Proton Persona

Proton's B-segment sedan 2021 Proton Persona that is derived from the Proton Iriz. It offers buyers an alternative to the Toyota Vios and Honda City at with more affordable price tag. Like all Protons, it has excellent ride and handling, its biggest letdown would be the CVT. (New 2020 Perodua Bezza vs 2019 Proton Persona – Is bigger always better?)

2021 Proton Persona Gallery

Design

Since the Persona is based on the Iriz, they share many design cues but apart from the obvious, they can be differentiated from the front bumper and exterior trim colours for the 2021 facelifted Proton Persona.

Dimensions

Dimensions wise, it is shorter than both the Honda City and Toyota Vios, although the wheelbase is similar. The Persona is by far the tallest among them and it's apparent in the flesh.

Dashboard

There's a new floating-style infotainment display with upgraded “Hi Proton” voice command that now controls the power windows and air-conditioning.

Speaking of air-conditioning, the controls have become digital, and there's 3 USB ports underneath it.

Space and Practicality

Interior space is decent, headroom is generous given the height of the car and knee room is acceptable for its segment.

2021 Proton Persona Specs and Features

Infotainment

As mentioned earlier, the updated infotainment system allows voice commands to adjust temperature and windows, though this feature is limited to the Premium variant only.

No Apple CarPlay and Android Auto but there is MirrorLink for your smartphones and of course, Bluetooth. 

Comfort Features

Executive and Premium variants get keyless entry, push start button, remote boot release, automatic headlamps, and 2 USB chargers at the rear. The Premium variant get LED headlamps and leatherette seats.

Safety Features

Safety features include stability and traction control standard across all variants while the Premium variant gets 6 airbags.

Engine

An ageing powertrain, the 1.6-litre VVT engine making 109 PS and 150 Nm of torque that is paired to a CVT, is carried over from before. However, the characteristics of the CVT is said to be altered.

View the Proton Persona Review

Acceleration

Given that the powertrain is largely unchanged, we expect the performance figures to be similar from before. The 2019 Persona completed the 0-100 km/h sprint in 11.7 seconds, while 100-0 km/h braking distance took 45.5 meters.

In comparison, the Toyota Vios did the century sprint in 12.7 seconds and stopped in 45.0 meters.

Steering and Handling

Handling is excellent as expected from a Proton. Body roll is well contained despite its tall body, which boosts confidence on highways with sweeping bends.

Passenger Comfort

Where suspension is concerned, the balance between pliancy and handling is spot on. Undulations are quickly sorted out and doesn’t get jolted over potholes and rough patches.

Sound Proofing

Sound insulation is about average; reasonable at city speeds but above that tyre, wind and powertrain noise become intrusive.

Fuel Consumption

Fuel consumption is also expected to be similar to before. In mixed conditions, the Persona achieved 8.4-litre/100 km. Compared to the Toyota Vios’ 6.8-litre/100 km, it’s rather poor.

While the Persona may not be as refined or as fuel efficient as the Japanese, its asking price is considerably lower whilst maintaining good equipment level. If budget is tight and a sedan is required, the Persona check all the boxes. (New 2020 Perodua Bezza vs Proton Saga vs Proton Persona – A bigger option for the same price?)