Launched in November 2007 in Thailand, the GEN2 was finally unveiled in KL yesterday.

The Proton GEN2 is an important mark in Proton history as it was the first Proton car with the new Proton Campro engine, and with this facelift it gets a new series of engines based on the Campro.

Proton GEN2 now is available in 1.6L engines with 2 options - with CPS (Cam Profiling System) or with IAFM ( Intake Air-Fuel Manifold).

The CPS solved the big ‘bug’ in the torque curve of the Campro engine that it suffered since the debut of the GEN2 about 3 years ago. It gives better pick up, smoother gear change and better overtaking.

In technical terms, the CPS engine gives 15 more horses at 125hp, compared to previous at 110hp. Torque is improved from 149Nm/rpm to 150Nm/rpm.

The dashboard and upholstery are themed in very eye-catching black with red strips. I love the interior of this new Proton GEN2. One thing I don’t like about the interior was the leather seats. Leather seats is not a good choice for Malaysian weather. Imaging yourself sitting on hot plate during hot and sunny afternoon when you park your car under the sun.

One more thing I believe Proton should improve on, it is the gearbox. Why Proton never introduce semi-manual gearbox? It would be great if Proton can introduce it in this new GEN2. Driving in traffic jam, we can use shift to auto. To test with pick up (drag), we can shift it to manual.