PROTON has expanded its S70 sedan range with two new variants, the S70 Lite and S70 Prime, both powered by a new i-GT 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT).
With estimated pricing of below RM60,000, the new variants give buyers a more affordable entry point into the Proton S70 family while retaining the model’s focus on cabin space, comfort, connectivity and safety.
Bookings for the new Proton S70 Lite and Prime opened on 7 September 2026 at all authorised Proton dealers nationwide, with final pricing to be announced at the official launch.
New Naturally Aspirated Powertrain Expands S70 Line-up
The key change for the new S70 Lite and Prime variants is their powertrain.
Both are powered by Proton’s i-GT 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, paired with a CVT. Unlike the turbocharged powertrain used by higher variants, the naturally aspirated engine is positioned around delivering a smoother and more relaxed driving experience for everyday commuting and family use.
In the Proton Saga, the 1.5 i-GT offers 88kW (118hp) and 150Nm. Paired with the CVT, claimed average fuel consumption is 4.9l/100km.
The two new variants also retain PROTON Ride & Handling and three selectable driving modes, giving buyers the core S70 driving characteristics despite their more accessible positioning.
PROTON said the expanded range is intended for customers who prioritise comfort, practicality and ease of everyday driving, while still wanting the space and equipment associated with the S70.
This move also comes as the S70 continues to perform strongly in Malaysia, averaging more than 2,500 units in monthly sales during 2026.
“The Proton S70 has always been about giving Malaysians an elevated driving experience with the space, comfort and features they value in everyday driving. The introduction of the new variants expands that proposition to customers who are looking for an affordable yet well-equipped sedan that offers generous cabin space and a comfortable driving experience. At the same time, we have ensured that key features are available across the range, giving customers greater choice without compromising on what matters in everyday driving,” said Dato’ Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.
10 Class-Leading Features
Despite positioned as the more affordable S70 variants, Proton shared that the Lite and Prime bring 10 class-leading features covering space and comfort, connectivity and convenience, as well as safety:
- Class-leading cabin space
- Class-leading rear passenger shoulder room
- Soft-touch instrument panel
- All windows Auto Up/Down with Anti Trap
- Electric Parking Brake (EPB) with Auto Brake Hold
- Remote engine start
- Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
- Rear Side Radar System
- Reverse camera
- Rear Seat Reminder
Space And Comfort
The main highlight of the S70 Lite and Prime is the spacious cabin. The wider body contributes to greater rear shoulder room, while a near-flat rear floor helps make better use of the rear passenger area.
According to PROTON, this allows three passengers to sit abreast more comfortably, making the S70 a more pleasant ride for five on longer journeys.
Storage spaces throughout the cabin also add to its practicality for everyday use.
Comfort is another major focus. Proton claims class-leading NVH performance for the new variants, with the quieter cabin complementing their more relaxed driving character.
Both variants also feature leatherette seats and a soft-touch instrument panel, adding a more premium feel to the interior.
Wireless Apple CarPlay And Android Auto
Both the Lite and Prime feature wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay.
Other convenience equipment include:
- Electric Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold
- All windows Auto Up/Down with Anti Trap
- Remote engine start
- Up to five USB ports, depending on variant
Rear Side Radar And Six Airbags
Safety equipment includes six airbags, front and rear parking sensors and Proton’s Rear Side Radar System.
The radar-based system supports several driver-assistance functions:
- Blind Spot Detection
- Lane Change Assist
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Door Opening Warning
- Rear Collision Warning
A Rear Seat Reminder and reverse camera are also fitted as standard.
This gives the new entry-level S70 variants a notable amount of active safety and convenience equipment, rather than stripping the car down to basic essentials to achieve its lower price positioning.
Estimated Price Below RM60,000
According to PROTON, the estimated price for the S70 Lite and Prime will be below RM60,000, although exact prices have not yet been announced.
Final pricing will be revealed at the official launch.
Customers who book and register either variant by 31 December 2026 will also be eligible for an exclusive early-bird reward, with further details to be announced at launch.
Covering A Wider Buyer Base
The addition of the S70 Lite and Prime effectively gives PROTON another way to broaden the appeal of its C-segment sedan.
The existing S70 has competed on a combination of performance, technology and equipment, but the new naturally aspirated variants shift the emphasis towards affordability, space, comfort and ease of driving.
With estimated pricing below RM60,000, the new variants could also bring the S70 into consideration for buyers who may previously have looked at smaller B-segment sedans.
More importantly, Proton has chosen to retain several features normally associated with higher equipment levels, including wireless smartphone connectivity, rear radar functions, EPB with Auto Brake Hold and a reverse camera.
Bookings are now open at authorised Proton dealers nationwide.
CarTok Editor’s Note
An estimated price below RM60,000 puts a C-segment sedan within the B-segment range. Naturally, compared to price rivals, it offers a more generous cabin and comprehensive safety and convenience package, and putting that within reach of a much broader group of buyers.
The naturally aspirated engine and CVT also make the positioning clear: these aren’t variants designed to chase performance. They are designed to make the S70’s space, comfort and equipment more accessible, particularly targeting buyers who value an uncomplicated daily driving experience.
