It also offers exceptional comfort with plush leather seats, a soothing interior and 72 customizable lighting options for a personalised experience 

by VEISHNAWI NEHRU & SHAUQI WAHAB 

WHEN you’re behind the wheel, safety takes centre stage. Imagine a car that not only prioritises this crucial aspect but also excels in agility and stability, effortlessly handling dynamic driving conditions with ease. 

The 2025 Proton X70 focuses on safety with advanced features that keep you on track and smoothly correct lane deviations. It also provides exceptional comfort with plush leather seats, a soothing interior and 72 customisable lighting options for a personalised driving experience. 

The Malaysian Reserve (TMR) had the opportunity to test-drive the Premium model at Proton’s headquarters in Shah Alam, specifically at the Proton Centre of Excellence test track. The track features a banking section that is slightly elevated, allowing for high-speed driving. 

With the Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS) activated, TMR team experienced the car’s ability to navigate the track independently. This cutting-edge technology provides a fascinating preview of the future of self-driving vehicles. 

Exploring Proton’s ADAS 

As the car picked up speed, it effortlessly adjusted its pace when approaching slower vehicles and subtly corrected its position if it veered off course. Even when the driver deliberately steered left, the ADAS swiftly realigned the vehicle to the centre of the lane. 

One of the most thrilling parts of the experience was when the driver pushed the car to 125 kph on the banking track. The sensation felt like riding a roller coaster, mixing fear and excitement. The stability and control of the Premium at such high speeds were remarkable, reinforcing confidence in its advanced safety features. 

Typically, high-speed driving results in noticeable vibrations, especially in non-EV vehicles. However, the Premium was exceptionally smooth, making it feel like we weren’t going that fast. 

Besides the ADAS, the Premi- um’s interior comfort is notable. The plush leather seats are easily adjustable with simple buttons. The back support adjustment removes the need for extra pillows on long trips, enhancing comfort and making the driving experience more enjoyable. 

The Executive’s Remarkable Handling

TMR team had the chance to drive the Executive and try its impressive staggered gate feature. This system shows how well the car handles low-speed turns and tight corners, making for an exciting driving experience. 

During the demo, we were encouraged to drive fast and navigate corners without using the brakes. 

Confident in the car’s abilities, we enjoyed sharp, zigzag turns with minimal braking. The car handled these moves smoothly, staying steady and balanced even with light brake use. 

A key highlight of the demonstration was how it boosted our confidence in handling challenging roads like those in Genting Highlands or Cameron Highlands. The winding roads helped us see how well the Executive maintains stability and control. 

TMR team also tested the car at higher speeds, around 100 kph, making right turns with light braking. Normally, these manoeuvres would need much more braking to stay safe and in control. 

However, the Executive demonstrated exceptional balance and agility by smoothly handling the turn without sacrificing ride quality. The car’s ability to stay low to the ground, akin to a racing car, while maintaining the stability of an SUV, was truly impressive. 

One of the key takeaways from this experience was the car’s excellent balance and its capability to avoid toppling over during sudden, sharp turns. 

Safety at Its Core 

TMR team had the chance to experience the Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) system in the Premium X. AEB monitors the road ahead and automatically applies the brakes if the driver doesn’t respond in time, helping to prevent collisions and improve safety. 

During the demo, we observed from the passenger seats as a Proton driver demonstrated the system by driving at 40kph and simulating an obstacle on the road. 

The AEB system was set to low sensitivity, so the vehicle braked when it was about two to three metres from an obstacle. The system’s response changes with the vehicle’s speed and sensitivity setting. In high-sensitivity mode, it might brake earlier, around three metres away, which adds extra safety at higher speeds. 

Even at a relatively low speed of 40 kph, the emergency braking felt very realistic to TMR team. The sudden stop showed how effective the AEB system is in real-world situations. We noted that at higher speeds, like 100 kph, the effect would be even more noticeable, underscoring the importance of AEB in improving vehicle safety. 

A key feature of the AEB system is that its sensitivity settings can only be adjusted before you start driving. Once you’re on the road, these settings stay fixed to prevent any changes while driving, which helps keep safety standards consistent. 

The sensitivity can be set to match different driving conditions, whether on city streets or highways. This makes the AEB system a flexible and reliable safety feature that can greatly lower the chance of accidents. 

Redefining Connectivity, Comfort

Deputy vehicle programme executive for the X70 Mohd Norsham Mohd Maidin said the 2025 Proton X70 features 360 new parts, underscoring Proton’s commitment to ongoing enhancement. 

“This update reflects current trends and we have thoughtfully decided to upgrade the 2022 Proton X70,” he added. 

The development of the new model was a major undertaking, involving 290,000 man-hours dedicated to research and development, alongside rigorous testing across 4.2 million km to ensure its durability and performance in various conditions.

Regarding the new design, he noted that the exterior of the 2025 Proton X70 has been refreshed to have a more striking and modern appearance. 

The interior boasts luxury with premium Nappa leather seats, advanced ambient lighting and refined materials, including piano-finished accents. 

The ambient lighting offers 72 colour options and can be set to static, breathing, or music-synchronised modes for a personalised driving experience. 

The 2025 Proton X70 also features upgraded connectivity. Its infotainment system includes a 12.3-inch high-resolution screen, a quad-core processor, 4GB of RAM and 32GB of storage. 

The system features over-the-air updates, ensuring that the latest features and improvements are always available. 

Norsham also pointed out that the new Proton X70’s iProton voice command system allows drivers to easily control the entertainment system, windows and air conditioning using voice commands. 

