The wait is finally over — Proton has officially launched the 2026 Proton Saga MC3, a major update to Malaysia’s most beloved sedan. After several teasers, leaks, and an ASEAN Summit preview, we now have full details about its new 1.5L engine, refined platform, safety improvements, and upgraded technology. Only the final pricing and full variant breakdown remain under wraps.
As Proton’s most iconic nameplate and best-selling model, the Saga has sold over 2.1 million units across generations. This makes the 2026 edition a vital evolution for the national automaker’s lineup — balancing heritage, affordability, and innovation.
Upgraded AMA Platform with Reinforced Steel Frame
The 2026 Saga MC3 may look familiar, but beneath the surface lies Proton’s reengineered Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA). It builds upon the original 2008 BLM structure but introduces modernized engineering and stronger materials. The wheelbase remains 2,465 mm, yet the platform is now scalable and adaptable for future models.
Proton highlights that AMA is “flexible, scalable, and future-ready,” designed to meet global safety and performance standards. Hot-press-formed (HPF) steel panels strengthen key areas such as the B-pillars, cross members, and roof structure, improving crash protection and overall rigidity.
Improved Safety: Six Airbags and Advanced Driver Assistance
The new platform allows Proton to integrate long-awaited safety technologies. For the first time, the Saga offers up to six airbags and a suite of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS) — including Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB), Lane Departure Warning, Front Departure Alert, and Auto High Beam.
The 2026 Saga also meets the newer ASEAN NCAP 2021–2025 safety protocol, earning a four-star rating and becoming the first Malaysian model to pass AEB motorcycle detection testing under future 2026–2030 standards.
All-New 1.5L BHE15 Engine: 120 PS Power and 14% Better Efficiency
Under the hood lies the biggest update — a brand-new 1.5L BHE15-CFN engine, a naturally aspirated four-cylinder unit derived from Geely technology. It replaces the old 1.3L CamPro VVT engine and brings a major boost in performance and efficiency.
The new engine delivers 120 PS at 6,100 rpm and 150 Nm of torque between 4,000–5,000 rpm — a solid increase of 25 PS and 30 Nm over the previous Saga. It even edges past the Perodua Bezza (95 PS/121 Nm) and nearly matches the Honda City’s power.
⚙️ 2026 Proton Saga MC3 Key Specifications
- Engine: 1.5L BHE15-CFN (NA, 4-cylinder)
- Power: 120 PS (≈ MYR 1,500 equivalent in value uplift)
- Torque: 150 Nm
- Transmission: 4AT (Standard/Executive) or Punch CVT (Premium)
- Fuel Efficiency: 4.9–5.1 L/100 km
- Safety: Up to 6 Airbags, AEB, LDW, Auto High Beam
- Platform: Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA)
- Price (Expected): RM 45,000 – RM 58,000 (≈ $9,300 – $12,000)
Transmission Choices: Punch CVT Returns for Premium Trim
The Standard and Executive variants continue with the reliable 4-speed automatic (Aisin 4AT), while the Premium model brings back the Punch CVT — last seen in the 2019 Saga. This upgraded CVT uses a clutch-based system for smoother low-speed performance and improved fuel efficiency.
The CVT variant achieves a combined consumption of 4.9 L/100 km, better than the Bezza 1.3’s 4.8 L/100 km, and offers more power. The fuel tank has also been enlarged to 40 liters for better range.
Modernized Design with LED Lighting and Bold Styling
Visually, the 2026 Saga MC3 embraces a sharper and more dynamic aesthetic. The front features a wide chrome Ethereal Bow grille and new LED projector headlights with integrated L-shaped daytime running lights — a first for Proton’s in-house designs.
At the rear, the sedan gains full-width LED taillights connected by a sleek black bar. The Premium model gets a body-colored diffuser and boot-lid release button, while lower trims retain simpler designs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What engine powers the 2026 Proton Saga MC3?
The new Saga features a 1.5L BHE15-CFN four-cylinder engine producing 120 PS and 150 Nm, offering improved performance and efficiency over the older 1.3L CamPro engine.
2. Is the new Proton Saga available with manual transmission?
No. The 2026 Saga is the first in the model’s 40-year history to exclude a manual gearbox, focusing instead on a 4AT automatic and Punch CVT for smoother operation.
3. How fuel-efficient is the 2026 Saga MC3?
The Saga delivers between 4.9 to 5.1 liters per 100 km depending on the variant — around 14% more efficient than the outgoing model.
4. What safety features does the Saga MC3 offer?
It includes up to six airbags, AEB, lane departure warning, front departure alert, and automatic high beams — available on the Premium variant.
5. When will the 2026 Proton Saga be available in Malaysia?
While Proton has not announced the official launch date, the 2026 Saga MC3 is expected to arrive in showrooms by early 2026 with prices starting from around RM 45,000 (≈ $9,300).
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