Secret New Proton Revealed

Following the successful introduction of the Gen2 five-door, Proton is ready to strengthen its line-up with a new supermini. The secret model has never been seen publicly before - until now.

Auto Express Car Reviews

By Chris Thorp

25th January 2005

Auto Express magazine can reveal the newcomer undisguised. Called the SRM, the three-door shown in the mag is in flagship high-performance trim, thought to be designated by the 'SRM 24' number plates.

Based on the same platform as the larger Gen2, the newcomer is the Satria hatchback replacement model, hence the SRM designation. The car will represent a huge improvement over its predecessor, which struggled for sales.

And as our pictures show, it has a sharp, modern look. Under the bonnet, entry-level models are likely to be powered by a new 1.4-litre version of Proton's CamPro engine, which appears in 1.6-litre form in the Gen2. Buyers can expect vastly improved underpinnings, but to ensure it offers the ride and handling UK buyers expect, Proton has called in the experts. Engineers at Lotus - which the Malaysian firm owns - have fine-tuned the chassis. The SRM is expected to appear before the end of the year, along with the new compact five-door TRM city car.