2012 Proton Exora 1.6L CVT FWD (140 HP)

Vehicle Overview

Proton refreshed its first minivan, the Exora, in 2012, just three years after the model’s introduction on the Malaysian market, and gave it the proper look and power customers thrived for.

The Malaysian automaker tried long and hard to build an MPV and compete against other Asian automakers in that highly contested segment. When it finally produced a proper one, it soon found out that people asked for more. And more they gave starting with the 2012 Exora.

At the front, the automaker ditched the chromed trim that adorned the grille, which made it look similar to a Holden signature front fascia. It replaced that with a single chromed horizontal slat and hung the Proton badge underneath. In addition, the bumper got redesigned and sported vertical side vents, while the fog lamps were moved inside the middle-mounted lower grille. From its profile, there were no significant changes other than an aerodynamic package. That was offered as an option and also included a roof spoiler at the top of the tailgate.

Inside, the 2012 Exora received new trims and lost most of its aluminum-looking decorations from the door cards and center stack. But the practicality of this seven-seater MPV remained. Unfortunately, there was not too much legroom for people seated on the third row of seats. But that was the same problem with any other similar-sized vehicle.

Under the hood, apart from the original 1.6-liter engine, the facelifted Exora also got an improved version for it, which was paired as standard with a CVT.