Proton Savvy Review (2005 to date)

Quick Summary

The Savvy isn't the easiest car to recommend as a used buy. While it's quite a sparkling drive, its price advantage from new is rather erased when buying used. Most would see a year older Fiat Panda or a Ford Ka as a more desirable choice. Still, if the price is right and you want one of the best warranties around, this Proton has a certain appeal.

Overall:

Models Covered:5 door city car, 1.2 petrol [Street, Style]

SAVVY SEARCH

* IntroductionI'm guessing that the Proton Savvy probably isn't the used city car that's at the top of your shortlist. In fact I'd be surprised if it's there at all given the wealth of alternatives your money could stretch to. If you're looking for a nearly new cheapie though, the Proton could be worth a look. With engineering input from Lotus, it's even pretty good to drive.
Used Proton Savvy for sale

History of the Savvy

That this Malaysian industrial conglomerate works so closely with the Norfolk performance car manufacturer may come as a surprise to many who aren't clued in, but those with a little more savvy will know that Lotus was swallowed up by Proton way back in 1997. It was a smart move in many ways. Lotus were floundering financially but the brand equity would add significant clout to a Proton badge that was desperate for global credibility. The fact that many are still surprised at learning of Proton and Lotus' tie-up is something of an indictment of Proton's presence in this country which has been near to invisible. The first signs of the partnership came in 1999 when Proton launched the Satria GTi. Lotus took the standard Satria 3-door hatchback and added a little Hethel magic. The result was a superb handling 'hot-hatch', capable of humbling some of the more well known brands. The Satria GTi was well received by all who drove it but didn't manage serious sales. It's still one of the smartest used hot hatch buys around if you don't mind a few rough edges.Keen to learn from the GTi experience, Proton was quick to use Lotus in the development of all subsequent car launches. In 2001, the Impian was the first Proton to be built on an in-house platform and the saloon car was graced with ride and handling not normally found on 4-door saloons. Perhaps the most significant car in Proton's history was the GEN-2, launched in the UK in September 2004. The Savvy arrived in August 2005 and was designed to go head to head in its home market with the Perodua Myvi – a rebodied Daihatsu Charade. Over here, the list of competitors is a good deal longer and more illustrious, especially on the used market where you can buy a much bigger, more sophisticated car as long as you're willing to compromise a little on vehicle age.
Used Proton Savvy for sale

Proton Savvy Road Test

Only one engine is available, but it's a pleasantly punchy 1.2-litre unit that makes 74bhp. This translates into the ability to hit 60mph in 12.2 seconds which is very good indeed for a vehicle in the city car class, as is the 106mph top speed. This is a car with genuine motorway ability. Proton are again quick to point to Lotus involvement in the chassis development. "We wanted a small car that offers practicality, fuel economy, generous space and great all round performance," said a senior Proton suit. "It's not a sports car nor does it look like a Lotus but certain elements have been engineered into the Savvy that'll give you a taste of what it's like to drive one of the world's best handling vehicles. The results are outstanding."These elements involved engineering a new, stronger and more rigid chassis (platform) and bringing Lotus Dynamics into a small car, resulting in a vehicle that is superior in handling, safety, responsiveness and which has good power to weight ratio - all the necessary ingredients needed to make a powerful and enjoyable small package. The Savvy was tested and verified to be stronger than the German and Italian marques that were used as a benchmark in the development process. Although you won't step from a Savvy knowing exactly what a Lotus Exige must feel like as a result, the steering feel alone is leagues better than most small cars.
Used Proton Savvy for sale

Buying a Proton Savvy

Not a lot goes wrong. The interior fittings are not of the highest quality and the centre console does look a lot better than it feels. Make sure the car you're looking at has been serviced on the nose. Other than that, this is one of the least troublesome budget cars you can buy.
Used Proton Savvy for sale

Proton Savvy Typical Pricing

You'll need around £4,500 for a 2005 55-plated Savvy 1.2 Street or around £5,000 for an equivalent vintage Style variant. Yes, this would stretch to something like a 54-plated Fiat Panda. You pay your money and take your choice.
Used Proton Savvy for sale

Proton Savvy Parts

(Based on a 2005 1.2 Street) A new clutch will be in the region of £175 and a full exhaust about £450. Front brake pads will set you back about £45 for the front set and £38 for the rear, while an alternator will be around £185 and a replacement starter motor about £140.
Used Proton Savvy for sale