SYDNEY, Nov 15 — PROTON Cars Australia has unveiled the Proton Suprima S in Sydney, barely two weeks after it was launched in Indonesia.
PROTON chief operating officer (commercial) Hisham Othman unveiled the Suprima with Kaye Aimes, chief operating officer of PROTON Cars Australia.
The Suprima S, mooted the best car ever produced by Proton, will be available in two variants — the GX and GXR.
The Proton Suprima S is Proton’s most comprehensively equipped model, and the Australian model is identical to the premium model in Malaysia.
The moniker “Suprima S” is derived from “supreme”, intended to reflect superiority in engineering, safety and performance. The youthful hatchback is Proton’s most well-equipped product to date and was conceived to meet the demanding needs of modern lifestyle, as suggested by its dynamic and sporty shape, premium interior and superior engine performance.
Powered by Proton’s own 1.6-litre, DOHC, 16-valve, Campro, Charged Fuel Efficiency (CFE) engine that produces 103kW at 5,000 rpm and 205Nm at 2,000-4,000 rpm, the Suprima S promises a spirited drive that will still yield fuel economy.
The hatchback is available with a seven-speed Protronic CVT transmission with paddle shifters, to be followed by a six-speed manual transmission from next year.
Lotus Ride and Handling developed exclusively for the Suprima S range gives it exceptional dynamics.
Whether it’s tackling city traffic or winding country road, the agile chassis of the Proton Suprima S is made to deliver enjoyment.
Hisham says the Proton Suprima S offers features never before seen in a Proton, with safety topping the list of priorities. “Like the Prevé GX and GXR, the Proton Suprima S also has an ANCAP 5-Star safety rating,” said Hisham. “This truly represents the benchmark we have set for the standard and quality that Proton aims to deliver to its customers.”
Occupant protection and safety is primary, and it starts with the Reinforced Safety Structure. The bodyshell is manufactured using an advanced hot press forming process, giving it ultra high-tensile strength, at the same time giving it the lighter weight for fuel efficiency.
The Suprima S has driver and front passenger airbags, driver and front passenger side airbags, and full-length curtain airbags for front and rear-seat occupants.
Other safety aids include Electronic Stability Control (ESC) with brake assist, Traction control, ABS brakes with EBD, Active Headrests, seat belt pre-tensioners, auto door locks, front and rear proximity sensors and reversing camera as well as Active Hazard Lights that automatically switch on in the event of a collision or when sudden braking is detected from speeds above 90km/h.
The Proton Suprima S has a contemporary, sporty style and an aero-refined silhouette. The signature black honeycomb grille, chrome blade and PROTON emblem are seamlessly fused with the slim projector lights incorporating Daytime Running Lights.
A broad road-hugging stance, flowing lines, muscular wheel arches, rear roof spoiler and 17 x 7-inch alloy wheels complete the dynamic look.
The sporty theme continues inside the spacious cabin, with Proton designers employing a high-quality dark grey tone, matched with a metallic silver dash panel and centre console that houses the in-car infotainment system.
A seven-inch touch screen incorporates a built-in DVD player, integrated DSP and GPS, Bluetooth, USB and iPod connectivity.
“The introduction of the Proton Suprima S into the Australian market is a reflection of PROTON’s commitment to our customers — both in Malaysia and in our international markets — in not just meeting their demands, but to continue to produce a variety of products that offer high levels of passenger safety, driving enjoyment and satisfaction; products that are safe, of good quality and value-for-money,” said Hisham.
The Suprima S goes on sale in Australia from December 1 for A$21,790 (RM65,000) driveaway (GX CVT) and A$26,590 driveaway (GXR CVT). Five colours are available: Atlantic Blue, Fire Red, Genetic Silver, Solid White and Tranquillity Black.
Both the Suprima S GX and GXR are offered with five years or 75,000km free scheduled servicing, five years or 150,000km warranty, five years or 150,000km free 24-hour roadside assistance, and seven years anti-corrosion warranty.
