Autopedia
Advertisement

2009 Proton Saga 1
Proton Saga
Proton
aka BLM (internal codename)
Production 1985 - present
Class Subcompact
Body Style 4-door sedan
Length 4,257 mm (167.6 in)
Width 1,680 mm (66.1 in)
Height 1,502 mm (59.1 in)
Wheelbase 2,465 mm (97.0 in)
Weight 1,060 kg (2,337 lb)-1,085 kg (2,392 lb)
Transmission Aichi Kikai 5-speed manual, Mitsubishi 4-speed automatic
Engine 1.3 litre (1334cc) Campro DOHC multipoint injection Inline-4
Power 94 hp (70 kW) @ 6000 rpm
N/A lb-ft (120 Nm) of torque @ 4000 rpm
Similar similar (competition)
Designer Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)

The Proton Saga is a series of compact and subcompact cars produced by Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton. Introduced in 1985, the Proton Saga became the first Malaysian car and a major milestone in the Malaysian automotive industry. The Saga is Proton's longest-running and best-selling nameplate, with over 1.8 million units produced over 35 years.

soon)

Please include the following line at the bottom of this section. Please replace <MODEL> Review with the proper text:

See Autopedia's comprehensive <MODEL> Review.

Recent Changes[]

Mention any minor facelifts or major changes made to the vehicle here.

Styles and Major Options[]

Certain vehicles come in different trim levels or body styles. Features and major options should be mentioned here.

Pricing[]

Add more fields as necessary.

MODEL Trims
Trim1 Trim2 Trim3 Trim4
MSRP
$Price1 $Price2 $Price3 $Price4
Invoice
$Price1 $Price2 $Price3 $Price4

Gas Mileage[]

Add more fields as necessary.

As seen on the FuelEconomy.gov website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

Trim
Trim1 Trim2 Trim3 Trim4
MPG
c/h c/h c/h c/h

Engine and Transmission[]

Specifications, details, graphs, pictures and other information regarding the powertrain is placed in this section.

Performance[]

Please make sure to write information of the vehicle's performance in a third-person point of view. This section should include information about the car's acceleration figures, handling, braking, etc.

If using information gathered from Road Test articles from a reputable automotive source, then please make sure to cite the quote.

Reliability[]

Warranty options and scheduled maintainence information should be mentioned here.

Safety[]

Safety standards in the third generation Saga have improved considerably over its predecessors. The new Saga is the first in its lineage to offer electronic stability control (ESC) in its home market. Its body structure has also been strengthened and torsional rigidity has increased by 20%. Handling and steering response have both improved with an emphasis on safety and ride comfort.

However, overall safety specifications in the new Saga are not up to par with its larger siblings, the Iriz and Persona. The disparity is due to the Saga's continued reliance on an older platform, as well as pricing considerations with regards to its market positioning as Proton's entry-level product.

Photos[]

Add Photos of the vehicle here.

Please make sure not to use copyrighted photos.

Colors[]

List the colors that the particular <MODEL> is offered in.

Main Competitors[]

Create links to other <MAKE> <MODEL> pages in this section.

Hybrid Models[]

If there are hybrid versions of this vehicle manufactured, then please elaborate a little bit on it here.

Unique Attributes[]

If there are any features of this vehicle that sets it apart from other vehicles in its class, then mention those unique attributes here.

Interior[]

The interior of the third generation Saga has been revamped and updated in line with Proton's current design language and technical capabilities. Nonetheless, the mounting points for the dashboard, vents, seats and other key modules in the cabin remained largely unchanged as a result of the platform carryover. The interior of the new Saga consists of all-new parts and components, as well as borrowed ones, with only minimal carryovers from the outgoing generation. Proton had also invested considerably in solutions to reduce transmissions of noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) into the cabin, in an effort to create a more mature and refined Saga.

The cabin of the third generation Saga incorporates several major changes and additions. All door cards and dashboard panels are new, and feature faux-stitching texture in some areas. The centre console, air-con vents, glove box, seats, gear lever enclosure and instrument binnacle have also been redesigned. The revised interior door handles have been moved slightly forwards and upwards. Proton has also fitted a new single-DIN head unit on the Standard and Executive variants. The central tunnel cover has been revised and all variants now feature twin USB charging ports behind the handbrake, along with a storage compartment to store the device that is being charged. The push-button controls on the centre console are also new.

