Editing Proton GEN•2

{{Short description|Compact 5-door liftback vehicle}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2023}}
{{Infobox automobile
| name = Proton GEN•2
| image = Proton Gen.2 (front), Serdang.jpg
| manufacturer = [[Proton Holdings|Proton]]
| aka = {{ubl
  | [[Europestar#莲花 L3 三厢|Europestar/Lotus/Youngman L3]] (China)
  }}
| production = February 2004 – 2012<ref name="Proton GEN•2 production"/>
| assembly = Malaysia: [[Proton City]], [[Perak]] (Proton Tanjung Malim Sdn Bhd)<br/>(2004&ndash;2012, domestic & export<br/>2013&ndash;2015,<br/>2018-present; export only)<br/>China: [[Jinhua]], [[Zhejiang]]<br/>([[Youngman]], [[Knock-down kit|CKD]])<br/>Iran: [[Borujerd]], [[Lorestan Province|Lorestan]]<br/>([[Zagross Khodro]], CKD)
| class = [[Compact car]] ([[C-segment|C]])
| body_style = 5-door [[Liftback]]
| related = [[Proton Persona]]
| layout = [[Front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout|Front-engine, front-wheel drive]]
| engine = {{ubl
  | 1.3 L ''[[CamPro engine|CamPro S4PE]]'' [[DOHC]] [[Straight-four engine|I4]]
  | 1.5 L ''[[Mitsubishi Orion engine|4G15]]'' I4 (China)
  | 1.6 L ''[[CamPro engine|CamPro S4PH]] [[Multi-point fuel injection|MPFI]]'' DOHC I4
  | 1.6 L ''[[CamPro engine|CamPro IAFM]]'' DOHC I4
  | 1.6 L ''[[CamPro engine|CamPro CPS]]'' DOHC I4
  }}
| transmission = 4-speed [[Automatic transmission|automatic]]<br/>5-speed [[Manual transmission|manual]]
| wheelbase = {{convert|2600|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| length = {{convert|4310|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| width = {{convert|1725|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| height = {{convert|1435|mm|in|1|abbr=on}}
| weight = {{convert|1195|-|1245|kg|abbr=on}}
| sp = uk
| predecessor = [[Proton Wira|Proton Wira Aeroback]]
| successor = [[Proton Suprima S]]
}}

The '''Proton GEN•2''' (often simplified as Gen-2 or GEN2) is a [[Compact car|compact]] 5-door [[liftback]] manufactured by Malaysian automobile manufacturer [[Proton (automobile)|Proton]] which launched in 2004.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 profile"/> It was initially codenamed ''Wira Replacement Model (WRM)''. The GEN•2 uses a platform which was expensively developed in house by Proton and technical partner [[Lotus Cars|Lotus]]. This platform was later adapted for the [[Proton Satria Neo]] and [[Proton Persona#Second generation (CM6; 2007)|Proton Persona]].

The GEN•2 was among the first models to be produced at Proton's [[Tanjung Malim]] plant, developed as part of the [[Proton City]] project. Although domestic sales of the GEN•2 was discontinued in 2012, Proton continues to produce the GEN•2 exclusively for export markets as of 2018.<ref name="Q1 2016 Proton Egypt sales dailynewsegypt.com"/><ref name="Exports">{{Cite news|url=https://paultan.org/2018/07/12/proton-resumes-exports-to-middle-east-gen2-persona/|title=Proton resumes exports to Middle East; Gen2, Persona|date=2018-07-12|work=Paul Tan's Automotive News|access-date=2018-07-12|language=en-US}}</ref>

==Etymology==
The name ''GEN•2'' is an abbreviation of ''Generation 2'', as it served as the replacement to the [[Proton Wira|Proton Wira Aeroback]] subcompact vehicle.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 profile"/>

== History ==
[[File:Proton Gen.2 (rear), Serdang.jpg|thumb|left|2004&ndash;2007 Proton GEN•2 in [[Seri Kembangan]], Malaysia. ]]
[[File:2012 Proton Gen-2 ecoLogic GSX in Trafalgar Square, London, England, U.K.jpg|thumb|233px|left|2008&ndash;2013 Proton GEN•2 in [[Trafalgar Square]], London. The U.K. is the only market to receive the unique dual-fuel GEN•2 ecoLogic.]]

The Proton GEN•2 was launched in the third quarter of 2004 in Malaysia, where it became the first Proton to utilise an indigenously designed platform and engine.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 profile"/> The [[Campro engine|CamPro]] (an abbreviation for [[Camshaft]] Profiling) engine and platform were both developed by [[Proton (automobile)|Proton]] and [[Lotus Cars]].

