Think the Proton S70 is out of reach? Proton wants you to think again. The Malaysian automaker has expanded its S70 family with two new variants, the S70 Lite and S70 Prime, bringing a new naturally aspirated powertrain and an estimated price tag of below RM60,000.

Bookings for both variants open today, 7 September, at authorised Proton dealers nationwide, with final pricing to be revealed when the cars are officially launched. The idea behind the new variants is fairly simple: give buyers an affordable route into the S70 family without making them feel like they have settled for a stripped-down sedan.

Under the bonnet, both the Lite and Prime are powered by Proton’s 1.5-litre i-GT naturally aspirated engine, paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT). Rather than focusing on outright performance, the new powertrain is designed around a smoother and more relaxed driving experience — the sort of character that should suit daily commutes, school runs, family trips and long-distance cruising.

And despite the different powertrain, Proton has retained its Ride & Handling characteristics and three selectable drive modes. So, while the new S70 variants might be taking the calmer route, they are still very much part of the S70 family.

One of the S70’s biggest selling points has always been its space, and Proton is making sure the new variants keep that advantage. The S70 Lite and Prime feature a wide body, generous wheelbase and class-leading cabin space, with particularly generous shoulder room for rear passengers.

The near-flat rear floor is another practical touch. It makes the middle position less awkward, allowing three passengers to sit across the rear more comfortably. For families, that could be more important than having another few horsepower under the bonnet. There are also plenty of storage areas around the cabin, adding to the S70’s everyday practicality.

Proton is also putting considerable emphasis on refinement. The new variants are claimed to deliver class-leading NVH performance, helping to keep engine, road and wind noise at bay. Inside, leatherette seats and a soft-touch instrument panel give the cabin a more premium feel than its price positioning might suggest. Essentially, Proton is trying to make the S70 Lite and Prime feel less like budget alternatives and more like sensible choices.

Here’s where things get particularly interesting. Despite being positioned below the RM60,000 mark, the new S70 variants come with a surprisingly comprehensive list of equipment.

Among the 10 class-leading features highlighted by Proton are:

  • Class-leading cabin space
  • Class-leading rear passenger shoulder room
  • Soft-touch instrument panel
  • All-window Auto Up/Down with Anti-Trap
  • Electric Parking Brake with Auto Brake Hold
  • Remote engine start
  • Wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay
  • Rear Side Radar System
  • Reverse camera
  • Rear Seat Reminder

The technology package is complemented by up to five USB ports, while the safety equipment includes six airbags, front and rear parking sensors and a suite of driver-assistance features. The Rear Side Radar System includes Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Door Opening Warning and Rear Collision Warning. That’s quite a list for a sedan expected to start below RM60,000.

Proton is positioning the Lite and Prime as a different way of experiencing the S70. The existing variants may appeal to buyers looking for more performance, but these new models are aimed at those who value something slightly different — a sedan that is comfortable, quiet, spacious and easy to drive every day.

And judging by the S70’s current momentum, there appears to be plenty of room for another version. The model has been averaging more than 2,500 units in monthly sales during 2026, giving Proton plenty of reason to broaden its appeal.

“The Proton S70 has always been about giving Malaysians an elevated driving experience with the space, comfort and features they value in everyday driving,” said Dato’ Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Proton. He added that the new variants are intended to offer greater choice while retaining the key features that matter in everyday driving.

Ultimately, the biggest headline surrounding the new S70 Lite and Prime is the price. With estimated pricing below RM60,000, Proton is opening the door to a much wider audience while retaining the S70’s spacious cabin, comfort-focused character, connectivity and comprehensive safety equipment.

Customers who book and register their S70 Lite or Prime by 31 December 2026 will also be eligible for an exclusive early-bird reward, with more details to be announced at the official launch. So, while the new S70 variants may not be the fastest members of the family, Proton appears to be betting that for many buyers, smooth, spacious and well-equipped beats fast. And at below RM60,000, that’s a proposition that could make the S70 considerably more interesting.