When it was launched back in 2018, the Proton X70 was touted as having a modern infotainment operating system, coming with the then-new Geely Key User Interface (GKUI). Fast forward four years, however, and it’s safe to say that it’s already becoming outdated.
The GKUI system has been superseded twice, first by the more advanced GKUI 19 in the smaller X50, then the ATLAS OS that made its debut in the facelifted Iriz and Persona. The latter was developed by ACO Tech, a local joint venture between Proton, Geely subsidiary Ecarx and Altel Communications, and is claimed to offer more entertainment features, improved “Hi Proton” voice control and navigation and in-car payment apps. It’s also set to receive a Spotify app in the future.
During the media test drive event of the updated 2022 X70 last week, we asked Proton deputy CEO Roslan Abdullah whether the SUV will get the latest system. He confirmed that the X70 would indeed receive ATLAS, but declined to provide specifics, saying that more details will be announced later on.
Yes, this means you will eventually be able to stream your Spotify playlists natively (Proton still doesn’t offer Apple CarPlay or Android Auto connectivity in any of its cars) in an X70. “The fight for Spotify has been a long battle internally for us, because of the MCO [movement control order],” said Roslan. “[There’s been] a lot of complaints and unhappiness [from the buying public], so Spotify is something that will appeal to customers.”
Notice that I said “an X70” and not “your X70.” That’s because, unlike the X50 that has already received ATLAS through an over-the-air update, there’s no indication that the larger model will get the same treatment.
The GKUI system does support OTA software updates, but Roslan did not mention if hardware changes – like the X50’s more modern processor and bigger 10.25-inch touchscreen – would be needed for the car to accept ATLAS. This means that as yet, it’s unclear if all X70s produced to date will be able to get the system. We’ll just have to wait and see.
The 2022 Proton X70 looks almost identical to the previous model but receives the X50’s 1.5-litre turbocharged TGDi three-cylinder engine, producing 175 hp and 255 Nm of torque. This unit replaces the 1.8-litre four-pot and its locally assembled in Tanjung Malim. Prices range from RM98,800 for the base Standard variant to RM123,800 for the top-spec Premium, although a RM128,800 1.8 TGDi Premium is still available.
