2011 Proton Saga Review
Price
from: RM37,998
to: RM49,449
Installment
from: RM364/mth
to: RM474/mth
2011 Proton Saga at a glance
The People’s Car, the 2011 Proton Saga has huge importance for Proton and for Malaysians. By focusing on the basics and keeping things simple and sensible, Proton has created a sure winner in the Saga.
2011 Proton Saga quick specs
| Body Style | Sedan |
| Class | Supermini |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2011 Proton Saga ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
Lucky for us, the Proton Saga looks simple and inoffensive, having none of the quirkiness seen on other hatchback-turned-sedan models. The restraint styling features clean lines and uncluttered surfaces throughout. From some angles, its tall profile looks a little awkward, but on the whole, the 2011 Proton Saga appears a commendable styling effort consistent with the theme of simplicity.
Handling
The 2011 Proton Saga benefits from a Lotus-tuned chassis and handles better than expected for a budget car, responding crisply to driver inputs and gripping on quite well. There is a fair amount of body roll, more than the Proton Savvy on which the Saga is based, but any body movements are well controlled. The steering feels heavier than Japanese rivals', making parking more difficult, but provides decent feedback. Highway cruising is carried out with composure.
Comfort
Using softer suspension than for the Proton Savvy, the 2011 Proton Saga rides compliantly over our roads, soaking up bumps and displaying good body control over undulations, with more poise than Japanese rivals. Cabin refinement is reasonable, even if engine buzzing are present during city driving and highway cruising. Wind and road noise are never excessive at 110 km/h. Height-adjustable steering comes with all 2011 Proton Saga variants, but driver's seat height adjustments are only available on M-Line. All controls are laid out clearly and within reach for ease of use.
Quality + Reliability
The cabin looks and feels of a higher quality than the Proton Savvy's. For cars in this price range, expectations of material quality must be adjusted accordingly. Dashboard plastics are hard and unappealing, while some switchgear and controls, such as the indicator stalk, are not the most tactile. But the build quality is praiseworthy, as everything has been assembled with some care. Reliability wise, the 2011 Proton Saga's major mechanicals such as the engine and transmission should pose no problems over the longer term.
Performance
With 94 bhp at 6000 rpm and 120 Nm at 4000 rpm, the in-line four 16-valve 1.3-litre Campro IAFM engine is smooth and lively. The Intake Air-Flow Module (IAFM) eliminates the infamous torque dip, ensuring improved drivability at the lower rev range. Four-speed automatic and five-speed manual transmissions are available. The manual shifting feels rubbery, imprecise and quite disconnected. The four-speed automatic, on the other hand, is impressive, responding smoothly and quickly without hesitation.
Roominess
Given the 2011 Proton Saga's compact exterior dimensions, head- and leg-room is generous for the front and rear. Two adults, or three kids, can be seated comfortably at the rear. The 413-litre boot has a regular shape with minimal wheel-arch intrusion. There are no split-fold rear seats however. Storage ideas are plentiful, including a number of cupholders, storage compartments and bottle holders.
Running Costs
Fuel economy for 1.3-litre IAFM manual stands at 16.7 km/litre, and 1.3-litre IAFM automatic at 15.9 km/litre. All figures are obtained while travelling at a constant 90 km/h; start-stop city driving will worsen the fuel economy. Servicing and repairs are affordable. Depreciation is a major concern, as the Proton brand is not best known for its reliability. Unless Proton starts to pay attention to reliability and quality concerns among Malaysians, the Proton Saga is unlikely to preserve much of its initial value.
Value for Money
Of historical value is the unveiling of the new-generation Proton Saga, also called the People's Car. The previous Saga worked overtime as the all-new Proton Saga took plenty of development time. But the end product is one that focuses on the basics, keeping things simple and sensible. In each of our criteria, the 2011 Proton Saga performs reasonably well for a budget car. Considered alongside similarly-priced rivals from Perodua and Naza, the 2011 Proton Saga would, for most people, emerge as the default choice. Surely, this is the People's Car.
Equipment
Base Line comes with 13-inch steel wheels with full wheel cover, alarm system, remote keyless entry, central door lock, front power windows, one assist grip, and radio with CD player. Medium Line adds 14-inch alloy wheels, driver's airbag with seatbelt pretensioner, electric door mirrors, three assist grips, driver's seat height adjuster, reverse sensor, and front fog lamps. Only offered in two colours, SE brings a body kit, new front grille, CD player with MP3 support, and leather seats, door trim and steering wheel.
Environment
While not the most efficient of engines, the 1.3-litre's fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions are good, by virtue of the small engine capacity. Being a local Malaysian car also means there is less pollution on the transportation front compared to a car imported from Europe, Japan or other Southeast Asian nations.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Handles and rides well
Generous interior room
Lively engine performance
Ever-present engine buzz
Hard cabin plastics
Imprecise manual shifting
