 458 italia means that Suprima has better quality?

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 20
          • basherlogic on Aug 15, 2017 at 9:26 pm

            Noone claims like that

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 0
      • Albert Yong on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:39 pm

        iphone is Made in China but sold all over the world.

        Boyue is Made in China but never sold all over the world.

        Ever wondered why?

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 55 Thumb down 27
        • James on Aug 15, 2017 at 8:21 am

          Because they are different product. And iphone is an american brand whereas geely is pure chinese. Iphone/ apple have reputation, geely is stuck with chinese copycat low quality perception.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 2
        • the good about geely or china company…mereka ada modal…they bought us companies like ibm,motorola…and many others but still using the orang putih experience and technology…no need to research…pening kepala…i just pay you…and market laa….

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
    • That’s some statement man. Glad that you didn’t say better than BM or MB … lol

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 6
      • Its not hard for any brands to be better than toyota/honda nowadays.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 30 Thumb down 19
        • It is not impossible for other companies. It is hard for geely and it is impossible for proton.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 35
          • P1 long time ago alredi surpassed toyota/honda in terms of quality. Ever heard a P1 airbag that kills?

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 41 Thumb down 28
        • firdaus on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:15 pm

          ya ka…where is the data??

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 5
          • Honda/toyota = takata
            P1 = no takata

            Nuff said.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 0
        • 12yrsold on Aug 15, 2017 at 10:49 am

          U are right. It is not hard to be better than T or H. It is IMPOSSIBLE to be Better. The balance sheet tells the whole story. Thanks john. U are the Man who reveal the TRUTH.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 6
          • Huawei outsells ipong. is Huawei better than ipong?

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 0
          • The thing is Proton is China made phone with Vertu sales figure.

            Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 6
    • Nautica on Aug 15, 2017 at 9:39 am

      You had a chance to drive one? Seriously? You must be a journalist or working in China.
      Which version did you drive? LH or RH?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • tokmoh. on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:49 pm

    Cheap dashboard plastic… Jon, trying really hard to find the car’s fault eh? Quite difficult, right?

    No mention about the LCD dash panel that is based on the one provided in cars costing 2X or 3X its price, the Volvo V40 and XC60. I know I’d rather this than fancy wood trim that is mere aesthetic. Even CRV’s interior is plasticky.

    The car is comfort biased, of course it’ll be tuned to be smooth and progressive, not outright TURBOOOOOOOO explosion of torque and POWAAAAAAAAAHHHH.

    Proton should prioritise in trying to keep the price as close to China’s market as possible. Imagine having all those adaptive cruise control, auto brake (AEB), lane departure warning for circa RM100k, it’s a steal! Better to tweak as little as possible, keep unnecessary cost as low as possible, hasten launch as soon as possible.

    Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 70 Thumb down 5
    • Dashboard copy current sylphy and that weird “handles” in front of armrest. If that cheap plastic can change to satin chrome look (like in suprima) then it makes it more premium look.

      But the most important Q from basher is: does it seat 7? If not, bashers says sure fail like CRV

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 9
    • fraz006 on Aug 17, 2017 at 11:35 pm

      banyak banyak sgt komponen ni yang takut.. first year second year sedap

      masuk third year, pening, parts tatau lagi cheap ke cip** mahal. byk kete canggih gitu ler

      takut value jatuh teruk nak tolak seken pun dah kene byr puluh ribu, macam VW lah, gah dual clutch system bagai, pastu POM!! rosak, sian gile owner

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
  • thepolygonal on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:51 pm

    I really hope this will be a success for Proton because end of the day, despite all the negativity, Proton still has a special place in our hearts.

