Proton Satria Neo was reviewed by JayEmm of the UK on Cars – questioning if it is “the least interesting car for young people?”
Proton Satria Neo production may have ended again 2015but Jeremy from JayEmm on Car recently evaluated the three-door hatchback to find out if it was “the least interesting car for young people?”
The Satria Neo first sold in the UK – where JayEmm on Car based – in 2007, and this particular example was lent to Jeremy by Thomas, a 24-year-old student, who bought it to use while his diesel-powered MINI was being sorted .
Thomas was apparently given £1,500 (RM8,229) to buy a car, but instead of choosing mass-market options like the Ford Fiesta or the Nissan Micra, he chose the Satria Neo because he was take a year of college to make money. some money to continue his education – going with the most sensible option is clearly his priority.
He ends up getting a basic Satria Neo 1.3 GSX, which Jeremy gets behind the wheel to find out if Thomas is “totally deceiving himself”. The Cliff Notes version of Jeremy’s discoveries includes an attractive front end, but beyond that, the car is described as a cross between the sixth-generation Fiesta and the MG ZR.
The interior also failed to impress reviewers, who called it “low rent” and not a fan of the power window switch awkwardly placed next to the handbrake. Jeremy also lamented the lack of interior space inside the cabin, including those trying to fit in the rear seats.
As for driving impressions, the CamPro’s 1.3-liter naturally aspirated 4-cylinder engine delivers only 94 hp and 120 Nm of torque, which isn’t impressive either, but the transmission 5-level floor has done, is one of the strong points of the car.
Another positive is the car’s handling when you’re looking for a bit of fun, as the steering has a good sense of balance and adjustability. MacPherson struts up front and multi-link rear suspension, while “too stiff”, are pretty good for spirited driving and revs are pretty decent as well.
However, Jeremy gives a few negatives about the Satria Neo at the end of his review, saying that the car, given its engine power, is difficult to achieve 40 mpg (17 km/l). Spare parts have also been hard to find since Proton dealers vacated in the UK about five years ago. These days, he says you can find a Satria Neo – with a MOT certificate – for under £600 (RM3,290).
There’s a lot more that was said in the 15-minute review that we didn’t cover, so if you have some free time you can check out the other things Jeremy mentioned. To the current or previous owner, is his review a reflection of your owning experience? Let us know what you think in the comments section below.
