Proton unveils three concepts in Kuala Lumpur

With a name like Lotus, acting as a sort of “godfather” to Proton, it is understandable that the models the Malaysian company brings along are very interesting. At the Kuala Lumpur International Motorshow, Proton has presented three concepts: the Lekin, the Jebat and the R3 Concept.

For this occasion Proton has set aside anything that is not traditional. It already has an electric prototype with the EMAS Concept, again under the watchful eye of Lotus. So now it was time to boost some of its models and one of its English partners. With the Lekin the intention has been to create a complete Lotus Europe, but in Proton’s way. In fact, the Lekir is a Lotus Europe with a configuration very close to the original first Lotus Europe: a two-litre turbocharged engine, with almost the same power, 220 hp.

As with the Lekir, the Jebat will look familiar as soon as you see it, since its exterior is based on the Mitsubishi Lancer, from which, by “coincidence”, Proton builds a model called the Inspira. As for the engine, it has little to do with the Lancer, since the Jebat is powered by a 237 hp engine, compared with the 300 of a basic Lancer Evo.

The R3 Concept is nothing more than a tuned Satria Neo, with the same 1.6-litre engine offered in Malaysia, coupled to a gearbox with closer ratios. Inside it has a roll cage, along with some modifications aimed at making the model look more sporty, such as 15-inch wheels and Recaro competition seats. Of the three models mentioned, the R3 is the one most likely to reach production, perhaps not as radical as the concept, but aimed at following in the footsteps of the Ford Fiesta ST or the Polo GTI.

Source | Autoevolution

More information | Auto Express