The Proton SUV is set to be launched in October this year, and we’re slowly getting more information about what to expect with the brand’s first-ever SUV. In these photos posted in the Proton Boyue X7 Community (Malaysia) Facebook group, we can see an uncovered unit in the company of prime minister Tun Dr Mahathir Mohamad as well as Datuk Mohd Radzaif Bin Mohamed, deputy CEO of Proton.
Despite the low-quality photos, we can clearly see the Proton SUV’s unique grille design that differs from the Boyue’s “expanding cosmos” one. The final design looks to be a triple-slat approach with the latest Proton logo, encased within a chrome frame that features a slight notch at the bottom.
Meanwhile, the interior looks like a carbon copy of the Boyue’s, as evident by the shape of the steering wheel, air-con vent shape, instrument binnacle overhead, door cards and even the grab handles on the centre console.
Of course, we’ve been told that the Proton SUV was developed with Malaysian design flavours in mind, so there could be elements that aren’t on show just yet. What’s certain is the infotainment system and its accompanying voice control function have been localised, as demonstrated by Tun Mahathir earlier this month.
Proton’s upoming SUV will be based on the facelifted Geely Boyue, and will initially arrive in CBU imported form, before local assembly starts, which is slated for next year. The as-yet-unnamed SUV will be powered by a 1.8 litre turbocharged petrol engine with 181 hp and 285 Nm of torque, mated to a six-speed automatic transmission.
Based on preliminary sightings, the equipment list appears to include 18-inch wheels, brown leather upholstery, panoramic sunroof, 360-degree camera and an eight-inch infotainment touchscreen. The presence of a camera on the windscreen and radar panel on the lower bumper also confirms that autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning and adaptive cruise control will be offered, although all these features might be reserved for range-topping variants (likely the one we’ve seen previously).
As the pieces of the puzzle come together, one important one remains: how much will buyers have to pay for the Proton SUV? Care to put in your guesses?
GALLERY: Geely Boyue facelift
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AI-generated Summary ✨
The comments on the Proton SUV focus on its potential success and impact on the Malaysian market, with many optimistic about its design and pricing if it can be kept affordable, especially below RM75,000 to RM100,000. Several commenters believe it could be a game-changer for Proton and the local industry, especially if priced competitively around RM65,000–RM75,000. There is also discussion about Proton's reliance on rebadging, the influence of Geely taking control, and concerns over car prices and protectionism. While some express skepticism about Proton's long-term prospects and design changes, many Malaysian fans feel hopeful that this SUV could help revive Proton’s sales and restore national pride. Overall, sentiments are mixed but tend toward cautious optimism if financial and design expectations are met.