Several interior parts and components in the new Saga were borrowed from other Proton models in an effort to increase economies of scale and reduce costs and pricing. These include the steering wheel, CVT gear lever and driver's power window controls on all variants, as well as the Premium-exclusive double-DIN head unit and integrated rear view mirror display. The notable carryovers from the second generation Saga include the air-con controls, handbrake lever and manual gear knob. The driver's instrument cluster is largely unchanged, but the meter graphics have been updated, and the HUD now includes Proton's ECO Drive Assist system, an indicator which lights up in green when the car is being driven in an economical manner.

At the back, legroom has improved slightly courtesy of the scalloped front seat back design.[8] The rear bench is less reclined than before, and can be fully folded in all variants for increased storage space. However, the rear bench does not split-fold, and the aperture is limited as a consequence of the old platform design.[8] Proton has also improved how the front and rear doors open and close, to increase tactile or perceived quality. The doors now require less effort to operate, and offer a more reassuring or 'solid' feel in comparison to older Proton models.

All variants of the new Saga are fitted with all-round power windows and central locking. Additionally, the steering wheel is tilt-adjustable, while the driver's seat can be adjusted for height. The interior of the new Saga is all-black with the exception of the roof padding, sun visors and pillar covers. There are ten storage compartments, two cup holders and four bottle holders in total.

All variants of the new Saga are fitted with all-round power windows and central locking. Additionally, the steering wheel is tilt-adjustable, while the driver's seat can be adjusted for height. The interior of the new Saga is all-black with the exception of the roof padding, sun visors and pillar covers. There are ten storage compartments, two cup holders and four bottle holders in total.

Proton has specified fabric seat upholstery for all variants of the new Saga. The seats have a mesh pattern in the Executive and a wavy design on the Premium, but are plain black in the Standard. The Executive model receives glossy grey accents on the outer air-con vents and steering wheel, while the Premium adds on more glossy grey finishing on the gear lever.

The 2019 Saga saw the air conditioning vents moved down to allow space for 'floating' head units, a revised gear selector for automatic variants and the air conditioning controls markings now white only. The Standard variants features a double din like-sized head unit with captive buttons that are not visible without illumination. This is a similar head unit to that found in Persona, Iriz and Exora Standard. The Premium variant meanwhile has a head unit that runs a modified version of Android. Do note that it not GKUI and does not support Proton's Hi Proton voice recognition feature. Other interior changes saw the inclusion of a LED map light for the driver and front passenger, different material used for headliner and grab handles that are not fixed but rather can be pulled down when in use and automatically retracts when not in use. Do note that these changes in addition to the 2 rear USB chargers are not present in the Standard MT variant. A reverse camera now linked to the head unit opposed to the rear view mirror and revised seat pattern for the Premium AT rounds up the interior changes and revisions.

Resale Values[]

Add more fields as necessary.

<MODEL> Year
Year X Year X-2 Year X-3 Year X-4
Resale Value
$ $ $ $

Criticisms[]

Please make sure to keep critiques in a third-person point of view. If using criticisms from a reputable automotive source, then please make sure to cite the quote.

Generations[]

Fill in as many as appropriate. Add more if necessary and pictures wherever applicable.

Please make sure NOT to use copyrighted pictures.

Third generation (BT3; 2016)[]

The third generation Proton Saga, codenamed P2-13A is an A-segment saloon engineered by Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton. It was launched on 28 September 2016 as the successor to the second generation Proton Saga.

The third generation Saga is based on the outgoing Saga FLX platform, and is powered by the Iriz's 1.3-litre VVT engine producing 94 Hp. Proton has completely re-engineered the exterior design of the new Saga. Its interior has been revamped and refined with an emphasis on noise, vibration, and harshness reduction.

The third generation Saga is positioned as Proton's entry-level sedan, below the larger B-segment Persona. Safety standards have been improved with the introduction of electronic stability control (ESC) and a 20% stronger body structure. ASEAN NCAP has awarded a 4-star safety rating for the new Saga.

On 6 August 2019, an updated Proton Saga was launched at the Malaysia International Trade and Exhibition Centre in Kuala Lumpur. It's considered as minor change internally but as a facelift to the general public. The car now includes design cues from the Proton X70, Proton Iriz and the Proton Persona which includes the new "infinite weave," a pattern inspired by batik and Malaysian wood carvings. The naturally aspirated DOHC VVT engine is no longer paired to a CVT made by Punch Powertrain, but a four-speed torque converter automatic gearbox sourced from Hyundai. The Executive variant was dropped with the range consisting of Standard MT, Standard AT and Premium AT. The 2019 Saga also saw the air conditioning vents moved down to allow space for 'floating' head units which included a head unit that runs a modified version of Android for the Premium variant. The Saga now starts at a lowered price of RM32,800 for the manual transmission variant and up to RM39,800 which is almost RM2,000 lower than the pre-facelift version

On 9th July 2020, the Saga Anniversary Edition was launched to celebrate Proton's 35th year in the automotive industry. It featured optional skirts around the car, darkened alloy wheels and yellow accents in and out.

