A sportier look, a possible new RS badge, and an interior inspired by the facelifted X50? Proton could have some interesting upgrades in store for the S70.
Recent spyshots have offered fresh clues about the upcoming facelift, including a glimpse of what appears to be a redesigned centre console with red interior trim.
However, there's a twist. While some of these sightings look promising, others have raised questions about the authenticity of the images circulating online.
An X50-Inspired Cabin For The S70?
According to Funtasticko, an interior spyshot captured at a petrol station offers a partial look at the upcoming S70 facelift's centre console.
The photograph, reportedly taken by Threads user @_suhairil_, appears to show red-and-black interior trim and a rotary control with a chrome-like finish.
Funtasticko, citing information from its source, claims the rotary control will be used for audio adjustments, while the gear selector could move to the steering column.
The dashboard is also said to adopt a layout similar to the facelifted Proton X50, featuring a smaller digital instrument cluster and a larger central infotainment display. Changes to the door-panel trim have also been reported.
If accurate, these changes could make the S70's cabin feel considerably different from the current model, particularly with a redesigned centre console.
The RS Name Is Interesting, But So Are The Spyshot Questions
Meanwhile, Paultan has highlighted two images circulating on Threads that allegedly show an S70 RS on a transporter.
The photographed vehicle appears to feature black door mirrors and handles, with sections of its body and wheels covered.
However, Paultan noticed an inconsistency between the two nearly identical images. The warning (AWAS) text on the transporter differs, raising questions about whether the pictures have been digitally altered.
In other words, these particular images deserve caution.
The RS name itself has some supporting context, though. Funtasticko previously reported that Proton had filed trademark applications for the S70 RS name across several categories, including motor vehicles.
That makes RS a possibility worth watching, but a trademark filing does not confirm that Proton will use the badge on a production model.
More Than Just A New Badge?
The facelifted turbocharged S70 has already been spotted testing on Malaysian roads on several occasions, with earlier sightings pointing towards revised front and rear styling, new wheels and updated lighting.
Paultan also notes that the recently revealed fourth-generation Geely Emgrand update could offer clues about the S70 facelift's exterior direction.
Under the bonnet, the publication expects the existing 1.5-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine producing 181 PS and 290 Nm, paired with a seven-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, to carry over.
That would put more emphasis on design, cabin technology and equipment changes rather than a major performance upgrade.
The timing is also interesting. Proton has already expanded the S70 range with the naturally aspirated Lite and Prime variants, leaving room for the turbocharged models to take on a more distinctive identity.
Funtasticko expects the refreshed turbocharged models to replace the existing Flagship and Flagship X variants, while the Lite and Prime remain unchanged. It also suggests a first-quarter 2027 arrival.
Neither the variant strategy nor the launch timing has been confirmed by Proton.
For now, the biggest question isn't simply whether the RS badge will appear on the boot lid. It's whether the facelift will bring enough meaningful improvements, particularly inside the cabin, to make the turbocharged S70 a more appealing proposition.
And judging by the latest reports, the interior could be the part worth keeping an eye on.
