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New ‘heart’ for the 2026 Proton X70

Quick look

  • The 2026 X70 gets a smoother, quieter 1.5-litre i-GT 4-cylinder engine, similar to the one in the latest X50

  • Early buyers (before March 31, 2026) get a RM7,000 rebate which drops the price of the X70 Executive just below RM100,000.

  • Besides the new engine, there are also suspension revisions to improve ride comfort.

The first model to be launched in 2026 is the updated Proton X70 which, like the X50, gets the new 4-cylinder i-GT engine that is made at the factory in Tg. Malim, Perak. Only two versions (with 4 colour choices) are available – the 1.5TD Executive and 1.5TD Premium, priced at RM106,800 and RM119,800, respectively.

Under RM100,000
Buy one before March 31, 2026, and you get a rebate of RM7,000, which brings the pricedown to just under RM100,000. An accessories package worth RM700 is also given to the first 1,500 buyers (before March 31, 2026).

Every new X70 comes with a comprehensive Standard Package which includes Pro-Warranty (5 years, unlimited mileage) and 6 times free labour service. Owners also get Pro-Connect, which provides a 5-year data package for the infotainment system with 2GB per month.

In addition, Pro-Finance is available to all customers, offering financing options of up to 9 years, with interest rates starting from 2.2% per annum. Eligible customers can also enjoy Pro-Trade-In, with overtrade support of up to RM2,000 when trading in their existing vehicles.

2026 Proton X70

New 4-cylinder i-GT engine
The new i-GT engine, which replaces the 3-cylinder unit, also has turbocharging and has a slight improvement in output to 181 ps/290 Nm. The improved weight-to-power ratio reduces fuel consumption by a claimed 5.5% to 14.5 kms/litre. With the 60-litre fuel tank, that should be good for almost 900 kms.

2026 Proton X70

4-cylinder engines are inherently smoother than 3-cylinder units, and to enhance the driving experience, the engine also generates 4.5% less noise and vibrations with features as a toothed timing chain that is 25% quieter than a conventional timing chain.

The new engine is paired with the same dual-clutch transmission (DCT) that provides quick and smooth shifting through 7 gears. Neither version has AWD and drive goes only to the front wheels.

2026 Proton X70

Improved ride comfort and handling
For the 2026 model, the engineers also did some work on the suspension to improve ride comfort and handling. The electric motor-assisted power steering also has a revised ratio which enhances response with more direct input to the rack. The Executive version has 18-inch wheels, while the Premium version has 19-inch wheels.

Generally, the 2026 X70 looks the same as the 2025 model with some updates to the features. For those who must have the connectivity, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto are standard, with a spacious 12.3-inch infotainment screen to manage all the functions and view the digital map.

2026 Proton X70 (6)

2026 Proton X70 (6)

2026 Proton X70 (6)

For the extra RM13,000, the X70 Premium naturally has extra features like an 8-way power-adjustable driver’s seat and nappa leather-wrapped steering wheel.

The ‘Boss Switch’
The front passenger’s seat also has a ‘Boss Switch’ which is a useful feature for the rear passenger to not only move the seat forward but also tilt the backrest forward. It’s a feature that used to be found only on more expensive Japanese models.

2026 Proton X70 (6)

2026 Proton X70 (6)

2026 Proton X70 (6)

Helping the driver avoid accidents
As would be expected, the driver-assistance systems (ADAS) are more advanced in the X70 Premium, with up to 13 active safety systems that work together using the sensors all around the vehicle.

However, the X70 Executive has useful safety features such as a panoramic display of all sides of the vehicle and also a transparent view that shows the road – even under the vehicle. Screen resolution of 1920 x 720 pixels ensures that little details on the road can also be seen.

2026 Proton X70

With all the views (3D as well) and even from overhead (as if you have a drone above), the SUV can be positioned precisely in a parking bay… no more risk of having a picture appear on social media’s Stupid Parking Idiots page!

The PROTON Link 2.0 app is a service application which connects the owner with the X70 via a smartphone. It not only shows real-time vehicle conditions but also has remote control for starting the engine, activating the air-conditioner, opening the tailgate, and opening/closing the windows to ventilate the cabin and other functions.

Lower maintenance costs
Long-term ownership cost is said to be lower by 17% (compared to rivals), with 13% lower maintenance cost over a 5-year period.

2026 Proton X70

With this latest update, the X70 should maintain its strong appeal which has made it the leader in its SUV segment. From 2018 when it was launched up till the end of 2025, 112,386 units have been sold in Malaysia and overseas.

Locate a Proton dealer in Malaysia to test-drive the new X70

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