New Proton Saga 1.3 Standard Lite AT variant added – from RM38,300

National carmaker Proton has quietly added a new variant into the face-lifted Proton Saga range recently. New in the line up now is the Standard Lite AT variant, which slots above the Standard MT and below the Standard AT trimlines.

Predictably, no changes to report in the powertrain side of things as the Standard Lite AT shares the same 1.3-litre 4-cyl petrol mill and 4-speed auto box package as seen in its other stablemates, offering 95 ps and 120 Nm.

Setting this variant apart is its features list, which sees halogen headlamps, 14-inch alloy wheels wrapped in 175/65 profile tyres, electric side mirrors but with manual-folding, multi-info instrument display panel with Eco Drive Assist, fabric upholstery plus urethane-wrapped steering, two rear USB charging ports, manual air-cond with N95 cabin filter, regular heads unit offering two-speakers and Bluetooth connectivity, as well as a bootlid spoiler at the rear.

Differences from the Standard AT variant above can also be seen in terms of standard safety features, with this ‘Lite’ variant sporting just two airbags, two rear parking sensors, ABS with EBD and BA, and ISOFIX childseat anchors. Omitted here are stability (ESC) and traction control (TCS) suites, as well as the hill-hold assist (HHA) functions.

Yes, it all sounds rather basic, but this variant was likely developed to woo commercial fleet buyers, E-hailing and P-hailing operators, as well as taxi fleet operators instead of regular and first-time car buyers.

This should also explain why features were omitted, as well the RM38,300 price tag it commands - OTR sans insurance. Compared to the Standard MT and Standard AT variants, this Standard Lite AT variant costs RM3,500 more and RM500 less respectively. Said price includes Proton’s 5-year or 150,000 KM warranty coverage, as well as its offer of up to three times of free labour service.

(Note: Saga 1.3 Premium AT pictured)