Proton has launched the new Satria Neo, a 'Lotus-inspired' supermini. On sale since February, the car is an entry-level offering, which Proton claims has certain similarities to the famed sports car builder's cars it acquired in 1996.

From a design perspective the Proton Satria Neo supposedly hints at Lotus-developed models. Its three-door design is sporty and characterful and Proton hopes the styling will also prove desirable. The sculpted bonnet and 'tiger-eye' projector headlamps lend an air of sophistication to the overall design, accented by bumpers incorporating fog lamps and an air intake at the front and an integrated centre-mounted tailpipe at the rear.

Power for the Satria Neo is sourced from either a 1.3-litre 16v engine or a 1.6-litre unit. The 1.3-litre powerplant is said to create 94bhp, complete runs to 62mph from a standstill in 12.1 seconds and reach a top speed of 112mph; along with a Combined Cycle fuel economy of 40mpg.

The 1.6-litre 111bhp four-pot shaves more than half a second off the 0-62mph time yet returns a higher (claimed) 43mpg in the Combined Cycle. Top speed is said to be 118mph when mated to a five-speed manual transmission, but when fitted with the optional four-speed automatic transmission the 1.6-litre models will only reach 115mph and get to 62mph in 13.7 seconds (more than two seconds slower than the manual). As expected, Combined Cycle fuel economy also worsens to about 38mpg.

Proton claims a 'superb ride and handling' courtesy of Lotus, which helped its parent company inject 'high speed stability, great manoeuvrability and superior control' to the Satria's chassis.

The interior of the Satria Neo is a modern, minimalist design, which also takes its cue from Lotus. Equipment levels do however include an air conditioning system with pollen filter as standard kit on the 1.3-litre range and climate control on all 1.6-litre models. The top of the range 1.6-litre GSX model also has standard cruise control when paired with the automatic transmission.

All models are fitted with front electric windows, steering wheel controls for the Blaupunkt audio system, rear parking sensors and a 60:40 split folding rear seat. With the rear seats up, the storage space in the boot totals 286 litres and is increased to 615 litres with the seats folded.

Twin airbags, ABS with electronic brake force distribution, seatbelts with pre-tensioners and anti-submarine seats are all part of the comprehensive safety package and security features include an integrated alarm system, vehicle immobiliser and a remote central locking system.

Proton is currently touting a special offer on all Satria Neo models, which can be purchased with a £1 deposit. Pricing for the 1.3-litre models starts at £7,995 on-the-road.

Eric Gallina - 21 Mar 2007