The Proton X50 has never struggled for attention in Malaysia. Since its debut, it has been one of the most visible compact SUVs on local roads, often driven with a level of enthusiasm that suggests owners fully appreciate its punchy performance credentials.
Last year, Proton took the already-strong foundation and executed what is arguably the most comprehensive update the X50 has received to date. This is not a mild facelift or a cosmetic refresh—it is a fundamental upgrade in powertrain refinement, cabin technology, and overall driving polish.
That being said, the new Proton X50 Flagship, priced at RM113,800, arrives with a new engine, a fully redesigned interior, meaningful NVH improvements, and several usability upgrades that collectively transform the ownership experience. It remains recognisably an X50 in terms of design and positioning, but the way it drives and the way it feels inside tell a very different story.
What’s New: More Than Just a Mid-Cycle Update
The most significant change lies under the bonnet. The 2025 X50 Flagship debuts Proton’s new i-GT 1.5-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine, replacing the previous three-cylinder turbo unit. This is a critical shift, as the outgoing engine—while powerful—was often criticised for its refinement shortcomings, particularly at higher revs and during extended highway cruising.
The new i-GT engine produces 181 PS and 290 Nm of torque, maintaining competitive outputs for the segment while delivering power in a far more linear and composed manner. Torque is available across a broad rev range, resulting in stronger mid-range acceleration and smoother throttle response. The engine is paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, which has been recalibrated for smoother low-speed operation and more decisive shifts under load.
Beyond the powertrain, Proton has invested heavily in NVH improvements. Additional sound insulation has been added to the firewall, door panels, and floor pan, while engine mounting points have been revised to better isolate vibrations. Aerodynamic tweaks also help reduce wind noise at highway speeds, contributing to a markedly quieter cabin.
Inside, the transformation is even more dramatic. The entire dashboard has been redesigned, adopting a layout that mirrors modern Chinese-market EVs. A compact digital instrument cluster now handles essential driving information, while a massive 14.6-inch central touchscreen dominates the cabin. This new display supports wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, finally addressing one of the most common complaints about earlier Proton infotainment systems.
The gear lever has been eliminated entirely, replaced by a column-mounted electronic shifter, similar to what is found in modern Mercedes-Benz models. This frees up centre console space, allowing Proton to integrate a wireless charging pad, additional storage, and a cleaner, more premium cabin layout.
Other notable additions include an upgraded ambient lighting system, revised seat materials, enhanced ADAS calibration, and a panoramic sunroof with an integrated electric sunshade, a feature that proves far more useful in Malaysia’s climate than it may initially sound.
Design
Externally, the 2025 X50 retains its aggressive styling, characterised by sharp lines, bold proportions, and a distinctive front fascia. This design language may polarise opinions, but market response suggests Proton has struck the right chord. Sales figures indicate continued strong demand, particularly among younger buyers and families seeking a sporty yet practical compact SUV.
While some may prefer a more understated aesthetic, the X50’s visual confidence aligns with its performance-oriented character. It looks fast, and now, it finally feels as refined as it looks.
Interior: A Quantum Leap in Perceived Quality
Step into the 2025 X50 Flagship, and it is immediately clear that Proton has reset its design priorities. The cabin no longer feels like an upgraded mainstream SUV—it feels like a product deliberately engineered to compete with newer Chinese and Korean rivals on perceived quality and technology.
Material selection has improved across the board. Soft-touch surfaces now extend further across the dashboard and door panels, while stitching details and trim finishes add visual depth. The redesigned centre console feels more substantial, and the absence of a traditional gear lever makes the cabin feel wider and more open.
The 14.6-inch touchscreen is not just large for the sake of size. Its higher resolution, improved processing speed, and cleaner interface make daily interaction significantly more pleasant. Menu transitions are smooth, touch response is accurate, and wireless smartphone mirroring works reliably—an important detail that directly affects day-to-day usability.
The digital instrument display, while smaller than some rivals, is crisp and legible. It prioritises clarity over visual clutter, presenting speed, driver assistance status, and navigation prompts in a straightforward manner. This minimalist approach complements the tech-forward design language of the cabin.
One standout feature is the panoramic sunroof’s electric sunshade. Unlike simple fabric covers, this unit uses a solid, UV-resistant material designed to significantly reduce heat transmission into the cabin.
In practice, it allows occupants to enjoy the airy feel of the glass roof without the discomfort of excessive solar heat, particularly during long daytime drives.
Overall, the cabin does not merely look more premium—it feels more refined, more cohesive, and more thoughtfully designed.
Driving Experience: The Engine That Changes Everything
If the interior redesign impresses visually, the new i-GT engine is what truly redefines the X50 experience behind the wheel.The previous three-cylinder turbo engine delivered strong performance figures but lacked the smoothness expected by buyers who frequently undertake long-distance travel. The new four-cylinder setup addresses this directly.
At idle, the engine is noticeably calmer, with far less vibration transmitted into the cabin. Under acceleration, power builds progressively rather than surging abruptly, making the car feel more mature and controlled.
Throttle response is sharp without being aggressive, and the additional cylinder contributes to better balance and refinement at higher engine speeds. On the highway, cruising at 110–130 km/h requires less effort, with the engine spinning comfortably and quietly in the background.
The dual-clutch transmission has also benefited from recalibration. Gear changes at low speeds are smoother, reducing the hesitation sometimes associated with DCTs in traffic. When driven enthusiastically, shifts are quick and well-timed, allowing the engine to stay within its optimal torque band.
Proton’s chassis tuning remains a strong point. The X50 continues to offer confident body control through corners, with suspension settings that strike a good balance between comfort and handling. Steering response is direct, and the car feels planted during lane changes and high-speed sweepers.
Importantly, the improved NVH isolation transforms long-distance journeys. Road noise is better suppressed, engine sound intrusion is minimal, and wind noise is well controlled. This makes the X50 not just quick, but genuinely comfortable over extended drives—something the earlier model struggled to fully achieve.
Final Verdict: Love at First Drive, Earned Through Engineering
The 2025 Proton X50 Flagship is a textbook example of how targeted engineering improvements can elevate an already popular product. The new i-GT four-cylinder turbo engine fundamentally changes the driving experience, delivering smoother power, improved refinement, and better long-distance comfort.
Combined with significant NVH upgrades and a thoroughly modernised interior, the X50 now feels more complete than ever.
This is no longer just a compact SUV with strong performance figures—it is a genuinely refined, well-rounded package that appeals both emotionally and rationally. From the moment you drive it, the improvements are immediately apparent, making it a case of love at first drive.
For Proton, the 2025 X50 Flagship is not merely an update. It is a statement of intent, and one that firmly reinforces its position as one of the most compelling offerings in its segment.
