2026 Proton X90 MC launched in Malaysia – new 1.5T i-GT 4-cyl engine, no mild-hybrid, priced from RM99,800
Proton X90 has officially received its first major update since debuting in 2023, with the launch of the 2026 Proton X90 MC (Minor Change) in Malaysia.
While the original model arrived as Proton’s flagship SUV packed with technology and electrification, the refreshed version takes a very different approach, focusing on affordability and practicality, with prices now starting from RM99,800.
This repositioning makes the large three-row SUV significantly more accessible, with Proton slashing the price by as much as RM30,000 compared to the original launch price.
But what exactly has changed? And what has been removed to achieve this lower price point?
Let’s take a closer look.
A familiar design, with only minor exterior updates
Visually, the updated X90 remains largely unchanged from its predecessor. Unlike the newer version of its Chinese counterpart, the Geely Haoyue, the Malaysian-spec X90 MC retains the same overall design language.
Dimensions remain identical as before:
- Length: 4,835 mm
- Width: 1,900 mm
- Height: 1,785 mm
- Wheelbase: 2,815 mm
At the front, the SUV continues to feature the chrome pin grille, full LED headlamps and distinctive L-shaped LED daytime running lights.
One of the few exterior updates comes in the form of new utility roof rails, which are not just decorative elements, they can support up to 75 kg of load, making them practical for outdoor activities or additional cargo.
Wheel options have also been simplified. The previous 19-inch wheels have been discontinued, meaning all variants now ride on 18-inch alloy wheels wrapped in GitiControl P10 tyres.
New 1.5-litre i-GT turbocharged 4-cylinder engine
The biggest change happens under the hood.
The new X90 MC replaces the previous 1.5-litre three-cylinder turbo engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system with a more conventional 1.5-litre i-GT turbocharged four-cylinder engine.
This same engine can also be found in other updated Proton models such as the Proton X50, Proton X70 and Proton S70.
Power figures are:
- 181 PS at 5,500 rpm
- 290 Nm of torque from 2,000 – 3,500 rpm
While slightly lower than the previous hybrid powertrain, Proton claims the new engine offers improved refinement, lower noise and vibration, as well as reduced maintenance costs.
The engine is paired with a 7-speed wet dual-clutch transmission, sending power to the front wheels.
Fuel consumption is rated at 6.9 L/100 km, which is comparable to the outgoing mild-hybrid model despite the absence of hybrid assist.
Simplified variant line-up and significantly lower pricing
Another major change comes in the form of a restructured variant line-up.
Instead of four variants previously, the new X90 MC now comes in three variants only:
| Variant | Seating | Price |
|---|---|---|
| X90 1.5TD Lite | 7-seater | RM99,800 |
| X90 1.5TD Prime | 7-seater | RM109,800 |
| X90 1.5TD Prime X | 6-seater | RM115,800 |
These prices already include a RM7,000 launch rebate.
When compared to the original launch price that reached RM152,800 for the Flagship variant, the new model is now up to RM30,000 cheaper.
The repositioning comes as Proton aims to attract buyers who want a large family SUV without the premium price tag.
Interior remains familiar but with useful upgrades
Inside the cabin, the X90 MC continues to offer a spacious three-row layout, available in both seven-seat and six-seat configurations.
Some improvements have been made to the equipment list.
For starters, leatherette seats are now standard across all variants, replacing the fabric seats previously found in the base model.
Another long-awaited addition is wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, which now come standard with the 12.3-inch infotainment display.
Other interior highlights include:
- Dual-zone automatic climate control
- Rear air vents for second and third rows
- G-Clean air purification system with N95 filter
- Up to 7 USB ports across all rows
The top-spec Prime X variant features Nappa leather seats, second-row captain chairs, and ventilated seats for added comfort.
Some features removed to achieve the lower price
To achieve the significantly lower pricing, Proton has also removed several features that were previously offered in the earlier X90.
Among the notable omissions are:
- Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS)
- Blind Spot Monitoring
- Rear Cross Traffic Alert
- Panoramic sunroof
- Powered tailgate
- Wireless phone charger
- Ambient lighting
- Built-in 4G connectivity and voice assistant
However, the SUV still retains six airbags, cruise control and a 360-degree camera system on selected variants.
Colours, warranty and launch promotions
The updated X90 is available in five exterior colours:
- Marine Blue
- Armour Silver
- Snow White
- Jet Grey
- Quartz Black (new)
Buyers will also receive a 5-year unlimited mileage warranty, along with 5 years of free labour for servicing.
Additional launch promotions include:
- Up to RM4,000 rebate under the national old vehicle replacement programme
- Up to RM3,000 overtrade support for early buyers
- Special insurance packages
A more accessible flagship SUV
With this update, Proton is clearly repositioning the X90 as a value-focused large SUV rather than a technology showcase.
While some premium features have been removed, the lower pricing and more conventional powertrain may actually make the X90 more appealing to family buyers looking for a spacious and practical SUV under RM120k.
For buyers who need three rows of seating, modern connectivity and strong road presence, the refreshed X90 could now represent one of the most affordable large SUVs in Malaysia today.
