The New Proton Saga

We brought the family to the Curve to see the finished product and then to the Proton showroom in Taman Tun Dr Ismail, Kuala Lumpur. The new Proton SAGA looked impressive and clearly showed the commitment by Proton to build a people orientated and practical car. It looked like they have some improvements based on the SAVVY platform and added a CAMPRO 16V DOHC Engine. The Integrated Air Fuel Module (IAFM) technology featured in the car promises fuel efficiency and a better performance. Both Mommy and I agreed that the Manual 1.3 car would suit us best with a maximum output of 70/6000 and maximum torque of 120/4000. We prefer Manual transmission anytime due to the additional power and fuel efficiency.














We agreed that the M-line would suit us best as it features a single AIRBAG. The front passenger seat would be used to place Benedicts Baby Car seat and hence would not require an AIRBAG. I was still trying to figure out how the back seat belts could be used for the Baby Car seats (the looked the same like the Wira seat belts which doesn't seem to fit the Baby Car seats properly). The 14" alloy sports rims would definitely give additional stability to the car.

The Zircon green (see photo) looked very striking but I still preferred the Mountain Blue. Mommy wanted the 'Genetic Silver' colour (see photo) although I told her that the streets would be flooded with cars of that colour! The other colours are Metallic Black, Solid White, Granite Grey and Chilli Red.

Anyway, I went through with the Salesman the list of problems people complained about older versions of Proton cars:-
1. Power window problems - Changed manufacturer
2. Dashboard - Changed manufacturer
3. Door handle - Changed design
4. Suspension - Improved
5. Low car clearance - Increased clearance
6. Leaking - Improve quality control
7. Lack of space - Improved

I contacted our Proton dealer who took our order with only RM500 booking fee and a photocopy of the IC and driving licence. He told us that to date there are already 10,000 bookings nationwide and the car would only be available in 4 months. Do check it out now as some dealers are also throwing in free goodies with the car booking! Nevertheless, we will still testdrive the car on Monday!