A promise well kept
IN line with the government’s promise to reduce car prices after the 13th general election, national car manufacturer Proton Holdings Berhad has introduced two new, more affordable variants of existing models, aimed at those looking for a decent sedan for less than RM50,000.
While the first of the two models introduced under this initiative was the Saga SV, the second model – the one that we reviewed recently – is the Persona SV, which simply means “Super Value”.
Available as either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, the Persona SV, which is currently the second most affordable model in the Proton stable, also comes with a two-year or 50,000km warranty from the manufacturer.
The model we tested was the four-speed automatic version, which sported the same colour as the Suprima S – Atlantic Blue. Based on the facelifted 2010 Persona Elegance, the SV variant is powered by the same 1.6L Campro IAFM engine that kicks out 110hp and 148Nm of peak torque.
At a glance, the SV variant looks almost identical to the standard Persona.
The only difference in terms of exterior features is that the SV does not come with door visors, fog lamps, or a chromed exhaust tip. Besides that, things are the same with the two variants.
The SV even gets the same 15-inch tyres and rims.
The interior lacks leather, has no centre console storage compartment and no steeringmounted audio control buttons and the side-mirrors have to be adjusted manually.
However, the audio system is similar to the standard Persona, where the head unit comes with CD, MP3, and USB connectivity with decent sound quality.
In terms of safety, the car sports dual air bags, front seat belt pre-tensioners, an anti-lock braking system (ABS), electronic brake distribution (EBD) and four disc brakes.
As far as the Persona SV’s driving characteristics were concerned, it felt exactly the same as the standard Persona, staying true to the shared suspension setup.
The car’s front gets MacPherson struts, while the rear features multi-links with stabilisers.
With a price tag of about RM45,000, the Persona SV offers great value for money.
Be it safety, performance, looks or practicality, the Persona SV has it all.