| A Week at the Wheel | Bucks, England | Proton GEN-2 |

Inside & Out:

It was important to make a bold statement with the GEN-2. Curvy lines are new to Proton, and although the styling has come on a long way, somehow the lines just don't work to the European eye. Fifteen-inch alloy wheels seem awfully small by today's standards, but at least the GEN-2 looks well built, with commendably tight panel gaps. Inside, the designers tried a little too hard. The centre console design is original; but the jury is out on whether or not it's a success. However, the black leather seats are commendably comfortable.

They look like they should offer good support too, even if they look a little out of place, a little too sporting compared to their surroundings. Two 300 mile trips in one day were carried out without any complaints from occupants, front or rear.

Engine & Transmission:

The literature proudly tells us that the Malaysian designed 1.6-litre engine was developed in close collaboration with Lotus. Though we noticed the lack of any "Engine by Lotus" badges though! It's hard to see what positives Lotus provided; the engine is coarse and develops just 110bhp and 109lb.ft of torque. Somehow, these figures are enough to propel the GEN-2 from 0-62mph in 12.6 seconds and onto 118mph, but you'll need a long road; and ear muffs. Thank goodness the gearbox is so much better than the engine; the change quality is unrivalled.

Ride & Handling:

Unlike the GEN-2's little brother, the Satria Neo, there are no "Handling by Lotus" badges in evidence. But it's only the badges that are missing.

Turn-in is immediate, crisp even. Push a little harder and the GEN-2 responds in spades. Not only does the GEN-2 turn in like a hero, it can hold a tight line under power too.

Equipment, Economy & Value for Money:

The GEN-2 range starts off at £8,995 for the 1.3-litre GLS, but the 1.6-litre GSX pictured here is priced at £10,595. The tame performance and non-standard styling mean the GEN-2 is cheap to insure at just group 7 and a 39.2mpg combined economy figure means it's not dear to fuel either. GSX specification brings with it powerful climate control, electric rear windows (to add to the GLS's front ones) and side airbags that are absent from the lesser grade. Not to mention those leather seats.

Overall:

The Proton GEN-2 still isn't as cheap as it might be, but with some tempting promotions on at the moment, and that Lotus inspired ability round corners, it could make an interesting alternative.