    Well-loved. Like or Dislike: Thumb up 76 Thumb down 8
  • Black Dog on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:52 pm

    My guess is they will bring in the 2.4 & turbo models, and priced them around 130K & 150k respectively.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 25
  • seancorr (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 12:55 pm

    Made in China goods is now even better than made in Malaysia goods. Thank goodness Geely stepped in…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 33 Thumb down 9
    • Dug Ong on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:47 pm

      Not really. The tech oriented goods, maybe.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 5
    • U trying to say ipong wasnt gud until it Made in China?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 17 Thumb down 13
    • Good quality? Even Malaysian Chinese pipu also don’t want to buy cherry eastar and haval m4. Oh wai

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 7
  • 1.8 litre turbocharged, direct-injected mill that puts out 161 hp at 5,500 rpm and 250 Nm between 1,500 and 4,500 rpm.> Dang this power output sucks.

    Proton please use your newly developed 1.5 TSDI instead with 180bhp and 250Nm for our road tax sake. Thank you

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 20
    • Next time, read the whole thing before making any comment. You are making a fool out of yourself! Here, let me help you just this time. 161hp/250Nm if mated to the 6MT. The 1.8L engine produce 181hp/285Nm when mated to the 6AT. All this is literally in the same paragraph.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 38 Thumb down 0
    • Tomï on Aug 14, 2017 at 6:50 pm

      VW’s 1.8TSi churns out almost the same output (160hp/250nm) with Boyue’s 1.8T (161hp/250nm) MANUAL version. And I’m guessing Proton won’t bring the manual version here, so 181hp/285nm is acceptable. And do not mix up the VW’s engine reliability here cause we were talking about the engines output, not its reliability (in case anyone wanted to say about the engines reliability).

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 1
      • Middle Age Driver (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:51 pm

        I really hope the Manual is offered here. Too little choices for Manual now in Malaysia. Will always prefer a Manual over auto anytime including my wife & daughter.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 11 Thumb down 7
    • kona kinte on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:08 pm

      Proton won’t proceed with Ricardo engine project. Why make new engines when geely has many?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • johnnas on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:19 pm

    yeah and after cutting down most of the standard feats, it will named as Proton Boy.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 2
  • MusTanG on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:29 pm

    Geely said they want to help proton, but their first move is to SELL THEIR CAR in malaysia.

    Why not send IRIZ/SAGA/PERSONA to China instead?

    And also,

    “The good news is that Geely officials have indicated that Proton will be able to make its own changes to suspension tuning (unlike the Perdana and Ertiga before it), so the car that we’ll get should strike a better balance between ride comfort and handling ability, as we’re used to from the company.”

    The Proton Chassis Eng who’s responsible for all those “LOTUS HANDLING” left proton already. Good luck with getting the FEEL.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 30
    • Myvi Taliban Kuning on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:38 pm

      Proton had send their engineer to Lotus to learn about the ride & handling, No more Lotus ride & handling, it’s Proton ride & handling now.

      Iriz are Proton ride & handling, it still drive well.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 27 Thumb down 2
    • SUV/crossover is the hottest selling segment now, but Proton doesn’t have any SUV or crossover in development. So, instead of starting from scratch and spend billions, isn’t it more viable and faster just take an existing model and develop it for local market?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 29 Thumb down 2
    • Iriz, Persona2, Saga3 dun have LHD config yet, so how to sell to China, dunggu? Wanna do that oso takes time, dun belip just ask Elon why Model3 RHD takes 2 years.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 22 Thumb down 6
    • rally_fan (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 5:23 pm

      geely still does own lotus.. so its still within the same group of companies.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 1
  • YB Albert on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:34 pm

    Proton Geeely….u r taking too long to actualise this Boyue in Bolehland.
    You have to revamp the whole product range.
    The Iriz,Suprima,Preve r still underperforming.
    Perhaps bring in a rm40-50k Geely model,rebadge and fight.The Boyue,wont be affordable to the masses.
    WE r looking at another year of record losses for P1.
    Just rescued using bailout taxdollars,again P1 will be crying for help again.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 25 Thumb down 10
    • Is not bailout, its loan thats repaid. And how does Iriz ,Preve underperforms? In terms of specs? Nope. In terms of power? Nope. Interms of pricing? Nope. So what isit?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 10 Thumb down 16
      • Ah Long on Aug 14, 2017 at 4:59 pm

        Paid back already? Proof please?

