Proton unveils a new 7-seater SUV, the X90

ABU DHABI: Since the establishment of the Proton-Geely partnership, Proton has rolled out two successful SUVs under its own brand name - the Proton X50 and the Proton X70, which are based on Geely models. Now, here comes the third Geely-based model, called the Proton X90. It is a large three-row 7-seater SUV that competes with the vehicles like Hyundai Santa Fe and Mazda CX-8. It falls in the D-segment and marks Proton’s entry into the NEV (New Energy Vehicle) market. 

Proton unveiled the X90 during an official media event held at the company's styling studio. During the event, Proton revealed that it took 1.2 million kilometers of testing and 96,000 man-hours to develop the X90. Proton has not revealed the fuel consumption figures for the X90, but the brand claims the MHEV setup will improve fuel efficiency by almost 15 percent more than its pure petrol version. 

The X90 seeks inspiration from the Geely Haoyue. Compared to the Geely, it sports a different grille. There are also L-shaped DRLs sweeping up, and the fog lamp is black instead of chrome. Apart from these cues and rear Proton badging, X90 is said to mirror the design of Haoyue. 

The Proton X90 will be available in four variants - Premium, Flagship, Standard, and Executive with 6-seater and 7-seater configurations. The Flagship variant will be available as a six-seater with pilot headrests and captain seats for the second row, while the other variants will be offered as seven-seaters. 

Its powertrain makes 300 Nm and 190 hp (metric), and a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission is paired with the engine. It will be equipped with Rear Collision Warning (RCW), Rear Cross Traffic Alert (RCTA), and Traffic Sign Information (TSI). Some of these unique features would not be available in the lower-tier variants. 

The SUV is also equipped with a 10-inch LCD meter combination, providing an intuitive and easy-to-read digital user interface. The infotainment unit in its flagship variants features a 12.3-inch display unit. 

The company is not accepting bookings for the SUV yet but has planned preview roadshows before its launch, which will start on 8 April, 2023.

Also read: Kia doubles down on its electric vehicle portfolio with Concept EV5