RM 18k cheaper but no direct injection, is the Proton X50 1.5T Executive better than the TGDI Flagship?

From the day it was launched, it's not exaggeration to say that the Proton X50 has been a runaway hit at the showrooms. Even now, more than a year on, waiting lists are said to be in the vicinity of around 6 months, whether you plump for the 1.5 TGDI Flagship, or the cheaper 1.5T Executive (the white car you see here). 

When it comes to getting the most car for your money, the obvious variant to go for would appear to be the X50 1.5 TGDI Flagship. A smidge of RM 100k, and you get all the toys that earns you bragging rights at the local pub. 

However, we at WapCar.my think that for the sensible, fuss-free buyer, the 1.5T Executive variant might make more sense in the real world and also save you some money in the process. So, with a RM 18k difference separating both variants, is the 1.5T Executive the better buy than the 1.5 TGDI Flagship? Time to find out. 

On paper - Do you really need so many toys? 

As you can probably tell, the RM 18k difference buys you a full ADAS suite, snazzier wheels, and a more powerful engine. But, if these things don't matter to you (and to some, it really won't), we'd argue that you're not missing out on much. No, really, hear us out. There are really solid reasons why the X50 1.5T Executive might be the pick of the range.

Also read: Your Proton X50's AEB won't work if you don't buckle up, says the Owner's Manual

It's more understated inside out

As you can tell from the pictures, the exterior of the X50 1.5 TGDI Flagship is the more exuberant of the two variants. Sure, the extra bits on the Flagship makes the X50 stand out more in a sea of traffic, but again, some prefer not to stand out but blend in. And on that end, the 1.5T Executive variant makes perfect sense. 

How? The 1.5T Executive variant is plainly (pun intended) more understated, and that appeals to a more mature crowd. Not every buyer wants to have a shouty black roof finish, and dual-tone alloy wheels. 

That rings true of the interior as well, because the X50 1.5 TGDI Flagship comes draped in rather conspicuous red leather on the dash and majority of the cabin as well. This is complemented by a fully-digital instrument cluster, 10.25-inch infotainment touchscreen, and automatic climate control, not to mention voice command at your disposal. 

However, if you're someone who doesn't gravitate to fancy features and grappling with new technology, then the X50 1.5T Executive is easier to get to grips with. Manual seats, manual air conditioning, and a traditional instrument cluster with proper dials. 

And yes, the X50 1.5T Executive also has a more understated, less shouty interior, if that's your thing. Sure, it can get slightly monotonous in here, with only some splashes of silver trim to lift an otherwise black and grey interior, but one will find little to complain here. 

And believe us, there are buyers out there who want exactly this sort of car. 

Also read: You can put some things on the Proton X50's roof but its owner's manual says you shouldn't

The 1.5T Executive is more comfortable and easier to live with

Having driven both variants for a stretch of time, it's quite clear that the X50 1.5 TGDI Flagship is the sharper variant to drive. Shod on 18-inch wheels (with more aggresive rubber), and possessing a gruntier engine, it responds to driver input in an eager manner, with the turbocharged direct injection powerplant an able ally. 

The drawback however, is that the ride comfort does take a hit. Of course, it's not something that you'd notice if you didn't try the X50 1.5T Executive. Again, in the real world, many would prioritise ride comfort over handling. And this is where the 1.5T Executive shines brightly. 

Riding on smaller 17-inch wheels, and employing comfort-biased tyres, it's clear where the priorities of the cheaper variant lie. The X50 Executive absorbs road imperfections with aplomb and nonchalance. On a day to day basis, this is the variant you'd wanna live with, of that we're confident.

Yes, there's no denying it's down on grunt compared to the 1.5 TGDI Flagship (it's down almost 30 PS and 30 Nm), and the turbocharged direct-injection unit is more responsive low down compared to the turbocharged MPI engine in the 1.5T Executive. Again, the Flagship's powerplant will appeal to those with a brick foot.

For majority of the time, under regular driving conditions, the MPI engine does 90% of what the TGDI brings to the table. It's still a very pleasing powerplant, with the turbocharged torque really making overtaking a simple exercise.

Plus, it's deceptively quiet and smooth too. And the calibration of the dual-clutch transmission is still one of the best anywhere, making real-world driving an effortless affair. What is not great however, is the fuel consumption. Below are our tested, real world figures, and it's obvious the TGDI unit is more fuel efficient, but it's not a day and night difference. Saving RM18k is.

Also read: Here’s how you care for your DCT-equipped Proton X50

WapCar's Opinion

On a personal level, I am a firm believer of buying any car in the highest specification it can come in. However, RM 18k is not an amount to be scoffed at. And let's be honest for a moment here, there are many buyers who probably will never use nor appreciate the extra RM 18k of features.

How do I know this? Well, I recently had a family member who bought a X50 1.5T Executive. Naturally, I questioned why not the 1.5 TGDI Flagship, as he could well afford it. His answer was that he didn't want the extra fripperies but liked the shape and SUV appeal of the X50. And yes, he also appreciated the traditional instrument panel, manual seats and manual A/C controls. Less things to confuse him, he says.

So far, he's nothing but happy with his purchase, and he does not miss any of the features in the Flagship. So, is there a case to be made for the X50 1.5T Executive? That it is probably the sweet spot of the Proton X50 range? From RM 18k less, it could well be.