Since the Proton-Geely partnership in 2017, we have witnessed two popular SUVs bearing the Proton badge - the Proton X70 and Proton X50. A third Geely-based model is due for 2021, and it is most likely the Proton X90, based on the Geely Haoyue, a 7-seater SUV.

We’ve talked about the Proton V70/Geely Jiaji as a viable candidate previously, but the agreement to purchase the Jiaji will lapse by 31-Dec 2020 and the MPV segment is a diminishing one.

With images of the Geely Haoyue at hand, we took the liberty of giving it Proton’s “infinite weave”, a new colour, and wheels from a Geely-owned brand. The results are what you see here.

The Proton X90/Geely Haoyue 7-seater SUV rivals the likes of the Mazda CX-8 and Hyundai Santa Fe.

The Proton X90 / Geely Haoyue boasts third-row seats that can fit a 190cm tall person, and that is something you could not say about most 7-seater SUV.

Bringing the Proton X90 / Geely Haoyue to the Malaysian market will not be a simple task with the obvious RHD conversion in the way.

In China, the Haoyue comes with a choice of two engines – the 1.5 TGDi used in the Proton X50, or the 1.8 TGDi used in the Proton X70, both mated to a 7-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission.

The Geely Haoyue / Proton X90 has a tougher look with more presence than both the X70 and X50. We think it looks good.

What are your thoughts on the Proton X90 / Geely Haoyue?