As of March 2025, the Proton Inspira, which ceased production in 2015, is available exclusively in the used car market. Prices for pre-owned Inspira models vary based on factors such as condition, mileage, and year of manufacture. Recent listings indicate that prices range from approximately RM12,888 to RM92,500, with a median price of around RM24,999. Well-maintained units, especially those with lower mileage or additional features, tend to command higher prices within this range. For instance, a 2011 Proton Inspira 2.0 Premium with 120,000 to 129,999 km mileage is listed at RM21,800, while a 2015 Proton Inspira 1.8 Executive with 160,000 to 169,999 km mileage is priced at RM28,000. For those interested in a newer vehicle with similar attributes, the Proton Persona, starting at RM42,600 for the 2025 model, offers updated features and improved efficiency.
The Proton Inspira was assembled in Shah Alam, Selangor, and was a rebadged version of the ninth-generation Mitsubishi Lancer. It was available in several variants, including the 1.8 MT, 2.0 CVT Executive, and 2.0 CVT Premium, offering both manual and CVT transmissions. The models were equipped with engines such as the 1.8L MIVEC 4B10 and the 2.0L MIVEC 4B11. Sales of the Proton Inspira peaked in 2011 with 9,841 units sold but gradually declined, with only 108 units sold in 2016 after production had ended.
Proton Inspira Costs
What Is the Proton Inspira in the Context of Malaysia?
The Proton Inspira is a compact four-door saloon produced by the Malaysian automobile manufacturer Proton. Launched in November 2010, it is essentially a rebadged version of the ninth-generation Mitsubishi Lancer, resulting from a collaboration between Mitsubishi Motors and Proton. This partnership allowed Proton to offer a locally assembled alternative to the imported Mitsubishi Lancer at a more competitive price. The Inspira replaced the Proton Waja and complemented the Proton Prevé in the Malaysian market. Production of the Proton Inspira continued until April 2015, and it was exclusively available in Malaysia. The name “Inspira” is derived from the Malay word “Inspirasi,” meaning inspiration.
How Did the Collaboration Between Proton and Mitsubishi Come About?
The collaboration between Proton and Mitsubishi Motors can be traced back to a renewed technological transfer agreement. This partnership was crucial in the 1980s for Proton’s early development. Mitsubishi, benefiting from Proton’s local assembly capabilities, allowed the rebadging of its Lancer model for the Malaysian market. This agreement enabled Proton to produce the Inspira at a lower cost than developing a new model independently, which would have required an investment of up to RM700 million (approximately USD230 million). By sharing the Lancer’s components and technology, Proton could market the Inspira at a more affordable price, benefiting from reduced import duties and government incentives for local assembly.
Does Proton Face Criticism?
Yes, despite being well-received initially due to its lower price compared to the imported Mitsubishi Lancer, the Proton Inspira faced criticism for Proton’s return to rebadging cars instead of developing new models independently. This practice was a shift from Proton’s previous direction, which had seen them independently develop models like the Proton Waja. However, the collaboration with Mitsubishi allowed Proton to offer the Inspira at a more competitive price, benefiting from local assembly and government incentives.
How Did Proton Address Criticisms Regarding Rebadging?
Proton faced criticism for the practice of rebadging vehicles, a strategy it had previously moved away from with the independently developed Proton Waja in 2000. However, Proton’s management justified the collaboration with Mitsubishi as a strategic move to offer a competitively priced model without incurring the high costs associated with developing a new car from scratch. The rebadging agreement stipulated that Proton could not alter key features of the Mitsubishi Lancer, ensuring the Inspira maintained high standards of quality and performance. Proton, however, customized aspects like suspension to improve driving dynamics and handling, drawing positive feedback from Mitsubishi’s management upon their inspection.
What Variants and Features Were Available for the Proton Inspira?
