Proton X50 vs Kia Sportage: Which is the most worth buying in Malaysia?

In the SUV market in Malaysia, many buyers compare Proton X50 and Kia Sportage when choosing a car.

Price and Versions

The OTR price for Proton X50 in Malaysia is RM 89,800 - 113,300, with a total of 4 versions, including 1.5T Executive (RM 89,800), 1.5T Premium (RM 101,800), 1.5T Flagship (RM 113,300), etc.

The OTR price for Kia Sportage in Malaysia is RM 129,639 - 179,320, with a total of 4 versions, including 2025 1.6T DCT 4WD High (RM 179,320), 2025 1.6T DCT 2WD High (RM 159,320), 2025 2.0L AT 2WD High (RM 139,639), etc.

From the price perspective, the starting price of Proton X50 is indeed RM 39,839 cheaper than Kia Sportage. If your budget is limited, Proton's entry-level version can already meet daily needs. But also note, that saving a few thousand might involve trade-offs in equipment, it depends on your needs.

Power and Fuel Consumption

Proton X50 is equipped with 1.5L 4-cyl, 105 hp. Official fuel consumption 6.0 L/100km.

Kia Sportage is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.

Regarding power, Kia Sportage's 1.5L Turbo has 35 more horsepower than Proton X50's 1.5L 4-cyl. However, for daily driving in the city, both cars have enough power and won't feel underpowered.

Safety Features

Proton X50's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include ADAS (ACC, AEB, LKA, LDA, BSM, RCTA).

Kia Sportage's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include Drive Wise.

Both cars have the same safety rating, and safety features in this class are considered quite comprehensive. New cars nowadays are generally safe, no need to worry too much about this.

Space and Comfort

Proton X50 body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

Kia Sportage body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

The dimensions of both cars are almost the same, interior space differences are not significant. Cars in this class are fully sufficient for daily use.

Features and Technology

Proton X50 adopts 4WD drive system.

Kia Sportage adopts FWD drive system.

Proton's 4WD and Kia's FWD will have different handling experiences, test drive comparison is recommended.

Conclusion

Overall, Proton X50 and Kia Sportage are both excellent models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose mainly depends on your personal needs and budget. It is recommended to do your research, compare quotes from several dealerships, and then go for a test drive to make the final decision. Buying a car is a big deal, spending time doing research will never go wrong.