Refreshed Proton Persona and Iriz launching on 5 Aug, features new centre console with floating display

After introducing the Proton X70 Special Edition, the national carmaker is set to introduce its updated Proton Persona and Iriz for 2021. The launch is taking place at 11am on Thursday, 5th August on the official Facebook page.

Unlike the X70 SE, both the new Persona and Iriz will come with some notable updates in both exterior and interior. Upfront, the grill gets a refreshed design which now carries the new circular Proton logo.

As shown in the teaser, the new Iriz will be offered in an “SUV” inspired model option that features a blacked-out roof with rails and additional plastic cladding on the wheel arches. On the inside, it appears that the Persona will get a beige interior trim, while the centre console for both models has been redesigned to feature a floating touchscreen display like the current Proton Saga.

The video also shows the gear shifter which now sits flush on a blacked-out console that has red highlights, presumably for the more “active” looking Iriz. You still get a manual handbrake and the middle console now appears to have extra storage in addition to the two cupholders.

As shown in the teaser video, the infotainment display looks more advanced than the current model. You’ll find a couple of apps on the home screen including JOOX and it also offers 4G connectivity with WiFi hotspot support.

While it is no surprise that it supports “Hi Proton”, the new system also allows you to control the vehicle’s aircon and power windows by voice. However, don’t expect it to support Apple CarPlay or Android Auto, which we feel is a missed opportunity.

For this facelift, we reckon Proton would retain the same 1.6L 4-cylinder engines for its top-of-the-line Persona and Iriz models. Word has it that the CVT box might be swapped for a more conventional 4-speed auto transmission like the current facelifted Proton Saga.

More details including pricing will be revealed this Thursday, so stay tuned for more info. If you’re keen, Proton has opened its registration of interest on their website.