The Proton Suprima S 1.6 Turbo ProTronic, produced from 2013 to 2019, was a five-door hatchback positioned as a slightly more sporting offering within Proton’s lineup. It represented an attempt by the Malaysian automaker to move upmarket and compete with established brands in the compact car segment. The Suprima S was based on the Proton Preve, sharing its platform, but with a focus on a more dynamic driving experience and a more contemporary aesthetic. The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic variant occupied a mid-range position within the Suprima S family, offering a balance between performance and affordability, appealing to buyers seeking a step up from the base models without the expense of the higher-spec trims.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Proton |
| Model | Suprima S |
| Generation | Suprima S |
| Type (Engine) | 1.6 Turbo (140 Hp) ProTronic |
| Start of production | 2013 |
| End of production | 2019 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Hatchback |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 5 |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg, 31 UK mpg, 11 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 9.9 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 9.4 sec |
| Maximum speed | 190 km/h (118.06 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 9.8 kg/Hp, 102.6 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.7 kg/Nm, 150.2 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 | 1365-1395 kg (3009.31 – 3075.45 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 309 l (10.91 cu. ft.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – maximum | 427 l (15.08 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 50 l (13.21 US gal | 11 UK gal) |
| Length | 4436 mm (174.65 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 | 10.6-11.0 m (34.78 – 36.09 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; 215/45 R17 |
| Wheel rims size | 16; 17 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Suprima S 1.6 Turbo ProTronic is Proton’s CAMPRO IAFM (Intelligent Air Fuel Management) 1.6-liter inline-four engine. This engine, while developed in collaboration with Lotus Engineering, is a relatively simple design featuring a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) per cylinder bank, though it utilizes variable valve timing. The addition of a turbocharger and intercooler significantly boosted power output to 140 horsepower and 205 Nm (151 lb-ft) of torque. Fuel delivery is managed by a multi-point fuel injection system. The “ProTronic” transmission is a seven-speed continuously variable transmission (CVT), offering smooth, stepless gear changes. This CVT was sourced from Punch Powertrain, a Belgian transmission specialist. The engine code is typically referenced as CFE, and while variations exist, the core architecture remained consistent throughout the production run.
Driving Characteristics
The Suprima S 1.6 Turbo ProTronic offered a noticeable improvement in performance over the naturally aspirated variants. Acceleration to 60 mph took approximately 9.4 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of 190 km/h (118 mph). The CVT, while providing smooth acceleration, lacked the direct feel of a traditional automatic or manual transmission. The gear ratios were optimized for fuel efficiency and comfortable cruising, rather than outright performance. Compared to a manual transmission equipped Suprima S, the ProTronic version felt slightly less responsive, particularly during quick overtaking maneuvers. However, the CVT’s ability to keep the engine within its optimal power band provided consistent and predictable power delivery.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic trim generally included features such as alloy wheels (typically 16 or 17 inch), a touchscreen infotainment system, power windows and mirrors, air conditioning, and an anti-lock braking system (ABS). Higher-spec versions added features like leather upholstery, automatic climate control, and a reverse parking sensor system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth on the base models, with leather options available as upgrades. The dashboard layout was functional and modern for its time, though material quality was generally considered to be average. Optional extras included a sunroof and upgraded audio systems.
Chassis & Braking
The Suprima S utilized a McPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension, providing a reasonably comfortable ride. Stabilizer bars were fitted to both axles to reduce body roll during cornering. Braking duties were handled by ventilated discs at the front and solid discs at the rear. The braking system, while adequate for everyday driving, lacked the stopping power of some competitors. The steering was hydraulically assisted, offering a reasonable level of feedback, though it wasn’t particularly sporty.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Proton Suprima S 1.6 Turbo ProTronic received mixed reviews. Critics praised its improved performance and comfortable ride, but noted its somewhat bland styling and average interior quality. Fuel economy was generally considered to be acceptable, averaging around 9.1 l/100 km (25.8 US mpg). Compared to other trims in the Suprima S lineup, the 1.6 Turbo ProTronic offered a compelling balance of performance and fuel efficiency. However, it faced stiff competition from established brands like Honda, Toyota, and Hyundai, which offered more refined and better-equipped vehicles in the same price range.
Legacy
The Proton Suprima S, while not a resounding commercial success, represented a step forward for Proton in terms of design and technology. The 1.6 Turbo ProTronic powertrain proved to be relatively reliable, although long-term maintenance costs could be higher due to the complexity of the turbocharger and CVT. On the used car market, the Suprima S 1.6 Turbo ProTronic offers an affordable entry point into the turbocharged hatchback segment. However, potential buyers should be aware of the importance of regular maintenance and the potential for CVT issues. The Suprima S remains a relatively uncommon sight on the roads today, but it holds a place as a notable attempt by Proton to compete in the global automotive market.
