Proton has confirmed that its Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA) currently underpinning the Proton Saga will be used for a number of new models moving forward and a supplier for the next model has revealed that production of AMA02 will begin in October 2026 with it likely being a Saga Cross variant to take on the
The announcement comes from long-time (since 2012) Proton supplier Feytech Holdings Berhad, who announced the approximate of RM 96.8 million seat cover supply contract for the upcoming Proton model. Manufacturing will be handled by the group’s leather trim manufacturing arm, Gosford Leather Industries.
More importantly, the information also disclosed that it will be a compact SUV/crossover sporting the Saga Cross name but be in the mould of a replacement for the Iriz Active. It will have its crosshairs firmly on the Cherry Tiggo Cross, Honda WR-V and the aforementioned Ativa.
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A notable aspect of the AMA is that all models built on the scalable platform will share up to 60% of part. This will allow Proton to drastically reduce development time.
Expect the new model to be powered by the same powertrain in the Saga, the BHE15PFI 1.5-litre i-GT inline-four with a 120 PS and 150 Nm of torque and the Aisin four-speed automatic.
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However, in this case the AMA02 might also be a hybrid system for a little more power and to keep pace with the Tiggo Cross whilst also keeping track with Geely’s latest i-HEV models.
The i-HEV is a pared down version of the hybrid powertrain in the eMas 7 PHEV, keeping the petrol engine, electric motor and 11-in-1 single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission but with a smaller battery.
Given that assembly of the engine is already localised and hybrid components shared with the eMas 7 PHEV, the AMA02 could be the first AMA model to run this powertrain.
Proton is determined to reclaim its market share by focussing on models in the sub-RM80,000 segment and will follow up on the AMA02 with the AMA 05 and AMA 06 in 2027. The latter duo will include an MPV to replace the discontinued Exora.
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All the AMA-based models will play a crucial role in Proton achieving its target of 200,000 units in 2026, which the Saga has already vastly contributed to with over 70,000 bookings thus far.
On a separate note, Feytech’s joint venture with China’s Wuhu Ruitai Auto Parts Co. Ltd, FTRT Autoparts Sdn Bhd, is deepening its relationship with Chery. The joint venture will commence seat production for two existing Chery car models and two new models in the third quarter of this year, under an existing localisation framework at its Subang facility.
FTRT was established to support the localisation requirements of China-based OEM operating under completely knocked down (CKD) frameworks in Malaysia.