On 18th February 2021, the Saga R3 Limited Edition was launched alongside the Iriz R3 Limited Edition, Persona Black Edition and Exora Black Edition. It is only limited to 2,000 units. The looks are almost the same with the Anniversary edition with the exception of some R3 body stickers and windshield stickers.

Second generation (BT3, BT6; 2008)[]

Proton Saga (2008–2010)[]

The second generation Proton Saga, also called the Saga BLM (Base Line Model) launched on 18 January 2008. It was indigenously designed unlike the former generation and launched with 3 variants which were priced between RM31,498 and RM39,998 respectively. All variants were powered by Proton's 1.3 litre CamPro IAFM engine. The new Saga was a great sales success for Proton, having received over 23,000 bookings in less than two weeks since launch. It also replaced the older Saga Iswara as Malaysia's taxi of choice from 2008 to 2010. The taxi variants were equipped with 1.6 litre 110 bhp CamPro engines and were later converted to natural gas vehicles.

The Proton Saga SE was unveiled in July 2009. It was sold as a premium variant with just 2 colour options and a unique body kit, mated to the CamPro 1.3 engine found in the other models. In that same month, Proton showcased the emission-free Saga EV Concept at Universiti Putra Malaysia in Serdang. Powered by a 125 kW (168 hp) DC motor mated to a 5-speed manual transmission, it had a maximum range of 109 kilometres (68 miles) and could be charged over a standard household outlet. On 24 December 2009, Proton launched the S16 in the Australian market. The S16 was identical to the Saga, but featured the more powerful 110 bhp CamPro 1.6 engine. At the time, it retailed for AUD$11,990, making it the cheapest new car in Australia.

Proton Saga FL (2010–2012)[]

On 30 November 2010, Proton unveiled the facelifted Proton Saga FL at the Thai International Motor Expo 2010. It received large exterior updates, but the technical specifications and interior remain mostly unchanged from the pre-facelift Saga.

The Saga FL was launched in Malaysia two weeks after it was unveiled in Thailand. It was sold in two trim lines and both were available with 4-speed automatic and 5-speed manual transmissions. Every Proton Saga FL came standard with 4 power windows. Later in May 2011, a more powerful model called the Proton Saga FL 1.6 Executive was launched.

Proton Saga FLX (2011–2016)[]

8 months after the launch of the Saga FL, Proton added to its line-up the Saga FLX in which 'X' stands for extra. The FLX is available in two trim lines which can be mated to a choice of either manual or continuously variable transmission (CVT) drivetrains. The fine-tuned CamPro IAFM+ engine is utilized and there are options for dual airbags and anti lock braking (ABS) with electronic brakeforce distribution (EBD). The handling has been vastly improved with a new suspension setup which strikes a balance between ride comfort and handling performance. The exterior of the Saga FLX is identical to the Saga FL.

The Proton Saga FLX SE was launched on 30 November 2011. It is powered by a 108 hp CamPro IAFM+ 1.6 litre engine, paired to a CVT. Driver and passenger airbags as well as ABS with EBD are standard. The FLX SE is equipped with sportier kit and is only available in two colours, white and red.

The Saga FLX entered the Australian market in June 2012, where it was renamed the S16 FLX. It replaces the old S16 in Proton Australia's fleet. The S16 FLX comes in two variants, the GX and GXR, each with manual and CVT drivetrain options respectively, with dual airbags, ABS and EBD standard across the range.

On 15 June 2013, Proton introduced a new sub-variant of the Saga FLX, called the Saga SV. SV is an acronym for Super Value, with prices starting from just RM33,438 for the manual transmission variant. Despite the reduction in price, the Saga SV offers improved safety standards with dual airbags and a reinforced frame with only minimal exterior changes when compared to the Saga FLX Standard. The Saga Plus was produced in five colours, namely Tranquility Black, Fire Red, Genetic Silver, Solid White and Elegant Brown. Despite the added cosmetic upgrades, prices for the Saga Plus remained unchanged from the Saga SV, ranging from RM33,242 for the manual with solid paint to RM36,577 for the CVT with metallic paint, all of which were on-the-road prices with insurance. A three-year or 100,000 km warranty was also offered.

