Proton today announced the start of production of its next three-row SUV, commonly referred to as the X90. Scheduled to launch later this year on the automaker’s 40th anniversary, the X90 is based on the Geely Haoyuealso known as Geely Okavango in other markets such as the Philippines.
Proton Chairman Datuk Seri Syed Faisal Albar introduced the news, who delivered a speech during a secondment ceremony held at the automaker’s Tanjung Malim plant. Perak MB Datuk Seri Saarani Mohamad was also present at today’s event along with state figures and other Proton leaders.
The vehicle was shown to attendees at the ceremony, but no photography was permitted, the frontal image you see here being the first official look at the car. Since viewing was only from a distance, we can’t tell you more beyond the Proton example having a differently styled grille – with chrome pins extending from the Proton logo, as previously put highlighted by a previous spy photo.
The X90 also gets a different headlight design, with sweeping L-shaped DRLs, and its foglight surround is finished in black instead of chrome. Otherwise, it looks a lot like the Geely. Likewise, the interior, as suggested by a cabin spy photo of last week.
Syed Faisal said the X90 will feature hybrid power (like confirmed in our previous report), but did not disclose further information. As we detailed in a previous article, the X90 will most likely feature the Okavango’s mild-hybrid powertrain, which is rated at 190hp at 5,500rpm and 300Nm from 1,500-4,000rpm. .
The configuration consists of a 1.5-litre turbocharged three-cylinder petrol engine with a 48-volt mild-hybrid system which includes a belt-driven starter generator (BSG), with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission driving the front wheels.
This would make the X90 the first Proton model to feature mild-hybrid power. The domestic automaker hasn’t said when it will launch its new three-row SUV, but indications are that it will debut by the second half of 2023. Are you looking forward to the X90?
GALLERY: Proton X90 Spy Photos
