Owner Review: - My Proton X70 Standard – When less is actually more

Basic information about my car:

Car Info: 2019 proton x70 standard 6at
Order Date: Dec 2019
Delivery Date: Dec 2019
Price: Rm99, 800
Offer: Free tint film, carpet, boot tray

Reasons to buy:

My Proton Preve (2014 ANCAP) has clocked high mileage. It is still a gem to drive, and rather reliable. However, due to my needs to travel for work and making long distance trips, also my ageing parents prefer a higher car to ease getting in and out of, I decided to make a change from a sharp driving dynamics Preve to a family oriented SUV. 

Making the change:

The Preve has very high safety credentials and great driving dynamics. It was a joy to own, and has very strong driving characteristics for its price. Moving to an SUV will be quite a change in terms of driving style and ownership experience. To be very honest, I was nervous to make a change. Due to busy work schedule, I only had 1 short test drive of the X70, and the rest were all research online and on social media. Upon collection of the new car, and I was so impressed, within 30 minutes of town driving, I got comfortable and used to driving and managing the car. 

The main reason I went for this car was because it’s very value for money. For its price, it's good value, good safety, high on comfort and refinement, good interior amenities and features. Most importantly, I don't have to pay a lot on instalments and insurance premiums to enjoy similar features on much pricier cars. Of course, all the above traits are useless if it doesn’t look appealing, it looks good, despite the dwarf size rims.

Why Standard Variant?

Adrian's review on the Standard Variant was the main green light in my consideration; it's got the same BASIC safety features with 6 airbags; I cycle, so I tend to put many things in the car so I won't risk scratching the sumptuous nappa leather; cheaper tyres due to its size so I can use better rubbers when I need to change them. 

​Description of Exterior:

​Description of Interior:

The interior design for me is nice. It doesn't wow you, but it's a definite joy to look at. Like it's exterior, it's design is timeless and will stand the test of time. Build quality wise, I have no issue. I've clocked 26,000km within a year, there's no rattle or discolouration. What wow-Ed me is the USB port near the rear view mirror. Ample of USB ports for charging, it's a good family car that pleases the passengers. 
The matte silver panel in the dash is also nice to look at, and effortlessly blends into the design. The digital instrument blends effortlessly into the Conservative shape of the dashboard, and there are enough themes or displays to choose from should one prefer a minimalist or an informative design. 
Seats are supportive and comfortable. Enough adjustment and enough steering adjustment to make me feel comfortable. The sound system is just average for me, but joox is an added bonus. Rear seats are also comfortable enough for long journeys, with good aircond to add to the comfort. The height of the car is just nice for my ageing parents to get in and out of without needing side steps. 

Drive Feeling:

​The driving experience of this car - competent cruiser. It doesn't handle like a Ford Focus or the Preve. At City speeds, the steering is light enough and visibility is good. Mine is without a 360 camera, but maneuvering in tight spaces is easy with light controls. Making parking easy. 
On highway speeds, it's stable. You don't feel much of the road, but the road holding is good. Helped by independent suspension, highway drive is a joy for the driver and its passengers. On winding roads like in Janda Baik is where I miss my other cars. But it's perfectly fine. Its competent and direct handling makes it a safe car, just turn in with lower speeds. It's an SUV after all. No complaints for those sitting at the back of being car sick or motion sickness. 
It's easy to adapt, one will know how to handle its bulk. No issue tackling bends with bumps too, at safe speed. It's not Proton tuned, but I'm glad to know that it's tuned at MIRA test facilities in the UK (correct me if I'm wrong). 
For those having the X70 has their 2nd or 3rd car, if you want outright handling go with your sedan or hatch. For those with X70 as your only car to chauffeur your family in comfort, drive safely. In conclusion, it's a competent cruiser for me and family. 
Conclusion:

Summary

As a conclusion, I'm happy with this purchase. The X70 provides safety, comfort, features, good cruising ability for everyone in the car. I'm the sort of person that maintains my car well, on my usage, I service it at every 7-8k interval, earlier than its recommended 10k km interval as I'd like to keep it reliable and refined for everyone in the car. It's also good to know that when you drive someone who owns a VW Passat or a Toyota Harrier, they won't feel out of place or uncomfortable in my Proton X70.