First launched in 2018, the Proton X70 has received 2 major updates in its lifecycle - the first in 2020 when the CKD version was launched with a new 7-speed DCT transmission, and earlier in 2022 when it received the X50's 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder engine in all but the uppermost variant.
Though very popular, certain complaints of part shortages and gearbox malfunctions have marred the otherwise good reputation of the Proton X70. This should raise even more concern if you're looking for one used – just a bad idea, or does a used Proton X70 deserve a second thought?
Launched in December 2018, the Proton X70 was offered in four CBU variants, priced as follows:
Under the hood, the X70 featured a turbocharged 1.8-litre four-cylinder which delivered 184 PS and 285 Nm of torque, mated to a 6-speed automatic transmission.
In addition to an impressive feature list, the CBU X70 also featured a suite of ADAS assistance features in the uppermost Premium variant which include Forward Collision Warning (FCW), Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC), Lane Departure Warning (LDW) and Blind Spot Monitoring system.
The CKD X70, launched in 2020, offered a further RM 1k and RM 5k drop in prices, whilst the new Premium 2WD variant replaced the previous Executive AWD variant that garnered dismal demand in Malaysia. Prices were as follows:
Also read: 2020 Proton X70 CKD launched - Up in features, down in price, from RM 94k
The main highlight of the 2020 X70 CKD is a 7-speed wet-type dual-clutch transmission (DCT), operated by a new shift-by-wire gear lever, which replaced the CBU X70's 6-speed automatic transmission.
Also read: 2020 Proton X70 CKD - 4 variants, which is the best to buy?
Additionally, the X70 CKD received the updated ‘Generation 3’ version of the 1.8-litre TGDi turbocharged petrol engine, which discharged 184 PS (as before), but 15 Nm more torque, at 300 Nm, courtesy of upgraded engine internals.
The Proton X70 subsequently got another update in 2022. The biggest change comes from under the hood, where the 2022 X70 received the X50's turbocharged 1.5-litre, 3-cylinder petrol engine in all variants except the range-topping 1.8 TGDi Premium, which retains the more powerful 1.8-litre turbo four-pot.
Also read: New 2022 Proton X70 MC launched in Malaysia, new 1.5 TGDi, priced from RM 94k
The 2022 X70 also saw the return of the Executive AWD variant, priced at RM 113k which was previously dropped from the 2020 CKD X70 range.
Prices for used 2018 – 2020 CBU X70 units start at approximately RM 75k and rise to just over RM 95k depending on variant and condition.
The 2020 CKD X70 models start a bit higher, at just over RM 84k, with the best examples from Carsome just surpassing the RM 100k mark.
At current prices, a used Proton X70 is a notable alternative to an older Japanese SUV - for instance, for RM 75k – RM 90k you could get a used 2018 - 2020 Proton X70 or a 2016/17 Honda CR-V (from the previous generation).
Prospective buyers also get a relatively new car for 20 - 30 percent cheaper, a majority of which, still benefit from the manufacturer's warranty.
Here’s a shortlist of the basic running costs between the X70 Standard and Premium variants:
2020 Proton X70 CKD basic costs | ||
---|---|---|
Variant | Standard | Premium |
Road tax (RM) | 280 | |
Tyre size | 225/65R17 | 225/55R19 |
Tyres/pc (RM) | 420 - 600 | 750 - 920 |
Battery (DIN 74) | 450 - 600 |
Given all used Proton X70s are less than 5 years old, a complete manufacturer service history is a must-have.
In terms of the used X70, the make-or-break decision would be the transmission, or more pertinently, the maintenance that comes with it - do you prefer the relative simplicity of the 6-speed automatic or the efficiency of the 7-speed DCT?
Though it's worth noting that the periodic maintenance cost of the Proton X70 is reasonable. The most expensive bill within the first 100k km of mileage is incurred at the 60k km mark, with that major service costing approximately RM 1,100.
Also read: Proton X70 - Is it expensive to maintain?
Here’s a simplified table of the basic maintenance schedule of a Proton X70:
Proton X70 CKD maintenance costs | ||
---|---|---|
Maintenance / Interval | Items | Cost (RM) |
Oil change / 10k km | Engine oil, filter and drain plug washer | 250 |
Air filter / 20k km | Engine air filter | 60 |
Cabin filter / 20k km | N95 cabin filter | 100 |
Fuel filter / 20k km | Replacement fuel filter | 25 |
Brake service / 60k km | Brake fluid | 50 |
Transmission service / 60k km | ATF oil and filter | 350 |
Coolant / 60k km | Coolant | 100 |
Spark plugs / 20k km | Replace spark plugs | 110 |
With that said, the elephant in the room is the numerous complaints from owners about the reliability of the gearbox and the shortage of replacement parts.
To be transparent, whilst the part shortage is a very real and current issue, we cannot ignore the thousands of owners that have also had great ownership experiences with the X70.
With that covered, here are a few common problems that owners should be aware of when purchasing a used Proton X70:
Proton X70 common problems | ||
---|---|---|
Part | Symptoms | Cost (RM) |
Main cooling fan | Noisy operation, AC not cold, car overheating | 750 |
Engine mounts | Engine vibration | 1,500 |
Front absorber | Suspension noise/bumpy ride | 650 |
Door lever | Broken door lever | 300 |
Torque converter (CBU X70) | Jerky gearchanges, transmission judder in 4th/5th gear | 3,000 (Ori) |
There are documented cases of premature malfunction of the 6-speed auto's torque converter which costs approximately RM 3k to repair at a service centre.
Do note, we did not include DCT transmission faults for the X70 CKD models.
Given all X70 with DCTs transmissions are less than 2 years old and still covered by Proton's 5-year/unlimited mileage warranty, there is a lack of independently verifiable data to determine the actual causes of faults and the repair costs involved.
Also read: New 2022 Proton X70 MC launched in Malaysia, new 1.5 TGDi, priced from RM 94k
Most owner complaints revolve around jerky response when setting off in traffic, and when shifting between 1st / 2nd gear - so watch out for these symptoms when test driving an X70 CKD.
Likewise, owners advise that performing a transmission adaptation/relearning which in most cases, sorts out the issue, as well as prompt transmission service to further ensure reliable and smooth performance.
Also read: Here’s how you care for your DCT-equipped Proton X50
Whilst there's no doubt it's a superbly designed SUV with performance, comfort and safety to boot, through no fault of its own, is hampered by part shortages and growing impatience from owners that are left in the lurch without solutions to their problems.
On the flip side, given current prices, perhaps a Proton X70 offers even better value after a few years - with the heaviest years of depreciation done and dusted, and a vast array of low-mileage examples on sale, you'd be hard-pressed to find more bang for your buck in today's market.
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