TopGear | Review: 2022 Proton X70 1.5L TGDi - Is it better than the 1.8?

Surprisingly, the new X70 doesn't feel any different from the 1.8-litre despite being having a smaller engine

Proton recently launched the 2022 Proton X70 which features a few styling updates and also a new powertrain option. The C-segment SUV now comes with a 1.5L TGDi, turbocharged direct injection petrol engine, presenting a new compact alternative to the familiar 1.8L TGDi engine.

The 1.5L TGDi engine achieves a max power output of 177 PS and a maximum torque of 255 Nm, hitting its peak earlier at 1500 rpm. In comparison to the 1.8L TGDi engine, there is a 7% reduction in fuel consumption on the urban cycle.

Customers also have the option to select the AWD variant, equipped with real-time intelligent All-Wheel Drive system, which automatically transfers torque to rear wheels based on demand, thus improving handling according to varying road conditions.

The 1.5L TGDi engines are built at Tanjung Malim at a new production line which according to Proton, meets the strict quality standards required for one of the most advanced locally assembled engines in Malaysia.

Beyond the engine, the 2022 Proton X70 also offers enhanced features for the driver and passengers’ comfort and a refreshed look.

These include quartz black finishing on the front and rear bumpers, new 19-inch alloy wheels, power tailgate with foot sensor and Nappa leather seats with new black headlining.

For added comfort and peace of mind, the 2022 Proton X70 comes with Proton Intelligent Air Purification System (P-IAPS).

Safety wise, there are six SRS airbags, Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), Tyre Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS), and 360 camera with 3D display for hassle-free parking.

Last but not least, exterior colour options for the 2022 Proton X70 are Snow White, Armour Silver, Jet Grey, Ruby Red, Cinnamon Brown and Space Grey, offered in accordance with the variant chosen.

Driving experience

We were invited to test drive this new Malaysian Tiger to Desaru, Johor recently to see what it feels like to pilot it around mixed road conditions. Surprisingly, the new X70 did not feel any different from the original 1.8-litre.

Compared to the older 1.8-litre TGDi engine, the new 1.5-litre engine makes 7 PS and 45 Nm less but it is more fuel efficient than the former. This was noticeable during our test drive when we drove for 340 km from Shah Alam to Desaru, and still had about 30% of fuel left.

Proton did mention that the 1.5-litre engine is 7 percent more efficient than the older 1.8-litre, partially due to the fact that the former is 43 kg lighter, which also resulted in increased agility.

Steering inputs felt more direct as well, on top of the smooth characteristic of the new engine be it on the move or when the vehicle was stationary. The new foam-type engine cover also plays a part to keep vibrations low.

While the overall ride quality in urban conditions is quiet and comfortable, the X70 handles well around corners too. Thanks to the turbocharging, power delivery is now more instantaneous, which means that you have to be gentle with the throttle.

Suspension tuning is also unchanged, offering the same impressive ride comfort as the pre-updated model.

Apart from the updated engine, the new X70 also receives minor visual changes such as the front grille, fog light, rear number plate, side mirror caps and rear diffuser piece.

In addition to the gloss black trim, the Executive and Premium variants of the X70 MC gain revised 18- and 19-inch wheels, respectively. The latter now sits on wheels that were first seen on the Proton X70 SE.

Stepping inside, the biggest change is the darker cabin, courtesy of the new blacked out roofliner. Look closely and you’ll also notice that the grab handles, pillar covers, sun visors and roof console are now finished in black.

Thanks to all the revisions, the SUV certainly looks sportier now. It is also worth mentioning here that the cabin is quite spacious, offering excellent rear legroom.

On top of the sportier looks, the X70 is also lighter, more agile, and more fuel efficient than the 1.8-litre version. It also feels more eager and exciting to drive thanks to all the torque that is available at lower revs.

In a nutshell, I feel that the Proton X70 1.5-litre TGDi is a step forward compared to the 1.8-litre version as it is nicer to look at, nicer to drive, but also saves the owner some money as the road tax rate will be cheaper and the fuel consumption has decreased.