The latest Proton Saga makes its way to South Africa to compete in the budget car segment. A contrast to the flagship X50 and X70 models, the Saga aims to offer value and also compete in the evergreen budget car segment. If you're curious about the other Proton models on offer, my colleague Sean Nurse has tested the X50 and X70.
Related: Proton Motors is back in South Africa : X50 and X70 First Drive Review
The Saga continues.
The Saga nameplate has been around in Malaysia, Proton's home country, and some other markets for just over 3 decades. At a starting price of R199 900 for the 1.3 Manual variant, it's clear that the Saga is hot on the heels of the Suzuki DZire, South Africa's most affordable sedan at the moment. The Saga is youthfully styled with a sporty front and rear end even wrapping off with a ducktail spoiler. Inside, matters aren't complicated with a simple dashboard and centre stack arrangement. You also get a 4 out of 5-star safety rating. The Proton Saga as we can see currently is a back-to-basics sedan that can attract small families looking to buy a small runabout, students needing a first car, rental fleet and even eHailing services.
The 1.3-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine found across the Saga range produces 70 kW and 120 Nm. You'll have 3 variants to choose from, namely the Standard Manual, Standard Automatic and Premium Automatic. The Premium variant will net you a 7-inch touchscreen, daytime running lights, steering wheel audio controls, 4 speakers, a reverse camera and front parking sensors. However, the other variants aren't spartan and will give you what you need. Features like aircon, electric windows, radio with speakers and even rear parking sensors are found in the South African models. The Saga comes with a 5-year /150 000km warranty, service plan options are available and there's a 5-year roadside assistance plan. Rest assured motoring with the Proton Saga.
Pricing
| Proton Saga 1.3 Standard Manual | from R199 900 |
| Proton Saga 1.3 Standard Automatic | from R219 900 |
| Proton Saga 1.3 Premium Automatic | from R239 900 |
We're quite keen to try this vehicle out! If you're keen on a Proton Saga and want to sell your current car quick and easy, consider trying out our Instant Offer tool.
