proton satria neo road test reports and car reviews

Proton Satria Neo 1.3 GSX 2008

This is a cheap-as-chips, no-frills small hatchback which delivers far more than expected from the marque and the size and type of car. At this price, it exceeds expectations. It’s not powerful or fast, but it is fun to drive (the Lotus handling is noticeable) and comfortable. I’ve read the reviews that it is not great for tall drivers; which I would agree at 6ft 2 ins. However, even I can get comfortable (although I’d like the seat base to be an inch or two lower) and have no problems reaching and using all of the controls. The only problem I’ve had to date (owned it for 6 months from new) is that the rear hatch struts don’t slow the hatch when shutting, so it often slams shut quite heavily if I don’t remember to catch it and slow it down. There are other foibles, but nothing significant for a car of this price and size. It definitely looks best in Burnt Orange (although I agree with some comments that the silver fuel cap cover looks a bit boy-racerish!) Cheap-as-chips, but numerous smiles per mile.