In the looks department, the New FLX remains identical to the recently launched FL, which by itself, is a vast improvement over the first gen Saga. The 2 important difference lies in the CVT transmission and an improved engine breathing through the IAFM intake.
Photos and Report by Alvin Lee
Facts About CVT in the Saga FLX
- Much smoother operation compared to the Automatic
- Up to 10% more fuel efficient compared to the Automatic
- CVT Made by Belgian Punch Powertrain. supplies to MINI, Volvo, Kia
- Dedicated CVT oil cooler for heavy-duty robustness
- Service life of 200,000 kms according to Proton
- 25% less parts compared to conventional 4-speed Automatic
- CVT will now replace the automatic Sagas
The CVT
The Saga, being Proton's blue eyed boy, is intended for the masses and will be used as a workhorse, so rather than simply fitting it with CVT and be done with it, they went the extra mile to add a dedicated oil cooler that sits just ahead of the radiator, dramatically increasing the CVT's efficiency.
LED Taillights
Heat significantly dictate the CVT's performance and with the addition of the oil cooler, fluid temperatures remain at a constant 70°C under most scenarios which is perfect for keeping the transmission "chilled" and shall guarantee smoothness throughout long distance driving, hard acceleration or hill climbing.
Pretty Much the Same + New IAFM and Engine Tune
Speeding through the "Semi" high speed test track
Performance
To make the most out of 94bhp, the CVT transmission compliments the engine with less load and further increases fuel economy under most conditions. The drive around the Proton Test Track reveals that the Saga FLX does have some punch in mid-range and thins out at about 5000rpm as the 1.3 IAFM 16V starts to grumble.
Crunch the figures above
Fuel Efficiency
In Proton's own tests, the CVT Saga was able to manage 5.7litres for 100km at a steady 90km/h. Using the direct, unadulterated 5-speed manual as a benchmark at 6litre per 100km, the difference here is about 0.3litre between the CVT and the Manual for 100km.
It's got the modern Playstation touch
New FL helps make the Saga look more proportionate
The Drive
It's not everyday you get to drive on an oval proving ground, and Proton actually have one in their backyard. Being utilized for research purposes, the facility, dubbed the Proton Test Track allows engineers to put their creations to the ultimate test. Constant high-speed runs on the oval, high speed maneuvers, pebble surface for noise, a braking and such.
The Proton playground
Check, check and check.
The gatekeeper
The Bank.
Top Secret development going on here
We were provided with 2 variations. The 4-Speed Auto and the CVT. With the automatic, the engine is seen to rev at about 3000rpm at 100km/h and the CVT at about 2500rpm. It is clear how much less, the precious energy is lost with the CVT's wet clutch system compared the ancient torque converter of an automatic transmission. Translating to an increase in fuel efficiency.
Thundercat helments
Just in case you get lost in research
We'll be seeing more CVT integration in current and upcoming Proton models, and the Saga FLX looking like it's a winner at the moment, could well be considered as a great, budget daily driving 4-door.
