In Brief: Proton Persona 2019, affordability is the game

(Proton Persona 2019 Model | Gallery)

The Proton Persona 2019 is a B-segment sedan that was introduced in Malaysia in 2016, while the updated model you see here was launched earlier this year. It gets Proton's latest design language, incorporating the Infinite Weave grille motif and Ethereal Bow grille. The styling updates also include a new front bumper, new wheels, and a revised rear bumper.

Proton has also given the range-topping Proton Persona 2019 1.6 Premium the 'Hi Proton' voice command infotainment system, similar to the Proton X70. However, unlike the X70's infotainment system that is able to control, among others; the windows, air-conditioning, and sunroof; the one in the new Proton Persona 2019 is limited to music, navigation, and weather forecast.

What is the price of Proton Persona 2019?

Prices start from RM 42,600 for the Standard 1.6 Manual variant. Moving up the ladder is the Standard 1.6 CVT, which retails for RM 44,600, before topping out at RM 54,600 for the 1.6 Premium CVT.

That’s considerably less than the Honda City (from RM 73,836 to RM 92,172) and the Toyota Vios (from RM 77,200 to RM 87,300).

Considering that the range-topping 1.6 Premium CVT is the only variant to offer 6 airbags, it's the only one worth recommending. However, if you're a fan of shifting gears yourself, the 1.6 Standard Manual variant is a viable option, as it remains as Proton's sole 1.6-litre model to be offered with a stick shift. 

Proton Persona 2019 Pros and Cons

When it comes to the Proton Persona 2019, its key selling point is affordability. The top spec Proton Persona 2019 1.6 Premium is priced below the RM 60,000 mark, making it much cheaper than any of its segment rivals

In terms of safety, only the top spec Proton Persona 2019 gets the full suite of 6 airbags; lesser variants only get 2 airbags up front. Despite that, all variants of the Proton Persona 2019 get electronic stability control, traction control, ABS with EBD, Brake Assist, and Hill Hold Assist (HHA). 

Although Proton has done substantial work to the Proton Persona 2019's Punch-sourced CVT-type automatic transmission, overall refinement of the powertrain still falls behind the competition, as the automatic transmission still suffers from the dreaded rubber-banding effect and does get rather noisy when given the beans.

With that said, the Proton Persona 2019 does excel in terms of ride comfort and handling. Couple that with 6 airbags, stability control, traction control, and a rigid body shell, the Proton Persona 2019 is an excellent choice for those who values safety.

At its RM 54,600 price point, the Proton Persona 2019 is a really good value for money option for those who seek an affordable, yet feature-packed sedan. The icing on the cake is Proton's wide range of dealer network, as the company now has more than 102 dealers across the nation. 

What Are The Alternatives of Proton Persona 2019

Considering its price point of RM 42,600 to RM 54,600, the Proton Persona 2019 has no direct rival in terms of pricing. 

However, these two alternatives are worth considering if you're shopping for the Proton Persona 2019.