Proton GEN-2 Review
Published: 2nd March 2005
Proton GEN-2 Review
Perusahaan Otomobile Nasional Berhad, or PROTON, was incorporated on the 7th May 1983. Proton made a major step in upgrading its engineering capabilities when it acquired a share in Lotus Group International in October 1996 - this stake was increased to a 100% share in 2003.
The Proton GEN-2 was launched in the UK in September 2004 as a replacement for the Proton Wira and according to Proton it 'marks the start of the marque’s redefinition of its brand proposition in the UK'.
The GEN-2 is a 5-door hatchback which has been developed in conjunction with the Norfolk based sports car manufacturer Lotus.
The Proton GEN-2 is available in two trim levels: GLS and GSX - prices start at £8,795 for the 1.3 GLS model and rise to £11,395 for the range topping 1.6 GSX with automatic transmission.
We tested the GEN-2 1.6 GLS model, with a list price of £ 9,595 to see how it fares within the competitive lower medium segment which boasts class leaders such as the Ford Focus, Vauxhall Astra and Volkswagen Golf.
Proton GEN-2 Review Road Test Data | |
| Model Reviewed | Proton GEN-2 1.6 GLS |
| Body Type | 5-Door Hatchback |
| Colour | Vigour Red Metallic |
| Performance ~ manufacturers figures | |
| 0 - 62 mph | 12.6 Seconds |
| Top Speed | 118 mph |
| Transmission | 5-Speed Manual |
| Fuel Type | Unleaded - Petrol |
| Economy ~ manufacturers figures | |
| Urban | 27.9 mpg |
| Extra Urban | 51.3 mpg |
| Combined | 39.2 mpg |
| Insurance Group | 7 |
| Euro NCAP Rating | TBA |
| Warranty | 3-Years/60,000 miles manufacturer total vehicle warranty 6-Years/100,000 miles engine and gearbox warranty 6-Years unlimited mileage bodywork warranty 3-Years unlimited mileage paintwork warranty 3-Years RAC breakdown cover |
| Price when tested on the 02/03/05 | £ 9,595 |