The Proton GEN•2 was first available with a 1.6 litre CamPro engine which produced {{convert|110|hp}} at 6,000rpm and 148Nm of torque at 4,000rpm, but in August 2005, it was complemented by a no frills 1.3 litre CamPro variant which output 95&nbsp;hp at 6,000rpm and 120Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2005/08/03/proton-gen2-13-in-showrooms/ |title=Proton Gen2 1.3 in showrooms |publisher=paultan.org |date=3 August 2005 |access-date=5 February 2013}}</ref>

The GEN•2 was styled by Proton's Australian educated chief stylist Damian Chia. He drew inspiration from the traditional [[Ethnic Malays|Malay]] kite known as [[wau bulan]] and the handle of the Malay dagger, the [[kris]], in shaping the unique grille of the GEN•2. Chia also gave the new car what he described as ''[[tiger]] like eyes'' for a more forceful frontal appearance.

In July 2005, the GEN•2 R3 [[concept car]] was introduced at Dreamcars Asia Motorshow 2005. It was equipped with various aftermarket parts from [[Recaro]], [[Momo (company)|MOMO]] and Proton's own Race, Rally, Research (R3) division. Only 500 examples were made as a commitment to exclusivity and individuality.<ref>{{cite web|last=YS |first=Khong |url=http://www.autoworld.com.my/v2/news/nb_details.asp?awReviewId=1900&awCatId=RT%2EATC%2ECAR%2EMTR |title=Gen2 R3 Version Released at Dreamcars Asia Motorshow 2005 |publisher=autoworld.com.my |date=8 July 2005 |access-date=6 February 2013}}</ref>

In August the following year, Proton released another limited edition model called the GEN•2 Merdeka Millennium Edition (MME) in commemoration of Proton's R3 Amprex victory at the 2005 Merdeka Millennium Endurance race. The GEN•2 MME was limited to 200 units and featured slightly improved performance, an in car entertainment system, custom rims and a body kit.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2006/08/05/proton-waja-mme-and-proton-gen2-mme-photos/ |title=Proton Waja MME and Proton GEN.2 MME Photos |publisher=paultan.org |date=5 August 2006 |access-date=5 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2006/08/04/proton-waja-mme-and-proton-gen2-mme/ |title=Proton Waja MME and Proton GEN.2 MME |publisher=paultan.org |date=4 August 2006 |access-date=5 February 2013}}</ref>

{{multiple image
| align = right
| direction = vertical
| width1 = 230
| image1 = EuropeStar.jpg
| footer = [[Jinhua Youngman Vehicle|Youngman]] [[Europestar]] RCR in [[People's Republic of China|China]]. The facelift model was known as the Europestar L3 5-door.
}}

The Proton GEN•2 EVE Hybrid Concept was unveiled at the [[Geneva Motor Show#2007|2007 Geneva Motor Show]]. EVE stood for ''Efficient, Viable, Environmental'' and it was primarily designed by Lotus Engineering with support from Proton. This concept car was powered by a CamPro 1.6 engine paired to a 30&nbsp;kW (40&nbsp;hp) electric motor. It also featured a [[continuously variable transmission]], smart start-stop ignition and regenerative braking technology.

The GEN•2 EVE offered lower [[carbon dioxide]] emissions (134g/km, reduced from 172g/km), a 28% increase in fuel efficiency (50.2 [[Miles per gallon|MPG]]) and a higher power output (141&nbsp;hp and 233Nm/1,500 rpm). Although this concept car never made it into production, certain elements such as the CVT gearbox did and a CamPro [[hybrid engine]] is currently under development.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2007/03/07/proton-and-lotus-engineering-develop-proton-gen2-eve-hybrid-concept/ |title=Proton and Lotus Engineering develop Proton GEN2 EVE Hybrid Concept |publisher=paultan.org |date=7 March 2007 |access-date=6 February 2013}}</ref>

Proton entered the Chinese market in 2007, under a strategic partnership with China's [[Jinhua Youngman Vehicle|Youngman Automobile Group]]. The deal involved a minimum of 30,000 Proton GEN•2 [[built up export|CBU]] cars that were rebadged in China under the [[Europestar]] brand.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2007/07/13/youngman-to-sell-proton-gen2-badged-as-europestar-in-china/ |title=Youngman to sell Proton GEN2 badged as Europestar in China |publisher=paultan.org |date=13 July 2007 |access-date=6 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2007/11/22/europestar-gen2-gets-unique-styling/ |title=Europestar GEN2 gets "unique" styling |publisher=paultan.org |date=22 November 2007 |access-date=6 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2007/12/15/europestar-rcr-rebadged-gen2-in-china/ |title=Europestar RCR – rebadged GEN2 in China |publisher=paultan.org |date=15 December 2007 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2009/03/17/ckd-europestar-rcr-gets-its-own-front-end/ |title=CKD Europestar RCR gets its own front-end |publisher=paultan.org |date=17 March 2009 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref>