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 6
        • Here u go paultan.org/2017/06/23/proton-geely-fsp-deal-in-detail-what-drb-hicom-geely-and-the-malaysian-government-will-be-getting/

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 11
        • pls show us proof they have paid back. Media says belum bayar lagi

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
      • Dug Ong on Aug 14, 2017 at 5:23 pm

        Let me tell you John. I’ve own the iriz for real

        Iriz: Proton’s after sales & QC. Safety wise, very good, helped me 3 times already avoiding possible impact with the vsc. And the iriz drives quite well, very stable unlike my 2012 myvi. But the iriz’s rubber lining 2 times already tercabut.

        Proton driving satisfaction: 4/5 star

        QC & after sales services: 1/5 star

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 1
        • Any car will have problems, only big or small. Just be glad urs is small and u shud go back and demand replace the rubber. As for SC is need to find one and stick to it. i recommend Segambut one.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 12
        • tokmoh. on Aug 14, 2017 at 7:24 pm

          Honda after sales now is worse than proton, cukurlah.

          Honda all the way up to accord also got qc issues, it’s all over the internet. Real owners say it themselves, not macai spreading fake news.

          If got bad service, get 2nd opinion from another SC. COSE is good, generally those “Proton Edar Sdn Bhd” are expected to give better service. 3rd party dealers usually try to cheat u to make u pay more, and lazy to rectify issues.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
  • ex-VGM staff on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:37 pm

    Pls change the grille to suit proton family face. And err, don’t forget to change the steering wheel to right side. Now its on the wrong side. Last but not least. That’s how a speedometer suppose to look like. Large and easy to read at a glance. Proton engineers and designers need to learn something here. Jangan syok sendiri

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 12
    • Thats a digital speedo. No such thing as big or small so nothing to learn here except how to put a TV screen in front of u.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 5
  • common sensor on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:46 pm

    Best to start rebuilding the brand ie “PROTON” and “GEELY” prior to getting the vehicle in the showroom.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
  • RON97 on Aug 14, 2017 at 1:58 pm

    To those poor and small budget just go to P1 or P2 page.
    P1 <P2< Kimchi<Sushi< French <Swedes < Germans
    You buy Myvi because your wallet is thin and your balls are small.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 21
    • Dug Ong on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:25 pm

      Well hello there Mr big balls. May I pet them humongous herniated bebola?

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 21 Thumb down 1
  • Eternalgl0ry on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:08 pm

    This car is quote high end for its price. But proton will potong the goodies

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 8 Thumb down 0
  • azrul on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:13 pm

    hi jonathan, may i know when & where did the test drive took place?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
  • Teropong on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:23 pm

    Wow mid-2000s BMW dashboard. Truly a bmw.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 2
  • Aiman A. on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:25 pm

    Looks promising!

    With PROTON ride and handling, plus a design makeover should see this sell by the droves! But please let there be a turbo-petrol all-wheel drive option!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 3
    • Dug Ong on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:22 pm

      Proton, I swear if you price the car sub 90k with the 1.8 turbo with your own suspension setup, I will opt for this rather than the brv.

      Proton driving satisfaction > jepunis
      Proton quality < jepunis

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 18 Thumb down 5
  • Geely Malaysia must bring in only the top-spec 1.8 turbo with AWD and all the full safety systems and infotainment features and price it under RM100k just to get us to see it in person in the showrooms.

    Thank you tongsan overlords for bringing this in.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 0
  • firdaus on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:39 pm

    manual only tranny…..are we living in the eighties??

