Satria Neo R3

Nazmizan Mohamad. Now there’s a quick Malaysian. Here’s another, the Proton Satria Neo R3. It’s one of 50 units made of the successor to the original 2004 R3 model that took Malaysia like a tsunami. Based on a normal Satria Neo, the R3 has gone through several adjustments which see its power hiked to 100kW/ 135 bhp and torque increased to 164Nm. Achieved by a 1.6-litre engine of normal aspiration, these power numbers are not too bad considering what 1600 cc will get you these days. It would suffer at high altitude cities like Johannesburg and Colorado though. Proton themselves admit to not going after power output, but rather their focus is on dynamic handling where drivers can enjoy a “controlled yet exciting driving experience.”

For Race, Rally, Research, or R3, Incognito Black is the body colour. Don’t ask me why, because as far as keeping what cheating folk would describe as a “discrete profile” goes, this R3 just ain’t crackin’ it. How could it, with those 17-inch tyres, a powerful body kit, Recaro bucket seats, MOMO steering wheel and other special distinguishers?

For the driver’s benefit, upgrades in the lowered suspension and upgraded braking system underpin the “fun” elements of the R3.

At only RM71,000.00 (€15,000) per car, it shouldn’t take too long to cover the next batch of 10 after the first has been snapped up by R3 enthusiasts.