The Saga’s unique selling points are supreme style, smart savings and superb stability, says CEO

by AFIQ AZIZ

PROTON Holdings Bhd yesterday launched the latest version of the Proton Saga as part of its strategic plan to maintain the present momentum in sales, while regaining its shares in the automotive market.

The Proton Saga 2019 model, priced between RM32,800 and RM39,800 per unit, comes in three variants — namely Standard MT (manual transmission), Standard AT (automatic transmission) and Premium AT — and is available in five colours.

The Standard AT variant is priced at RM35,800. All prices are on-the-road without insurance.

A facelift of the third-generation Saga that was rolled in 2016 features four-speed automatic transition with smart elements that are incorporated in its infotainment system.

Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong said the company has identified a unique selling proposition for this model, hence the tagline “An Intelligent Proposition”.

“The unique selling points are supreme style, smart savings and superb stability,” he said at the launch of Proton Saga 2019 in Kuala Lumpur yesterday.

Also present were International Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Darell Leiking, Proton chairman Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar Syed Ali Rethza Albar and DRB-Hicom Bhd chairman Datuk Mohammad Zainal Shaari.

Syed Faisal Albar said Proton has sold four million cars since 1985, 50% of which are the Saga model, which have also managed to penetrate 21 countries.

The latest facelifted Saga is powered by a 1.3 VVT (variable valve timing) engine that is paired with a new automatic transmission. It is also equipped with the Electronic Stability Control and Traction Control System.

The safety features include front SRS airbags, front and rear parking sensors, brake assist, and the anti-lock braking system that is equipped with electronic brake-force distribution, as well as hill hold assist.

The exterior design features have been upgraded with new design elements, particularly in the grille section, with infinitive weave and ethereal bow — carrying its identity which has been incorporated in the X70, Persona and the facelifted Iriz models.

The front bumper is sleek and stylish with a pair of LED daytime running lights (DRL) for premium variants, while the rear bumper features a sleeker, sporty design with vents on the left and right sides.

The model also offers a seven-inch touch screen monitor infotainment system that is equipped with Bluetooth connectivity, 16GB internal storage and smartphone connectivity.

Similar to the Proton X70 and 2019 Iriz, Persona and Exora, the latest facelifted Saga comes with extra value packages including three free labour services for a year and financing package with interest as low as 2.89% per annum, as well as other insurance benefits.