Proton set foot in the Thai market on 1 December 2007, with the mid life [[facelift (automotive)|facelift]] of the Proton GEN•2.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2007/12/01/facelifted-proton-gen2-with-cps-launched-in-thailand/ |title=Facelifted Proton GEN2 with Campro CPS engine launched in Thailand! |publisher=paultan.org |date=1 December 2007 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref><ref name="Proton GEN•2 Thailand"/>

The GEN•2 facelift was launched in the Malaysian market in March the following year.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 facelift"/> It was sold in two trim lines, the High Line and Medium Line respectively. Proton introduced two new engines for the GEN•2; the High- Line featured the CamPro CPS 1.6 litre engine (where ''CPS'' stood for Camshaft Profile Switching) which produced {{convert|125|hp}} at 6,500rpm, and 150Nm of torque at 4,500rpm.

The CamPro CPS incorporated [[variable valve timing]] and [[variable length intake manifold]] (VIM) technology to boost maximum power and remedy the undesirable torque dip which plagued the older CamPro engines. The Medium- Line was powered by the 1.6L CamPro IAFM (Intake Air-Fuel Module) which produced {{convert|110|hp}} at 6,000rpm and 148Nm of torque at 4,000rpm.

The CamPro IAFM was essentially a basic [[dual overhead cam]] CamPro engine equipped with a variable length intake manifold (VIM). However, the VIM technology used in the CamPro IAFM differed from the one used in the superior CamPro CPS. Aside from the engines, the facelifted GEN•2 was also equipped with a new front bumper, grille, rear spoiler and alloy wheels.

The interior was also updated in line with that of the [[Proton Persona]] which was released in the end of 2007. The GEN•2 HighLine came with leather upholstery, [[cruise control]], dual SRS [[airbags]], [[Anti-lock braking system|anti-lock brakes]] (ABS) and [[Electronic brakeforce distribution|EBD]], but the Medium- Line only got a driver’s airbag. The GEN•2 in all its variants were priced between RM53,488 and RM60,488.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 facelift"/>

The Proton GEN•2 1.6 GSX ecoLogic was launched in the United Kingdom in August 2008.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2008/08/30/proton-launches-proton-gen2-ecologic-in-the-uk/ |title=Proton launches Proton GEN2 ecoLogic in the UK |publisher=paultan.org |date=30 August 2008 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref> It was technically a GEN•2 converted to run on both petrol and [[Liquefied Petroleum Gas]] (LPG). The GEN•2 ecoLogic was complemented by a saloon ([[Proton Persona]]) ecoLogic variant as well.

Both dual fuel cars qualify for lower British [[road tax]] because LPG combustion produces less exhaust pollutants. Furthermore, the Proton-approved conversion is covered by the vehicle warranty (unlike aftermarket conversions), and both [[hatchback]] and [[sedan (car)|saloon]] ecoLogic models retailed at £11,195 (~RM 54,250).<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proton.co.uk/ecologic/prices/ |title=Proton Cars UK - ecoLogic - Prices |publisher=paultan.org |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref>

On 20 May 2010, Proton introduced the final update for the GEN•2 with two variants available: Medium-Line (auto only) and High-Line (manual and auto). It received mild exterior and interior changes, with the most distinctive feature being the black roof. The Medium- Line trim was upgraded to incorporate the more powerful CamPro CPS 1.6 engine, previously reserved for High- Line variants. The updated GEN•2 also received a price drop and was sold in three colours; Fire Red, Genetic silver and Solid White.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Danny |url=http://paultan.org/2010/05/20/proton-refreshes-the-gen2-m-line-gets-campro-cps/ |title=Proton Gen2 updated: Campro CPS for M-Line too! |publisher=paultan.org |date=20 May 2010 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Yao Han |first=Seow |url=http://www.livelifedrive.com/malaysia/news/view/630/proton-gen2-receives-facelift-plus-price-trim-changes |title=Proton Gen2 Receives Facelift Plus Price & Trim Changes |publisher=paultan.org |date=21 May 2010 |access-date=8 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Danny |url=http://paultan.org/2010/05/21/gallery-live-images-of-the-refreshed-2011-proton-gen2/ |title=GALLERY: Live images of the refreshed 2011 Proton Gen2 |publisher=paultan.org |date=21 May 2010 |access-date=7 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://proton-edar.com.my/pdf/brochure_gen2.pdf|date=2010-07-05|access-date=2017-10-20 |title=Brochure GEN•2|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100705090224/http://proton-edar.com.my/pdf/brochure_gen2.pdf|archive-date=2010-07-05}}</ref> The last Proton GEN•2s for the Malaysian market were sold in 2012.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 global sales"/>

