I got to try out the new Proton X50 SUV for a full week, which was long enough to really gauge its – performance in the day-to-day back and forth, as well as a sneaky 200-kilometre weekend round trip to the Drakensberg. Most of us aren’t aware of the Proton brand, and as a relatively new entrant into the SUV market, I can say that the Proton delivers exceptional value for the price, but more importantly, it’s a great car to drive.
I believe the ‘sexiness’ of a car is as important as its fuel consumption, warranty and serviceability – which are all on point with the X50. The X50’s design and look definitely has a sleekness to it that is eye-catching. The LED headlights and taillights add to the vehicle’s sporty look, while the roof rails and alloy wheels give it a more rugged feel.
The cabin design provides loads of headroom and legroom, and the blend of leather and metal trim gives the X50 a sophisticated interior feel. I enjoyed the ‘small touches’ like the lines of the door handles, special slot for your phone, and USB “cave” for charging your devices.
The turbocharged four-cylinder engine produces 177 horsepower and 255 Nm of torque. What does that mean for those of us who don’t worry about the specs? You have ample power, even when the car is fully loaded, to power up the many uphill climbs heading to the Drakensberg, along with punchy, responsive acceleration when needing to pass trucks and slower traffic on the freeway. The engine performs effortlessly around town, where the seven-speed auto gearbox is a dream. I loved switching between eco and sports modes on the car – both deliver economical fuel consumption. My average for the week was an impressive 7.1L/100km!
When it comes to technology, the Proton X50 is packed with features. It comes with an eight-inch touchscreen infotainment system that offers all the connectivity you want and more. The vehicle also has a 10.25-inch digital display that is clean, easy to read, and has built-in voice commands. The X50 features advanced driver assistance systems, such as autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, and blind-spot monitoring, making it a safe and reliable car. The car offers a smooth ride, with responsive steering and excellent handling.
The well-tuned suspension system provides a comfortable ride even when navigating potholes on some of our rougher roads. The cabin is also well-insulated, keeping road noise to a minimum.
Overall, the Proton X50 SUV is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a modern, well-designed vehicle that offers a comfortable ride and advanced technology. Its sporty design, advanced tech and reliable performance make it a great option for anyone in the market for a compact SUV.
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