Proton is a Malaysian brand that started manufacturing cars in 1985 in collaboration with Mitsubishi. Saga was the first model ever produced by Proton which was based on a Mitsubishi Fiore platform. To date, the Saga remains their most popular and highest selling car in Malaysia.
Apart from Saga, Poton manufactures many other models to suit customer tastes and needs such as Persona, Iriz, Exora and most recently the X70 and X50 SUVs.
In Kenya, Simba Corporation is the chief distributor of Mitsubishi vehicles with fifty-three years under their belt. And now they have introduced the latest cub to their pride – The Proton Saga.
The current Saga being distributed is the 3rd generation. The Proton Saga is locally assembled by AVA in Mombasa and proudly supports the Buy Kenya Build Kenya initiative.
When you first look at the new Saga, you are hit by its Stylish and sporty character. It looks highly sophisticated with its refined details such as the two-tone alloy rims and daytime running lights. It is available in three variants, namely; standard manual, standard automatic and premium automatic. It comes in five different colours; silver, white, grey, red and maroon.
Key features
The Proton Saga is surprisingly well equipped to contest with other cars in its class. All 3 variants come with the following features as standard; Power Steering, Power Windows, Central Locking, Air Conditioning, Touch Screen radio with BlueTooth, Electronically controlled door mirrors, Immobilizer, Anti-Theft Alarm, 2 Airbags, Rear Parking Sensors, ABS, EBD and Brake Assist.
In addition, the premium version comes with, 15” alloy rims, Daytime running lights, front parking sensors, reversing camera, Electronic Stability Control, Traction Control, audio switches on the steering wheel, 3 USB charging ports and Hill Hold Assist.
Driving
Proton usually creates cars with great handling. The steering wheel handles both cities and rough terrains easily.
Its 1.3-litre four-cylinder engine generates enough power (95 hp, 120 Nm) to see it driving smoothly along highways. Additionally, the four-speed automatic gearbox has also completely transformed the way the compact sedan drives. It has now easily pulled revs up to the 4,000 RPM range, making the Saga feel exciting to drive.
The 1300cc engine is also accompanied by a 40-litre fuel tank. One of the main appeals of this beauty is its fuel efficiency. With the increase in fuel prices, who wouldn’t want to own a car that can drive for 17km on 1 litre of fuel?
Prices
The prices start from as low as Kshs 1,150,000 (+VAT) with financial backing from Simba Corp’s Finance partners, you only have to pay a 10% down payment and Kshs 24,900 a month. Simba Corporation fully backs up the Saga with up to five years warranty.
At purchase, the car comes with a service kit that can serve you up to 30,000km. It includes oil, fuel and air filters, oil gasket, spark plugs and electrical fuses. You never have to worry about finding genuine spare parts for the Saga as they are readily available at Auto Xpress, all Simba Corp branches and dealerships.
Parting shot
The new Proton Saga is every first-time car buyer’s dream. Fitted with all modern tech features and at an affordable price. You cannot get a brand new, reliable and practical car starting from as low as Kshs 1,150,00 (+VAT) anywhere else. With all the refined features and its dependability, it ticks all the right boxes for a recommended first-time car and who knows, it may end up being your only car!