Proton Gen-2 MT

The Proton Gen-2 MT is a 4-door hatchback that has been refined over the years to offer a blend of performance, practicality, and style. The exterior features refreshed front and rear bumpers, blacked-out headlights, and a rear spoiler, giving it a sportier look. Inside, the Gen-2 boasts a roomy interior with ample legroom for both front and rear passengers, although head clearance for rear passengers is somewhat limited. The 1.6-liter Campro CPS engine is the star of the show, providing a responsive and rev-happy driving experience. Additional features include power windows, adjustable seats, and a sizable trunk with foldable rear seats. Despite some drawbacks, the Gen-2 remains a viable option for those seeking a fun-to-drive and feature-rich hatchback at an affordable price.

In India, the Proton Gen-2 MT would likely be priced competitively to attract budget-conscious buyers. While exact pricing may vary depending on the region and any local taxes, one could expect the ex-showroom price to be around 8-10 lakhs. On-road prices, including registration, insurance, and other costs, could range from 9.5 to 12 lakhs. This pricing makes the Gen-2 an attractive option for those looking for a feature-packed hatchback without breaking the bank. However, its crucial to factor in the costs of any potential repairs or maintenance, given the models age and past reliability concerns.

The mileage of the Proton Gen-2 MT is a critical factor for Indian buyers, who often prioritize fuel efficiency. While official mileage figures are not readily available, one can expect the Gen-2 to deliver around 12-15 kmpl in city driving and up to 18 kmpl on the highway, based on its engine specifications and similar models. This is relatively average for a hatchback in its class, making it a reasonable choice for daily commuting and occasional long drives.

The Proton Gen-2 MT, although an older model, still offers some compelling features that could attract buyers in the Indian market. The 1.6-liter Campro CPS engine, which produces 110 hp at 6000 rpm and 148 Nm of torque, is a highlight, providing decent performance and a top speed of 182 kmh. However, the ride can be a bit stiff, and there is some body roll and understeer when pushed hard. The interior is roomy, especially in terms of legroom, but head clearance for rear passengers is limited. Despite some reliability issues reported in the past, such as dashboard paint peeling and door panel rubber issues, the Gen-2s handling and engine performance are notable. Overall, its a solid choice for those seeking a sporty, yet practical, hatchback, but potential buyers should be aware of the potential for some maintenance needs.

Proton has resumed production of the GEN•2 in July 2014, after a brief halt in November 2013, due to increased demand from export markets like Egypt and Turkey. This move indicates the vehicles enduring popularity in these regions. I think this resurgence is a testament to the GEN•2s reliability and appeal.

Proton sold 682 units of the GEN•2 in Turkey in 2012, and sales continued to increase in subsequent years. The models popularity in Turkey highlights its durability and market acceptance. I think the GEN•2s success in Turkey is a good example of how a well-designed car can thrive in diverse markets.

In 2012, Proton discontinued sales of the GEN•2 in the Malaysian market, but the model continued to be produced for export markets. This decision was made to focus on other models and to meet the ongoing demand from countries like Egypt and Turkey. Its interesting to see how a model can remain viable in certain markets even after being phased out domestically.

In 2008, Proton introduced the Ecologic version of the GEN•2 in the UK, which could run on both petrol and LPG. This model was designed to be more environmentally friendly and cost-effective, with estimated fuel savings of up to 40%. This was a forward-thinking move by Proton to address environmental concerns.

In Indonesia, the facelifted GEN•2 was sold with the CamPro IAFM engine and came in manual and automatic transmission variants. It was available in seven different colors and included a 3-year or 100,000 km warranty. This shows how Proton tailored the GEN•2 to different regional markets.