Proton X50 SX11 (2020-Present) Expert Review

Overall Rating

A complete SUV package from Proton, combining sleek looks, practical interior, good build quality, excellent performance, decent handling and top notch safety tech (if only on the top variant). Value for money buy.

Performance

Small 1.5L three cylinder turbo engine pulls very strongly, with a nice soundtrack too. Only small difference between the lower-powered variants and the Flagship. Transmission is smooth, mostly imperceptible, and holds low revs at a cruise. Excellent combination.

Ride & Handling

Better for ride rather than handling, but that's a good compromise for an SUV. Comfort is decent around town, smooth enough on highways. Body control is just ok, not quite to the usual high standard of Proton ride and handling due to numb steering, but overall very competent.

Comfort

The front seats do lack thigh support, but the rest of the cabin is excellent for the price. Build quality is above class average, with a feel of premium-ness that pushes it above its peers. Refinement is good as well, making it a very nice everyday SUV for the family.

Safety

Varies depending on variant. Standard only has 4 airbags, which is very poor, while active safety features are only on the Flagship. Get the FS however and you're getting top notch safety and advanced driving assist systems – most complete package for the money.

Space

Interior space is good, with plenty of legroom for the rear seat passengers and just enough width to fit three adults in the back. Boot space is tighter than most of its rivals, though it should be big enough for most families.

Value

Again, varies on the variant you choose. Top-spec Flagship gets all the fancy equipment, but is also priced to match. Recent price hike lowers value proposition quite significantly, but it's still a great choice for the money.