Proton to bulk up

A move towards large cars is part of Proton's growth plan. After years of concentrating on small vehicles, the Malaysian brand will step up to bigger cars with a people mover and possibly a compact off-roader.

Recently speaking at the launch of the new Persona small sedan, Proton Australia managing director John Startari revealed the company's plans for the next two years.

Several updated models are coming our way next year, including the new seven-seat MPV.

The people mover is a big step for Proton, which has had only compact sedans and hatches.

The van will be officially unveiled later this year in Malaysia, but Startari would not reveal details of the new model.

He says the company is also considering a move into the competitive compact off-roader market soon, but the deal hinges on the company's expansion.

“Proton is starting to seek partners in Russia. That, I think, will help Australia immensely,” Startari says.

Startari did confirm that an upgraded version of the GEN.2 hatch is due at the end of this year and will begin a busy period for the brand.

The face lifted GEN.2 is expected to use the company's new CAMPRO CPS engine that lifts power from 82kW to 93kW.

The Saga and Satria R3 will be introduced early next year. The Saga will replace the Savvy light sedan and be available with either a 1.3-litre or 1.6-litre four-cylinder petrol engine. The Satria R3 is a performance version of the current hatch.

Though the company hasn't said what will power the R3, Startari did say Proton is developing forced-induction engines.

The Jumbuck light ute will also receive an update next year and is the “prime target” for Proton's eventual move into diesel powerplants.

Since negotiations with Volkswagen for a joint-venture agreement to develop diesel engines broke down, Proton has been looking for a new partner.

The Proton could produce a range of hybrid vehicles based on the Lotus-developed hybrid prototype. Lotus built the GEN.2 based EVE hybrid last year, but so far there has been no confirmation it will go into production.