The Proton Perdana II (facelift 2016) 2.4 represents a significant iteration of Proton’s flagship sedan, positioned as a premium offering within the Malaysian automotive market. Introduced in 2016, this facelift built upon the Perdana II platform (internally designated as the VM2), which itself was based on the eighth-generation Honda Accord. The 2.4-liter variant, producing 181 horsepower, served as the top-tier engine option, aimed at buyers seeking a comfortable and well-equipped executive sedan. Production continued until 2020, with the Perdana line eventually being discontinued. This model was primarily intended for the domestic Malaysian market, with limited export sales.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Proton |
| Model | Perdana |
| Generation | Perdana II (facelift 2016) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.4 (181 Hp) Automatic |
| Start of production | 2016 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.5 kg/Hp, 117.9 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.9 kg/Nm, 144.6 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 181 Hp @ 6500 rpm |
| Power per litre | 76.9 Hp/l |
| Torque | 222 Nm @ 4300 rpm (163.74 lb.-ft. @ 4300 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine displacement | 2354 cm3 (143.65 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 87 mm (3.43 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 99 mm (3.9 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 10.5:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | DOHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1535 kg (3384.1 lbs.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 70 l (18.49 US gal | 15.4 UK gal) |
| Length | 5020 mm (197.64 in.) |
| Width | 1845 mm (72.64 in.) |
| Height | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2800 mm (110.24 in.) |
| Minimum turning circle | 11.4 m (37.4 ft.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears | 5 |
| Gearbox type | 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 | 225/50 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Perdana II 2.4 is a 2.4-liter inline-four cylinder engine. While based on Honda’s K24A engine design from the eighth-generation Accord, Proton made modifications to the engine management system and potentially some internal components to suit local conditions and fuel quality. The engine utilizes a multi-port fuel injection system and a double overhead camshaft (DOHC) valvetrain, contributing to its relatively smooth power delivery. The 181 horsepower peak is achieved at 6500 rpm, while the 222 Nm (163.74 lb-ft) of torque is available at 4300 rpm. This engine is paired with a 5-speed automatic transmission, a conventional torque converter unit. This transmission was chosen for its reliability and smooth operation, prioritizing comfort over outright performance.
Driving Characteristics
The Perdana II 2.4 Automatic offers a comfortable and refined driving experience. The 5-speed automatic transmission provides smooth shifts, although it isn’t particularly quick or sporty. Acceleration is adequate for everyday driving, with the 181 hp engine providing sufficient power for highway merging and overtaking. Compared to the lower-spec 2.0-liter variants, the 2.4-liter engine delivers noticeably stronger acceleration and a more relaxed feel at cruising speeds. The automatic transmission’s gear ratios are tuned for fuel efficiency and comfort, rather than maximizing performance. The front-wheel-drive configuration provides predictable handling, but doesn’t offer the dynamic capabilities of a rear-wheel-drive sedan.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Perdana II 2.4 Automatic was typically equipped with a generous level of standard features. These included leather upholstery, automatic climate control, a touchscreen infotainment system (often with navigation), power-adjustable front seats, and a comprehensive suite of safety features, including ABS and multiple airbags. Optional extras could include a sunroof, premium audio system, and parking sensors. The interior design was generally conservative and focused on providing a comfortable and spacious cabin for passengers. The facelifted model featured minor cosmetic updates to the dashboard and interior trim.
Chassis & Braking
The Perdana II utilizes a double wishbone suspension setup at the front and an independent multi-link suspension at the rear, providing a comfortable ride quality. A stabilizer bar is included on both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. The braking system consists of ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. ABS (Anti-lock Braking System) is standard, enhancing braking performance and stability. The steering is rack and pinion with hydraulic power assistance, offering a reasonably direct and responsive feel.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Perdana II 2.4 Automatic was generally well-received in the Malaysian market as a comfortable and spacious executive sedan. Critics praised its ride quality, interior space, and generous equipment levels. However, some reviewers noted that the engine, while adequate, wasn’t particularly exciting compared to some of its competitors. Compared to the 2.0-liter variants, the 2.4-liter model offered a noticeable performance advantage, but at a higher price point. Fuel economy was reasonable for a vehicle of its size and class, but not exceptional. Reliability was generally good, benefiting from the underlying Honda Accord platform.
Legacy
The Proton Perdana II 2.4 Automatic represents a significant chapter in Proton’s history, showcasing the company’s ability to adapt and refine existing platforms. While the Perdana line has been discontinued, the 2.4-liter variant remains a sought-after model in the used car market, particularly among those seeking a comfortable and well-equipped executive sedan at a reasonable price. The powertrain, based on Honda’s proven K24A engine, is known for its durability and relatively low maintenance costs. However, finding parts and qualified mechanics for Proton vehicles can sometimes be a challenge outside of Malaysia.
