2015 Proton Iriz : First look at new Malaysian city car

CarAdvice pieced together the above image by completing an online scavenger hunt that is part of Proton’s teaser campaign for its pint-sized Savvy successor.

The front three-quarter image reveals the Iriz’s sharp styling, uncovering its large, swept headlights, integrated grille with chrome crossbar, and expansive, hexagonal lower air intake flanked by thin LED daytime running light strips.

The pictured car features skirts around its lower body panels, a rear spoiler and 10-spoke alloy wheels, suggesting it’s likely a high-grade sports variant.

Teaser images of the interior confirm the Proton Iriz will be available with a smart key with push-button start and a large touchscreen with satellite navigation and reverse-view camera.

It will also come standard with six airbags (dual front, side and curtains) and electronic stability control, and a five-star NCAP safety rating in Malaysia.

The Iriz name has not yet been confirmed by Proton but is widely tipped to adorn the new model after it was revealed that the car maker trademarked the name with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia last month.

The Iriz will be available with a pair of new four-cylinder petrol engines: an entry-level 1.3-litre and a higher-performance 1.6-litre. Manual and CVT auto transmissions are expected to be offered.

Earlier spy shots of Iriz prototypes driving next to a previous-generation Honda Jazz appeared to reveal a higher roofline for the Proton, suggesting the new model may offer a larger than average interior, given the Jazz is one of the most spacious cars in the light segment.

The top-down image reveals that the rear bench splits 60:40, creating extra storage space and interior flexibility.

Proton Australia says it is still finalising pricing, specifications and launch timing for the new city car. It’s likely to go on sale locally early in 2015 with a sub-$15,000 starting price, following the Malaysian unveiling that’s expected in the coming months.