2001 Proton Impian 1.6 petrol from UK and Ireland

Summary:

It is a reliable and comfortable vehicle

Faults:

The remote unlocking is unreliable, so I always use the key to lock and unlock the doors.

The tools hatch cover in the boot broke under slight load.

The odometer display lamp has blown TWICE. I am sure that this is a design fault, they should have used a higher rating lamp.

The clutch master cylinder needed replacing at 3 years.

The rubber gaiter on the steering arm needed replacing at 4 years. Very expensive.

General Comments:

I am getting about 8.5 miles per liter on supermarket unleaded.

The all-leather trim and the stylish steering wheel attract comments (+)

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 23rd September, 2005

2005 Proton Impian 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

Good car despite many negative comments from the home country

Faults:

None.

General Comments:

I am rather surprise to read so many negative comments about this car particularly from the home country where the car is called WAJA. However, I must say I have been happy with this car so far.

The car is well positioned as a practical family sedan that offers the best value for money in its class. Not only it offers good drive, it is also spacious and reliable. In addition, it comes with top class equipments which usually not found in this price range.

In short, I have no negative comments on this car, and I hope to see more fair comments about this car in the future.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? Yes

Review Date: 9th July, 2005

11th Jul 2005, 23:18

You are right that the Proton is a good car in the UK/Ireland. The UK models simply undergo a different quality control (and parts) than the models marketed locally.

You may have purchased your car in the UK at a very reasonable price, but it has been heavily subsidised by the Malaysian Public. Anyway, we are glad that you enjoy it.

At this point, the quality of Proton cars are also being debated at ministerial levels in Malaysia. The locals have had enough.

15th Nov 2005, 01:31

I think the Impian/Waja is a good car. Many of my neighbours use them and have no problems... the only problem is they don't have internet connections to praise their cars in this forum. It is the best selling car in Malaysia. As for me I am still using my 4 year old trouble free wira. Cheers.

16th Jan 2006, 19:08

Impian/Waja is a good car and getting better. It is the best selling car in Malaysia with sales of about 3,000 a month. I am getting one soon.

19th Apr 2007, 13:23

Most Malaysian comparing Proton Impian with Mercedes and BMW. To them if the quality are comparable to these two cars, then it should be OK with them. I'm driving persona, It' been 5 five years already, very economical car and trouble free... of course with a regular service and extra care.

19th Jun 2007, 18:52

I have used the Impian/Waja for a year now without any problems. It is very stable at high speeds on Highways/Motorways and has precise steering feel on country roads. The ride and handling is superb thanks to Lotus. It has loads of space in the cabin and boot. I don't get tired when travelling long distances. It is a very good car.

1st Apr 2008, 11:42

I've driven this Proton WAJA for almost 5 years now; it has been trouble free, comfortable, with less fuel consumption and much more. It has very stable handling at high speed. All the electronic parts are still working without any problem. Overall, a very good saloon car. Thanks LOTUS and Proton!

2002 Proton Impian LX 1.6 from UK and Ireland

Summary:

I think that this car is extremly poor value for money

Faults:

Since I purchased this car I have had numerous problems with it such as the ABS/TC malfunctioning, Engine management unit malfunctioning, Keyless entry malfunctioning, Air conditioning unit failed replaced, Handbrake lever malfunctioning, Drivers seat collapsed replaced, Milometer indicator display failed bulbs replaced. Also this car has a "whining" noise at about 2000 to 3000rpm which I have been advised is a "design fault" that I have to put up with. The suspension gives a very uncomfortable ride and makes a terrible thumping noise as well even on smooth roads. I certainly would'nt buy another Proton or recommend anyone else to do so either.

General Comments:

I think that the build quality is dreadful using cheap materials and I would'nt buy another Proton whatever the model and I would'nt recommend anyone else to buy one either. It also has a very high depreciation value as well.

Would you buy another car from this manufacturer? No

Review Date: 30th March, 2004

12th Apr 2008, 08:56

I've drove my Waja for almost 5 years now and this was the 3rd batch of Waja's. My Waja has been absolutely trouble free, and I don't have any problem as you mention above.

And now, after almost 5 years... the only problem of my Waja is the power windows switch.. replace with a new 1 and now it's done.. perfect function and maybe this time I will replacing a brand new shock absorber and fitted with a lowered spring coil.

** I'm using 18" alloy rims..