Proton S70 Lite and Prime Debut Under RM60k
2026 Proton S70 Lite and Prime: New Sub-RM60,000 Variants with Naturally Aspirated Engine
Proton has expanded its 2026 S70 sedan lineup with the introduction of two new variants, the Lite and Prime. These models are powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) engine paired with a continuously variable transmission (CVT), a significant shift from the turbocharged powertrain used in existing S70 variants. The new additions are designed to make the S70 more accessible while retaining its existing ride and handling setup, with an estimated price below RM60,000.
Key Facts
| Attribute | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Proton |
| New Variants | S70 Lite and S70 Prime |
| Engine | 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) i-GT four-cylinder |
| Transmission | Continuously variable transmission (CVT) |
| Estimated Price | Below RM60,000 |
| Existing S70 MC1 Price | From RM68,800 |
| Booking Status | Open at authorised Proton dealers nationwide |
| Early-Bird Reward Deadline | 31 December 2026 |
| Official Launch Date | Not yet announced |
What Powertrain Do the Proton S70 Lite and Prime Use?
The new Proton S70 Lite and Prime use a naturally aspirated version of Proton's 1.5-litre i-GT four-cylinder engine, paired with a CVT. This marks a departure from the turbocharged 1.5-litre i-GT engine mated to a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission (7-DCT) found in the S70 MC1 launched earlier this year. Proton has yet to reveal the full specifications for the Lite and Prime, so the performance differences between the two powertrains are not known at this point.
The existing S70 MC1 range was launched in February, with prices starting from RM68,800. The estimated sub-RM60,000 price of the new variants therefore represents a sizeable reduction in the model's entry point.
The 2026 Proton S70 Lite and Prime are powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine with a CVT, a significant change from the turbocharged 7-DCT setup in the existing S70 MC1.
What Features Are Retained in the S70 Lite and Prime?
Despite their lower positioning, the S70 Lite and Prime will retain several features from the existing range. Both come with three selectable drive modes, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, an electric parking brake with auto brake hold, remote engine start, a reverse camera and a rear seat reminder. Safety equipment includes six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, as well as a rear-side radar system.
The rear-side radar system supports features including blind spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, door opening warning and rear collision warning, although equipment levels will differ between the Lite and Prime variants.
The S70 Lite and Prime retain key features such as six airbags, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, and a rear-side radar system supporting blind spot detection and rear cross traffic alert.
How Do the New S70 Variants Compare to the Existing Lineup?
The primary difference between the new S70 Lite and Prime and the existing lineup is the powertrain. The new variants use a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine with a CVT, while the S70 MC1 uses a turbocharged 1.5-litre engine with a 7-DCT. The new variants are also positioned at a lower price point, estimated below RM60,000, compared to the S70 MC1's starting price of RM68,800.
| Feature | S70 Lite & Prime | S70 MC1 |
|---|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L NA i-GT | 1.5L Turbo i-GT |
| Transmission | CVT | 7-DCT |
| Starting Price | Estimated below RM60,000 | RM68,800 |
The S70 Lite and Prime are estimated to start below RM60,000, a sizeable reduction from the S70 MC1's RM68,800 entry price.
Who Is This For?
The S70 Lite and Prime are intended for buyers seeking a more accessible entry point into the Proton S70 sedan lineup. By offering a naturally aspirated engine and a lower price, Proton aims to attract customers who prioritise value and affordability over the turbocharged performance of the existing S70 MC1. The retained features, including safety systems and connectivity options, make these variants suitable for those who want a well-equipped sedan without the higher cost.
These new variants are designed for buyers who want a well-equipped Proton S70 sedan at a more accessible price point, with an estimated cost below RM60,000.
Common Questions
When will the official pricing for the S70 Lite and Prime be announced?
Proton has yet to announce the official launch date or final pricing for the two new variants. Bookings are open now, and final pricing will be announced at the official launch.
What is the early-bird reward for booking the S70 Lite or Prime?
Customers who book and register either the S70 Lite or Prime by 31 December 2026 will be eligible for an early-bird reward. Details of the reward will be announced at the launch.
What are the key safety features of the S70 Lite and Prime?
Both variants come with six airbags, front and rear parking sensors, and a rear-side radar system. The radar supports blind spot detection, lane change assist, rear cross traffic alert, door opening warning, and rear collision warning, though equipment levels will differ between the Lite and Prime.
Sources and Methodology
This article is based on information from Proton, as reported by Lowyat.NET. The source material is the article titled "2026 Proton S70 Gets New Lite And Prime Variants; Est Price Below RM60,000" published on Lowyat.NET. All facts, figures, and quotes are derived from this source. The estimated price is stated as below RM60,000, and the official launch date and final pricing are unknown. This article was last updated on 16 May 2025.