Owner review: My first Car, Malaysian Badge with Japanese Blood - 2011 PROTON INSPIRA 2.0P

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Basic information of my car:

2011 PROTON INSPIRA 2.0P

Reasons why I bought this car

Fresh out of university and into my 1st job, i was looking for a reliable, sporty, reasonably sized, well equipped yet affordable 1st car to own. The INSPIRA ticked most of the boxes and had about 60% or so of it's parts shared with the Mitsubishi Lancer GT, particularly the 4B11 2.0 engine. It came with automatic headlights, windscreen wipers, a good sound system, comfortable seats and a sporty steering wheel.

Car selection process

• I had a budget of: RM120,000
• Models that I have considered include: Mitsubishi Lancer GT, Honda Civic

Reasons why I chose this car:

Looks (particularly its potential with aftermarket upgrades)

Power

Handling

Build quality (the fake wood trims still look good till today)

Size Largely made with Japanese components (engine, filters etc.)

Price (~RM20,000 cheaper than other similar Japanese cars)

User experience

I have already done 210569km.

• Extremely reliable (never failed to start and go in 10 years)
• Comfortable to drive and sit in (as a passenger) - Handles very well especially around the bends
• Looks good especially with a few aesthetic upgrades

Pros of my car:

• Decent power
• Good handling
• Comfortable and roomy cabin
• Well equipped
• Reliable

Cons of my car:

• Poor sound insulation
• Missing electronic side mirrors
• Laggy CVT gearbox
• Expensive parts replacement due to most being Mitsubishi
• Slightly soft suspension setup

Summary :

The INSPIRA is my 1st ever self owned vehicle. It was launched at the right time and at the right price when i was shopping around for my 1st car after returning from overseas. PROTON launched it as an alternative to the two top choices that i was split between, a Mitsubishi Lancer GT versus a Honda Civic. As a re-badged Mitsubishi Lancer GT at a price that was ~RM20,000 cheaper, the car was immediately a very attractive alternative which eventually convinced me. The car has been with me for 10 years now and looking back, it has traveled all over the Peninsular in search of adventures and accompanied me during the good times and bad times of my life. The night runs for supper, up Genting, to Penang for getaways, to small towns for some tranquility, going on family trips have all been amazing and hassle free with the INSPIRA.

Events: 

It drew massive crowds when i pulled up in the lobby of Shangrila from when i first got the car and drove it to my brother's convocation held at the hotel. Ended opening the doors and leaving it for 5 min at the entrance for people to have a look with most asking "wow, this is a PROTON? looks very solid ... just like a Mitsubishi" ...

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