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 11
    • Row ur gears u lazzyasses.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 13 Thumb down 5
      • firdaus on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:21 pm

        yeah….well u take out your cars’ engine, bore a hole in the floorboard and row the car with your feet like the flinstones!!

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 8
        • Really? U row ur gears with ur feets? Do u oso row ur boat with feets as well?
          Do u know whats the word: rowing?

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
    • Middle Age Driver (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:55 pm

      The Manual is the most reliable & cost effective gearbox unlike the CVT. The most advance autobox can’t even beat the Manual in reliability & handling in advance driving.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 5
  • mystvearn on Aug 14, 2017 at 2:51 pm

    Few things can be improved based on the review:
    1. engine will be a problem. Remember the underpowered Exora which Proton had to fix. Kia/Hundai are offering more powerful engine, though it does not seem that this has translated into sales.
    2. The minister already said that this will be priced below RM100k, which I am guessing the base model. Actually there is nothing wrong pricing it near the CRV, though it will definitely be benchmarked with the CRV. That is hard since CRV-CX5-Xtrail monopoly. People purposely choose to buy this over the competition & that is hard. The new Perdana is an example of a good car but Civic are still selling more than it.
    3. Interior needs slight work. Storage spaces does not seem quite much for a family orientated car.

    I think Proton-Geely will need to find reasons WHY people will choose this over the CRV/CX5. Unique items and worthwhile items. Everyone knows that this is a China-donor car. Some people will have a mindset why buy this when I can top-up to buy a CRV. People will say: If I need more seats (even though not usable), I’ll get an Xtrail.

    Things which come to my mind are:
    1. Autonomous driving cheaper and better than CRV
    2. 7 seats. X-trail is selling because of this (and good exterior looks), even though the chairs are not that inhabitable. Not sure if Proton is allowed to make it longer. I doubt this will happen if the engine is that sluggish.
    3. Better tech/features than the competition. Full LED lighting? Android Auto/Apple carplay?
    4. Price?
    5. Better dynamics & power compared to the original Boyue? This may require a diesel engine for more power. However this will also allow a 7-seater version to be viable.
    5. 4×4? Though not everyone will buy this. So kind of useless. Even the CRV 4×4 is not selling that much.
    6. Good warranty and after sales service. 5 year unlimited mileage warranty & free service with parts? Kia/Hyundai is doing this.

    Hopefully Geely allows Proton full customization and not just RHD conversion. The new Persona/Iriz are very good cars for the price. Good luck. Hopefully Proton engineers can answer the WHY consumers will choose this over the CRV (and new CX5).

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 33 Thumb down 7
    • Jonn Dol on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:47 pm

      WHY consumers will choose this over the CRV (and new CX5):

      i) Low price point – without this it’ll be meaningless.
      ii) Tech. levels which is quite par with most Japanese/Korean offerings.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 16 Thumb down 1
    • Sparcov on Aug 14, 2017 at 5:37 pm

      Largely, is due to its branding.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 4
  • Proton needs to up the ante if it wants to compete in the international market. All over the world, other car makers are already offering hybrid technology, low speed autonomous driving, or at the very least, self parking, not to mention android auto/apple carplay.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 1
    • Proton can’t even compete in euro6 emission control, let alone reliability. Hahahaha

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 4
  • Sam Loo (ori1) on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:05 pm

    Checkout a used Tucson instead

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 17
  • want hot sell this model , very easy, sell this model around honda city / vios price , then it will sell like hot cake, but i think never happen, even thhis car cames out, still not much ppl will willing buy it…

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 2
    • If 80k

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
      • Provided Preve selling at 55k, this one can sell at 80k. Otherwise, Preve will die lorh

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      • What?? on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:46 pm

        If 80k then I hope you can stand the monkey build quality to get to that price and severely downgraded specs. 120k would be more realistic.

