Few cars carry a name as iconic as the Proton Saga, so taking it deep into the Royal Belum Rainforest felt like more than a test drive, it was a journey through heritage and progress. 

For decades, the Saga has been a familiar face on Malaysian roads—the first car for many, the workhorse for countless families and ride-hailing drivers. But times have changed. Rivals have stolen the spotlight, leaving Proton with something to prove. Enter the 2026 Proton Saga, a car that promises to be more than just “good enough.”

With misty hills and winding roads as our backdrop, we set out to see if Proton’s latest update to its beloved sedan could live up to its promise.

Familiar, but fresher look

The familiar silhouette remains, but it’s been sharpened with thoughtful touches that make it feel current without losing its identity.

At the front, the oversized grille still dominates, but it’s framed by sleek LED projector headlights that lend a premium vibe, complete with cascading dual-bar indicators. The L-shaped daytime running lights sweep gracefully into Proton’s signature “Ethereal Bow” grille bar, creating a visual link that feels deliberate rather than forced.

Move to the rear, and the full-width LED taillight bar on the Premium variant steals the show. It’s bold, modern, and instantly elevates the Saga’s presence.

Image Credit: Proton

Step inside, and the transformation continues. The cabin no longer feels like a relic from the past. A redesigned dashboard stretches horizontally, creating a sense of width and space. The wave-patterned trim on the doors and dash injects texture and visual interest, breaking up the monotony of hard plastics.

The centerpiece, however, is the tech. A dual-screen setup dominates the view: a crisp seven-inch digital instrument cluster paired with a nine-inch infotainment touchscreen. Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto come standard, making it easy to sync your phone without fumbling for cables.

Image Credit: Rojak Daily

Everyday practicality meets modern tech

The Saga isn’t trying to be a luxury car, but it nails the essentials. The seats are generously sized and supportive enough for long drives, and while the driving position is still on the high side, visibility is excellent, perfect for navigating city traffic or winding kampung roads.

Storage space is modest, but the basics are covered, cupholders, USB ports, and wireless smartphone connectivity make life easier. The infotainment system is simple and responsive, and physical controls mean you’re not stuck scrolling through menus while driving.

Image Credit: Rojak Daily

Safety is where the Saga really steps up. Six airbags, autonomous emergency braking, lane departure warning, blind spot monitoring, and auto high beam are all part of the Premium package. For a car that starts under RM50k, that’s a big deal, and a clear sign Proton is serious about value.

Performance that surprises

Here’s where the Saga truly comes alive. Beneath the hood sits Proton’s new 1.5L i-GT engine, a significant leap forward in refinement and performance. It’s paired with two transmission options: a familiar four-speed automatic and a CVT that, surprisingly, feels like the better match for this car’s personality.

On city streets, the Saga is calm and composed, soaking up bumps without fuss. But the real magic happens when the tarmac starts to twist which we got to experience during our climb of the winding roads toward Belum Rainforest Resort.

Image Credit: Proton

The steering feels precise and the chassis remains planted even when the corners tighten. Push harder, and the Saga responds with surprising composure. The CVT keeps the engine in its sweet spot, delivering smooth, uninterrupted power which was perfec for the rainforest roads we passed through.

A Saga worth continuing

The 2026 Proton Saga MC3 isn’t perfect – the old body structure still shows its age, and some features are missing. But with a modern engine, improved tech, class-leading safety, and a driving experience that puts rivals to shame, this is a budget sedan that ticks all the boxes and more.

What makes the new Saga truly compelling is its versatility. For first-time car buyers, it’s an affordable entry point into ownership without feeling bare-bones. For families, the added safety features and improved comfort make it a practical daily companion. For ride-hailing drivers, the fuel efficiency and lower maintenance costs mean better returns on every trip. And for those who simply love a good drive, the Saga’s handling and refinement deliver a level of enjoyment you wouldn’t expect at this price.

For more information check out Proton's website.

Featured Image Credit: Proton