October 26th,
1999
Persona XLi upgrade raises the VFM factor
Proton continues its rollout of new and re-aligned models, with the
announcement of an upgraded and re-priced Persona XLi that ups the Malaysian
manufacturer’s VFM (Value For Money) bid.
Boasting
improved performance, more features, more style and more practicality at a lower price,
the upgraded Persona XLi retails at $18,690 for the five-speed manual and $20,390 for the
four speed automatic.
In a market crowded with base models sweetened by options, top-of-the-range Persona XLi
is fully equipped giving discerning new car buyers high levels of comfort and convenience
with no more to spend.
The stylish interior features two-tone treatments to highlight the snappy, fashionable
style avoiding the monotonous grey tomes in many cars in this price range.
Instead, there’s sporty check upholstery, a leather-clad steering wheel and multi
adjustable front seats to enhance passenger comfort. Adding to the classy interior
appearance is a woodgrain console and dashboard fascia.
Mellow tones flow from the four speaker Blaupunkt AM/FM radio /cassette sound system
while passengers keep cool thanks to the factory fitted air conditioning, specially
developed for the tropics and included as standard equipment on all Australian-spec
Protons.
The instrument console in Persona XLi features chequered white face dials, overlapping
meters and a comprehensive warning light system.
XLi’s standard equipment list also boasts the ease of power steering,
power-operated windows, remote keyless entry with central locking and, to ensure your
Persona XLi remains yours, a high tech vehicle immobiliser.
Persona offers a spacious five-seat interior with masses of interior room and a
capacious load area, complemented by 60/40 split fold rear seats. It’s the class
leader in the critical rear seat legroom department, comparing favourably with cars in the
class size above.
Under the bonnet is a 16 valve, 1.6 litre, multi point fuel injected, four cylinder
engine driving the front wheels through either a standard five speed manual transmission
or optional two mode, electronically controlled overdrive automatic.
Maximum power from this fuel-efficient engine is 83kw delivered at 6000rpm with 137Nm
of torque available at 5000rpm.
The Persona XLi delivers sharp throttle response and rewarding acceleration while
returning excellent fuel economy. Average fuel consumption in mixed city and highway
driving is approximately 8.0L/100km.
Proton’s ownership of renowned British car maker Lotus, and access of course to
that company’s suspension design data, has allowed Proton to hone vehicle dynamics to
new levels for mass produced passenger cars.
Persona XLi benefits from this with a sporty ride and handling package, designed to
offer stable and predictable handling without sacrificing comfort or ease of driving.
The suspension uses MacPherson struts with coils at the front and a multi-link coil
spring rear. Persona is equipped with 14inch wheels wearing premium Goodyear Eagle tyres,
and boasts four wheel disc brakes for sure stopping.
Colour coordinated bumpers and mirrors highlight the exterior look and Persona XLi is
available in a range of striking new colours.
All Protons sold in Australia are covered by the company’s Protec comprehensive
care package that includes a three year/unlimited kilometre warranty, 24 hour roadside
assistance, free parts and consumables on scheduled handbook services, a 1800 customer
helpline and improved vehicle security systems.
