National automaker Proton today has officially launched the 2025 Proton X70 SUV, a facelift of the original which debuted back in 2018. It features a refreshed exterior, enhanced performance, and many more.
For starters, the 2025 Proton X70 introduces several exterior updates, including a new grille with the brand’s Infinite Weave design and “songket” diamond pins. The front bumper has been restyled, and the vehicle now features slimmer full-LED reflector headlights, new front fenders, and a more sculpted hood. At the rear, the bumper has been redesigned with horizontal reflectors and fake corner air outlets, although the tail lamps remain unchanged. Additionally, the X70 facelift includes new wheels: 19-inch two-tone units for the Premium and Premium X, 18-inch two-tone for the Executive, and the Standard model retains its 17-inch single-tone rims.
Inside, the most noticeable change is the new dashboard decor panel unique to Proton, featuring a gloss black insert and 72-colour ambient lighting that changes with the music played. A larger 12.3-inch ‘floating’ infotainment touchscreen powered by Atlas 2.0 debuts Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, though the automaker notes that both of these will only be available via a future OTA update. The IHU hardware has been upgraded to dual quad-core processors, 4GB RAM, and 32GB storage. Also new are the addition of USB-C ports in the centre console and in the back, while the dashcam USB port has been relocated for easier access.
Additionally, the 2025 Proton X70 features the brand’s latest three-spoke steering wheel, Stone Grey Nappa leather upholstery with a new stitch pattern, and a darker theme for a more premium feel. The Executive variant has black leatherette upholstery, while the Standard comes with black fabric. The 7.0-inch digital metre panel retains its size but receives new graphics for a modern look, with redesigned fuel and temperature gauges.
Convenience features have been enhanced with new proximity locking/unlocking, Nearby Auto Open hands-free tailgate, and updates to the gear lever design. The X70 now includes Level 2 semi-autonomous driving features, such as stop-and-go function, lane centring assist, and traffic sign recognition. Other advanced safety features include Autonomous Emergency Braking, Intelligent Cruise Control, Lane Departure Warning and Prevention, Lane Centring Control, and more, although these are reserved for the Premium and Premium X variants.
Under the hood, the X70 facelift retains the 1.5-litre turbocharged TGDi three-cylinder engine, producing 177 PS and 255 Nm of torque, paired with a revised seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission with manual mode. The vehicle is now exclusively front-wheel drive, with no AWD option. Proton claims a fuel economy of 7.3 litres per 100 km, a 4% improvement from the 2022 model, achieved through enhancements in combustion efficiency, thermal management, and friction reduction. Additionally, NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) improvements have been made with a quieter AC compressor, more ‘betafoam’ insulation, and high-viscosity adhesive used in the body-in-white construction.
In terms of equipment, the X70 remains generous with features such as powered and ventilated front seats, auto dual-zone air conditioning with air purifier, auto wipers, front welcome lamps, “Hi Proton” voice command, remote control via the Proton Link app, electronic parking brake with auto hold, 360-degree camera with 3D display, tyre pressure monitoring, window tint from Ionix brand (from Premium onwards), and six airbags across the range.
The 2025 Proton X70 is priced at RM98,800 for the Standard model, RM110,800 for the Executive, RM123,800 for the Premium, and RM126,800 for the Premium X with a glass roof. A discount of RM7,000 applies to the first 3,000 units sold. As for colours, the SUV is offered in Snow White, Armour Silver and Jet Grey, while Ruby Red and a new Marine Blue option are reserved for the Premium model onwards.