Furthermore, the Proton Link app enhances convenience and security by offering remote start, air conditioning control and vehicle unlocking from anywhere in the world. 

Norsham stressed that safety has been a central priority in the development of the 2025 Proton X70. 

The new model is equipped with advanced safety features, such as a walk-away auto lock, which automatically secures the vehicle when you leave. 

It also features a 360-degree camera system with a 3D display, improving visibility and manoeuvrability in tight spaces. 

Similar to the 2018 Proton X70 Executive AWD, it has a tire pressure monitoring system that alerts drivers to any changes in tire pressure, ensuring optimal performance and safety. 

In contrast to the 2018 model’s 1.8-liter T-GDI DOHC engine, the 2025 Proton X70 comes with a more efficient 1.5-litre TDI engine and a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission. 

This combination delivers impressive fuel efficiency at 7.3 litres per 100km, which is a 4% improvement over the 2022 model while maintaining the same maximum power and torque. 

The 2025 X70 comes in a variety of colours including Snow White, Armor Silver, Jet Grey, Ruby Red and Marine Blue, allowing customers to express their personal style. 

The model range includes standard to executive variants, with differences primarily in design elements and additional features such as new alloy wheels, premium leather seats, and enhanced ambient lighting in the higher trims. 

Hill Hold Assist and HDC 

Norsham highlighted key innovations like hill hold assist and hill descent control (HDC), which improve convenience and safety on various terrains. 

“Hill hold assist keeps the car stationary on an incline for up to two seconds, giving the driver time to move smoothly from the brake to the gas pedal for a controlled start uphill,” he said. 

Hill descent control (HDC) maintains a steady speed while descending, so drivers can focus on steering rather than managing speed manually. 

“HDC automatically adjusts braking to keep a constant speed, adding extra safety, especially on steep or slippery slopes.” 

Norsham also highlighted Sports Mode, which offers a more dynamic driving experience. 

“Sports Mode boosts performance by tuning the engine, transmission and suspension for quicker acceleration and sharper handling, ideal for spirited driving. 

“Electronic Stability Control (ESC) assists in maintaining vehicle control during extreme manoeuvres or on slippery surfaces. While ESC can be deactivated for drivers preferring more freedom, it automatically reactivates if speeds exceed 80 kph, ensuring stability and safety during high-speed driving.” 

Crafting Proton’s Identity 

Proton’s Head of Advanced Design Norhelmey Lobb reflected on the 2018 development of the Proton X70. He said the initial design aimed to create a distinctive Proton identity. 

“From the beginning, we focused on two key design elements: The spacious interior and the infinite weave. The interior was designed for comfort, while the infinite weave, inspired by Malaysian arts and crafts, was integrated to create a recognisable Proton identity.” 

This blend of cultural heritage with modern design has been a cornerstone of Proton’s approach, making its vehicles not just modes of transportation, but also cultural artifacts. 

Looking ahead to 2025, Norhelmey described the new X70 as the result of years of refinement and innovation, likening it to the X90 as a sibling. 

He added that the 2025 X70 features a more robust and thicker interior, providing a greater sense of strength and durability. 

“The infinite weave is now divided by this pocket, which also features a weaving pattern, giving the 2025 X70 a distinctive look. 

“Our first SUV, known for its unique Infinite Leaf design and beautiful wood carvings, has evolved. The new logo and elements like the infinite weave, inspired by traditional songket patterns, highlight our commitment to blending cultural heritage with modern innovation,” he added. 

He also noted that a standout feature of the 2025 X70 is its sleek new headlights, which add a modern touch. 

“The SUV’s bold shape and stance are enhanced by new rim designs. The lower area has been raised, with a weave pattern at the front and rear to improve stability and create a longer appearance,” he said.

The side view also features a new rim design.

Norhelmey said the innovative 18-inch and dynamic two-tone 19-inch rims contribute to a more confident and dynamic appearance. 

One of the standout features of the 2025 X70 is its redefined front proportions. 

“Not only does it convey modernity, but it also redefines the vehicle’s front profile, giving it a more confident and assertive look,” he said. 

These design choices enhance the overall side view, making the X70 not just a car but a statement of style and sophistication. 

The interior of the 2025 Proton X70 has been carefully redesigned to enhance both comfort and personalisation. 

Unlike the 2018 2WD X70 — which had a black leather-wrapped steering wheel with basic controls — the new X70 features a steering wheel equipped with intelligent cruise control. Its updated design aims to improve visibility and create a more refined look. 

Moreover, the new head unit is larger and more intuitive, providing a more comfortable and user-friendly experience while operating the vehicle. 

Norhelmey said this feature not only adds to the aesthetic appeal but also enhances the driving experience by creating a pleasant and adaptable environment. 

One of the most remarkable aspects of the 2025 Proton X70 is the seamless integration of exterior and interior design elements. 

“It features the same dynamic shape on the front and rear bumpers, incorporating design elements that flow from the exterior into the interior and it combines this with the new set of wheels.” 

He said this design philosophy will ensure that every part of the vehicle, works together harmoniously, providing a holistic and satisfying driving experience. 

Meanwhile, vehicle chief engineer X70 Md Fariza Rahim added on the enhancements made for the 2025 model. 

“This is a Malaysian car developed with Malaysian preferences in mind. 

“Over the past five years, customer feedback has been integral in refining our models. With the 2025 Proton X70, we’ve incorporated additional enhancements to meet evolving customer needs,” he said. 

Keep an eye out for the official launch of the 2025 Proton X70, coming later this month.

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• This article first appeared in The Malaysian Reserve weekly print edition