Proton X50 Review: All Variants and Years Available
The Proton X50 is Malaysia's best-selling B-segment SUV, and the 2025 facelift brings a major redesign inside and out plus an all-new 1.5-litre four-cylinder i-GT turbo engine. Built on Geely's BMA platform, it pairs eye-catching styling with a premium-feeling cabin, a big 14.6-inch touchscreen and long-awaited wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. This review covers the model's key strengths and weaknesses for the Malaysian context, from performance and refinement to practicality and value. Pros and cons reflect editorial assessment against official specifications.
Quick Verdict Snapshot
The facelifted X50 offers strong refinement, a premium cabin and excellent value with its new four-cylinder engine and wireless smartphone connectivity, making it a standout in the B-segment SUV class.
Specs That Support the Pros
Premium redesigned cabin, strong new 4-cylinder engine and good value, but small 330 L boot and modest driver display.
Alternatives & Current Availability
Competing Models to Consider
| Alternative | Body | Why consider it |
|---|---|---|
| Honda HR-V | B-segment SUV | Strong resale value, a roomier cabin and a hybrid option, though pricier and less powerful in base form. |
| Toyota Corolla Cross | B/C-segment SUV | Larger cabin and boot with Toyota reliability and a hybrid option, but at a higher price point. |
| Proton X70 | C-segment SUV | A larger sibling with the same engine, more rear space and a bigger boot, for buyers who need more room. |
| Chery Omoda 5 | B-segment SUV | Aggressive styling and generous equipment at a competitive price, though with a shorter local track record. |
Alternatives reflect common Malaysian cross-shopping in and around the X50 price range; specifications vary by variant.
Pros of the Proton X50
- All-new 1.5L four-cylinder i-GT turbo (181 PS / 290 Nm) with a quick ~7.6s 0-100 km/h.
- Premium, redesigned cabin with soft-touch materials and 72-colour ambient lighting.
- Large 14.6-inch touchscreen with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto on all variants.
- Strong value and generous equipment for a B-segment SUV.
- Refined, comfortable ride with a higher, commanding driving position.
Cons of the Proton X50
- Modest 330-litre boot that is small for the SUV class.
- Small driver instrument display compared with rivals.
- Full ADAS suite only available from the Premium variant upward.
- Adaptive cruise control can feel slightly abrupt in use.