Another week, another hatchback. This week, we’re taking an in-depth look at the 2019 Proton Iriz 1.6L Premium.

Driving Performance - 31.5/50 pts, great handling

The CVT is the weakling here as it isn’t smooth from standstill starts. Depending on the timing of throttle application or road incline, the Proton Iriz 1.6L Premium lurches forward at times. Once on the move, it responds reasonably quick.

Straight-line performance is commendable, quicker than the 120 PS Honda Jazz which completed the century sprint in 11.8 seconds.

Steering is well-weighted with decent feedback. It handles reassuringly, providing drivers the confidence to take corners in a spirited manner.

Ride Comfort - 34/50 pts, excellent suspension tuning

The suspension strikes a fine balance between handling and comfort. It settles quickly over bumps and copes with any undulation thrown at it.

The front seats are supportive, particularly the side bolsters as they hug the body comfortably in place. The seat base is of decent length, providing good thigh support.

Noise level is acceptable for the price range. At 110 km/h, the sound level meter recorded an average of 70 dB.

Quality and Features - 31.5/50 pts, slick-to-use infotainment system

Panel gaps deviated by no more than 1 mm from each side, with no outliers. This would indicate about average build quality. Paint thickness consistently averaged in the 100s of µm.

Interior build quality is acceptable for its price. Selection of material is rather decent, without noticeable sharp edges or rough panels.

Infotainment system operates smoothly and display is crisp. Voice command and online connectivity are a bonus.

Space and Practicality - 29.5/50 pts, good forward visibility

Kneeroom and headroom at the rear are decent, although not quite as spacious as the Perodua Myvi. Large bottles won’t fit in the door bins but there are several cup spaces on the centre console.

Fuel Consumption – 10/20 pts, not that great in the city

After 112.1 km broken down to about 70% city and 30% highway, we’ve used 9.38 litres of fuel which translates to 8.36-litre/100 km.

With more highway driving, we reckon we could get the figure down to around 7-litre/100 km. But that would still be slightly higher than most B-segment hatchbacks.

Purchase and Cost – 23.5/30, relatively high fuel cost

At RM 50,700 (OTR with SST), the Proton Iriz 1.6L Premium offers good value for money. Due to the above average fuel consumption, fuel cost is on the higher side but maintenance cost is reasonable, with an estimated cost at RM 3,052 over the course of 5 years/100,000 km.

To wrap up, the Proton Iriz 1.6L Premium drives well, with excellent suspension tuning that balances comfort and handling superbly. Plus, it has a decent infotainment system.

Downside is the transmission isn’t the best in business and fuel consumption can be on the higher side depending on driving conditions. But for those who love driving, the Proton Iriz is a great choice.