Proton Preve 2013 Review

It's hard in the automotive environment, and even harder to succeed if you're a peripheral player, which Proton has been for almost 20 years. To its credit, the Malaysian automaker stuck to its guns, maintaining an uninterrupted presence here, now with factory backing.

There have been a few unsuccessful sellers, but that could change with a new small sedan called the Preve in various classes, and soon a seven-seat car with a low-boost, turbocharged petrol engine. However, in the near future there will be no SUVs, which is problematic.

VALUE

The Preve arrived earlier this year at an inflated price, but that has changed, making the handsome little GX four-door sedan more affordable at $15,990 for a five-speed manual. A six-speed CVT adds $2000.

ENGINE AND MECHANICAL

This is a completely new model for Proton, although Campro's 1.6kW/80Nm 150-litre twin-cam engine has been around for a long time. Modernization with direct injection and forced induction is just around the corner.

Design

The look is strong, sharp and attractive and owes nothing to anything else on the market. This is the most beautiful Proton ever, and it sets itself apart from all competitors in this market segment. But the interior is too generic in appearance and function. There is nothing as mesmerizing as the inside of a Peugeot or the new Mazda3.

FUNCTIONS AND FEATURES

And Proton has been generous with features like a Bluetooth phone and audio system, 16-inch alloy wheels, a decent sound system, air conditioning, auxiliary power, a multi-mode trip computer, multi-wheel steering, remote central locking, and even LED lights front and rear. parking sensors. .

The trunk is huge and expandable with 60/40 folding rear seats, and rear seat legroom is ample for this class. It features MacPherson struts up front and a multi-link rear, while many competitors use a simpler rear beam.

SECURITY

The Preve earns a five-star accident rating, as well as a five-year warranty, five-year roadside assistance, and five-year limited-price service.

DRIVING

This shows up in the way the Preve rides, especially around corners and on uneven surfaces. The steering is an unfashionable hydraulic system, but it works fine, but the steering wheel has only tilt adjustment.

Lotus still contributes to Proton cars in their dynamics, and this is the strength of all Protons, including the Preve, which offers a high degree of ride comfort with nimble body control. There is no steering wheel play here, thank you very much, although the Preve is tuned for “mainstream” everyday driving.

On the road, performance is a concern due to insufficient low-end torque to drive intelligently. You must increase the speed, especially when the air conditioner is running. Once it's up and running, everything is fine as the engine effectively pushes the 1305kg Preve. However, this is not a sports sedan, and it won't accelerate up a long highway hill without downshifting.

There is minimal noise or vibration, and the Preve is able to save 7.2 liters per 100 km on regular 91 fuel. The operation of the manual transmission is fine, but reverse is terrible to the point that you may not know you have selected this gear. Lotus should look into this right away and add another cog while they work on it.

We've spent quite a few hours on the Preve and found it to be quite a nice looking device. Don't expect too much and everything will be fine. Unlike some of the locally built cars we've driven recently, the Preve didn't have the rattles or squeaks that indicate a tight build.

It's in between size (light/small) and at least as good looking as any of them. The amenities inside are comfortable, especially the Bluetooth phone, audio system, and impressive air conditioning.

VERDICT

Worth a look and the price against cars. Preve brings you a small car with lots of kit at a budget price.

Proton Preve GX

Price: from $15,990 ($2000 more for CVT vehicle)

ENGINES: 1.6 liter petrol, 80 kW/150 Nm

Transmission: 5-speed manual or automatic CVT, FWD

Thirst: 7.2 l/100 km (manual)