Proton Gen2 Gets Facelift, New Engine

CPS Engine to Boost Performance

Shah Alam, 3 March 2008 – PROTON released an enhanced version of the Gen2 hatchback, fitting it with a CPS (Cam Profile Switching) engine, giving it a more sportier look while improving its performance at the same time.

The enhancement allows for a sportier and performance-driven model compared to the previous Gen2, while at the same time, retaining the hatchback's young and sporty image.

The CPS engine, which is only available in the High Line variant, improves horsepower and torque, whilst maintaining fuel efficiency. The engine, in addition to providing smooth and responsive drivability, is also environmentally friendly as it complies with the latest European emission regulations. The Medium Line variants will feature the improved CAMPRO IAFM engine, first introduced in the new SAGA.

"The Gen2 is known as a performance-driven vehicle. What we have done is to make it more powerful, responsive and redesigned it to provide the facelift model with sportier looks that are more contemporary to match its performance" said PROTON Holdings Bhd Managing Director, Dato' Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

This new Gen2 is yet another product that underscores the commitment of PROTON to continuously deliver better quality cars that meet and even surpass customer expectations.

"Product changes, improvements and enhancements will be a continuous effort to reciprocate the faith and confidence that the customers have in us. In this instance, customer feedback on quality in the earlier Gen2 model has been taken into consideration and incorporated into the facelift Gen2.

Quality is our key concern and we have ensured that the facelift model meets stringent quality standards with the aim of achieving customer satisfaction," said Syed Zainal.

The facelift model first premiered at the Thailand International Motor Expo in November 2007 and was well received by the Thai customers, accounting for 28% of sales during the Expo. The shape, handling and good engine performance were significant factors contributing towards the popularity of the facelift Gen2 in Thailand.

"The overall package I believe will be especially attractive to customers who are more sports-oriented or lead an active lifestyle."

The facelift Gen2 offers two transmissions - 1.6 manual (MT) and 1.6 automatic (AT).

Other additional features of the facelift Gen2 include new bumper and grille, front skirt, black headlamp bezel, side sill moulding, alloy rims, rear skirt and rear spoiler.

PROTON has made further value-added changes to the facelift model which includes new interior trim, large cargo space with foldable rear seat and removable rear shelf trim; glove box, extra storage and compartments.

High Line variants also come fitted with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD), dual airbags and seatbelt pre-tensioners.

"We have made several changes to the model to make it more appealing to the customers. Our key focus was on improving the Gen2's performance and drivability. We wanted our customers to be happy with the overall package as well, from the look of the model to the features. I'd like to believe that we have achieved that goal and that our customers will be happy with the changes that we've done," said Syed Zainal.

The High Line with CPS is priced at RM57,488(OTR) for manual transmission and RM60,488(OTR) for the automatic transmission. The Medium Line with IAFM is priced at RM53,488(OTR) for manual transmission and RM56,488(OTR) for the automatic transmission. All variants are available in four colours, Iridescent White, Nanbu, Hibiscus, and Metal Grey.

About PROTON
PROTON, was established in 1983, and is Malaysia's 1st National manufacturer of automobiles. With operations in key market centers from UK and Western Europe to the Middle East, and across South-East Asia and Australasia, PROTON produces cars to suit a range of consumer demands and preferences. The offerings include versatile and reliable four-door family vehicles, two-door hatchbacks for the young-at-heart, luxurious and stylish executive sedans, as well as the world-renowned sports cars from Lotus.

PROTON's inception as a key driver of national development has seen the brand accelerate its learning curve through technology transfer with strategic partnerships and technical collaborations. PROTON cars are now steadily on track to achieving the mission for the future, gearing up to achieve the promise of a marquee which builds cars with passion and soul; cars which are a delight to drive and a pleasure to own.

Source: PROTON

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