The Proton S70 has just been launched in Malaysia with four variants on offer: Executive, Premium, Flagship, and Flagship X. We're particularly intrigued by the entry-level Executive variant, which starts from RM 73,800.

So, what do you get when you opt for the most affordable S70 variant? Let's explore the features and compromises that come with the Proton S70 Executive.

In terms of aesthetics, the Executive variant offers a choice between two colours – Space Grey and Snow White. However, some concessions are made in the lighting department, trading the automatic LED headlights for manual halogen units.

Despite this, the projector-based halogens maintain a level of sophistication, accompanied by dash-patterned daytime running lights.

Also read: Priced from RM 74k, the Proton S70 launches in Malaysia; 1.5T 3cyl, Level 2 ADAS

Moving to the rear, the Executive variant misses out on the attention-grabbing rear taillight bar present in its pricier counterparts. Nevertheless, it retains LED rear light units with identical graphics, ensuring a cohesive design across the lineup.

The wheel size also takes a slight hit, featuring smaller 16-inch alloys compared to the 17-inch counterparts in the Flagship and Flagship X variants.

Inside the cabin, the Proton S70 Executive still has an electric parking brake, rear air vents, and a total of seven USB ports.

In terms of features, it gets smart entry featuring a push-start button, remote engine start functionality, urethane steering wheel that is both tilt and telescopic adjustable, an 8.0-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Bluetooth, and a four-speaker audio system.

The analogue meter panel provides classic instrumentation, complemented by manual air-conditioning featuring an N95 cabin filter and rear vents. Seats are upholstered in fabric, and for added convenience, the auto-down power windows operate for all occupants.

Proton maintains a consistent powertrain across its S70 lineup. The entry-level variant is equipped with the same 1.5-litre turbocharged 3-cylinder MPI (port injection) engine, paired with a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission, producing 150 PS and 226 Nm.

Also read: Proton S70's powertrain-related questions: Why no direct injection engine, cheaper NA variant, and will there be a hybrid?

Safety wise, there's lane change assist, hill hold assist, rear collision warning, rear cross-traffic alert, and door opening warning. Passive safety features include six airbags and stability control with ABS, EBD and brake assist. There’s no reverse camera, only reverse sensors in the Executive variant.

Advanced driver-assistance systems (ADAS) including autonomous emergency braking, forward collision warning, adaptive cruise control with stop-and-go, intelligent cruise control, and lane departure warning, are absent in the Executive variant.

Also read: 2023 Proton S70 gets 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating but scores lower than Civic

To recap, here are the prices and variants of the Proton S70:

• 1.5 Executive - RM 73,800
• 1.5 Premium - RM 79,800
• 1.5 Flagship - RM 89,800
• 1.5 Flagship X - RM 94,800

*prices are on-the-road, without insurance

Also read: 1.2k bookings made for the Proton S70 but which is the most popular variant?