Paultan has shared images of a test unit of the Suzuki Vitara in Malaysia. As part of its JV with Proton, Suzuki has already stopped sales of its models in the country. This sighting indicates that a Proton badged Vitara will soon be launched in Malaysia.
Proton's acquisition by Geely is currently in its final stages. As reported in September this year, Proton will launch an SUV based on the Geely Boyue by the end of 2018. Until then, from the looks of it, the company intends to launch the Suzuki Vitara.
Based on the images shared in the post, the SUV is identical to the model sold globally. Proton will be looking to introduce the car at the earliest so, there aren't expected to be any major changes to it. Visually, the only difference will be Proton badges in place of Suzuki's.
The 'Proton Vitara' will be equipped with a 1.6 L M16A naturally aspirated petrol engine. It produces 118 hp and 156 Nm and comes paired with a 6-speed automatic transmission.
Rivals of the Vitara include the Honda HR-V and Mazda CX-3. Soon, Toyota will bring the C-HR and Perodua has also hinted at launching a B-segment SUV in the country.
[Source - Paultan]
