The Satria Neo CPS is undeniably one of Proton’s most popular models in their whole lineup. Realizing the potential that this two-door hatchback holds, it did not only performed well with numerous wins around its belt, but Proton themselves also decided to make a much more serious version of this car; the Satria Neo R3.
The new Satria Neo R3 was launched by Proton’s Executive Chairman YBhg Dato’ Sri Hj. Mohd Khamil Jamil over at the Proton Centre of Excellence. The launch also saw the appearance of several motorsports icon such as Karamjit Singh, Kenneth Koh, Syafiq Ali, James Veerapan and Tengku Djan Ley in support of this new and refined Neo variant.
“We believe there’s a market for an affordable two-door sports hatchback. The Satria Neo R3 is targeted for the young and the young at heart, and of course motorsports enthusiasts. With the added R3 kit, it is ‘coolness’ that is affordable with performance that is proven”, said Proton’s Executive Chairman.
Housing a 1.6-liter Campro CPS engine under the hood, the Neo R3 has 125-horsepower at 6500rpm in its disposal, but offers two profiles of engine mode for different power deliveries; Power and Fuel Efficient. Coming in both Automatic and Manual transmission, it is also packed with safety equipments which includes dual front airbags, Anti-Lock Brake System with Electronic Brake Distribution and giving the R3 an excellent grip, stability and driving response is the renowned Lotus Ride & Handling.
The exterior also received some touches to make it stand out among the rest. Slapped with a list of R3 goodies which includes R3 rear spoiler and front splitter, R3 front and rear mark, and a set of 16-inch R3 alloy rims, four colors are offered to suit the owner’s preference. Other than the iconic Fire Red, GTi Silver and Tranquility Black, a new shade joins in the family to make the R3 unmistakable from a mile away; Canary Yellow, the color that the Satria Neo S2000 sports in the international rallies it entered.
To give the driver a great experience driving the R3 without compromising comfort and entertainment, the R3 front semi-bucket seats hug the occupants on the ride and long distance journeys will not be a hassle or dull with the addition of 2 DIN multimedia audio and GPS Navigation System.
The Proton Satria Neo R3’s on-the-road price goes at RM 64,250 for the Executive Line AT and RM 61,250 for the Executive Line MT. Accompanied with a manufacturer warranty period of three years or 100,000km (whichever comes first), customers can now book the R3 with a fee of only RM300.
And if you are looking forward into getting one, better do so before the end of this year as bookings and registrations made by 31 December 2012 will get their cars fitted with full standard specifications and features which includes the signature R3 side stripe and front grille stickers. R3 also offers performance parts such as Lowered Spring Set, Full Exhaust System and Belt Accessory Drive to those interested in upgrading their ride. Viewing can be done at Proton showrooms nationwide and one could reach them at 1 300 880 888 for further information.