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PROTON Exora Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Generations: 2
First production year: 2009
Engines: Gasoline
Body style: Van
PROTON Exora photo gallery

Proton refreshed its first minivan, the Exora, in 2012, just three years after the model's introduction on the Malaysian market, and gave it the proper look and power customers thrived for.

The Malaysian automaker tried long and hard to build an MPV and compete against other Asian automakers in that highly contested segment. When it finally produced a proper one, it soon found out that people asked for more. And more they gave starting with the 2012 Exora.

At the front, the automaker ditched the chromed trim that adorned the grille, which made it look similar to a Holden signature front fascia. It replaced that with a single chromed horizontal slat and hung the Proton badge underneath. In addition, the bumper got redesigned and sported vertical side vents, while the fog lamps were moved inside the middle-mounted lower grille. From its profile, there were no significant changes other than an aerodynamic package. That was offered as an option and also included a roof spoiler at the top of the tailgate.

Inside, the 2012 Exora received new trims and lost most of its aluminum-looking decorations from the door cards and center stack. But the practicality of this seven-seater MPV remained. Unfortunately, there was not too much legroom for people seated on the third row of seats. But that was the same problem with any other similar-sized vehicle.

Under the hood, apart from the original 1.6-liter engine, the facelifted Exora also got an improved version for it, which was paired as standard with a CVT.

full description and technical specifications
PROTON Exora photo gallery

The Malaysian carmaker Proton desperately tried to make an MPV, and they repeatedly tried until they succeeded in offering a decent minivan on the market: the 2009 Exora.

Proton was on the verge of introducing new vehicles on the market. The high demand for multi-purpose vehicles determined them to try a licensed based Mitsubishi Town Box, but that was not a good recipe for the Malaysian market, and it failed after just two years. But the designers and engineers worked around the clock and revealed the Exora six years after the Proton Juara failed.

The car was designed with some inspiration from the Mitsubishi Grandis but in a good way. Exora's front end with its ascending hood and raked A-pillars left room for a long cabin fit for up to seven passengers and a trunk in the back. There were some limitations due to the Proton P1 platform, but those were passed, and the result was a convincing-looking vehicle. In the rear, the high-mounted taillights kept them safe from small bumps and increased the vehicle's visibility from behind.

Inside, the Exora could fit up to seven passengers. It was the first MPV designed in Malaysia, and the Proton team tried hard not to let its customers down. The interior featured a modern design, with rounded edges, soft materials, and leather seats as an option.

Under the hood, Proton installed a 1.6-liter gasoline engine mated as standard to a 5-speed manual. A 4-speed automatic was on the options list.

full description and technical specifications