Proton e.Mas 7 glitters with utility, functionality

The last time a Proton review ran in The Straits Times was 12 years ago.

- Christopher Tan

Not long after the Preve compact saloon was launched and tested, the Malaysian brand exited Singapore.

Now part-owned by China's Geely group, Proton has returned to Singapore, but with a car which is nothing like its "cheap but cheerful" models that old-timers like me used to know. In fact, the e.Mas 7 is nothing like the other models in the current Proton line-up.

The 4,615mm-long, 1,901mm-wide and 1,670mm-tall sport utility vehicle with a 2,750mm wheelbase is Proton's first electric model. It looks like a composite of the Xpeng G6, Aion Y Plus and BYD Atto 3.

Size-wise, it is noticeably bigger than the Atto 3 and Y Plus, and just a shade smaller than the G6. Its dimensions make an impression, especially its width and height. Inside, the first thing you notice is the car's generous elbow room.

Well-positioned door-side armrests and a broad padded centre console allow front occupants to sit like ancient Chinese court officials. Rear passengers enjoy more-than-decent legroom, as well as seats with generous thigh support.

The car has 33 storage compartments, including a sizeable drawer under the rear seats. It does not have a frunk, but it has a water-resistant underfloor storage bin in the boot. You can stow a bi-fold bicycle upright here. The e.Mas 7 is, thus, a utility champ.