Proton Satria Neo R3 launched

Proton has launched the Satria Neo R3 yesterday as a sportier and more dynamic extension to the Satria Neo CPS model range. Not to be confused with the R3 Satria Neo (which retailed at RM79,797 and punched 145hp at a screaming 7,000rpm), this is essentially the Satria Neo CPS that is decked out the with the R3 parts.

Compared to its look-alike high performance cousin, Satria Neo R3 is powered by the 1.6L CPS which produced 125hp@6,500rpm and 150Nm@4,500rpm. Paired to either 4 speed automatic or 5 speed manual, Satria Neo R3 can sprint to 100km/h in 10.5s and 190km/h of top speed (make that 12.5s and 185km/h for the automatic version). The manual version is priced at RM61,250 while the automatic version retailed at RM64,250.

Compared to the outgoing Satria Neo CPS, the R3 version is kitted with front splitter, rear spoiler, 16 inch alloy wheels and side protector moulding in Titanium finish. The interior has been upgraded too with the double DIN audio system with touch screen panel and leather upholstery. Unlike the exterior makeover which gets most of the R3 Satria Neo outlook, the interior enhancement stop at those two, so there's no red trimmings (except stitching) and push-start button. The exterior shade has been extended to 4 options namely Fire Red, GTi Silver, Tranquility Black and Canary Yellow which is the famous color of the S2000 Satria Neo. The R3 body decals are included in the styling package for any purchase before 31st December 2012.

As usual with R3 component inventory, a range of upgrades are available. The buyer can buy ECU upgrade, high-performance exhaust system, lowered spring set and lightened engine pulleys. For the price, please consult your nearest Proton dealer.

Proton Satria Neo has made its mark in the motorsport arena lately. The involvement started to pay dividend in 2011 when Proton emerged as the APRC champion. Although it has been aged and seasoned accordingly since its 2006 introduction, and despite the oldies design from previous era of Proton design, Satria Neo is quite wonderful to drive. Lets not talk about the cabin ergonomics or the weak door stopper, and slight inconvenient clutch and gear slotting, it is about the way the steering interact with the body dynamics that shine. With proper power and handling upgrade, Satria Neo potentially can become one of the better-handling affordable car in the market. 

More studio snapshots of Proton Satria Neo R3 can be found after the jump.

R3 kit introduced for Proton Preve & other models

Proton has showcased the latest R3 product, mainly for the Proton Preve and Satria Neo at the event of APRC in Johor. The models are being on show at Plaza Angsana. The R3 kit for the Preve is the first in line for this particular model, comprising of a new front bumper extension with lower lip and side duct, side skirting and rear valence. While there is no mentioned about the rims, it looks as if it is at least 17" in diameter.

There's no mentioned about the drivetrain enhancement, so it is very likely this is the cosmetic updates only. As depicted from the product description, the package does not include the rims, suspension or engine tweak and currently limited to the faster-looking body addenda. The indicative pricing is RM3k++.

Also on show at the Plaza Angsana is the ageing Proton Satria Neo with S2000 Concept. While it lacks the flaring wide-body outlook from the successful rally car, the R3 kit does include an aggressively styled front bumper with massive radiator grille intake, side skirt, new rear bumper and big rear spoiler. Larger rims are available too. The indicative pricing is RM4k++. 

R3 kit for the rest of Proton range is available too. There will also be package for Saga BLM that resemble the R3 show car in Thailand Auto Expo back in 2010, priced tentatively for RM3k++. There special price on offer during the APRC event too for selected R3 kits. For Proton Persona, the bodykit package (minus the rims and tyres) is RM3113.60 (normal RM3,892), Satria Neo CPS package for RM1,000 (from RM1,250), Proton Gen2 kit RM2,530 (usual RM3,891), Proton Satria Neo kit at RM2,570 (normal RM3,953) and finally an Inspira kit for RM2,388 instead of usual RM3,674. Please note that the price quoted are all without rims and tyres.

The photos of the Preve R3 and the brochures for the model mentioned above can be seen after the jump.