My dream car, Fire Red Neo R3 by Proton

Proton’s Motorsports division has been quietly at work developing a hotter Satria Neo. Only a limited number of units will be offered and the car will have the R3 badge, signifying its potency.
 

Said to be ‘built by enthusiasts for enthusiasts’, the R3 Satria Neo features Stage 2 upgrades to the standard 1.6-litre CAMPRO S4PH engine and is rated at 145 bhp 7000 rpm with 168 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm. Available only with a close ratio 5-speed manual transmission, the R3 Satria Neo sports re-profiled camshafts that increases valve lift and overlap; a performance calibrated on board computer with revised fuel maps for spirited drives; a carbonfibre air intake system; a higher flow 4-2-1 performance exhaust system; and adjustable aluminium camshaft pulley.

The ride and handling of the 1,200 kg car has also been enhanced further to cope with the R3 Satria Neo’s ‘new’ personality. R3 performance springs drop the car 10 mm to reduce body roll, and recalibrated alignment, toe and camber settings increases grip and steering precision. Complementing the overall handling and dynamic package, the R3 Satria Neo is fitted with R3 edition 16-inch inch gunmetal lightweight alloys wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza RE001R 205/45 series profile tyres which have a softer compound.

Unlike some cars which get injected with extra power but their owners fail to consider the need for better stopping power, the R3 Satria Neo comes factory-fitted with high-performance brake pads capable of withstanding high-temperatures of up to 500 degrees C. for increased fade resistance often associated with constant heavy braking.

Offered only in exclusive Fire Red with a black painted roof, the R3 Satria Neo sports a very distinctive exterior style which will set it apart from the regular version. The all-round CPS bodykit is complemented by a R3-designed rear roof spoiler; a front lip which improves downforce on the front axle (and also reduces undercarriage turbulence); prominent fender arches; and titanium coloured side strips or mouldings.

The fiery theme continues into the cabin which has a sporty, classy and alluring matte red and black two-tone colour scheme. The R3 Satria Neo also comes fitted with R3 limited edition front bucket seats wrapped in nappa leather with microfibre finish, carbon effect PVC and detailed in red stitching; matte red dashboard trims, gear console and handbrake handle; two-tone door trims; and R3 floor carpets. An engine start button, aluminium foot pedals and gear knob accentuate the car’s performance-driven attitude.

Solar and security protection are standard, along with a 2DIN audio head unit and GPS navigation. Safety features include dual front airbags, and ABS +EBD.

The R3 Satria Neo will be priced at RM79,797 and is available for immediate booking at all Proton Edar showrooms in Peninsular Malaysia.