== Export Markets ==
The Proton GEN•2 was widely exported via Proton's worldwide dealer networks. It was sold in the United Kingdom, Ireland, Turkey, Romania,<ref>{{cite web|author=Dragoş Băltăţeanu |url=http://www.promotor.ro/teste-auto/test-drive/proton-gen-2-test-in-ro-2776868  |title=Proton Gen 2 - test în RO |publisher=promotor.ro |date=14 July 2008 |access-date=24 November 2013 |language=ro}}</ref> South Africa,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.carmag.co.za/photo-gallery-old/proton-gen-2/ |title=Proton Gen-2 |publisher=CARmag.co.za |date=23 August 2005 |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref> Australia,<ref>{{cite web|location=Australia |url=http://www.proton.com.au/showroom/gen2/gen2_specifications.php |title=Proton Gen-2 - Specifications |publisher=proton.com.au |access-date=24 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060126234405/http://www.proton.com.au/showroom/gen2/gen2_specifications.php |archive-date=26 January 2006 |url-status=dead }}</ref> Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://proton-edar.co.id/showroom_gen2/gen2.html |title=Proton Indonesia - Showroom - Gen-2 |publisher=proton-edar.co.id |access-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120626122608/http://www.proton-edar.co.id/showroom_gen2/gen2.html |archive-date=26 June 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> and Egypt<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.proton-egypt.com/proton_vehicles/gen-2 |title=Proton Egypt - Products - Gen-2 |publisher=proton-egypt.com |access-date=8 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121117013637/http://www.proton-egypt.com/proton_vehicles/gen-2 |archive-date=17 November 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref> among other markets.

An agreement was inked between Proton and Iranian distributor [[Zagross Khodro]] in December 2008, for [[Knock-down kit|CKD]] assembly of the Proton GEN•2 in Iran.<ref>{{cite web|author=Teh Eng Hock |url=http://www.thestar.com.my/story.aspx?file=%2f2008%2f12%2f25%2fbusiness%2f2891692&sec=business |title=Proton aims to sell 100,000 Campro engines in Iran |work=[[The Star (Malaysia)]] |date=25 December 2008 |access-date=27 September 2013}}</ref> It enabled the car to be more competitively priced in that market.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2008/12/23/proton-gen2-to-be-assembled-in-iran/ |title=Proton GEN2 to be assembled in Iran |publisher=paultan.org |date=23 December 2008 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref> GEN•2 models sold in export markets from 2011 onwards are equipped with the [[Proton Persona]]'s [[Light-emitting diode|L.E.D.]] tail lights, which help give the GEN•2 a more modern appearance.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.arenakereta.com/2011/10/22/gambar-proton-gen2-di-pasaran-uae-dengan-lampu-belakang-persona/ |title=Gambar Proton Gen2 di pasaran UAE dengan lampu belakang Persona |publisher=arenakereta.com |date=22 October 2011 |access-date=9 February 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130324002948/http://www.arenakereta.com/2011/10/22/gambar-proton-gen2-di-pasaran-uae-dengan-lampu-belakang-persona |archive-date=24 March 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

Proton discontinued sales of the GEN•2 in Malaysia in 2012.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 global sales"/> However, Proton still produces the GEN•2 at their [[Tanjung Malim]] factory for exclusive sale to their export markets. Proton produced 1,148 GEN•2s in 2012 and a further 1,489 in 2013.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 production"/> Production of the GEN•2 stopped momentarily in November 2013, but resumed in July 2014 due to higher demand from some export markets, chiefly [[Egypt]] and [[Turkey]].<ref name="Proton GEN•2 production"/>

Proton sold 682 units in 2012 and an additional 715 GEN•2s and [[Proton Persona|Personas]] in 2013 in Turkey, as well as 496 and 593 GEN•2 units in 2012 and 2013 respectively in Egypt.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 global sales"/> Sales of the GEN•2 and Persona continue to increase in both markets. Between January and September 2014, 625 GEN•2s were sold in Egypt, and between January and November 2014, 562 GEN•2s and Personas were sold in Turkey.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 global sales"/>

The Proton GEN•2 was launched in Pakistan in September 2006; it was available in five variants: 1.3 M/T, 1.3 M/T (CNG), 1.3 A/T, 1.6 M/T and 1.6 M/T (CNG).<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.pakwheels.com/forums/t/proton-launched-in-pakistan-today-launch-pics/30046/5|title=Proton Launched in Pakistan Today! + launch pics|website=PakWheels Forums|language=en|access-date=2018-09-30}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.pakwheels.com/blog/proton-in-pakistan/|title=Here's Why Proton Did Not Succeed In Pakistan - PakWheels Blog|date=2015-02-12|work=PakWheels Blog|access-date=2018-09-30|language=en-US}}</ref> Proton pulled out of Pakistan only a few years later.

