Proton continues it’s SA Saga with new budget beater sedan

Following in the footsteps of the X50 and X70 SUVs, Malaysian carmaker Proton has rolled out the third model on its South African return, the compact Saga sedan.

At a price of R199 900, the entry-level standard Saga manual is alongside the Suzuki DZire GA (R193 900), the only sedans in South Africa under R200 000.

The three-model range is power by a four-cylinder naturally aspirated 1.3-litre engine that sends 67kW of power and 117Nm of torque to the front wheels via five-speed manual or four-speed automatic transmission.

The Saga sedan measures 4 335mm in length, 1 515mm in height and 1 690mm in width, with a wheelbase of 2 465mm.

There is enough head and legroom for four adults inside, with very generous boot space of 420 litres for their luggage.

ALSO READ: Proton X70 adds touch of class to Malaysian carmaker’s return

Lots of spec

Standard across the range is LCD instrument cluster display, electric windows, air-conditioning, audio system with two speakers, a single USB port, electric side mirrors, keyless entry, height adjustable driver’s seat, rear parking sensors, dual front airbags, ISOFIX child seat anchoring points and ABS and EBD.

In addtion, automatic derivatives get 14-inch alloys, a second USB port, hill-descent control, electronic stability control, hill-hold assist and traction control.

ALSO READ: Proton X50 on a mission to remove ‘returning’ stigma

The top-of-the-range Proton Saga Premium is only offered in Automatic and gets LED daytime running lights, a four-speaker seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, front parking sensors, reverse camera and 15-inch alloy wheels.

Proton Saga solid

The Proton Saga is offered in five colours; Snow White, Armour Silver, Rosewood Maroon and Ruby Red.

We had the opportunity to take the Saga in automatic guise out on a short test drive last week and are happy to report that it does exactly what it says on the box. It is a comfortable and pleasant drive, which should suffice for commuting, school runs and daily city traffic in general.

As most importantly, it offers excellent value for money, something which can’t be overlooked these days.

Pricing includes five-year/150 000 km warranty with a service plan offered optional.