2010 Proton Gen2 Review
Price
from: RM57,488
to: RM60,488
Installment
from: RM551/mth
to: RM580/mth
2010 Proton Gen2 at a glance
The 2010 Proton Gen2 enjoys a fine ride-and-handling balance, and with the latest revisions, the cabin quality is improved and engines are more flexible. In short, the 2010 Proton Gen2 now has the performance to match the capable chassis.
2010 Proton Gen2 quick specs
| Body Style | Hatchback |
| Class | Small Family |
| Assembled | - |
| Engine Range | - |
| Fuel Options | - |
| Seating Capacity | 5 |
2010 Proton Gen2 ratings (overall rating : 3.5/5.0)
| Styling | |
| Handling | |
| Comfort | |
| Quality + Reliability | |
| Performance |
| Roominess | |
| Running Costs | |
| Value for Money | |
| Equipment | |
| Environment |
Styling
The original Proton Gen2 styling was neat and modern, if not the most attractive. The facelift gives the 2010 Proton Gen2 a sportier look, featuring a bigger grille and black bezel headlamps. The rear end is unchanged, but now has a rear spoiler as standard. The interior adopts the Proton Persona's cabin design but adds a couple of tweaks. The Hi-Line package adds body skirting for a more comprehensive sporty look, while the red accents on the black-trimmed cabin conjure up a convincing sporty feel behind the wheel.
Handling
Lotus' contribution in the development of the Proton Gen2 is apparent from the fine ride-and-handling balance. The 2010 Proton Gen2 corners with poise while gripping on well. The steering is sharp, and the weighting feels natural, but feedback can be better. Ride quality is good over rough surfaces, and the capable chassis remains unflustered over bumps and undulations. Overall, the 2010 Proton Gen2 provides a fun drive without sacrificing ride comfort.
Comfort
Parking is inconvenient as rear visibility is poor. There is engine drone at all speeds, while road noise is present during city driving and wind noise takes over during highway cruising. The steering wheel is set too low for the driving position, and the height adjustments for the steering wheel and driver's seat will be insufficient for most to get comfortable. Major controls are easy to use, but the small buttons on the centre console will need some getting used to.
Quality + Reliability
Of all areas, the 2010 Proton Gen2's cabin quality is the one that needs the most attention. With the Proton Persona's cabin design as a base, Proton added a number of cubby holes, a glovebox, all-new door panels, relocated (to door arm rest) window switches, and most importantly better plastics. Fit-and-finish are also paid more attention. The question still remains: Can Proton produce the Gen2 and other models with improved quality on a consistent basis? And continue to improve? The major mechanicals such as the engine should be reliable over the longer term.
Performance
The 1.6-litre Campro engine has been equipped with Cam Profile Switching (CPS), which, similar to Japanese variable valve timing mechanisms, allows for stronger performance across the entire rev range. With 125 bhp at 6500 rpm and 150 Nm at 4500 rpm, the 1.6-litre CPS Campro unit provides better drivability without the infamous torque dip from before. That said, the eager-to-rev engine still has to be worked hard to bring out the meat of the performance.
Roominess
The 2010 Proton Gen2's interior room for front and rear occupants is decent, but rear headroom is limited for anyone above the average height. The well-shaped boot has a good size, and rear seats can split-fold for more loading space.
Running Costs
The official fuel economy for the 1.6-litre CPS manual stands at 15.6 km/litre and the 1.6-litre CPS automatic at 14.7 km/litre. All figures are quoted for travelling at a constant 90 km/h, meaning that start-stop city driving is going to worsen the figures. Servicing and repairs are affordable. The Proton brand is not best known for reliability, and unless Proton starts to address reliability and quality concerns among Malaysians, the Gen2 and other Proton models are likely to retain poor residual values.
Value for Money
The 2010 Proton Gen2 is arguably one of the best-looking Proton model. And definitely one offering the best ride-and-handling balance. The cabin quality and equipment list are better than for the previous Proton Gen2. But the most significant improvement is at the heart, under the bonnet. With IAFM and CPS, the 2010 Proton Gen2 now has the performance to match the capable chassis. However, anyone looking for more room should consider the Proton Persona or Proton Inspira instead.
Equipment
High Line offers as standard a body kit, 15" alloy wheels, front fog lamps, power side mirrors, trunk remote release function, reverse sensors, keyless remote entry, steering wheel with audio controls, MP3-compatible audio system, leather upholstery, ABS with EBD as well as dual front airbags and front seatbelt pretensioners. The automatic variant adds cruise control.
Environment
Proton has many issues to confront, especially in the area of quality, before striving to be “green”. And so while the 2010 Proton Gen2's fuel economy is decent, carbon dioxide emissions are far higher than it should be for a 1.6-litre engine. But at least local production makes the 2010 Proton Gen2 less polluting on the transportation front compared to a car imported from Europe or Japan.
Live Life Drive Verdict
Fine ride-and-handling balance
Improved cabin quality
IAFM and CPS work well
Lack of refinement
Poor rear visibility
Limited rear headroom
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