2008 Proton Persona Sedan First Steer

The all new single specification Persona shares only its name with the superseded model and is more reminiscent of the GEN.2 hatch on which the Persona’s platform is based. It’s a simple, yet elegant small sedan not too dissimilar in looks to the current Mazda3. Smaller, recessed avian-esque headlamps and restyled grille with new black and silver corporate logo flow downward to a narrow air intake beset by standard front fog lamps. From the rear, a high boot line with bold chrome accent brings memories of Chrysler’s Neon of some years back.

Representing tremendous value for money, Persona offers an expansive array of standard equipment including ABS, EBD, dual front airbags, auto locking doors, climate control air conditioning, power windows and mirrors, remote central locking, rear parking sensors, alloy wheels and a single disc MP3 compatible Blaupunkt audio system.

Inside the cabin is similar to the GEN.2 in many respects boasting red back lit Lotus inspired instrument binnacle with inset white faced fuel and temperature gauges, door mounted power window switches, and centre stack under dash ventilation controls, which as nice as they look, can be a little difficult to reach.

Under the bonnet the 1.6 litre CAMPRO engine has to work quite hard to deliver any real performance developing a modest 82kW @ 6,000 rpm and 148Nm or torque from 4,000 revs. It’s fine once up and revving but really needs to be kept on the boil to deliver any substantial performance results considering the overall weight of the vehicle. Proton believe the power to be adequate for their intended market, I’d almost go so far as to say it out-handles the drive offered from 1.6 litre engine and in my opinion were it to have an extra 25kW on board, would be a real performer attracting a younger modified car audience, similar to the way the much loved GTi Satria once did, but alas no such plans are in the pipeline… yet.

Given the overall package offers a high level of standard equipment for the price, a stylish, modern appearance and a decent build quality, prudent buyers would certainly have a hard time doing better elsewhere. The Persona is sure to impress those who are conscious of spiraling vehicle running costs and those who are happy to enjoy an economic, more leisurely paced drive alike.