KLIMS 2010 : PROTON PAHLAWAN CONCEPT CARS

The Proton Pahlawan Series of concept cars on display at the 2010 Kuala Lumpur International Motor Show (KLIMS) pays tribute to the five legendary warriors of the 15th century Malacca empire—Hang Tuah, Hang Lekir, Hang Kasturi, Hang Jebat and Hang Lekiu, while giving us a glimpse at Proton’s plans for the future.

The highlight of the concept cars is the Proton Tuah Concept as it previews the next-generation Persona R. While a non-working design prototype at this stage, the Tuah Concept looks undeniably good, especially by Proton standards. We, along with millions of Malaysians, are definitely hoping that Proton will stay as faithful as possible to this design.

The Proton Lekir Concept is the most production-ready of the lot as it is a Proton-badged Lotus Europa. Rather than letting a perfectly fine chassis go to waste, Proton has seized the chance in rebadging a world-class Lotus sports car. The upcoming turbocharged Campro engine will be the powerplant if things do work out, with a price tag rumoured at less than RM 150K.

The Proton Kasturi Concept is a body-kitted version of the facelifted Proton Saga, a car already unveiled in Thailand last week. Similarly, the Proton Jebat Concept is a dressed-up version of the Proton Inspira. The Kasturi Concept could be introduced for a limited production run if interest is high enough, though the same cannot be said for the Jebat Concept, whose fate will hinge on Mitsubishi’s agreement.

The Proton Lekiu Concept is an SUV version of the Exora, with which it shares a set of underpinnings. A working model designed for Youngman, Proton’s Chinese corporate client, the Lekiu Concept would be sold in China under the Europestar brand. Proton has no SUV model in its range right now, so you could be looking at Proton’s next hit after the Exora.

Proton Pahlawan Concept Cars

Side view

Front view

Front view

Opinion dealing

Rear view

Side view