PROTON Inspira Models/Series Timeline, Specifications & Photos

Thanks to its agreement with Mitsubishi, Proton introduced the Inspira lineup in 2010 based on the same platform as the tenth generation of the Lancer, and it showed it.

While it was more of a badge-engineered product, the Inspira still had specific details that made it not only look different but also unique settings that made it behave differently on the road. Moreover, the Malaysian carmaker worked on materials used inside the cabin to make it more appealing to its customers.

With just a three-box bodywork available, the Inspira offered a similar image as the Lancer, but for less money. At the front, the headlights were carried over from its Japanese cousin, but the overall look was more aggressive. A satin-chromed single slat that supported the Proton badge took center stage in the grille. The base model was available with 16” light-alloy wheels, while the top trim level featured a set of 17” alloys. At the back, Proton installed a smaller lip-spoiler instead of the wing available for the Lancer.

Inside, the car offered the same dashboard design as the Lancer, with a clean look and squared vents plus stereo atop the center stack. For the climate control unit, the Inspira featured three turning knobs, like the Lancer. The biggest difference was that it used different, higher-quality materials. But it kept the bucket seats at the front, with medium side bolstering. The flat rear bench was good for two adults, but the transmission tunnel was obstructing the third passenger.

Customers could choose between two engines carried over from Mitsubishi: either a 1.8- or a 2.0-liter inline-four. These sent the power to the front wheels only via either a five-speed manual or a CVT for the former or a CVT-only for the latter.