The Proton Perdana II 2.0 (156 Hp) Automatic, produced between 2013 and 2015, represents a significant iteration of Proton’s flagship sedan. Positioned as a premium offering within the Proton lineup, it aimed to provide a comfortable and spacious executive car experience at a competitive price point, primarily for the Malaysian domestic market. The Perdana II was built upon a heavily revised and updated version of the previous Perdana platform, incorporating Mitsubishi technologies and design elements following Proton’s long-standing partnership. This variant, specifically the 2.0-liter engine paired with a five-speed automatic transmission, served as a mid-range option, bridging the gap between more basic trims and potential future high-performance versions that never materialized.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Proton |
| Model | Perdana |
| Generation | Perdana II |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 (156 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2015 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 101.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 8.1 kg/Nm, 123.1 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 156 Hp @ 6300 rpm |
| Power per litre | 78.1 Hp/l |
| Torque | 189 Nm @ 4300 rpm (139.4 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 1997 cm3 (121.86 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 81 mm (3.19 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 96.9 mm (3.81 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Max. weight | 2100 kg (4629.71 lbs.) |
| Max load | 565 kg (1245.61 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 565 l (19.95 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 4999 mm (196.81 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Front track | 1591 mm (62.64 in.) |
| Rear (Back) track | 1592 mm (62.68 in.) |
| Ride height (ground clearance) | 172 mm (6.77 in.) |
| 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 | 5 gears, automatic transmission |
| Front suspension | Double wishbone |
| 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 | 225/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Perdana II 2.0 Automatic is the 4G63 2.0-liter inline-four cylinder engine. This engine, a derivative of the Mitsubishi 4G63 family, had been used by Proton for many years, benefitting from continuous refinement. It features a naturally aspirated configuration with multi-port fuel injection, delivering a respectable 156 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 189 Nm (139.4 lb-ft) of torque at 4300 rpm. The engine’s 10.6:1 compression ratio contributes to its efficiency and responsiveness. The five-speed automatic transmission, sourced from Mitsubishi, was chosen for its smooth operation and suitability for comfortable cruising. While not a particularly advanced transmission by modern standards, it provided adequate performance for the intended market segment. The transmission’s gear ratios were tuned for fuel economy and relaxed acceleration, prioritizing comfort over outright sportiness.
Driving Characteristics
The Perdana II 2.0 Automatic offered a comfortable and refined driving experience. The automatic transmission, while not offering manual shift control, provided smooth gear changes. Acceleration was adequate for everyday driving, but the 156 hp output didn’t provide particularly brisk performance. Compared to potential manual transmission versions (which were not widely available), the automatic resulted in a slight reduction in responsiveness due to the inherent losses in the torque converter. The suspension, tuned for comfort, absorbed bumps and imperfections in the road well, making it a pleasant vehicle for long journeys. The steering, while hydraulically assisted, lacked the precision and feedback found in more performance-oriented vehicles.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Perdana II 2.0 Automatic typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, power door locks, central locking, air conditioning, and an audio system. Interior upholstery was generally cloth, with leather options available as an upgrade. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, prioritizing ease of use. Optional extras could include a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and various cosmetic enhancements. The Perdana II aimed to offer a level of equipment comparable to other mid-size sedans in the Malaysian market, such as the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry.
Chassis & Braking
The Perdana II utilized a front-wheel-drive layout with a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link spring suspension with a stabilizer bar at the rear. This suspension configuration aimed to balance ride comfort with handling stability. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. An Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety during emergency braking situations. The tires, typically 225/45 R17, provided adequate grip for everyday driving conditions.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Proton Perdana II 2.0 Automatic was generally well-received in the Malaysian market, particularly by those seeking a spacious and comfortable executive sedan. Critics praised its ride quality and interior space, but some noted that its performance was not as exciting as some of its competitors. Compared to the 1.8L variants, the 2.0L offered a noticeable improvement in power and torque, making it more suitable for highway driving and carrying a full load of passengers. Fuel economy was reasonable, but not exceptional, falling in line with other vehicles in its class. Reliability was generally good, although some owners reported minor issues with the electrical system.
Legacy
The Proton Perdana II 2.0 Automatic, while not a groundbreaking vehicle, played an important role in Proton’s history. It represented a continued effort to develop a competitive national car and provide Malaysian consumers with a viable alternative to imported vehicles. Today, the Perdana II is a relatively affordable used car option in Malaysia. The 2.0-liter engine and automatic transmission combination is generally considered reliable, although regular maintenance is essential to ensure longevity. Parts availability can be a concern, as the vehicle is no longer in production, but a dedicated network of Proton service centers and independent mechanics can still provide support. The Perdana II remains a popular choice for those seeking a spacious, comfortable, and relatively affordable sedan with a touch of Malaysian automotive history.
