Proton X50 vs Honda HR-V: Compact SUV Showdown

The compact SUV segment in Malaysia has become increasingly competitive, with the locally-assembled Proton X50 challenging established players like the Honda HR-V. Let's see how these two popular choices stack up.

Exterior Design and Dimensions

Proton X50

• Length: 4,330 mm
• Width: 1,800 mm
• Height: 1,609 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,600 mm
• Bold, modern design with LED lighting
• Coupe-like roofline for sporty appeal

Honda HR-V

• Length: 4,346 mm
• Width: 1,772 mm
• Height: 1,605 mm
• Wheelbase: 2,610 mm
• Conservative, practical design
• Higher ground clearance for versatility

Engine Performance

Proton X50

• 1.5L TGDi Turbo: 150 PS, 226 Nm
• 7-speed DCT: Quick shifts, sporty feel
• Fuel consumption: 6.4 L/100km
• 0-100 km/h: 9.5 seconds

Honda HR-V

• 1.8L i-VTEC: 142 PS, 172 Nm
• CVT transmission: Smooth, reliable
• Fuel consumption: 6.9 L/100km
• 0-100 km/h: 10.2 seconds

Interior Space and Features

Proton X50

• Boot space: 330 liters
• 10.25-inch touchscreen
• Semi-digital instrument cluster
• Wireless charging pad
• Premium Infinity sound system

Honda HR-V

• Boot space: 437 liters
• 8-inch touchscreen
• Full digital instrument cluster
• Honda SENSING safety suite
• Ultra-flexible seating configurations

Safety Technology

Proton X50

• 6 airbags standard
• Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
• Autonomous Emergency Braking
• Blind Spot Monitor
• 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating

Honda HR-V

• 6 airbags across variants
• Honda SENSING suite
• Collision Mitigation Braking
• Road Departure Mitigation
• 5-star ASEAN NCAP rating

Pricing Comparison

Ownership Experience

Proton X50

• Warranty: 5 years/150,000 km
• Growing service network
• Competitive parts pricing
• Strong local support

Honda HR-V

• Warranty: 5 years unlimited mileage
• Established service network
• Proven reliability record
• Higher resale value

Final Verdict

Choose Proton X50 if:

• Budget is a primary concern
• You want turbocharged performance
• Modern tech features are important
• Supporting local automotive industry matters

Choose Honda HR-V if:

• Maximum interior space is crucial
• Long-term reliability is priority
• You prefer naturally aspirated engines
• Resale value considerations are important

The X50 offers exceptional value and performance, while the HR-V provides proven reliability and practicality.