Proton has launched a new SUV, marking their first release of 2026. The Proton X70 MC3 arrives just a month after the facelifted version was announced back in August 2024.

Although “MC” stands for minor change, the update is significant, with the switch from a 3-cylinder engine to a 4-cylinder unit featuring Intelligent Green Technology (i-GT). This engine was first introduced in the Proton X50.

Proton X70 MC3 Prices in Malaysia

Previously, Proton offered four variants: Standard, Executive, Premium, and Premium X. For this launch, Proton has streamlined the options. Buyers can now choose between the Executive and Premium variants. Prices for the Malaysian market are as follows:

• Proton X70 MC3 Executive – RM99,800
• Proton X70 MC3 Premium – RM112,800

Proton X70 MC3 Launch Promo

As usual, a launch promotion is offered to attract early buyers. The first 1,500 bookings made before 31 March 2026 will receive a launch rebate of RM7,000. This brings the promotional price of the X70 MC3 down to as low as RM92,800 for a limited period.

Pricing-wise, the Proton X70 MC3 sits comfortably in the mid-range C-segment SUV category, with many competitors offering similar dimensions or prices.

Proton X70 MC3 Price Comparison

The most affordable competitor is the Perodua Aruz, starting at RM72,800, while premium mainstream alternatives include the Honda CR-V from RM159,900.

Other notable competitors include the Chery Omoda 5 (RM116,800), Mazda CX-5 (RM133,300), Toyota Corolla Cross (RM140,800), and Subaru XV (RM155,300).

Additionally, the 2026 Proton X70 comes with a comprehensive purchase package covering multiple aspects:

• Pro-Warranty: 5-year unlimited mileage warranty plus six free labor servicing sessions.
• Pro-Connect: Free internet connectivity for five years with 2GB/month quota.
• Pro-Finance: Flexible financing, 9-year loans at rates as low as 2.2% with up to 90% financing.
• Pro-Trade-In: Trade-in support with rebates up to RM2,000.
• Pro-Shield: Upgraded insurance coverage including disaster, personal accident, flood protection, and more.
• Pro-Accessories: Early buyers receive accessories worth over RM700.

Proton X70 2026 Size vs. Other Competitors

The Proton X70 has a balanced size, suitable for both long journeys and urban driving. Its dimensions are 4,532 mm x 1,832 mm x 1,694 mm, with a wheelbase of 2,670 mm.

This size positions it between the Honda HR-V and CR-V. It is shorter than the Mazda CX-5 but longer than the Chery Omoda 5 and Perodua Aruz. Width-wise, it is broader than the Aruz and Subaru XV but narrower than the CX-5 and CR-V.

Major Change for Proton X70 2026: 4-Cylinder Engine

The biggest upgrade for the Proton X70 MC3 2026 is its new engine. The X70 now features a 1.5L 4-cylinder turbo i-GT engine, delivering 178hp and 290Nm – about a 14% performance increase over the previous engine.

The 4-cylinder setup brings additional benefits beyond performance. Proton claims noise and vibration are reduced by up to 4.5%, making the X70 a quieter drive. One contributing factor is a newly designed timing chain.

Paired with a 7-speed DCT transmission, the combination improves fuel efficiency. Proton reports a fuel consumption of 6.9L/100km, down from 7.3L/100km previously.

Proton X70 Tuned for Malaysian Roads

It may sound cliché, but since its launch in Malaysia in 2018, the X70 largely remained a rebadged model with cosmetic tweaks. For the 2026 version, Proton engineers have tuned the suspension to reduce noise, reinforced the rear axle, and adjusted steering to achieve handling more suited to local driving conditions.

Another visible change is the tires. The previous stock Continental UltraContact UC6 tires have been replaced with Giti GitiComfort F50, likely due to the closure of Continental’s Alor Setar factory affecting supply.

Proton X70 Executive vs. Premium

The Executive variant is the most affordable option currently available. It comes with 18” alloy wheels, automatic wipers, power driver’s seat, front-row seat ventilation, synthetic leather trim, front and rear parking sensors, auto-dimming rearview mirror, 360-degree camera, and electric tailgate.

The Premium variant adds upgrades, including 19” wheels, power front passenger seat, and 72-color ambient lighting. However, there are some cost-saving changes on the MC3 compared to previous generations. Synthetic leather replaces Napa leather for seat trim, and the sunroof has been removed across all variants.

Additional Premium features absent on the Executive include ADAS. Surprisingly, a nearly RM100,000 car lacks adaptive cruise control or stop-and-go functionality. The ADAS suite includes lane centering assist, traffic sign recognition, and auto high beam.

Astra Battery for Proton X70 2026

According to research, the Proton X70 uses an 85D26L battery with a CCA of 660 under the Proton Genuine Parts program.

A compatible Astra battery is the Astra S95 (125D26L) EFB.

It has a higher CCA rating of 780 compared to the original 660. While a higher CCA doesn’t increase performance, it is practical since battery CCA naturally declines over time. A 660 CCA battery will “die” sooner than a 780 CCA unit.

Contact Bateriku for your next Proton X70 battery replacement.