Proton has announced the arrival of the all-new Saga on South African shores, the first of two sedans the company has planned for a local introduction after its re-entry into the market in 2022.
Three specifications of the Saga can be had from a starting price of R199,900making the Proton the second-cheapest car in its segment.
Saga specs
The new Proton is offered in two equipment lines namely Standard and Premium, each one driven by the same engine.
Across the range, buyers can expect a multi-information driver’s display, central locking, electric windows, fabric seats, manual aircon, an ECO assist drive mode, rear parking sensors, and a radio with Bluetooth connectivity and two speakers.
Two front airbags and ABS with brake assist are equipped, too, scoring the car a 4-star Asean NCAP safety rating.
If you get the Standard model with an automatic transmission, it will also come with hill-hold assist, electronic stability and traction control, and 14-inch alloys to replace the steel wheels with plastic covers on the base version.
Upgrading to the Premium then adds LED daytime running lights, a multifunction steering wheel, a reverse camera, front parking sensors, and a 7-inch central touchscreen with two more speakers for a total of four.
In front, each new Saga is driven by a 1.3-litre petrol motor with an output of 70kW and 120Nm, which can be paired with either a five-speed manual or four-speed automatic gearbox in the entry-level Standard, while the top-of-the-line Premium is only offered in auto.
Pricing
The South African pricing and model line-up for the new Proton Saga are as follows:
- Proton Saga Standard – R199,900
- Proton Saga Standard Auto – R219,900
- Proton Saga Premium Auto – R239,900
These prices are accompanied by a 5-year/150,000km warranty with roadside assistance. Service plans can be purchased for an additional sum.
“The Proton Saga is now available at all 25 Proton dealerships across South Africa,” said Marius Smal, managing director of Proton South Africa.
