Proton Saga

Proton Saga
Overview
Manufacturer	Proton
Production	1985–present
Assembly	Malaysia: Shah Alam, Selangor (Proton, 1985–present) (AMI, Iswara only)[1] Malaysia: Pekan, Pahang (AMM, Iswara only)[2]
Body and chassis
Class	Compact Subcompact

The Proton Saga is a series of compact and subcompact cars produced by Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton since July 1985. The Saga is Proton's flagship model in terms of sales volume, and remains the longest running Proton nameplate to date.

The first generation Proton Saga produced between 1985 and 2008 was the first car to be produced by Proton.^[3] It was based on the 1983 Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore sedan as a result of a joint venture between the Malaysian government and Mitsubishi Motors of Japan. It was available in 4-door saloon and 5-door hatchback guises.

The second generation Proton Saga is a 4-door subcompact sedan which launched on 18 January 2008.^[4] It is based on a stretched Proton Savvy platform and was developed in-house by Proton with technical support from Lotus Cars and LG CNS.

The Proton Saga is best known to have been named after the tiny red seed of the Saga tree (Adenanthera pavonina), commonly found in Malaysia. However, Ismail Jaafar, a retired military soldier who won the car's pre-launch naming contest claims Saga was originally an acronym for safety, achievement, greatness, ability.^[3][5] The Proton Saga is also a well-known national symbol of Malaysia.^[6]

First generation (C21A, C22A; 1985–2008)

Proton Saga (1985–1992)

Proton Saga
Overview
Production	1985–1992
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door hatchback
Layout	FF layout
Powertrain
Engine	1.3 L 4G13 SOHC I4 1.5L 4G15 I4 2.0L 4G63 I4 (Prototype)
Transmission	5-speed manual 3-speed automatic

1987–1990 Proton Saga (Magma) saloon

1990–1992 Proton Saga (Megavalve) Aeroback hatchback

The Proton Saga saloon was launched on 9 July 1985. It was based on the 1983 Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore sedan platform and was powered by a 1.3L Mitsubishi Orion 4G13 engine, mated to a manual transmission. In 1987, the more powerful Proton Saga 1.5L saloon was introduced alongside a hatchback variant called the Proton Saga Aeroback.^[7]

On 16 March 1989, Proton launched the Saga in the United Kingdom.^[7] The saloon models were renamed Proton 1.3 and Proton 1.5 whereas the hatchback version was called the Proton Aeroback. Proton advertised their models with the slogan Japanese Technology, Malaysian Style there and later went on to set the record for the Fastest Selling Make of New Car Ever to Enter the United Kingdom.^[8]

In August 1990, Proton introduced the Proton Saga Megavalve for the domestic market.^[7] It was fitted with a more powerful 12-valve engine, and the exterior was altered slightly with a new grille, black trim strips and rims along with the inclusion of rear seat belts and a third brake light as standard.

Proton Saga Iswara (1992–2003)

Proton Saga Iswara
Overview
Production	1992–2003
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon 5-door hatchback
Powertrain
Engine	1.3L 4G13 SOHC I4 1.5L 4G15 I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 3-speed automatic

1992–2001 Proton Saga Iswara saloon

1992–2001 Proton Saga Iswara Aeroback hatchback

2001–2003 Proton Iswara Aeroback Special Edition hatchback

On 15 August 1992, the Proton Saga Iswara (also known as the Proton Mpi in the United Kingdom) was launched.^[7] It was named after the Great Helen butterfly (Papilio iswara) of Sarawak. It shared the platform found in the previous iteration, but received major exterior and interior changes. The Saga Iswara was available in 4-door saloon and 5-door hatchback guises and was equipped with the same Mitsubishi Orion 1.3L and 1.5L engines. The saloon version of the Saga Iswara became Malaysia's preferred choice of taxi.

In 2001, Proton introduced the Iswara Aeroback Special Edition. It was based on the Saga Iswara hatchback but included large exterior cosmetic changes and minor interior alterations. It was only available in silver, with manual transmission and the 1.3 litre 4G13 engine.

Proton Saga LMST (2003–2008)

Proton Saga LMST
Overview
Production	2003 – early 2008
Body and chassis
Body style	5-door hatchback
Layout	FF layout
Powertrain
Engine	1.3L 4G13 SOHC I4
Transmission	5-speed manual

2003–2006 Proton Saga LMST hatchback

The Proton Saga LMST hatchback was launched in 2003. It was based on the same platform found in the previous models. Nonetheless, it featured a modernized interior and major exterior modifications and improvements. The 1.3-litre Mitsubishi 4G13 carburettor engine was tuned to produce 83 bhp (62 kW). It was only available in two trim lines, limited to the 5-speed manual transmission.