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 3
  • jibby v2.60 on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:38 pm

    make it 7 seater variant and it will sell like hot cakes!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 6
    • Not everyone have big family members… is pricing n specs thats important

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
    • savvykl on Aug 15, 2017 at 1:08 pm

      Yup, 7 seater is must, if no want 7 seat, can fold down seat it at rear become storage space and 5 seater

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 1
  • kzm (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 3:56 pm

    Do you guys ask them if p1 engine in development will be use for p1 version of Boyue? or at least asking bout p1 engine in general?

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 5
    • Hafriz Shah (Member) on Aug 14, 2017 at 4:27 pm

      We certainly have, but we have yet to receive any valid yes or no answer that’s worth reporting. Nothing has been decided yet for now.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 0
      • So, the development of Proton’s GDI engines is still running..??

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 15 Thumb down 2
        • Why waste money for ricardo when geely already have direct injection turbo engines? Remember proton is bleeding badly.

          Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 2
    • Im sure u aware the Ricardos arent compatible with Boyue as of now, needing to modify engine mounts and ECU matching. Somemore we dunno if them r compatible to drive AWD drivetrains.

      Prefer next Boyoue 2WD, P1 work with Geely to have modular engine bay to except either Ricardos or their own engines.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 10
    • wah you banyak besar hah? Instruct people to ask this, ask that.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 26
      • He, being senior & registered member, earned the right to do so. U on the other hand….

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 14 Thumb down 10
    • rally_fan (Member) on Aug 15, 2017 at 5:13 pm

      it would be far cheaper to use Geely powertrain, as changing the engine, engine mounts, etc. will require crash testing all over again.. and thats a very expensive exercise. Why use the ricardo engines anyways? remember, geely isn’t just a one-off “rebadging partner”, they bought into Proton which now makes Proton a part of the Geely group of companies.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • carlover on Aug 14, 2017 at 4:01 pm

    fuel guzzler car or suv will not bring sales to proton.proton needs to sell a lot of cars to mass market ..just like perodua.proton survival depends on sub rm50k price.if higher prices,people will go to japanese makers. before,proton has rebadged many models from japanese makers but failed eventually.quite a long way for proton to see a light at the end of the tunnel.they must learn a lot from perodua rather going abroad to look for partner .very sad for proton.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 12
    • Not really, for ppl eyeing on CHR, CRV will consider this…. if price right like 80k full spec…

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 2
      • If they can afford crv then no need to consider boyue… if they opt for boyue means they are price sensitive and mind on fuel guzzle… boyue is destiny to fail in local market

        Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 7
    • Dun wan P1 to go back make unsafe junks. Thats a history they dun need to repeat.

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 9 Thumb down 4
  • Kuinosan on Aug 14, 2017 at 8:20 pm

    If this Boyue is priced reasonably below Rm 110k, then it’ll be a value buy. And price to vehicle ratio is better than Toyota and Honda. If priced higher than that, the Japs wins hands down. No contest!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 0
  • What?? on Aug 14, 2017 at 9:41 pm

    I would guess the sunroof, nappa leather, 360 degree camera as well as the engine cover won’t make it in the Proton version, autonomous driving aids is a “maybe” depending on customer demand. But if the rest of the car remains untouched and priced a bit below the Perdana then I think it’ll be pretty good alternative to the X-Trail and CR-V.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 12 Thumb down 6
  • THERE IS NO CAR PUT ON HERE THAT PEOPLE WOULDN’T HAVE SOMETHING NEGATIVE TO TALK ABOUT. IF YOU WANT ALL THE OPTIONS AND FEATURES IN A CAR WHY NOT JUST GET A ROLLS ROYCE, BENTLEY OR A MERCEDES. GIVE OTHER BRANDS A CHANCE , FOR THIS SAME REASON KIA AND HYUNDAI HAVE VERY POOR RESALE VALUES BECAUSE Y’ALL THINK IF IT AINT A HONDA OR TOYOTA IT AINT WORTH BUYING . TAKE CHILLS PLS

