Owner Review: A car I've shared many experiences with - My Proton Inspira 1.8E CVT

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Basic information

Proton Inspira 1.8E CVT

Reason why I bought this car

I was driving an older generation Proton Persona when suddenly my dad asked me to choose a new ride because the car I was using needed to be handed down to my brother. My criteria for my new ride is to be sporty, stable for high speed cruising, reasonably priced and have a lot of potential for modification.

Car selection process

• I had a budget of: RM 70k
• Models that I have considered include: Used model of Proton Preve CFE, Honda Civic FD or Mitsubishi Lancer GT

The reason why I choose this car

I actually had the option to choose Preve CFE for the price it offered as it was the cheapest, safest, and had the highest torque amongst all the contenders, but it seriously lacked a modification option.

The reason for Proton Inspira as my choice boils down to the extent of modification that can be done to it. I was always into cars and as my first car I think Proton Inspira does suit my needs very well. It was also the 2nd cheapest option.

User experience

• I have already done 80,000 km
• My average fuel consumption is 9.3 L/100km

It's been 5 years since i got this car. It has not let me down any single time although the car is already on its 10th year and the mileage closing in 255000km. It feels stable during high speed highway cruising, solid when attacking corners at backroads, spacious and comfy for 4 adults and 1 full tank can easily go for 650km if you drive considerately.

For the price I paid it is very rewarding. Although having a CVT gearbox made the cars sound like a washing machine during hard acceleration, it can be avoided by using paddle shifters as the gearbox is able to simulate a six speed ratio that you can use. One big advantage of this cvt gearbox that should be noted is that it can optimize the best gear ratio with the torque needed so it is able to maintain at 150km/h at just 3000 RPM while a manual Inspira only able to do just 110km/h. Thus it translates to a less engine noise, less strain from engine and fuel save while driving at a higher speed.

Another point to talk about is how comfortable the seats were. Having a basic variant I could only manage with the fabric seat but it was comfortable and supportive. I have driven for 5-6 hours non stop without feeling back pain and that rear seat has never received a complaint from a passenger.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Spacious cabin, comfortable and supportive seat
• Great stability during high speed cruising and attacking corner
• Fuel Save(thanks to CVT)
• Many upgradeable option for parts
• Looks Sporty with proper body kit

Cons

• 1.8L engine feels underpowered
• CVT tends to overheat during high spirit run
• Body panel seems to dent easily.(I'm comparing to Preve)
• NVH are just average and rear left side door have a wind noise when in highway speed
• Proton paint quality is questionable especially on Silver variant

Ratings

Total Score: 4
Performance: 3
Quality & Features: 4
Space: 5
Ride Comfort: 4
Fuel Economy: 4
Price & Cost: 5

Summary

As for now, I am happy with my purchase, perhaps the one thing I did right in my life hahaha. Throughout the years, I have gained a lot of experience and connection into the car scene and I have learned a lot of stuff about my car. Did you know Inspira/Lancer have 5 options for engine swap and the possibility to upgrade 4wd although illegal?

Transmission wise there are 3 options, 5 speed manual, CVT and SST which only for 4B11T engine. I am surely recommending anyone who wishes to buy this car for daily driving or a project car to buy while the price is still reasonable. I still have a long list of planned upgrades for this car and I will work hard to achieve my dream.

Modification to make it better

I am gonna share the list of thing that have been done to my car in span of 5 years ownership

As I had the basic variant of Inspira which was stripped of any creature comfort and cosmetic enhancement to afford any second look from passerby, I do have a lot to work with. Personally basic Inspira 1.8E really looks like a typical uncle car, but it had a great potential *grin*

Exterior

• Front & Rear Evo X V1 Bumper
• Evo X Spoiler
• 18' XXR 530 Sport Rim
• Aftermarket Exhaust Muffler
• Mines Adjustable Coilover
• Philips Crystal Vision 4300k Halogen Bulb

Interior

• Leather door trim
• Paddle Shifter
• Auto Cruise
• Auto Climate
• Auto headlight Leveling
• Android head unit
• Subwoofer with aftermarket speakers

Some interesting events

Why do I say it had a great chasis and was stable? I was still able to control the car during an abrupt movement when trying to avoid hitting a porcupine. Yes, what is the chance to hit a porcupine but I did. I was speeding and it was during night time that the porcupine did not make it but thank god I was still able to safely control the car and continue my journey although a bit shaken.

There is also a time when a total stranger comes up to me and starts asking questions and giving compliments about the car. I mean when you have spent a fortune on a car to make it look great that kind of gesture is definitely appreciated.

Thank you WapCar for giving me opportunities to share my story and thank you readers for reading this far. Sorry I am not really good at writing reviews.

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