Smart buyers are going to make sure that they check out the brand new Proton S16 FLX. The name sounds like a fighter jet, but this one has four wheels.

On the design front, the Proton S16 FLX has plenty of new technology inside, and the car possesses a cabin that looks every bit as good as a fighter’s cockpit. A nice circular instrumentation cluster sits neatly behind the chunky steering wheel. A chrome centre insert on the steering wheel mirrors the chrome surrounds of the speedometer and rev counter, while the numbers on the dials are clear and succinct.

Two models are available – both of which are sedans. The Proton S16 FLX has a modern, contemporary exterior design that features an accentuated high waistline, neat alloy rims, solid wing mirrors (that suits the cars chic, chunky design), and trapezoidal headlights that look extremely attractive. At the rear, a high boot displays a nice pair of taillights, a boot spoiler, a neat oval chrome exhaust tip and symmetrical low down red reflective inserts to finish the S16 FLX’s back end off perfectly.

Again, the nice use of spherical shapes on the dash incorporate tidy circular air vents and switch gear knobs for the radio and air-conditioning unit. Materials used in the Proton S16 FLX are neatly fitted, and the overall texture, colour and appearance are pleasant to look at. The new Proton S16 FLX is pleasant to travel in and is well equipped. The GXR model has a few more bells and whistles than the GX model; however both come with air conditioning, power steering, powered windows at the front (powered rear-windows in the GXR), central locking, cup holders, a sports steering wheel, and a trip metre. A leather sports steering wheel and leather interior are some of the additions to the more luxurious Proton S16 FLX.

This is a car I’d like to have parked up my driveway. The Proton S16 FLX looks the part and is pleasant to drive with its reactive four-cylinder, in line, DOHC Multi point injection 1.6-litre engine. Power is accessible throughout the revs, however when you are in the medium to high revs the car shines a little brighter. Putting out 80 kW at 5750 rpm and 148 Nm at 4000 rpm, you have plenty of horses for a good gallop. Handling and ride are good, too. Whether you opt for the five-speed manual or six-speed automatic, your fuel bill is going to be kept small. Expect a fuel usage of around 6 to 6.5 litres/100 km.

Like many of the Asian made cars, the Proton has worked very hard on safety. Now, the Proton S16 FLX is equipped with a full array of quality safety features that include a driver’s SRS airbag, passenger’s SRS airbag, front seatbelt pre-tensioners, ABS, EBD, Traction Control, ESC, rear three-point seatbelts, front fog lights and a high mount stop lamp.

For a low cost small sedan that promises an approx $16k price tag and, a three year/100,000 km warranty you have to take a closer look at this one. Talk to us at Private fleet, and we’ll see what we can do for you to pick up a nice little Proton that suits your needs.

The current Proton S16 FLX models include the:

• GX
• GXR

For any more information on the Proton S16 FLX or, for that matter, any other new car, contact one of our friendly consultants on 1300 303 181. If you’d like some fleet discount pricing (yes even for private buyers!), we can submit vehicle quote requests out to our national network of Proton dealers and come back with pricing within 24 hours. Private Fleet – car buying made easy!

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