Proton "launched for booking" its latest model, the new "SAGA" model, in late 2007. I was quite sceptical of the model as Proton's reputation at that time was not very rosy. Thus I decided to wait for the real car to arrive.
The car came to my local dealer mid 2008. Booked a test drive, and had to wait for a 2 weeks queu.
My first impression when entering the car on the driver's side was the seat is a la "real seat", not a la racing driver, prone postion. But it didn't feel too tall like an MPV or a SUV. There was also plenty of headroom.
The seat is height adjustable, as well as the back rest. These could be done easily via two easily reacheable levers. The seat covers felt soft and accomodating, without feeling too squishy. The steering height is also adjustable.
The test drive was was smooth, and all the controls felt in place. The air-conditioning functioned well, and quickly cooled the cabin space. The test car was fitted with automatic gearbox, which performed very well. When I wanted to overtake, it shifted down one speed, and the engine accelerated to give the required extra power, to complete the manoevre easily. But if you are playful with the throtle, the gearbox could be too active sometimes - it could change down earlier than expected. But cruising was sweet.
The brakes were quite powerful as well. This particular car is equipped with discs fronts, and drum backs. They are well balanced, and are very assuring when needed.
The engine is the 1.3 litre Proton Cam-Pro, which felt powerful, and is very lively. I mean it could speed-up quite easily. The only thing I do not like much is the engine speed is about 3500 rpm when the car is going at about 110 kmh. I think this is a bit on the high side, and is proven so when I discovered that the fuel consumption is high.
But I ebjoyed the drive when going at about 90kmh. The car feels responsive and lively, the engine is barely heard and i did not feel any vibration at all. As I said above, cruising was sweet. At this speed the fuel consumption was a lot better.
After that test drive I booked a car, and it came in February 2009, in metallic silver. I will get a photo of myself and the car up-loaded soon. I am very happy with the car, and after 15,000km, there is absolutely no problem with the car. The after sales service is not a problem (in Malaysia) and I have not needed to buy any spares yet. The car is warrantied for 100,000 km or 5 years - which ever comes first. You could buy extended warranties which I think is reasonable.
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Sep 15th, 2009
