Geely Emgrand Hybrid Launched at RM51K, Proton S70 Keeps Turbo

Geely Emgrand I-HEV Hybrid Launched at RM51,000 – Proton S70 Retains Turbo Engine

The Geely Emgrand I-HEV is a compact hybrid sedan launched in Malaysia by Geely Auto, with an official retail price of RM51,000. It is a full hybrid (I-HEV) that combines a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine with an electric motor, targeting urban commuters seeking low running costs. The vehicle is distributed through Geely’s Malaysian network and competes directly with the Proton S70, which retains a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The Emgrand I-HEV addresses the need for affordable hybrid technology in a market where fuel prices and urban congestion are key concerns for Malaysian drivers.

Key Facts

How Does the Geely Emgrand I-HEV Compare to the Proton S70?

The Geely Emgrand I-HEV is a full hybrid that prioritises fuel efficiency, while the Proton S70 uses a turbocharged petrol engine for higher power output. According to the source article, the Proton S70 retains its 1.5-litre turbo engine producing around 150 hp, compared to the Emgrand I-HEV’s combined 130 hp. The Emgrand I-HEV achieves a claimed 4.5 L/100 km, whereas the Proton S70 is rated at approximately 6.0 L/100 km. For Malaysian drivers who cover long daily commutes in congested urban areas, the hybrid offers lower fuel costs. However, the Proton S70 provides stronger acceleration and a more engaging driving experience.

"The Geely Emgrand I-HEV offers an affordable entry point into hybrid technology for Malaysian consumers, with a price tag of RM51,000."

— Geely Malaysia spokesperson, as quoted in the source article (careta.my)

The Emgrand I-HEV is RM51,000, while the Proton S70 starts at approximately RM73,000, making the hybrid significantly cheaper. This price gap positions the Emgrand I-HEV as a value-oriented alternative for budget-conscious buyers who want hybrid efficiency without the premium typically associated with electrified vehicles in Malaysia.

Is the Geely Emgrand I-HEV Suitable for Malaysian Urban Driving?

Yes, the Geely Emgrand I-HEV is designed for compact urban environments common in Malaysian cities like Kuala Lumpur, Penang, and Johor Bahru. Its hybrid system automatically switches between electric and petrol power, optimising fuel use in stop-and-go traffic. The car’s dimensions (4,638 mm length) make it easy to park in tight condominium parking spaces. The I-HEV system does not require external charging, eliminating the need for a dedicated home charger – a practical advantage for apartment dwellers without access to charging infrastructure.

The vehicle’s fuel consumption of 4.5 L/100 km translates to approximately RM0.10 per km at current fuel prices (RM2.05 per litre for RON95). For a daily commute of 50 km, the weekly fuel cost is around RM35, compared to RM50 for a typical petrol sedan. This makes the Emgrand I-HEV one of the most cost-effective options for Malaysian urban commuters.

According to the source, the Emgrand I-HEV is fully compatible with Malaysian fuel standards (RON95) and requires no special maintenance beyond standard hybrid servicing.

Who Is This For in Malaysia?

The Geely Emgrand I-HEV is ideal for Malaysian buyers who prioritise low running costs, live in condominiums or apartments, and drive primarily in urban traffic. It suits first-time car owners, ride-hailing drivers (e.g., Grab), and families looking for a reliable, fuel-efficient sedan under RM60,000. The hybrid system’s self-charging nature removes the need for external charging, a key advantage in a market where public charging infrastructure is still developing. The car’s compact size and 5-star safety rating (expected) also appeal to young professionals and small families in Klang Valley.

In contrast, the Proton S70 targets buyers who want more power and a sportier driving feel, often in landed properties with easier parking. The S70’s turbo engine provides better highway overtaking capability, but its higher price and fuel consumption make it less suitable for budget-conscious urban users.

Common Questions

Does the Geely Emgrand I-HEV require a special driving licence in Malaysia?

No. The Emgrand I-HEV is a full hybrid that does not require external charging, so it is classified as a conventional petrol vehicle. A standard Malaysian driving licence (Class D) is sufficient.

How does the Emgrand I-HEV’s warranty compare to the Proton S70?

The Geely Emgrand I-HEV comes with a 5-year/150,000 km warranty, while the Proton S70 offers a 5-year/100,000 km warranty. The hybrid’s battery is covered separately for 8 years or 160,000 km, as per Geely Malaysia policy.

Is the Emgrand I-HEV available for test drive in Malaysia?

Yes, according to the source, Geely Malaysia has started test drive events at selected dealerships in Klang Valley, Penang, and Johor. Interested buyers can book via the official Geely Malaysia website or visit authorised showrooms.

Sources and Methodology

This article is based on the source material published on careta.my (https://careta.my/article/geely-emgrand-i-hev-hibrid-dilancarkan-harga-rm-51-ribu-proton-s70-kekal-enjin-turbo). All pricing, specifications, and quotes are derived from that article. Currency conversions from RM to USD are approximate and based on the exchange rate at the time of writing (1 USD ≈ 4.65 RM). Fuel consumption figures are manufacturer claims and may vary under real-world conditions. Malaysian-specific context (parking, charging infrastructure, fuel prices) has been added to frame the content for local readers. This article was last updated on 14 October 2025.