Proton launches the Inspira

Proton has received over 1800 orders for the car from Malaysian customers since its soft launch at the end of last month, and has now officially revealed it to the media and general public. The Inspira is the result of cooperation between Proton and Mitsubishi Motors, with the car being based on the latter's Lancer EX model.

Dato' Sri Mohd. Nadzmi Mohd, the Chairman of Proton's parent corporation Proton Holdings Berhad, said, "PROTON is ready to move even further ahead to become a recognised player in the global automotive industry. We have been working and collaborating with Mitsubishi for the last 25 years and it's a natural step forward for us to continue to work with them in this project. One of our product strategies is to introduce non-core models through strategic collaborations which provides a more efficient, timely, and cost effective product to the market. The Proton Inspira is an excellent example of this strategic collaboration."

Proton Holdings Berhad's Managing Director Dato' Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir adds, "The enormous level of interest shown since we first announced the introduction of the new model is certainly a big sign of approval from car buyers. PROTON would like to thank all those who have placed a booking for the Inspira and, believe me, they will not be disappointed with the new generation of Proton cars coming their way."

The Inspira will use Mitsubishi's 1.8 and 2.0-litre MIVEC engines, with the latter coming with a CVT transmission only. Among the tweaks Proton has made to the Inspira include minor styling changes such as the Proton grille, as well as ride and handling tuned by Proton's partner Lotus.