In late 2006, Proton updated the Saga LMST, offering mainly cosmetic exterior changes. It was only available in two colours, black and orange, and was limited to the 4G13 1.3L engine, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

On 4 March 2007, Proton launched the final facelift model of the first generation Proton Saga, the Proton Saga LMST 50th Merdeka Anniversary Edition.^[9] It was largely identical to the 2006 Saga LMST, but was sold at a discount price of RM26,999 as opposed to the former RM33,240 price. The promotion was made in view of Malaysia's 50th Merdeka celebrations and as a symbol of Proton's gratitude to their customers. That year, the Proton Saga became the second best selling car behind the Perodua MyVi.^[10]

Second generation (BT3, BT6; 2008–present)

Proton Saga (2008–2010)

Proton Saga
Overview
Production	2008–2010
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Layout	FF layout
Powertrain
Engine	1.3L CamPro IAFM DOHC I4 1.6L CamPro IAFM DOHC I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic

2008–2010 Proton Saga

The second generation Proton Saga, also called the Saga BLM (Base Line Model) launched on 18 January 2008.^[4] It was indigenously designed unlike the former generation and launched with 3 variants which were priced between RM31,498 and RM39,998 respectively. All variants were powered by Proton's 1.3 litre CamPro IAFM engine. The new Saga was a great sales success for Proton, having received over 23,000 bookings in less than two weeks since launch.^[11] It also replaced the older Saga Iswara as Malaysia's taxi of choice from 2008 to 2010. The taxi variants were equipped with 1.6 litre 110 bhp CamPro engines and were later converted to NGVs.^[12]

The Proton Saga SE was unveiled in July 2009. It was sold as a premium variant with just 2 colour options and a unique body kit, mated to the CamPro 1.3 engine found in the other models.^[13] In that same month, Proton showcased the emission-free Saga EV Concept in Universiti Putra Malaysia, Serdang.^[14] Powered by a 125 kW (168 hp) DC motor mated to a 5 speed manual transmission, it had a maximum range of 109 kilometres (68 miles) and could be charged over a standard household outlet. On the Christmas eve of 2009, Proton launched the S16 in the Australian market.^[15] The S16 was identical to the Saga, but featured the more powerful 110 bhp CamPro 1.6 engine. At the time, it retailed for AUD$11,990, making it the cheapest new car in Australia.^[16]

Proton Saga FL (2010–2011)

Proton Saga FL
Overview
Production	2010–2011
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Layout	FF layout
Powertrain
Engine	1.3L CamPro IAFM DOHC I4 1.6L CamPro IAFM DOHC I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 4-speed automatic

2010–2011 Proton Saga FL

On 30 November 2010, Proton unveiled the facelifted Proton Saga FL at the Thai International Motor Expo 2010.^[17] It received large exterior updates, but the technical specifications and interior remain mostly unchanged from the pre-facelift Saga.

The Saga FL was launched in Malaysia two weeks after its Thai unveil.^[18] It was sold in two trim lines and both were available with 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions. Every Proton Saga FL came standard with 4 power windows. Later in May 2011, a more powerful model called the Proton Saga FL 1.6 Executive was launched.^[19]

Proton Saga FLX (2011–present)

Proton Saga FLX
Overview
Production	2011–present
Body and chassis
Body style	4-door saloon
Powertrain
Engine	1.3L CamPro IAFM+ DOHC I4 1.6L CamPro IAFM+ DOHC I4
Transmission	5-speed manual 6-speed CVT

2011–present Proton Saga FLX SE

8 months after the launch of the Saga FL, Proton added to its line-up the Saga FLX in which 'X' stands for extra.^[20][21] The FLX is available in two trim lines which can be mated to a choice of either manual or CVT drivetrains. The fine-tuned CamPro IAFM+ engine is utilized and there are options for dual airbags and (ABS) with EBD). The handling has been vastly improved with a new suspension setup which strikes a balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The exterior of the Saga FLX is identical to the Saga FL.

The Proton Saga FLX SE was launched on 30 November 2011.^[22] It is powered by a 108 hp CamPro IAFM+ 1.6 litre engine, paired to a CVT. Driver and passenger airbags as well as ABS with EBD are standard. The FLX SE is equipped with sportier kit and is only available in two colours, white and red.

The Saga FLX entered the Australian market in June 2012, where it was renamed the S16 FLX. It replaces the old S16 in Proton Australia's fleet. The S16 FLX comes in two variants, the GX and GXR, each with manual and CVT drivetrain options respectively, with dual airbags, ABS and EBD standard across the range.^[23]

On 15 June 2013, Proton introduced a new sub-variant of the Saga FLX, called the Saga SV. SV is an acronym for Super Value, with prices starting from just RM33,438 for the manual transmission variant. Despite the reduction in price, the Saga SV offers improved safety standards with dual airbags and a reinforced frame with only minimal exterior changes when compared to the Saga FLX Standard.^[24]

Third Generation

The third generation of Proton Saga is scheduled for a late 2016 launch.^[25]

