Is the Geely Binrui (Proton S50) a worthy successor to the Proton Preve?

A couple of years ago, Proton registered several trademarks, including one curiously-named S50, fueling speculations that a Proton Preve replacement model based on the Geely Binrui could happen.

The S designation would be logical for Proton to rename their next-generation sedans, as Proton did utilize the S16 name for the Saga BLM in Australia.

Although the C-segment sedan market is shrinking, many government fleets still require a C-segment sedan – the police force have resorted to the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla Altis.

As a local car company, Proton still needs to provide a C-segment sedan for the government’s fleet.

To recap, the Geely Binrui is a C-segment sedan that was introduced in China back in 2018.

Power is derived from a 1.0-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder petrol engine that does 136 PS at 6,000 rpm and 205 Nm from 2,000 rpm to 3,000 rpm. Transmission options include a 6-speed manual and 6-speed wet-type dual-clutch automatic.

Dimensions wise, this BMA-based C-segment sedan is 4,680 mm long, 1,785 mm wide, and 1,460 mm tall. Wheelbase is 2,670 mm.

Like recent Geely models, safety of the Binrui is top-notch, putting it in-line with Honda Sensing, Toyota Safety Sense, and Mazda i-ActivSense.

If the Proton S50 does come to fruition, could it sway you away from the upcoming Geely Binyue-based Proton X50?