Proton has reaffirmed its commitment to
the Australian new car market with a refreshed model range and some exciting new additions
scheduled for local launch over the next year. 
Focus of this
reaffirmation - and central to Protons re-invigorated market push in this country - is a
stunning new sports hatchback called the Satria GTi, a car that carries the aspirations of
this new and vibrant motor manufacturer.
Satria GTi is the first in Protons passenger car range to benefit from extensive Lotus
engineering input.
Lotus is owned by Proton and its expertise is increasingly filtering into mainstream
Proton products. as well as more specialised projects.
Satria GTi shares similar architecture to other Satria models but there the similarity
ends.
Proton Cars Australia managing director, Anuar Rozhan, says the GTi is a key to Protons
awareness campaign designed to lift local sales of Proton cars to 5000 units a year within
12 months.
"Satria GTi is an
impressive 1.8L, high performance hatch back that is the first product out of
Proton’s union with Lotus," he said.
Proton Australia will use the GTi as the focal point in a forthcoming national
promotion to be known as the Proton World Tour.
Satria GTi’s and other Proton models will be driven in a cavalcade by teams
comprising both Malaysian and Australian drivers.
"Australia is a very sophisticated market and the process of building Proton brand
awareness is a long-term strategic process to which we are passionately committed. However
Proton does not intend to be a volume seller, " Mr Rozhan said.
"Proton entered the Australian car market four years ago, through an independent
distributor, using Australia as a test-bed to understand customers needs and to improve
the quality of our products.
"To be closer to the market, Proton consolidated its operations, and in November
1996, through Proton Cars Australia, took over the car distribution role.
"The launch of Satria GTi is part of our campaign to introduce more products and
in so doing build the Proton name in Australia," Mr Rozhan said.
As well as the Satria GTi launch, Proton Cars Australia will introduce new engines into
the lineup together with improved ride, handling and cosmetic changes.
