The automotive world is abuzz with excitement as Proton officially confirmed the name of its upcoming sedan. Forget the S50; the undisguised beauty we've been waiting for is none other than the Proton S70. This revelation, captured on a dashcam during a video shoot, has enthusiasts everywhere buzzing about what to expect from this eagerly anticipated C-segment sedan.
While the name is now firmly established as S70, it's interesting to note that the model plate didn't bear the magic number. This leaves us speculating whether Proton has an ace up its sleeve, planning to add it in post-production or perhaps savoring the anticipation, keeping us guessing between S50 and S70.
But what's in a name, really? The choice of S70 appears quite logical, considering Proton's intention to market the new model as a C-segment sedan, distinctively larger than the Persona, its B-segment counterpart. These segment labels aren't set in stone, though; they're more like guidelines, used primarily as market benchmarks, especially in pricing strategies.
Take the Saga, for example. It's labeled an A-segment sedan today but is heavily based on the B-segment Saga BLM, which, in its time, was considered a B-segmenter. The original Saga, on the other hand, was technically a C-segment sedan. So, in the case of the Proton S70, although it's built on the B-segment Geely Emgrand platform (BMA), size-wise, it's larger than the typical B-segment sedans such as the Toyota Vios and Honda City. Size matters, right?
Back in May, we published an article speculating that the new sedan would be named the Proton S70 instead of S50, and it looks like our crystal ball was spot on. Ultimately, though, it's not the name that counts but what lies beneath the sleek exterior. As long as the Proton S70 boasts impressive specifications and a competitive price, Proton can call it whatever it desires.
An affordable "C-segment" sedan that takes on its B-segment Japanese counterparts head-to-head? That sounds like music to the ears of discerning car buyers.
So, what's on your wish-list for the Proton S70? And how much are you willing to invest in this promising new addition to the Proton family? Feel free to share your thoughts in the comments section. After all, it's the voice of the enthusiasts that often shapes the automotive landscape, and the Proton S70 is primed to be a game-changer. Stay tuned for more updates as we eagerly anticipate its official launch.