Upon its debut on November 10, 2010, the Proton Inspira was available in two variants: the 1.8E (Executive) and the 2.0P (Premium). The 1.8E variant was offered with either a manual or CVT transmission, while the 2.0P variant was available only with a CVT. Standard features included dual SRS airbags, leather-wrapped steering wheel, ABS with EBD, immobiliser, alarm system, central locking, and ISOFIX child seat anchors. The Premium variant further offered cruise control, paddle shifters, automatic climate control, and Nappa leather upholstery. In 2011, a limited edition called the Inspira R3 was launched, featuring R3 body kits and alloy wheels. Subsequent updates in the following years introduced new features, such as touch-screen interfaces and updated wheel designs.
What Were the Sales Figures for the Proton Inspira?
The sales performance of the Proton Inspira varied throughout its production years. In its debut year, 2010, Proton sold 829 units. Sales peaked in 2011, with 9,841 units sold, reflecting the initial market enthusiasm. However, sales declined in subsequent years, with 4,459 units in 2012, 3,272 units in 2013, 1,004 units in 2014, and only 815 units in 2015 before production ceased. By 2016, only 108 units were sold, indicating a significant reduction as the market moved towards newer models. These figures illustrate the typical lifecycle of a car model, where initial interest gradually wanes over time.
What Are the Technical Specifications of the Proton Inspira?
The Proton Inspira was offered with three powertrain options: a 1.8L MIVEC 4B10 engine available with either a 5-speed manual or a 6-speed INVECS-III CVT, and a 2.0L MIVEC 4B11 engine paired with a 6-speed INVECS-III CVT. The 1.8L engine variants produced a maximum power of 138 hp and torque of 177 Nm, while the 2.0L variant delivered 148 hp and 197 Nm of torque. The car featured front-wheel drive with dimensions of 4,570 mm in length, 1,760 mm in width, and 1,490 mm in height, with a wheelbase of 2,635 mm. The kerb weight ranged from 1,300 to 1,335 kg, depending on the variant.
What Were Some Notable Updates and Recalls of the Proton Inspira?
Throughout its production, the Proton Inspira underwent several updates and faced recalls. In 2012, the 2.0 Executive variant was introduced, replacing the 1.8E CVT, and the 2.0 Premium received updates like 17″ alloy wheels and a touch-screen head unit. The Super Premium variant launched in 2014 included R3 enhancements. However, in February 2015, a recall addressed concerns about the drive belt pulley for models made between September 2010 and May 2011. Another recall in May 2016 involved a defective right turn indicator switch affecting vehicles manufactured from 2010 to 2014. These recalls were part of Proton’s commitment to maintaining safety and quality standards.
How Was the Proton Inspira Positioned in the Malaysian Market?
In the Malaysian automotive landscape, the Proton Inspira was positioned as a locally assembled, cost-effective alternative to the imported Mitsubishi Lancer. It targeted consumers seeking the reliability and features of a Mitsubishi vehicle but at a more accessible price point due to local assembly advantages. The Inspira’s pricing strategy, supported by government incentives and reduced import duties, made it an attractive option for buyers in the compact car segment. It competed with other popular models such as the Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla, offering similar features and performance at a reduced price, thus enhancing its appeal in the market.
Why Did Proton Cease Production of the Inspira?
Proton ceased production of the Inspira in April 2015 due to several factors. The decline in sales and the need to focus on new, independently developed models likely influenced the decision. The market dynamics were shifting towards newer, more technologically advanced offerings, and Proton’s strategic focus moved towards enhancing its own product lineup, as evidenced by the subsequent introduction of models like the Proton Prevé. Additionally, the expiration of the rebadging agreement with Mitsubishi might have contributed to the decision to halt production, allowing Proton to concentrate resources and innovation on future vehicle development.
What Lessons Can Be Learned from the Proton Inspira’s Journey?
The journey of the Proton Inspira offers valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities of automotive collaborations. The rebadging strategy allowed Proton to deliver a high-quality product with established technology at a competitive price. However, it also highlighted the importance of balancing such collaborations with the development of proprietary models to sustain brand identity and market relevance. The Inspira’s lifecycle underscores the need for continuous innovation and adaptation to evolving consumer preferences and market demands. Proton’s experience with the Inspira serves as a case study in leveraging strategic partnerships while fostering independent growth and innovation.