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 5 Thumb down 2
    • GaiGai on Aug 15, 2017 at 4:54 pm

      Agreed, those low mentality buyers always change car every two years. Act like some rich person, but in fact, PTPTN also did not pay. Haiyaaaaa

      Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • OrangKayaPulauCarey on Aug 15, 2017 at 8:33 am

    Venezuela 2.0 a new Chinese dumping ground

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 1 Thumb down 4
  • heyheyman123 on Aug 15, 2017 at 8:44 am

    At least Proton and Geely has more safety features than Perodua

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 25 Thumb down 3
  • Petoron Sagu on Aug 15, 2017 at 9:25 am

    Sudah…. Sudah…. Jangan gaduh. Nak beli, beli… Tak nak beli, jgn beli…… Duit sendiri punya kan???? Suka hati la ko nak buat apa…. Betul tak….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 7 Thumb down 18
  • Bernard on Aug 15, 2017 at 11:01 am

    If below rm80k will sell, maybe. Also, it may be outdated when introduced. It doesn’t look all that great….

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 6 Thumb down 1
  • savvykl on Aug 15, 2017 at 1:05 pm

    Proton Can change engine to below, 6AT can be remain. use CVT will kill market itself.
    1) Proton own Petronas 2.0T engine should be mature now.
    2) Proton own 1.5T engine. should be ready next year.

    for other, i think,
    1) Dashboard have to change design suite local style. specially gearbox cross to top ,that ugly design, better use L design, Gearbox in horizontal style. and audio/aircond change to vertical style. aircond hole look ugly too.
    2) Add HUD (option)

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 2
  • Marieta on Aug 15, 2017 at 6:58 pm

    Extend it and make 3 rows seating lah Proton, sure tapau CRV sales!

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 2 Thumb down 1
  • nazri on Aug 15, 2017 at 8:57 pm

    proton definitely will make this car more “cheaper” than it is..

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • Rizzolute on Aug 15, 2017 at 10:32 pm

    From what I saw proton is trying to put a marketable model on the maps. Tried many but resulted as failure. In an attempt to put back as profitable manufacturer proton must have a saleable models. Geely comes handy with life support apparatus. My doubts is can this collaboration produce a quality, reliable and with decent technology not to mention hi tech like the German automobiles true avant garde . But a good economical, family and lasting daily cars with no complain from drivers.
    No need to clone cars liked geely did with rolls royce or others. But with own design and marque . Please make something that we Malaysian can be proud of.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 1
  • They need to rebrand it as the Proton Boleh for local market

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Boyue is well built, the exterior and interior quality are close to the Japanese. The power train can be refined. However, Proton and malaysia government should not think that by selling cheap, customers’ will buy. At this moment, Prootn brand perception is weak, the mentality of the stakeholders are not in supportive of the brand, which is not helping the car sales. Proton needs to embark on re-branding and re-positioning of some of its products, in order to create the acceptance of the stakeholders, then customers. It is utmost import to gain back the trust and proud of the Proton staff, then only they will contribute the re-branding of Proton and re-positioning of some of its products. Cheers.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 3 Thumb down 0
  • Suhaimi Nawir on Sep 13, 2017 at 8:18 am

    Will this model undergoes facial & back modification in this country just like the Perdana on Honda Accord???
    Proton did a good job on the Honda Accord face & back lift.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 4 Thumb down 0
  • Mohamad Azman Yeoh Bin Abdullah. on Apr 05, 2018 at 9:13 am

    The suitable name should be PROTON SUV,which carry the meanings,it suits you and your family,unique and volatile.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
  • Christopher on May 01, 2018 at 10:09 pm

    You would be wise to include 2 + 4 wheel drive like the Kembara since many are balik kampung folks who need a safe affordable car, or else you might go the way of the Nautica, the failed successor to the Kembara when the profit motive went out of hand.

    Like or Dislike: Thumb up 0 Thumb down 0
 

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