2025-01-15 · 5 min read
Proton Persona — Malaysia Mid-Range Sedan
Persona gen 1: 1996–2012. Current gen: 2016 (Geely-era Proton). 1.6L CAMPRO + Punch CVT. Larger than Saga, smaller than Preve. Facelift 2019. Best features: Advanced Safety.
- Gen 1 Persona (2007–2012): Mitsubishi-derived platform, CVT or manual
- Gen 2 Persona (2016+): Proton Iriz-based platform; 1.6L CAMPRO + Punch CVT
Proton Model Generations — Malaysia Guide
Proton's model range spans pre-Geely (Saga BVT 2016+, Persona 2016+, Exora) and post-Geely partnership (X50, X70, X90, S70). Post-Geely models use the 1.5T TGDI engine and 7DCT — a significant quality jump. When buying used, note: X50 (2020+) brought ADAS, DSTC, and keyless; X70 (2018+) was the first major Geely-platform model; S70 (2023+) is a C-segment sedan built on ERPF. Pre-Geely models (Saga/Persona) are simpler and cheaper to maintain but lack modern safety features.