Proton Persona I Hatchback 2.0 D (420 D) (65 Hp)


Overall Rating

6.1 / 10
Safety 2.0 / 5
Engine 2.5 / 5
Value 4.0 / 5
Performance 3.0 / 5
Comfort 3.0 / 5
People\'s Opinion N/A / 5
Not Rated

Proton Persona:

The Proton Persona is a series of compact and subcompact cars produced by Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton.
The first generation Proton Persona refers to the export name given to the Proton Wira. The first use of the 'Proton Persona' nameplate dates back to November 1993 in the British market. The original Persona was later joined by the 3-door Persona Compact, and 2-door Persona Coupé.
The second generation Proton Persona launched in August 2007. The CM series is the first Proton model to use the 'Persona' nameplate in its home market. It is based on an extended Proton GEN•2 platform, and was sold as a saloon complement to the GEN•2 hatchback. The CM Persona replaced the Proton Wira saloon in Malaysia and the C90 Persona in its export markets....(Read more on Wikipedia)

I Hatchback Overview:

Proton Persona (I Hatchback). With 123 Nm of torque, it offers ample pulling power. It has moderate fuel consumption (~9.3 l/100km). Weighing only 1150 kg, it’s quite light. Front‑wheel drive delivers efficiency and easy handling. Acceleration is relatively slow (0–100 km/h in 18.5 s). The top speed reaches 160 km/h. A compact car with a rear door that swings upward to provide access to the cargo area. Seating for 5 makes it ideal for daily use.

2.0 D (420 D) (65 Hp) Verdict:

Rating 3 stars

Performance Verdict

With only 65 Hp, this naturally aspirated diesel is notably sluggish, delivering very modest acceleration suitable only for relaxed driving. Overtaking requires significant planning.

Fuel Economy

Despite its low power, the 2.0 D offers commendable fuel economy for its era, especially on longer journeys, making it a cost-effective option for high mileage drivers.

Best Use Case: Long-distance commuting, economy-focused driving where performance is not a priority.

Pros and Cons:

Pros:

  • • Affordable purchase price and running costs
  • • Reliability often bolstered by Mitsubishi underpinnings
  • • Practical hatchback body style with decent boot space
  • • Wide range of engine options to suit different needs

Cons:

  • • Dated interior design and materials by later standards
  • • Modest safety rating compared to European rivals
  • • Performance can be underwhelming in lower-powered variants
  • • Limited brand appeal and resale value in some markets

Specifications:

General:
Brand:Proton
Model:Persona
Generation:I Hatchback
Modification (Engine):2.0 D (420 D) (65 Hp)
Start of production:1993
End of production:2007
Powertrain Architecture:Internal Combustion engine
Body type:Hatchback
Seats:5
Doors:5
Engine:
Power:65 Hp @ 4500 rpm.
Power per litre:32.5 Hp/l
Torque:123 Nm @ 3000 rpm.
Engine displacement:1998
Number of cylinders:4
Engine configuration:Inline
Number of valves per cylinder:2
Fuel injection system:Precombustion chamber injection
Engine aspiration:Naturally aspirated engine
Valvetrain:OHC
Engine layout:Front, Transverse
Cylinder Bore:82.7 mm mm
Piston Stroke:93 mm mm
Compression ratio:22.2:1
Performance:
Fuel Type:Diesel
Fuel consumption (economy) - urban:9.3 l/100 km
Fuel consumption (economy) - extra urban:5.8 l/100 km
Acceleration 0 - 100 km/h:18.5 sec
Acceleration 0 - 62 mph:18.5 sec
Maximum speed:160 km/h
Weight-to-power ratio:17.7 kg/Hp, 56.5 Hp/tonne
Weight-to-torque ratio:9.3 kg/Nm, 107 Nm/tonne
Acceleration 0 - 60 mph:17.6 sec
Space:
Kerb Weight:1150
Max. weight:1575
Max load:425
Trunk (boot) space - maximum:950 l
Trunk (boot) space - minimum:385 l
Fuel tank capacity:50 l
Size:
Length:4270 mm mm
Width:1680 mm mm
Height:1385 mm mm
Wheelbase:2500 mm mm
Front track:1450 mm
Rear (Back) track:1460 mm
Powertrain:
Drivetrain ArchitectureThe Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle.
Drive wheelFront wheel drive
Number of gears5
Transmission typeManual
Front brakesDisc
Rear brakesDrum
Assisting systemsABS (Anti-lock braking system)
Steering typeSteering rack and pinion
Power steeringHydraulic Steering
Tires size175/70 R14
Wheel rims size14
Front suspensionSpring Strut
Rear suspensionCoil spring

Fuel, speed, and comfort: How does the Proton Persona rank in your book?