Proton S70 Review: All Variants and Years Available
The Proton S70 is a locally-assembled C-segment sedan built on Geely's BMA platform, positioned as an affordable, feature-rich alternative to B-segment rivals like the Honda City and Toyota Vios. Since the 2026 MC1 update, every S70 uses a new 1.5-litre four-cylinder i-GT turbo making 181 PS and 290 Nm — a big step up that dropped the 0-100 km/h time to around 7.5 seconds and earned the car its "Conti Killer" nickname. This review covers the model's key strengths and weaknesses for the Malaysian context, from performance and cabin space to features and running costs. Pros and cons reflect editorial assessment against official specifications.
Quick Verdict Snapshot
The updated S70 offers strong turbocharged performance, a large 500-litre boot and generous equipment at a B-segment price, making it one of Malaysia's best-value sedans.
Specs That Support the Pros
Strong new 4-cylinder turbo, big 500 L boot and great value, but ride can feel firm and lower trims lack ADAS.
Alternatives & Current Availability
Competing Models to Consider
| Alternative | Body | Why consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Honda City | B-segment Sedan | Stronger resale value and proven long-term reliability, though less powerful and pricier at the top end. |
| Toyota Vios | B-segment Sedan | Renowned reliability and low running costs, with a strong dealer network, but less power and equipment for the money. |
| Proton X50 | B-segment SUV | Shares the same 1.5L four-cylinder turbo engine in an SUV body with a higher driving position, though with a much smaller 330-litre boot. |
| BYD Seal | Electric Sedan | A larger fully-electric sedan with very low running costs and strong performance, but at a significantly higher price and needing home charging. |
Alternatives reflect common Malaysian cross-shopping in and around the S70 price range; specifications vary by variant.
Pros of the Proton S70
- Strong new 1.5L four-cylinder i-GT turbo (181 PS / 290 Nm) with brisk ~7.5s 0-100 km/h.
- Large 500-litre boot with a space-saver spare, competitive with cars a class above.
- Excellent value — C-segment size and equipment at a B-segment price.
- Generous safety kit, with six airbags and stability control standard across the range.
- Comfortable, supportive seats and a spacious cabin suited to long journeys.
Cons of the Proton S70
- Firmer ride on rougher roads compared with some softer-riding rivals.
- Lower Executive and Premium variants miss the camera-based ADAS suite.
- Dual-clutch transmission can feel slightly hesitant at low speeds.
- As a newer model, long-term reliability track record is still building.