2023 Proton X70

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Review

Proton launched the Proton X70 MC1 (Minor Change) or facelift in June 2022-2023. Part of the facelift exercise saw the launch of some new variants with 1.5-litre turbocharged engines as well as all-wheel-drive. 

Although the X70 can still be had with a 1.8-litre turbocharged engine (top-spec), the main lineup of the X70 range now consists of vehicles that feature the same 1.5-litre turbocharged engine as the X50. 

Despite being called a facelift, no significant changes can be seen on the interior and exterior of the 2022-2023 X70 as Proton mainly chose to concentrate on the powerplant.

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Specifications

The Proton X70 MC1 introduced smaller capacity engines in the X70 range (the same 1.5L TGDI 3 turbo cylinder used on the Proton X50). Its power output is also the same as the X50, featuring 177 PS and 255 Nm of torque compared to the 1.8L TGDI engine, which produces 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque.

However, the 1.8-litre engine is still on offer, but only as a top-spec variant (1.8 TGDI Premium 2WD) which comes with a sunroof. Both engines are still coupled to a 7-speed wet DCT dual-clutch transmission.

Although some of the variants are the first X70s in Malaysia to use a 1.5L engine, it is not the first time Proton has used a 1.5 TGDI engine in the Proton X70, as Proton has offered the X70 in this configuration through its export cars in Pakistan and Nepal since 2020.

The AWD system on the Proton X70 has also been restored after being sidelined during the launch of the CKD version - which did not offer AWD options compared to the previous CBU model.

However, the AWD system is not offered on the highest variant but only on the Executive AWD variant, similar to the previous Proton X70 CBU unit variant.

Proton was also keen to point out the X70 MC1's new engine cover is now made with thicker insulation. According to Proton, the new engine cover provides better comfort through better NVH rates in the cabin.

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Exterior

Although there is not much difference between the MC1 X70 and the pre-facelift X70, there are some updates to the exterior, including black accents on the front bumper and rear diffuser. In addition, the side mirrors as well as the housing for the Proton wording at the back, are now also in black.

The most noticeable exterior change on the X70 MC1 is the 'Bunga Raya' style 19-inch wheels, previously introduced on the X70 SE model. However, these wheels are only available on the Premium variant as the Executive AWD variant comes with 18-inch wheels.

The new wheel is the same one introduced on the Geely Boyue Pro, launched in China in 2019.

Colours offered

-Snow White

-Armour Silver

-Jet Grey

-Ruby Red

-Cinnamon

-Brown

-Space Grey

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Interior

If you think the changes on the exterior are bare, the changes on the inside are even more minor, with just the black headlining added for a more premium feel. 

Everything from the dashboard, centre console, grab handles, and flat-bottomed steering wheel remains the same. Even the 7" instrument cluster display and 8" GKUI infotainment touchscreen are the same. 

As before, the top variant comes with a brown interior, while the executive variants come in black.

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Safety Features

Proton has decided to leave the safety features as it was, which means all models come with six airbags, anti-lock brakes, stability control, and traction control. 

The X70 Premium variants come with Advanced Driver Assistance System (ADAS), a suite that includes active safety and convenience features such as Automated Emergency Braking, Adaptive Cruise Control (up to 150km/h), and Blind Spot Monitoring.

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Strengths and Weaknesses

Proton said that the 1.5-litre engine can accommodate the weight of the Proton X70, as the X70 1.5 TGDI Standard 2WD is only 1,585 kg compared to the weight of the X70 1.8 TGDI Premium 2WD, which is 1,675 kg.

According to Proton, the change in engine yields negligible differences and some drivers may not even be able to distinguish between these two engines on offer.

Proton X70 MC1 2023 Features

The Proton X70 MC1 comes loaded with features and options. One of the most underrated – also classified as a safety feature – is the Adaptive Cruise Control that makes commutes a breeze provided the system is not obstructed by less-than-ideal conditions. This is not something new but a feature that is not discussed enough. On the more common end of things are features like Automatic Dual-Zone Air-Conditioning, an air purifier system, keyless entry and start, as well as steering wheel controls.