In Indonesia, the facelifted Proton GEN.2 come with only the Campro IAFM engine and was sold in two variants: M/T and A/T. It was available in seven different colors: Tranquility Black, Metal Grey, Genetic Silver, Energy Orange, Solid Red, Passion Blue and Solid White. It came with a 3-year or 100,000&nbsp;km warranty.<ref>{{Cite book|title=Proton GEN.2 Flyer|publisher=Proton Edar Indonesia}}</ref>

On 12 July 2018, 440 Proton GEN•2s were exported to the Middle East.<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.thestar.com.my/business/business-news/2018/07/12/proton-resumes-export-with-first-shipment-to-jordan/|title=Proton resumes export with first shipment to Jordan - Business News {{!}} The Star Online|website=www.thestar.com.my|access-date=2018-07-12}}</ref><ref name="Exports"/>

== Other Developments ==

The [[Jinhua Youngman Vehicle|Youngman]] [[Europestar]] L5 was launched at the 2011 Shanghai Motorshow. It was based on an extended GEN•2 platform (2,670mm, 70mm longer than the original) which was developed by Lotus and Youngman. It was also powered by Proton's CamPro CPS 1.6 litre engine which produced 125&nbsp;bhp and 150Nm of torque. The Europestar L5 was available in hatchback and saloon variants priced between RMB98,000 and RMB122,000 (~RM48,700 - RM60,600).<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2011/04/21/youngman-europestar-l5-based-on-long-wheelbase-gen2-platform-launched-at-shanghai-2011/ |title=Youngman Europestar L5 based on long wheelbase GEN2 platform launched at Shanghai 2011 |publisher=paultan.org |date=21 April 2011 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref>

The Proton GEN•2 was one of two models (the other being the [[Proton Savvy]]) that [[MG Rover Group|MG Rover]] was looking to [[Badge engineering|rebadge]] when it entered talks with Proton. Unfortunately, negotiations ended shortly before the GEN•2's launch of September 2004 in the United Kingdom.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.autocar.co.uk/car-news/industry/proton-shut-door-mg-rover |title=Proton shut the door on MG Rover |publisher=autocar.co.uk |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref> MG Rover was eventually purchased by China's [[Nanjing Automobile (Group) Corporation|Nanjing Automobile]] in July 2005.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/business/4708739.stm |title=Rover sold to Nanjing Automobile |publisher=news.bbc.co.uk |date=23 July 2005 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref>

The American company [[Detroit Electric]] and Proton Holdings Berhad signed an agreement in March 2009. The RM1.2 billion (USD$331 million) deal was to involve the annual production of 40,000 to 100,000 Proton GEN•2 (e46) and [[Proton Persona]] (e63) [[electric vehicles]] (EV).<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2009/03/27/detroit-electric-to-sign-rm-12-billion-agreement-with-proton-for-electric-car-development/ |title=Detroit Electric to sign RM 1.2 billion agreement with Proton for electric car development |publisher=paultan.org |date=27 March 2009 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref>

The cars were to be powered by an electric motor which could produce 150&nbsp;kW (200&nbsp;bhp) and 350 to 380Nm of torque.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2009/03/31/detroit-electric-e63-and-e46-initial-specifications/ |title=Detroit Electric e63 and e46 Initial Specifications |publisher=paultan.org |date=31 March 2009 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref> Its maximum projected range was 320&nbsp;km (199 miles) on a 40kWh battery. The Detroit Electric e63 and e46 was targeted for sale in the United States, Europe and China.<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2009/03/30/detroit-electric-to-sell-electric-persona-and-gen2/ |title=Detroit Electric to sell electric Persona and GEN2 |publisher=paultan.org |date=30 March 2009 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref> Prototype models were made in 2008, but commercial production was non existent. In January 2011, another updated prototype was caught in action, but no official announcements were made by Proton or Detroit Electric.<ref>{{cite web|last=Lim |first=Anthony |url=http://paultan.org/2011/01/05/detroit-electric-e63-spotted-in-subang-is-something-up/ |title=Detroit Electric e63 spotted in Subang – is something up? |publisher=paultan.org |date=5 January 2011 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref> The GEN•2 was phased out in 2012, and it is presumed that the agreement is no longer valid as of 2013.

