Spied: Is this Proton X70 powered by the X50’s 1.5T engine?

A spyshot posted by Careta seems to hint that development work for the updated 2022 Proton X70 is well underway, as it will be getting a new engine next year.

Out goes the turbocharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine, as it will make way for the Proton X50’s smaller 1.5-litre three-cylinder unit.

Also Read: New 2022 Proton X70 to launch with X50's 1.5 turbo engine, 177 PS and 255 Nm

The current X70's 1.8-litre engine does 184 PS and 300 Nm, while the newer 1.5-litre engine does 177 PS and 255 Nm. Compared to the larger engine, the smaller unit is down 7 PS and 45 Nm.

Also Read: First CKD Pakistan Proton Saga rolls off production line, X70 to follow suit

At a glance, it doesn’t look like there will be any noticeable changes, at least from the rear view of this C-segment SUV. The rear bumper and tail light designs appear to be the same as the outgoing X70, with tape covering the upper and lower trim pieces.

Also Read: Review: Proton X70 Premium X - Is there a better SUV for the money?

According to sources familiar with the matter, the new 1.5-litre Proton X70 will most likely launch in mid-2022.

Here's why: the locally-assembled (CKD) Proton X70 was launched back in February 2020 and assuming a 2.5-year lifecycle before the facelift arrives, mid-2022 is the most logical time frame for the arrival of the updated X70.

The 7-speed dual-clutch transmission should remain unchanged from before, with drive most likely routed to the front wheels.