Malaysia - Proton Saga 3 gets ready to take on Honda City [Leaked]

To be based on the Iriz's platform.

What appears to be the first leaked image of the Proton Saga 3 sedan which is under development, has found its way on the internet. The image was uploaded by rendering artist Theophilus Chin on his Facebook page.

Earlier, Proton's chairman and former Malaysian prime minister, Dr. Mahathir Mohamad, stated that the development of the third generation Saga sedan is being fast tracked and the car could be ready as early as 2015. The leaked image suggests that Proton has finalized the design.

The front fascia gets a chrome lined grille, peeled back headlamps and LED daytime running lights in the foglight enclosures. In profile the sedan features a bold crease and the silhouette resembles that of its main rival, the Honda City.

The Saga 3 is expected to based on the new platform that underpins the newly launched Iriz hatchback. The Iriz is the Malaysian automaker's first global model and its sedan sibling could also have overseas markets on its wishlist.

The next gen sedan is said to move upmarket and its safe to assume that it will inherit the Iriz's powertrain lineup. The hatchback's 1.3-litre petrol unit is capable of 93.8 bhp (70 KW) and 120 Nm of torque while the range-topping 1.6-litre petrol unit produces 107.2 bhp (80 KW) and 150 Nm of torque. Both motors come mated either to a 5-speed MT or a CVT.

The equipment list on the top-end variant would include a touchscreen multimedia infotainment system, ABS, multiple airbags, ESP, traction control, Hill Hold Assist and so on.

Also read: Proton Iriz to get Euro 5 engine for international markets

The leaked image also has 'July' written on the bottom which could be giving away the possible timeframe for the launch.

Competitors: Honda City, VW Vento

[Source: Facebook]