With the launch of the new Saga in November, Proton’s Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA) is finally out in the world, underpinning the company’s best-selling model. But that’s just the start, as the national carmaker has indicated there will be at least three new models based on this platform.
It’s been rumoured for a while that these models – which include a new A-segment SUV and MPV – will form part of a new Saga sub-brand, taking advantage of the budget sedan’s evergreen image. Now that the new Saga – internally dubbed the Minor Change 3 (MC3) – has been revealed, Photoshop wizard Theophilus Chin has revisited his “Saga Cross” SUV render, working details of the four-door into the design of the expected Perodua Ativa, Honda WR-V and Chery Tiggo Cross rival.
Using the Fiat Pulse – the Italian firm’s models seem to be among Chin’s favourites to base his renders on – as a starting point, the car features the Saga’s rather oversized headlight and full-width grille combo, unified daytime running lights and “Ethereal Bow” chrome bar, Lotus Evora-style “aero” mirrors, simple shoulder line, and full-width taillights (the latter exclusive to the Premium, remember).
Everything else is lifted from the Pulse, including the substantial black plastic body cladding, front air intake and fog lights, bizarre “vented” front fender flares, upswept window line, two-tone colour scheme and silver rear skid plate with twin fake exhausts.
The production Saga SUV will likely be the first all-new AMA-based model, given that the Saga retains the same basic body structure as the outgoing car but with a new engine, electrical architecture and safety systems. Proton has already revealed that the car will offer the sedan’s 120 PS/150 Nm 1.5 litre i-GT naturally-aspirated four-cylinder, albeit without the Punch CVT option – instead only offering the Aisin four-speed automatic gearbox.
Taking the stepless transmission’s place will apparently be a lower-powered version of the eMas 7 PHEV’s powertrain, pairing a version of the NA four-pot with a dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) and a 163 PS (120 kW) electric motor. This variant, divulged at the Proton Tech Showcase last month, can already be found in plug-in hybrid form in the Geely Galaxy Starshine 6 – although the one destined for AMA-based models will likely be regular hybrid instead.
Such a model would take the Chery Tiggo Cross Hybrid head-on, almost certainly stealing that car’s crown as the cheapest petrol-electric model in Malaysia. Beyond the SUV, the AMA is also set to spawn an MPV to tackle the Alza MPV, as well as as possibly a hatchback version that Chin has already rendered.
Proton is promising big things for the forthcoming AMA models, such as targeted five-star ASEAN NCAP safety ratings, a revised suspension architecture to improve ride and handling, shorter product development times and built-in readiness for export markets, including support for left-hand drive conversions.
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Actually wat is the purpose of making this all shiok sendiri rendering?
Just for fun, what’s the purpose you asking to shiok u sendiri?
Did the render offended you?
Mimpi jer laa…
The silhoutte body design reminds me of 2018 facelift Renault Captur. I really hope they focus more to iriz segment niche rather than this “mini-suv” market. This latest super compact “crossback” class just doesn’t make sense to me. I’m thinking that the SUV fiasco need or better must stop now because it is too much already. We don’t need more SUV derived model overflood the market hurting other mainstream bodystyle especially coupe’ which is almost dieing tbh.
Its already 2026 and we are now in the AI era, this super slow rendering process is wasting time, Theo better find another skill to survive
Current saga mc3 rear coil spring unnecessary too tall, else standard and executive variant please give a rear trunk release button instead of pakai remote.
what SUV? this is just a hatchback with a lift up kit
honestly, this looks good! sure hot selling if it is true
“If one can’t dream, one bears no difference from a corpse.” – Shaolin Soccer, 2001.
I am an Australian fan of Proton after buying the Jumbuck (Arena) based on the Wira in 2008 and I have a special request – can your Mr Theo render an all new Proton Jumbuck Arena based on the current 2026 Saga ? Thank would be awesome. Cheers mate !
if they can penetrate India market with these offering then they may have a good chance of establishing larger monthly qty. the size of these vehicles matches what is currently mass market model in india and south east asia.
let’s see what they can do with these model since engine and transmission is adopted from proven architecture.
Wet dreams . Always late to the game and miss opportunities. If not because of government protection & geely, you know what would’ve happened.
Good Iriz replacement!