Launched slightly over a year ago, the Proton X90 is the national automaker’s third X series model after the X70 and X50. Available in four variants (Standard, Executive, Premium and Flagship) that are priced at RM123,800, RM130,800, RM144,800, and RM152,800 respectively, we sampled the X90 Premium recently to see how it is and how it fares against other seven-seaters in the market.
Contrary to popular belief, the Proton X90 is more than just a rebadged Geely Haoyue. It is in fact, fitted with a multilink rear suspension which was developed specifically for the Malaysian market, versus the Geely Haoyue’s torsion beam setup.
According to the engineers at Proton, the different suspension setup required them to re-engineer the X90’s rear portion extensively which explains why its rear design is quite different from the Geely Haoyue’s. So, to find out if it is any good, and to get a taste of what the X90 has to offer, we spent a couple of days with it and here is our verdict.
Design-wise, it is safe to say that the Proton X90 is a handsome model when you look at it from the front. It looks just as good as its competitors that are significantly more expensive, thanks to features like the full LED headlights with LED daytime running lights, the grille that comprises a new Ethereal Bow and “Songket” design, funky fog lamps, as well as 19-inch alloy wheels that give it a premium look. The rear, however, is a different story as it looks quite dull and empty.
Moving into the cabin, the X90’s biggest flex is just how spacious it is. If you’re looking for a vehicle to transport a family of seven healthy, plus-sized individuals, please look no further. Since this is a D-segment MPV, all three rows are spacious enough to fit adults who stand about 175 cm tall.
Complementing all that space are the comfortable seats, as well as the 12.3-inch touch-screen infotainment system and the 10-inch digital speedometer that features day and night modes.
On the upside, finding a comfortable sitting position could be done easily thanks to the tilt and telescopic steering wheel and the powered driver’s seat. The new and chunky steering wheel also had a good feel to it – not too heavy nor too light. There is also a wireless charger, two USB charging ports, and a lot of storage space which added to our convenience.
On the downside, the infotainment system took some time to get used to as it is Proton’s system, and there is no Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which is a bummer.
As for the driving impressions, if you’re wondering if there is enough power to move seven people and a bootfull of bags, the answer is “Yes, absolutely!” All the power from the engine is sent exclusively to the front wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox which does its job smoothly.
To put things into perspective, even a Mitsubishi Xpander which makes 105PS and 140-odd NM of torque can hit 130km/h with six occupants and a fully loaded boot. So, imagine what the X90’s 190PS and 300 Nm of torque can do. There was always enough power regardless of whether we were on the highway, in town, or when we were going uphill. Never once did the X90 show any signs of struggling.
The only setback is that the note from the three-cylinder engine which sometimes sounds like it’s a diesel engine. There’s nothing wrong with it as it is just the characteristic of an engine with three cylinders. Lesson here? The more cylinders your car engine has, the nicer it sounds.
Coming back to the X90, the engine noise did get louder when we were flooring it along the steeper stretches, but once we started cruising at speeds of about 130 km/h, the engine was revving at about 2,500 rpm, translating to a quieter and more comfortable journey.
The X90’s handling is impressive as well as there is minimal body roll while cornering. Although it is not as sharp as the Mazda CX-8, it feels just as planted as a Hyundai Santa Fe or a Kia Sorento.
Adding to the whole experience was the panoramic roof, two USB charging ports and cupholders for every row, the roof-mounted air vents, as well as the dedicated rear air-cond control which make the X90 an ideal and well-equipped family vehicle that is perfect for long-distance journeys.
The list of driver assistance features is also extensive with a Blind Spot Information System, Lane Departure Warning, Forward Collision Warning, Intelligent High Beam Control, Autonomous Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control with stop-and-go functionality, Parking assist, and Automatic high beam.
Overall, what we have here is a well-equipped all-rounder that is very spacious, comfortable, and nice to drive. It may not be as refined as a Mazda CX-8 or a Kia Sorento, but the X90’s competitive price tag which stands between RM123,800 and RM152,800 depending on the variant, definitely makes it a value buy, which explains why it is currently the best-seller in its segment even though it’s far from perfect.