First generation (C21A, C22A; 1985)[]

Proton Saga (1985–1992)[]

The Proton Saga saloon was launched on 9 July 1985. It is based on the second generation Mitsubishi Lancer Fiore platform, and powered by the 1.3-litre 4G13 Orion II engine. In January 1987, Proton introduced the 1.5-litre 4G15-powered Saga saloon.

The Proton Saga Magma was introduced in mid-1987, offering mild mechanical and cosmetic upgrades. A new hatchback variant called the Proton Saga Aeroback was launched in October 1987.

On 16 March 1989, Proton launched the Saga in the United Kingdom. The saloon models were renamed Proton 1.3 and Proton 1.5, while the hatchback versions featured additional 'Aeroback' badging. Proton advertised their models with the slogan "Japanese Technology, Malaysian Style". Proton later set the record for the 'Fastest selling make of new car ever to enter the United Kingdom', exceeding their 12-month sales target within 6 months.

In August 1990, the Proton Saga Megavalve was launched in Malaysia. It was fitted with a more powerful 12-valve engine, and the exterior design was altered slightly with a new grille, trim and rims along with the inclusion of rear seat belts and a third brake light as standard. Proton launched the Saga Megavalve in the United Kingdom in January 1991, where it was renamed Proton 12-Valve. There's also a modern rendition of the original Proton Saga Knight by local MIMOS design head, Saharudin Busri.

Proton Saga Iswara (1992–2003)[]

On 15 August 1992, the Proton Saga Iswara (also known as the Proton Mpi or Proton Iswara in the United Kingdom) was launched. It was named after the great Helen butterfly (Papilio iswara) of Sarawak. It shared the platform found in the previous iteration, but received major exterior and interior changes. The Saga Iswara was available in 4-door saloon and 5-door hatchback guises and was equipped with the same Mitsubishi Orion 1.3L and 1.5L engines. The saloon version of the Saga Iswara became Malaysia's preferred choice of taxi.

It continued to be exported to Europe until 1996, having been sold alongside the Persona (Wira) there since 1993.

In 2001, Proton introduced the Iswara Aeroback Special Edition. It was based on the Saga Iswara hatchback but included large exterior cosmetic changes and minor interior alterations. It was only available in silver, with manual transmission and the 1.3 litre 4G13 engine.

Proton Saga LMST (2003–2008)[]

The Proton Saga LMST hatchback was launched in 2003. It was based on the same platform found in the previous models. Nonetheless, it featured a modernized interior and major exterior modifications and improvements. The 1.3-litre Mitsubishi 4G13 carburettor engine was tuned to produce 83 bhp (62 kW). It was only available in two trim lines, limited to the 5-speed manual transmission.

In late 2006, Proton updated the Saga LMST, offering mainly cosmetic exterior changes. It was only available in two colours, black and orange, and was limited to the 4G13 1.3L engine, mated to a 5-speed manual transmission.

On 4 March 2007, Proton launched the final facelift model of the first generation Proton Saga, the Proton Saga LMST 50th Merdeka Anniversary Edition. It was largely identical to the 2006 Saga LMST, but was sold at a discount price of RM26,999 as opposed to the former RM33,240 price. The promotion was made in view of Malaysia's 50th Merdeka celebrations and as a symbol of Proton's gratitude to their customers. That year, the Proton Saga became the second best selling car behind the Perodua MyVi.

Fifth generation (YYYY–YYYY)[]

Fourth generation (YYYY–YYYY)[]

Third generation (YYYY–YYYY)[]

Second generation (YYYY–YYYY)[]

First Generation/Origins (YYYY–YYYY)[]

Worldwide[]

If the vehicle is sold in other markets worldwide, then this is the section to mention that information. Also, mention if the <MODEL> goes by another name in these other markets.

Design quirks and oddities[]

Refer to any pop-culture tidbits about the vehicle in this section.

Awards[]

List out notable awards that the model has recieved while in production. Boldface the company or organization that gives out the award, and Italicize the name of the award.

See Also[]

Proton logo
PROTON

Proton Holdings Berhad


Proton | Lotus Group Plc. | Lotus


Models

Arena · Gen-2 · Perdana · Putra · Saga · Satria · R3 Satria · Savvy · Juara · Tiara · Waja · Wira · Persona · Inspira

Concept

Hybrid Concept · EMAS Concept · Lekir Concept · Jebat Concept


Campro engine


name of founder/s Corporate website independent


External Links[]

Advertisement