Proton GEN-2 Road Test

Proton GEN-2

Build Quality

Build quality was patchy in places and the materials felt cheaper than they should. This is not to the standard we now expect of a car manufacturer competing in today’s market.

Value For Money

The starting price of £ 8,795 is very competitive for a family car. In a 2004 JD Power League Table Proton scored 81.6% for overall customer satisfaction, with the GEN-2 and we are sure that they will continue to improve on this figure. The GEN-2 comes with a 3 year/60,000 mile warranty - in addition there is a 6 year/100,000 mile engine and gearbox warranty which subject to terms and conditions covers major failure of the powertrain.

Our test car the 1.6 GLS has an on the road price of £ 9,595 and is well suited to the more mature buyer who will be tempted by the low purchase price for a new car. If Proton were to introduce a 5-year warranty as Hyundai have done we are sure that this would increase sales.

Overall Opinion

We were expecting the GEN-2 to be poor, but it is far from it, admittedly it did not get us reaching for our cheque book but it is a reasonable family car at a competitive price. If it were our money there would be always the question 'what could we buy on the second hand market with a better residual value?'

The problem for Proton is credibility and persuading people to test the GEN-2. It will appeal to the loyal Proton customer and will do well within its niche market place but will be passed over by the younger buyer.

However, If you are looking for a new car and are on a budget then we would recommend that you have a look at the Proton GEN-2 you might well be surprised.

Proton GEN-2