The Proton Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic, launched in 2012, represented a significant step forward for Proton, Malaysia’s national car manufacturer. Positioned as a mid-range offering within the Preve lineup – which also included 1.6L naturally aspirated variants – the 1.6 Turbo aimed to provide a more engaging driving experience and appeal to buyers seeking increased performance. The Preve itself was Proton’s first completely in-house designed model, moving away from reliance on Mitsubishi platforms. It was built on a new platform and intended to compete with established compact sedans in the Southeast Asian market and beyond. The “ProTronic” designation refers to Proton’s name for its seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT).
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Proton |
| Model | Preve |
| Generation | Preve |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (140 Hp) ProTronic |
| Start of production | 2012 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 6.6 l/100 km (35.6 US mpg, 42.8 UK mpg, 15.2 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.6 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.1 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 140 Hp @ 5000 rpm |
| Power per litre | 89.7 Hp/l |
| Torque | 205 Nm @ 2000-4000 rpm (151.2 lb.-ft. @ 2000-4000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1561 cm3 (95.26 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 76 mm (2.99 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 86 mm (3.39 in.) |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Turbocharger, Intercooler |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1366 kg (3011.51 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 1726 kg (3805.18 lbs.) |
| Max load | 360 kg (793.66 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 508 l (17.94 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4543 mm (178.86 in.) |
| Width | 1786 mm (70.31 in.) |
| Height | 1524 mm (60 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2650 mm (104.33 in.) |
| Front track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1542 mm (60.71 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 155 mm (6.1 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 10.6 m (34.78 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 7 gears, automatic transmission ProTronic |
| Front suspension | Independent type McPherson |
| Rear suspension | Independent multi-link spring suspension with stabilizer |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 205/55 R16 |
| Wheel rims size | 16 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic is the CAMPRO CFE 1.6-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, designated as the 4P15T, utilizes a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) design with four valves per cylinder. The engine benefits from a Mitsubishi-sourced turbocharger and intercooler, boosting power output significantly compared to the naturally aspirated versions. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The engine’s turbocharger provides increased air intake, resulting in a broader torque curve and improved acceleration. The “ProTronic” transmission is a seven-speed Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) sourced from Punch Powertrain. This CVT offers smooth, stepless gear changes, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and a more comfortable driving experience. Unlike traditional automatic transmissions with fixed gear ratios, the CVT continuously adjusts the gear ratio to optimize engine performance.
Driving Characteristics
The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic offered a noticeable improvement in performance over the standard 1.6L Preve. The turbocharger provides a surge of power in the mid-range, making overtaking maneuvers easier and more confident. While not a sports car, the Preve 1.6 Turbo offered a respectable 0-60 mph time of around 9.1 seconds. The CVT, while smooth, can sometimes feel less responsive than a traditional automatic or manual transmission, particularly during hard acceleration. The CVT’s programming prioritizes fuel efficiency, which can result in a slight delay in power delivery. The gear ratios are optimized for everyday driving, providing adequate acceleration in most situations. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Preve 1.6 Turbo, the ProTronic version sacrifices some driver engagement for ease of use and fuel economy.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included air conditioning, power windows, power door locks, central locking, and an audio system with USB connectivity. Higher trim levels added features such as leather upholstery, a multi-function steering wheel, and a reverse parking sensor system. Safety features included dual front airbags, ABS (Anti-lock Braking System), and Electronic Brake-force Distribution (EBD). Optional extras included a satellite navigation system and a sunroof. The interior design was functional and relatively modern for its time, with a focus on practicality and durability.
Chassis & Braking
The Preve utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and an independent multi-link rear suspension. This setup provided a comfortable ride quality while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front suspension featured a stabilizer bar to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The ABS system helped to prevent wheel lockup during hard braking, improving stability and control. The Preve’s chassis was designed to provide a balance between comfort and handling, making it suitable for both city driving and highway cruising.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Proton Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic was generally well-received by Malaysian consumers, offering a compelling combination of performance, fuel efficiency, and features at a competitive price point. Critics praised the engine’s power and torque, as well as the smoothness of the CVT. However, some reviewers noted the CVT’s lack of responsiveness and the somewhat bland interior design. Compared to other trims in the Preve lineup, the 1.6 Turbo ProTronic offered a significant performance upgrade, but at a higher price. The naturally aspirated 1.6L variants were more affordable but lacked the turbocharger’s added power. The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic positioned itself as a step up from the base models, appealing to buyers who prioritized performance and driving enjoyment.
Legacy
The Proton Preve, while not a massive sales success internationally, was an important model for Proton, representing a shift towards more independent design and engineering. The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, with few major issues reported. In the used car market, the Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic remains a popular choice for buyers seeking an affordable and well-equipped compact sedan. Maintenance costs are generally reasonable, and parts availability is good in Malaysia. While the CVT requires regular servicing, it is generally considered to be a durable unit. The Preve 1.6 Turbo ProTronic serves as a reminder of Proton’s ambition to produce competitive and technologically advanced vehicles.