Awards

• 1991 What Car? – Best Value Car of the Year (Proton Saga 1.5E Aeroback) ^[26]
• 1992 Auto Express – Best Value Popular New Cars ^[26]
• 1993 What Car? – Best Buy Family Car up to £10,000 ^[26]
• 2008 Best Compact / People's car of the year – Asian Auto-VCA Auto Industry Awards ^[27]
• 2008 Entry Level Category Winner – NST / Maybank COTY Awards 2008 ^[28]
• 2009 Best Model of the Year (Malaysia) – Frost & Sullivan Asia Pacific 2009 Automotive Awards ^[28]
• 2010 Best Passenger Car Model of the Year – Frost & Sullivan Malaysia Excellence Award 2010 ^[28]
• 2011 Best People's Car and Best Value for Money Family Car Awards – Asian Auto – Auto Industry Awards 2011 ^[29]
• 2012 Special Mention Award – Best Value Compact Sedan of the Year – NST / Maybank COTY Awards 2012 ^[30]

References

1. Chips Yap (29 December 2007). "Ford changes business model for Malaysia". motortrader.com.my. Archived from the original on 30 May 2015. Retrieved 30 May 2015.
2. Chips Yap (29 September 2007). "How many assembly plants in Malaysia?". motortrader.com.my. Archived from the original on 30 May 2015. Retrieved 30 May 2015.
3. "PROTON Holdings Berhad – History". corporate.proton.com. Retrieved 29 January 2013.
4. Tan, Paul (18 January 2008). "New Proton Saga Launch and Test Drive Report". paultan.org. Retrieved 10 January 2013.
5. "I named the Proton Saga". asiaone.com. 20 December 2010. Retrieved 15 July 2013.
6. "National Symbols of Malaysia". 123independenceday.com. Retrieved 10 January 2013.
7. "PROTON Holdings Berhad – History of Proton". corporate.proton.com. Retrieved 29 January 2013.
8. "Proton Saga History". Proton/Paul Tan/YouTube. 26 May 2010. Retrieved 30 January 2013.
9. Wan Seadey, Wan Syamsul (4 March 2007). "Proton Saga RM26,999 Sempena 50 Tahun Merdeka". utusan.com.my. Retrieved 31 January 2013. (Malay)
10. Gasnier, Matthias (28 January 2008). "Malaysia 2006–2007: Perodua Myvi takes control of the market". bestsellingcarsblog.com. Retrieved 31 January 2013.
11. Tan, Paul (1 February 2008). "Proton Saga: 23,000 bookings, 5 month wait!". paultan.org. Retrieved 12 January 2013.
12. Tan, Paul (22 October 2008). "Proton Saga Campro 1.6 Taxi with NGV". paultan.org. Retrieved 12 January 2013.
13. Tan, Paul (7 July 2009). "New Proton Saga SE in showrooms from 15th August". paultan.org. Retrieved 12 January 2013.
14. Tan, Paul (16 July 2009). "Proton previews the Proton Saga EV Concept". paultan.org. Retrieved 12 January 2013.
15. Tan, Danny (24 December 2009). "Miss Australia Universe endorses the Proton Saga!". paultan.org. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
16. O'Kane, Tony (10 November 2009). "2010 Proton S16 To Go On Sale In December As Australia's Cheapest Car". themotorreport.com.au. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
17. Tan, Paul (30 November 2010). "Proton Saga facelift unveiled at Thai Motor Expo 2010". paultan.org. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
18. Tan, Paul (15 December 2010). "2011 Proton Saga FL launched in Malaysia – full details". paultan.org. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
19. Tan, Paul (26 May 2011). "Proton Saga FL 1.6 Executive now available – RM46,549". paultan.org. Retrieved 13 January 2013.
20. Lim, Anthony (26 July 2011). "Proton Saga FLX 1.3L launched – CVT, ABS and EBD on". paultan.org. Retrieved 18 January 2013.
21. Lim, Anthony (28 July 2011). "Proton Saga FLX 1.3L – first drive impressions". paultan.org. Retrieved 18 January 2013.
22. Lim, Anthony (30 November 2011). "Proton Saga FLX SE launched – RM49,899 OTR!". paultan.org. Retrieved 18 January 2013.
23. Beissmann, Tim (18 June 2012). "Proton S16 FLX: update brings basic safety features, fresh styling". caradvice.com.au. Retrieved 18 January 2013.
24. Lim, Anthony (15 June 2013). "Proton Saga SV launched – from RM33,438 OTR". paultan.org. Retrieved 15 June 2013.
25. "Next Proton Saga to move to A-segment, may use 1.0L, 1.2L VVT". Paul Tan's Automotive News. Retrieved 2016-01-21.
26. "Proton Cars UK – History – Proton MPI (1989–1995)". proton.co.uk. Retrieved 4 June 2011.
27. "PROTON Holdings Berhad – Awards & Recognition". corporate.proton.com. Retrieved 29 January 2013.
28. "PROTON Holdings Berhad – Awards". corporate.proton.com. Retrieved 27 January 2013.
29. "Asian Auto 2011 – Proton – Best Value for Money Award – Proton grabs two Asian awards". www.btimes.com.my. 14 July 2011. Retrieved 29 January 2013.
30. Cheong, Hans (30 November 2012). "Ford Ranger Wins NST-Maybank COTY Overall Car Of The Year". www.cbt.com.my. Retrieved 29 January 2013.

External links

• Saga FLX microsite
• Proton Saga FLX / Saga SV