Proton Satria Neo – Now Powered by Campro CPS

Arguably, the best known model Proton has ever made thanks in part to the iconic Satria 1.8 GTI, the Proton Satria Neo CPS hopes to rekindle the spirit of performance that the GTI provided to many driving enthusiast.

Proton’s very own 1.6-liter Campro CPS engine is finally powering the Satria Neo, something many have been looking forward to. The engine utilizes two ingenious technologies, CPS (Cam Profile Shifting) and VIM (Variable Intake Manifold technology) to give higher power outputs and rapid response whilst maintaining fuel efficiency.

These two technologies give the best of both worlds by combining the characteristics of two different engines in one compact package. The usual reduction in torque caused by high-lift cams is offset by the long intake runner, whilst the short runner works by helping the engine generate more power at high speeds. All this translates to 120hp@6500rpm and 150Nm@4500rpm, making it the most powerful engines in its segment. The Satria Neo CPS also meets latest European emission regulations.

 In a move to improve handling, the Satria Neo CPS now features a wider rear track (1483mm) and a narrower front track (1467mm) compared to the 1470mm front and rear track of the outgoing model. According to sources, this was done to improve handling by increasing understeer and reducing oversteer – something that the outgoing model often evoked.On the inside, the Satria Neo CPS features the same old dash but upholstery is enhanced with a sporty red and black leather and door inserts. The interior finishing is further enhanced by a new leather wrapped steering wheel and gear knob.

 The Satria Neo CPS also proudly features that now familiar Lotus tuned ride and handling package that makes for an exciting drive for the driving enthusiast. All round disc brakes with ABS and EBD ensure that everything remains under control at all times.
 The CPS engine is only available for the H-line model which features the body kit you see above and the regular Lite and M-line models retain the regular but older Campro engine. The Satrio Neo CPS comes in two exclusive colours; solid white and tranquility black and retails RM57,313 for the solid white manual and RM57,763 for the tranquility black. The automatics are priced at RM60,313 for solid white and RM60,763 for tranquility black.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X Not Dead Yet, Will Live Through 2015: Report

The demise of Mitsubishi’s beloved, but lately bloated, Lancer Evolution line has been expected by enthusiasts for years now. Most recently, it was rumored that 2014 would be the final run for the Evolution X. But that may not be the case after all.

A report from AutoGuide quoting Mitsubishi Motors North America representative Amanda Savercool says the Evo X will be sold through the 2015 model year, with production of those cars beginning in July 2014.

As far back as 2011, rumors of the impending exit of the Lancer Evolution from the Mitsubishi range have circulated, with concerns over gas mileage, emissions, and the ever-growing expense of the car pushing it farther and farther from relevance in Mitsubishi’s product range.

Contrasting with rumors of its cancellation was talk that the Evo might instead turn into a sort of hybrid sports car, addressing the gas mileage and emissions concerns at the expense of an even more costly build.

Whatever the future holds for the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, however, enthusiasts can be glad of another year’s production and availability of the current tenth-generation car.

Specification of Neo

The new model pairs the familiar 125 hp/150 Nm 1.6 litre Campro CPS engine with a four-speed auto gearbox. It gets 16-inch R3 alloys covered in 195/50 Continental MC5 tyres, front fog lamps, body-coloured side mouldings and an R3 bodykit comprising side skirts, a tailgate spoiler and extended wheel arches (no R3 front splitter, though).

Exterior-wise then, it’s closer to the circa-RM60k Satria Neo R3 than the RM51k Satria Neo Standard MT, which is shod with 15-inch steel rims/wheel covers and has no R3 bits nor front fog lamps. We can see unpainted wing mirrors, though.

Inside, there’s a standard single-DIN radio with CD, MP3, USB and Bluetooth, plus fabric seats. Safety kit? Dual front airbags, ABS, EBD and disc brakes all round – status quo.

The Proton Satria Neo Standard 4AT is priced from RM54,514 (solid) and RM54,964 (metallic), OTR with insurance. Offered is a two-year or 50,000-km warranty. As for colours, GTi Silver, Tranquility Black, Solid White and Fire Red colours are available.