Proton Satria Neo hatchback (2007 – ) expert review

1. Exterior

The Satria Neo is the most handsome Proton yet, with a rear that looks much like the Audi A3 hatchback. Its low-slung, coupe-like profile lends itself well to the optional stripes which run over the car and the smart 16-inch alloy wheels. Sadly, a fake aluminum plastic fuel filler cap spoils the overall look.

Our rating: 3

2. Interior

The interior is where the Proton Satria Neo feels most like a budget supermini. Hard plastics, devoid of tactility cover every panel and it generally feels fragile. Fake bolt heads on the steering wheel centre and around the gearstick attempt to inject a racy feel, but look contrived. The heater controls are too low, with hard to read graphics and the window switches are poorly located by the front passengers’ hips and are mounted the wrong way round.

Our rating: 1

3. Practicality

The low-slung roofline looks good, but robs space for front and rear passengers. The drivers’ seat is height adjustable, but remains too high for drivers of average height even in its lowest setting, and a panel above the pedals means the driver’s feet brush against it frequently. The rear is cramped, and is really suitable for children only, while the boot offers just 286 litres of room – about average for budget superminis of this size, including the Hyundai i20 and Kia Rio. There’s not much interior storage space either.

Our rating: 2

4. Ride and handling

The bootlid proudly displays a Handling by Lotus badge, and it’s clear where the engineers at the Proton-owned company have played a part. The steering is nicely weighted and surprisingly precise, particularly for a car at this price. The ride is hot hatch firm, so isn’t best suited to long runs but there is plenty of grip, despite traction control not being offered.

Our rating: 3

5. Performance

Just one engine is offered in the Satria Neo, an 111bhp 1.6-litre petrol. It feels happiest around town, where it’s quite nippy but at motorway speeds it becomes noisy and thrashy. Buyers can choose from a five speed manual gearbox or a four speed auto, with the auto offering noticeably less performance. The manual will reach 62mph in 11.5 seconds and can achieve 118mph, while the auto covers the 62mph benchmark in 13.7 seconds before reaching 115mph.

Our rating: 3

6. Running costs

The Satria Neo is priced from around £8,500 rising to £10,300, which might sound cheap, but cars like the Hyundai i20, Suzuki Swift and Nissan Micra offer a nicer experience for not much more money. And a lack of dealers and desirability means used values are poor, making it a more appealing used buy. CO2 emissions of 157g/km for the manual and 177g/km for the auto are far higher than rivals and an official fuel consumption figure around 40mpg is similarly disappointing.

Our rating: 2

7. Reliability

The Satria Neo features fairly straightforward technology, but the interior trim feels flimsy. Sadly too few have been sold for there to be reliable information on how trouble-free Satria Neo ownership should be. The small number of dealers will be a problem for buyers keen to service their cars within the main dealer network.

Our rating: 2

8. Safety

Euro NCAP hasn’t put the Satria Neo through its crash test programme. Standard equipment includes a driver and passenger airbag – side and curtain airbags aren’t offered – ABS with electronic brake distribution and ISOFIX child seat mounting are standard on all models. The lack of traction control or electronic stability programme, even as an option, is concerning.

Our rating: 2

9. Equipment

Two versions are available: GSX and Sport. Both come with a Blaupunkt MP3-compatible CD player, air-con, 16-inch alloy wheels and electric windows and mirrors. Sport models also feature leather sports seats and a sports stripe on the bonnet, roof and boot.

Our rating: 3

10. Why buy?

Few other cars at this price offer such engaging handling and attractive looks. But a poor interior, steep running costs and a lack of interior room means it is hugely compromised.

Our rating: 2