== Safety ==

{| class="wikitable" align="right"
|-
! align="center" colspan="11" | Safety features (selected markets)<ref name="Proton GEN•2 Thailand"/><ref>{{cite web|location=China |url=http://chinaautoweb.com/car-models/youngman-lotus-l3-hatchback/ |title=Youngman Lotus L3 Hatchback |publisher=chinaautoweb.com |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=Singapore |url=http://www.sgcarmart.com/new_cars/newcars_features.php?CarCode=10244&Subcode=528 |title=Proton Gen-2 - Safety & Luxury Features - sgCarMart |publisher=sgcarmart.com |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=South Africa |url=http://www.protoncars.co.za/gen2/specifications/default.htm |title=Colour & Trim - Proton Cars SA |publisher=protoncars.co.za |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=United Arab Emirates |url=http://www.protoncars.ae/models/Gen%20II/specification.aspx |title=Proton Gen-2 - Specifications |publisher=protoncars.ae |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref>{{lower|0.2em|{{#tag:ref|'''Legend'''<br>'''Blue''' : Standard across all trim levels.<br>'''Green''' : Available on selected trim level(s) only, full package.<br>'''Yellow''' : Available on selected trim level(s) only, but is not the full package.<br>'''Red''' : Not available on selected trim level(s), or is the no-frills package.|name="Safety specifications"|group="N"}}<!--end lower:-->}}
|-
!scope="col" colspan="10"| Highest specifications offered
|-
! Market
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|Thailand}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|China}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|Malaysia}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|Singapore}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|South Africa}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|United Arab Emirates}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|United Kingdom}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|New Zealand}}
|colspan="1"| {{flagicon|Australia}}
|-
! [[Anti-lock braking system|ABS]] with [[Electronic brakeforce distribution|EBD]]
|colspan="19" style="background: #01DF01; color: black" align="center" | ✔
|-
! [[Emergency brake assist|BA]], [[Traction control system|TCS]] and [[Electronic Stability Control|ESC]]
|colspan="19" style="background: #DF0101; color: white" align="center" | ✘
|-
! [[Airbags]]
|colspan="4" style="background: #FACC2E; color: black" align="center" | 2
|colspan="5" style="background: #01DF01; color: black" align="center" | 4
|}

* {{flagicon|European Union}} - [[Euro NCAP]] (equivalent) - {{rating|3|5}}

The Proton GEN•2 has not been officially tested by the European New Car Assessment Programme ([[Euro NCAP]]), but it has nonetheless been assessed at the Applus+ IDIADA crash testing facility in Spain, and is claimed to have scored an equivalent three star Euro NCAP rating.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.protonlotus.com.tw/gen2.html  |title=Proton-Lotus (Taiwan) - Gen-2 |publisher=protonlotus.com.tw |access-date=24 November 2013 |language=zh}}</ref>

The car is also designed to [[World Forum for Harmonization of Vehicle Regulations|UNECE]], [[Australian Design Rules|ADR]] and [[Cooperation Council for the Arab States of the Gulf|GCC]] standards.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.proton.com.au/showroom/gen2/gen2_performance.php |title=Proton Cars Australia - Proton Gen-2 - Performance |publisher=proton.com.au |access-date=24 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060126211819/http://www.proton.com.au/showroom/gen2/gen2_performance.php |archive-date=26 January 2006 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

All Proton GEN•2s were equipped with a driver's airbag as a minimum requirement, and more expensive trim variants were offered with a front passenger airbag as well.<ref>{{cite web|location=Oman |url=http://www.protonoman.com/gen.html |title=Proton Oman - Gen-2 |publisher=protonoman.com |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=Qatar |url=http://www.domasco.com/PCV.aspx?Id=66&Id0=10&Id1=125 |title=Proton Sedan and Hatchback Series - Proton Gen-2 1.6 |publisher=domasco.com |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |location=Bahrain |url=http://www.kekanoo.com/protonbah/gen-2.pdf |title=Proton Bahrain - Gen-2 - Digital brochure |publisher=kekanoo.com |access-date=24 November 2013 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131202231643/http://www.kekanoo.com/protonbah/gen-2.pdf |archive-date=2 December 2013 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=Brunei |url=http://www.protonbrunei.com/gen-2-specifications/ |title=Gen-2 Specifications - Proton Brunei |publisher=protonbrunei.com |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref> However, the highest trim lines of the Proton GEN•2 sold in certain developed markets such as the United Kingdom, New Zealand and Australia were equipped with twin side airbags, making for a grand total of 4 airbags respectively.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 UK"/><ref>{{cite web|location=New Zealand |url=http://www.protoncars.co.nz/media/pdf/3419_Proton_New_Gen2_InBrief.pdf |title=Proton Cars New Zealand - Gen-2 - Digital brochure |publisher=protoncars.co.nz |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web|location=Australia |url=http://www.proton.com.au/our-cars/gen-2/specs-features/ |title=Proton Gen-2 - Specs & Features |publisher=proton.com.au |access-date=24 November 2013 }}</ref> The side airbags were never offered in Malaysian market GEN•2s.<ref name="Proton GEN•2 facelift"/>

