Insurance Group: 16
MPG: 36.2
CO2: 184
0-62 Mph: 13.6 secs
BHP: 110 BHP
Range: 398 miles
PROS: The Proton GEN-2 1.6 GSX Auto 5dr has average looks and is styled relatively smart inside and out. It handles quite well, more so on open roads. Its price is quite affordable.
CONS: Though styled smartly, its interior has low quality finishing materials. Driving this car is not as engaging as the engine is coarse and presents sluggish performance.
This version is a cost option automatic with the 4-speed transmission. The chassis was developed by Lotus thus giving a suspension that offers a balance between a comfortable ride and performance through bends and curves. Road grip is average with a steering that is quick enough to respond but feel is definitely lacking. Refinement is an issue for the Proton GEN-2’s cabin, with road and wind noise becoming an issue at higher speeds.
The 1597cc with its 4 cylinders and 16 valves produces a power of 100 bhp at 6000 rpm and develops a torque of 109 lb-ft at 4000 rpm. It has the capacity to reach 62 mph in 13.6 seconds and has a top speed of 115 mph.
The dashboard and centre console do look smart and tidy but the quality of the materials is poor. Plastics are used all around the cabin and the finishing quality is sloppy. The buttons and switches are a bit fiddly. The centre console is not very intuitive. The driver’s seat is adjustable but its raised position and the low-set steering wheel make it hard to really achieve the right balance.
The GSX is top of the range version. In terms of equipment it includes air-conditioning, power steering, front electric windows, parking sensors, steering-wheel mounted controls, split/fold rear seats and tilting steering columns front foglights are included. Alloy wheels, a 10-CD changer, cruise control, heated mirrors, titanium gearstick and body-coloured bumpers and handles are also standard.
Cost options are metallic paint and leather seats.
The Proton GEN-2 1.6 GSX Auto 5dr has adequate legroom but the headroom is limited due to its sloping roof. Tall passengers will feel particularly cramped in the rear. Its boot is comparatively spacious at 460 litres and could be expanded to 850 litres when the seats are folded or down. However the opening is narrow that loading and unloading is not easy. The cabin lacks pockets of storage with no glovebox or cubbies.
The Proton GEN-2 has not undergone the Euro NCAP crash test. However this version, and all other versions of the GEN-2, have the necessary air bags, crumple zones, anti-lock braking system, side impact bars and rollover protection for passengers’ safety. Isofix, belt pre-tensioners and 3-point centre belt are also provided. Standard security kit such as an immobiliser, alarm, remote and central locking is inclusive.
Expect a lot of premature signs of ageing and wobbly trims as build quality of this brand is lacking. However, previous Protons have proven to be relatively reliable but there’s such a small number sold that there’s no major satisfaction survey relating to this version or any other Proton model.
Priced at £11,995, the Proton GEN-2 seems to be cheap when compared to entry level Vauxhall Astra and Ford Focus. This version is well-equipped and a cost option of leather seats costing £1,000 is offered as a free upgrade.
This model has a CO2 emission rating of 184g/km. Its combined mpg is 36.2 and it falls under insurance group 16 and Road Tax Band I. Running costs aren't too bad for the class and considering the cheap purchase price and excellent level of equipment, the GEN-2 undoubtedly offers great value for money. Resale values will be poor however, with quick depreciation.
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