Proton has introduced its latest variant to the Satria Neo line up and this one has been put together by Proton’s Motorsports Division under the Race, Rally Research (R3) brand name.
The car is distinctively recognizable thanks to its striking Fired Red exterior with a black painted roof as well a all-round CPS bodykit. The kit includes an R3 designed rear roof spoiler, a front lip for improved down force, titanium coloured side strips, and a more aggressive stance as the car now sits 10mm lower than the standard car.
Overall ride and handling has also been improved with the use of specially-designed R3 performance springs for reduced body roll; recalibrated alignment, toe and camber settings for more grip and steering precision; and R3 edition 16″ gunmetal lightweight-alloys wrapped in softer compound Bridgestone Potenza RE001R 205/45.
Inside, the R3 Satria Neo features a sporty, yet classy and alluring matte red and black two-tone interior. R3 limited edition front bucket seats wrapped in nappa leather with ‘Trivel’ finish, carbon effect PVC and red stitching replaces the standard seats. The red theme is also used inside with the use of matte red dashboard trims, gear console and handbrake handle, two-tone door trims, R3 floor carpets, an engine start button, aluminium foot pedals and gear knob.
The new Satria Neo R3 is powered by the tried and tested 1600cc CAMPRO CPS engine but with uprated performance thanks to Stage 2 performance upgrades for a greater dose of excitement. The performance kit sees power figures go up to 145bhp at 7000rpm and 168Nm of torque at 5000rpm, the standard car puts out 125bhp and 150Nm of torque. The power is deliver to the front wheels via a close ratio 5-speed manual transmission.
Safety features built into the car include high performance brake pads capable of withstanding high-temperatures of up to 400 degree Celsius for increased fade resistance often associated with constant heavy braking; dual front airbags, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The car also comes fitted with Ecotint solar and security protection, and a 2-DIN audio head unit with 3D GPS navigation.
The R3 Satria Neo is priced at RM79,797 on-the-road inclusive of road tax and insurance, and can be viewed at Proton Edar’s Crystal showroom at the Proton Centre of Excellence, Shah Alam and any of the three Platinum showrooms located at Mutiara Damansara, Juru and Plentong.
Bookings can be made immediately at any of Proton Edar’s 23 sales branches throughout Peninsular Malaysia with a fee of RM2,000 and purchasers can expect the car delivered to them within four weeks of obtaining loan approval.