== Powertrains ==

=== Proton GEN•2 (facelift) ===

{{multiple image
| align = right
| direction = horizontal
| width1 = 199
| width2 = 195
| width3 = 175
| image1 = Campro-gen2.jpg
| image2 = Lotus L3 Hatch CamPro 1.6 engine.jpg
| image3 = Campro CPS engine.jpg
| footer = The original [[CamPro engine|CamPro S4PH]] engine. (left) <br> 1.6L [[CamPro engine|CamPro S4PH]] engine in the [[Europestar]] L3. (middle) <br> 1.6L [[CamPro engine|CamPro CPS]] engine. (right)
}}

{| class="wikitable"
|-
! align="center" colspan="3" | Manufacturer's claims <ref name="Proton GEN•2 Malaysia"/>
|-
! Engine !! 1.6L [[CamPro engine|CamPro S4PH]] !! 1.6L [[CamPro engine|CamPro CPS]]
|-
| Format || [[Straight-4|I4]] [[DOHC]] 16V || [[Straight-4|I4]] [[DOHC]] 16V
|-
| Total displacement (cc) || 1,597 || 1,597
|-
| Bore x Stroke (mm) || 76.0 x 88.0 || 76.0 x 88.0
|-
| Maximum Output [hp(kW)/rpm] || 110 (82) / 6,000 || 125 (93) / 6,500
|-
| Maximum Torque (Nm/rpm) || 148 / 4,000 || 150 / 4,500
|-
| Acceleration 0–100&nbsp;km/h (seconds) || N/A || 10.6 ([[Manual transmission|MT]]) / 13.2 ([[Automatic transmission|AT]])
|-
| Fuel tank capacity (litres) || 50 || 50
|}

== Reception ==

The original Proton GEN•2 received poor to mixed British and Australian reviews.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.whatcar.com/car-reviews/proton/gen-2-hatchback/1-6-gsx-5dr/summary/55281 |title=Proton GEN-2 Hatchback 1.6 GSX 5dr Review |publisher=whatcar.com |access-date=10 June 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Thorp |first=Chris |url=http://www.autoexpress.co.uk/proton/gen-2/16873/proton-gen2-gsx |title=Proton Gen2 GSX |publisher=autoexpress.co.uk |date=10 July 2007 |access-date=10 June 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Mathioudakis |first=Byron |url=http://www.goauto.com.au/mellor/mellor.nsf/story2/71BABD856283AF52CA25700E000985AC |title=2004 Proton Gen.2 L-Line 5-dr hatch - GoAuto - Our Opinion |publisher=goauto.com.au |date=27 May 2005 |access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Morley |first=David |url=http://www.drive.com.au/editorial/articledetail.aspx?ArticleID=24688&pg=2&vf=0&IsPgd=0 |title=Used Car Review Proton Gen-2 |publisher=drive.com.au / The Age |date=5 February 2007 |access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> The most criticised aspect of the car was the interior. It lacked the necessary refinement and practicality for vehicles of its class. Additionally, the seating position was deemed impractical and the CamPro engine lacked sufficient power.

However, the exterior was praised for its modern looks and the ride and handling attributes were also favourable. The GEN•2 ecoLogic was the only model to receive fair reviews.<ref>{{cite web|last=Goodwin |first=Andy |url=http://www.autotrader.co.uk/articles/2011/05/cars/proton/gen-2/proton-gen-2-hatchback-2008-expert-review |title=Proton GEN-2 hatchback (2008 – ) expert review |publisher=autotrader.co.uk |date=4 May 2011 |access-date=15 February 2013}}</ref> ''[[Auto Trader Group|Auto Trader]]'' gave it 2.5/5 stars, commenting on the appalling interior as well as the generally good running costs, ride comfort and handling.

