2026 Proton Saga MC3 launching in November? DRB-Hicom MD says “subsequent episode” coming subsequent month

The Proton eMas 5 was solely launched yesterday nighthowever the nationwide carmaker is already trying in the direction of what’s subsequent. And that “what’s subsequent” could also be simply across the nook, in response to DRB-Hicom group managing director Syed Faisal Albar on the occasion.

In his speech, the Malaysian conglomerate boss spoke extremely of its strategic companion Geely, saying that the Chinese language large’s expertise switch has skilled Proton’s engineers to “embrace the most effective applied sciences from our companion,” culminating within the institution of an R&D facility in Hangzhou Bay final 12 months.

As such, he added, we will anticipate extra fashions the place the event is pushed by Proton’s personal workforce, however with Geely backing, “the place the mental property will absolutely belong to Proton.” And apparently, we gained’t have very lengthy in any respect for the primary fruits of this effort.

“If in the present day’s launch is a drama collection episode 5, please watch for the subsequent episode, which is coming very, very quickly,” Syed Albar stated. “I believe it ought to be coming subsequent month.”

He didn’t really point out what automobile Proton will probably be launching subsequent, however its identification is pretty apparent – it’s the new Sagarecognized internally because the MC3. The corporate has already revealed the entry-level sedan (alongside the eMas 5) earlier this week as a part of the ASEAN Summit, so we’re solely awaiting the total particulars and, in fact, the pricing.

The automobile makes use of the identical platform and primary construction as earlier than, redeveloped right into a next-generation structure that Proton calls AMA. A wholesale entrance and rear fascia redesign has added LED projector headlights linked by an Ethereal Bow chrome bar and a particular full-width grille, in addition to a taillight bar bearing the Proton script.

Inside, the excellent revamp continues with a brand new dashboard that includes a widescreen show panel. This homes two nearly sq. screens for instrumentation and infotainment, modernising the Saga’s cabin considerably. There are additionally new flat-bottomed steering wheel from the X50, pill-shaped air vents, a wave texture on the door playing cards and a slim centre console with a brand new gearlever from the Iriz and Persona.

Peeking into the camouflaged automobile at Proton’s Centre of Excellence dealership reveals that the automobile will include six airbags – a large soar from simply two earlier than. A digital camera on the high of the windscreen signifies the presence of driver assists equivalent to autonomous emergency braking, though buttons for Stage 2 semi-autonomous driving options equivalent to adaptive cruise management and lane centring help are lacking from the automobile. We anticipate these options to be reserved for the top-spec Premium.

No technical particulars have been introduced simply but, however the i-GT badge on the boot lid hints at a brand new engine – primarily the X50’s BHE15 1.5 litre four-cylinder however with the turbo and direct injection eliminated. Leaked paperwork present that the automobile will probably be provided with an computerized for the Normal and Government fashions and a CVT for the Premium.

It’s seemingly that the stepless transmission is as soon as once more sourced from Punch Powertrain. The Belgium firm has opened a brand new plant in Tanjong Malim as a part of a long-term partnership with Proton.

Not lengthy to go now earlier than the launch of the Saga. Are you excited?

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