New 2021 Proton Iriz – Active variant and everything else you need to know

Seeing that the number of spyshots of the upcoming 2021 Proton Iriz have been steadily increasing over the past couple of weeks, it’s not surprising that the launch of Proton’s B-segment hatchback is just around the corner.

Let’s take a closer look at the upcoming 2021 Proton Iriz

1. Will the CVT still be around?

First things first.

Proton is well aware of shortcomings of the Punch-sourced CVT-type automatic transmission.

As such, it is not too far-fetched to say that the Iriz (and the Persona) will drop the CVT-type automatic in favour of the Hyundai-sourced four-speed torque converter automatic transmission. The four-speeder was first fitted to the 2019 Proton Saga.

Update: The Punch-sourced CVT-type automatic will likely continue to be offered in the new 2021 Proton Iriz, albeit with further enhancements including a new transmission control unit (TCU). The enhanced TCU is said to improve driveability and responsiveness.

Also Read: Wait, no 4AT? 2021 Proton Iriz and Proton Persona MC2 might retain Punch CVT

2. Wait, there won’t be a new generation Iriz?

Nope.

Long story short, developing an entirely new platform isn’t cheap.

Back then, Proton invested roughly RM 300 million to develop the Proton Iriz – a rather substantial amount, considering that the Iriz was a brand-new model for Proton. Everything had to be developed from the ground-up.

Even rebadging a Geely model isn’t feasible, as Geely does not have a BMA-based B-segment hatchback to begin with. Small cars just aren't Geely's forte.

Also Read: Proton Iriz – 7 years later, still no replacement?

3. You said Iriz Active? What’s that?

Ever since the first spyshots of the SUV-inspired Proton Iriz emerged, the media was quick to call it the Iriz Active, and for a good reason.

Back in 2014, Proton showcased the Proton Iriz Active Concept. Featuring SUV-style cladding and roof rails, plus a two-tone paint job, the jacked up Iriz rides 30 mm higher than the regular Iriz.

Further lending credence to that notion is the fact that Proton applied for a patent filing for the Iriz Active name back in 2014, which could very likely be applied to the jacked-up Iriz seen here.

Also Read: Leaked! Proton Persona MC2 facelift and Proton Iriz Active revealed days before launch

4. Apart from the Iriz Active, will there be additional variants?

Apart from the tall-riding Iriz Active, Proton is said to be introducing an R3 version of the little hatchback.

Don’t get your hopes up too high for a hot hatch version, however, as the Iriz R3 Edition is most likely a cosmetics job. Judging from the LED daytime running lights (DRLs), the Iriz R3 Edition could be based on the range-topping Iriz 1.6 Premium variant.

Also Read: 2021 Proton Iriz & Saga R3 Limited Edition, Persona & Exora Black Edition launched in Malaysia

5. When is it coming?

If all goes as plan, Proton could introduce the updated Iriz as soon as February. That said, with the ongoing Covid-19 pandemic current wreaking havoc on the automotive industry, the updated Iriz’s debut could be delayed to April.

Update: Proton will be launching the new and improved Proton Iriz later this week.

Also Read: 2021 Proton Persona and Proton Iriz facelift MC2 launching 5-August!

6. Will there be more safety equipment?

There is a good chance that Proton has improved the Iriz’s safety features, as the B-segment hatchback was awarded with a 5-star rating by ASEAN NCAP under the new 2017 – 2020 protocol.

A quick recap: in order for a car to score a 5-star rating under the new 2017 – 2020 protocol, it must be equipped with some form of advanced driver assistance features, be it autonomous braking or blind spot warning.

As such, all signs seem to point to the fact that Proton has fitted the Iriz with some these features – hopefully putting it on par with the Perodua Myvi.

7. What other new features will the Proton Iriz get?

Recent leaks have shown that the upcoming Proton Iriz will get a host of new features, like LED headlights, voice command-enabled air-conditioning system and power windows, as well as a new floating-style infotainment system. 

Take note however, that these features are most likely reserved for upper variants of the new Iriz.

Also Read: Detailed specs of 2021 Proton Iriz facelift (MC2) leaked ahead of launch

8. Should I get this over the Perodua Myvi?

Tough question, this.

If you are looking for a fuss-free, point-A-to-point-B car, then there’s little to fault the Perodua Myvi. Sure, the seats lack support and comfort isn’t the Myvi’s strongpoint, but for the bulk of car buyers in Malaysia, the Myvi serves its purpose really well. 

Keep in mind that the Myvi is also more spacious and offers more practical features like safety handbag hook and a built-in Smart Tag reader. 

However, apart from the nasty CVT, the Iriz offers a much better ride comfort and handling the Perodua Myvi. The steering is nicely weighted, while Proton's engineers have done a swell job fine-tuning the Iriz's ride and handling.