The Proton GEN•2 was also featured in ''[[Top Gear (2002 TV series)|Top Gear]]'', [[Top Gear (series 5)#ep9|Series 5, Episode 9]] which aired on 26 December 2004 in the United Kingdom. It was compared with other cars from Malaysia and South Korea, in which the GEN•2's pricing and looks were favoured by [[James May]]. However, he also commented on the GEN•2's interior, where he quoted "I'd gladly trade the Lotus-developed [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]] for some [[Toyota]]-developed door trim."<ref>{{cite web|last=Tan |first=Paul |url=http://paultan.org/2006/02/18/top-gear-compares-malaysian-and-korean-cars/ |title=Top Gear compares Malaysian and Korean cars |publisher=paultan.org |date=18 February 2006 |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref>

== Sales ==
{| class="wikitable"
|+
!Year
!Malaysia<ref>{{Cite web |title=Proton GEN•2 : Popularity over the Years |url=https://data.gov.my/dashboard/car-popularity |website=data.gov.my}}</ref> 
|-
|2004
|19,475
|-
|2005
|33,535
|-
|2006
|17,313
|-
|2007
|9,966
|-
|2008
|4,103
|-
|2009
|2,051
|-
|2010
|1,580
|-
|2011
|651
|-
|2012
|47
|-
|2013
|1
|}
{{notelist-lr}}

== See also ==

* [[Proton Persona]], the 4-door [[sedan (car)|saloon]] complement.

==References==

{{Reflist|2|refs=

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 Thailand">{{cite web|location=Thailand |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160629024833/http://www.protonthailand.com/index.php?action=gen2_function&lang=en|url=http://www.protonthailand.com/index.php?action=gen2_function&lang=en |title=Proton Thailand (Phranakorn Auto Sale) - Proton Gen-2 - Performance |publisher=protonthailand.com |access-date=15 February 2013 |archive-date= 29 June 2016}}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 profile">{{cite web|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120922021451/http://corporate.proton.com/Models/Gen-2.aspx| url=http://corporate.proton.com/Models/Gen-2.aspx |title=PROTON Holdings Berhad - Gen-2 |publisher=corporate.proton.com |access-date=4 February 2013| archive-date=22 September 2012}}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 facelift">{{cite web|author=Paul Tan |url=http://paultan.org/2008/03/03/2008-proton-gen2-facelift-with-cps-launched/ |title=2008 Proton GEN2 Facelift with CPS launched! |publisher=paultan.org |date=3 March 2008 |access-date=7 February 2013 }}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 UK">{{cite web|location=United Kingdom |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190715075714/https://www.proton.co.uk/pdf/GEN-2_spec.pdf| url=http://www.proton.co.uk/pdf/GEN-2_spec.pdf |title=Proton UK - Gen-2 - Specifications |publisher=proton.co.uk |access-date=8 February 2013 |archive-date= 15 July 2019}}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 Malaysia">{{cite web|url=http://www.proton-edar.com.my/Experience/Models/Gen-2/PricingSpecs.aspx#info |title=Proton Edar - Gen-2 - Pricing & Specs |publisher=proton-edar.com.my |access-date=9 February 2013}}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 global sales">{{cite web |url=http://www.marklines.com/en/vehicle_sales/search_model |title=MarkLines - Statistics - Annual Sales by Model |publisher=marklines.com |access-date=6 May 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140506092223/http://www.marklines.com/en/vehicle_sales/search_model |archive-date=6 May 2014 }}</ref>

<ref name="Proton GEN•2 production">{{cite web |url=http://www.marklines.com/en/vehicle_production/search_model |title=MarkLines - Statistics - Annual Production by Model |publisher=marklines.com |access-date=5 December 2014 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141219064542/http://www.marklines.com/en/vehicle_production/search_model |archive-date=19 December 2014 }}</ref>

<ref name="Q1 2016 Proton Egypt sales dailynewsegypt.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2016/05/23/proton-sells-120-cars-in-first-quarter-of-2016/ |title=Proton sells 120 cars in first quarter of 2016 |publisher=dailynewsegypt.com |date=23 May 2016 |access-date=24 May 2016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160523201729/http://www.dailynewsegypt.com/2016/05/23/proton-sells-120-cars-in-first-quarter-of-2016/ |archive-date=23 May 2016 |url-status=live }}</ref>

}}

{{Reflist|2|group=N

}}{{Proton}}{{Proton vehicles}}

{{DEFAULTSORT:Proton GEN 2}}
[[Category:Proton vehicles|GEN 2]]
[[Category:Compact cars]]
[[Category:2000s cars]]
[[Category:2010s cars]]
[[Category:Cars introduced in 2004]]
[[Category:Hatchbacks]]
[[Category:Hybrid electric cars]]
[[Category:Front-wheel-drive vehicles]]
[[Category:Touring cars]]