The Saga MC holds its own

Our very own ‘people’s wagon’ – the Proton Saga – has undergone significant evolution since its first introduction in 1985, thanks to the MC.

Before you think this is a new ruse to skive off work (the apocryphal medical chit/certificate doctor-worker scam also universally called an MC), it stands for the (M)inor (C)hanges the Saga has undergone over the years, as opposed to a more comprehensive (M)odel (C)hange.

Updates over the years have helped keep it relevant in today’s competitive automotive market, particularly in the entry-level sedan segment. These reflect Proton’s response to customer needs, evolving technology, and design trends.

The First Generation (1985–1992) Proton Saga stunned many observers with our brave, bold dip into the pond of automotivedom.

It was built on the Mitsubishi Lancer platform and was designed to offer affordable transportation for the masses. Key features of the first-generation Saga included affordable pricing, which made it a popular choice among Malaysians looking for their first car.

The design emphasised simplicity and reliability, though it lacked many of the modern features we expect today.

While it was highly relevant for the time, with few competitors in the entry-level market, it was a basic, no-frills vehicle that catered primarily to price-sensitive consumers.

The Second Generation (1992–2008) represented a significant leap forward in terms of design and technology, as Proton sought to modernise its offerings.

There were improvements, which featured a more modern, less utilitarian design, with smoother curves and better aerodynamics. Technological upgrades introduced features like power steering, airbags, and better interior materials. There was also a more refined build quality, making it a reliable and affordable car but with improved features and safety standards for the time.

The Third Generation (2008–2016) saw significant changes in the automotive market, with heightened demands for more sophisticated features and better fuel efficiency.

Significant updates included a new platform that offered improved driving dynamics and a better foundation for future upgrades. Fuel efficiency was improved in response to rising prices and consumer demands for eco-friendly vehicles.

There was improved interior comfort, with features like a more refined cabin, better sound insulation, and new entertainment options added. Safety features such as dual airbags and ABS were introduced as standard in higher variants.

This generation helped the Saga retain its position as one of Malaysia’s best-selling cars, but it still struggled to compete on features with similarly priced compact sedans from other brands.

The Fourth Generation (2016–Present) marked a turning point for Proton, with a new focus on modernising the vehicle while maintaining affordability.

Key improvements include a more modern exterior design, giving it a more contemporary look with the incorporation of sharper lines, a more angular grille, and LED lighting elements.

New tech features include a touchscreen infotainment system, Bluetooth connectivity, and a reverse camera (in higher variants), which brings the Saga more in line with modern consumer expectations.

There is all-round improved cabin quality, with better materials, more storage compartments, and higher comfort levels.

It also promises better fuel economy with an updated engine and better aerodynamics. The suspension has been revised, offering a smoother ride compared to earlier models.

Features like ABS, EBD, and rear parking sensors became more common, although it still lacked some advanced safety features like stability control.

We got hold of the 2024 model for a spirited test drive. Actually, this was the MC2 introduced in 2020 – the second reiteration and minor change for its third-generation sedan. It has been three years since the first model change was introduced back in August 2019.

Though it may seem minor, the Saga comes with a new sporty variant, a revised dashboard, and an enhanced kit list. It gets a new logo and grille on the outside and a rearranged centre console inside.

Electronic Stability Control (ESC), previously exclusive to the Premium, has been brought down to the Standard AT level, leaving just the base Standard MT (the only manual Proton on sale today) without this safety feature.

A big chunk of the new-for-2022 items are reserved for the new Premium S variant. The range-topper gets two-tone “four-spoke-style” 15-inch wheels (single-tone for the Premium now), front/side skirts, an all-black interior with black headlining, red cockpit accents and stitching, keyless entry/push start, and a new infotainment system OS. There’s also an exterior boot release button and auto-fold wing mirrors.

The updates reflect both cosmetic changes and important technological improvements, including updated front and rear designs, a new grille, redesigned bumpers, and more modern headlamp clusters.

One of the biggest updates in the MC model is the introduction of a new 8-inch infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration – a major upgrade over previous versions and a critical improvement in terms of tech appeal.

While the MC still offers safety features like ABS, EBD, and airbags, higher variants introduced features like ESC (Electronic Stability Control), Traction Control, and Hill Hold Assist, which were previously lacking in earlier models. This marks a significant step forward in making the Saga more competitive in terms of safety.

The cabin materials were upgraded, and the design received tweaks to make it look more modern and upscale for an entry-level car. Proton refined the engine and transmission for better fuel efficiency and driving dynamics, keeping the Saga competitive in terms of economy.

Let’s talk price – you can have one from as low as RM34,400 (Standard - Manual Transmission) while the Premium S will set you back RM44,300 (Automatic).

At this price point, the competition is the Perodua Bezza, but we are not comparing like for like – the Bezza offers a 1.0 Manual (RM33,456) or its top-of-the-range 1.3 AV Automatic (RM48,356).

I have acquaintances who do e-hailing work for a living, and it is a toss-up between the Bezza and this Saga as their tool of the trade.

Proton has stolen a march by working with one of the e-hailing companies to offer a competitive package to its drivers. Surely a positive signal of approval.

Main image: Faris Budin