Proton Saga Cross/X30 AMA02 spotted with minimal disguise – best look at Perodua Ativa‑rival SUV

KUALA LUMPUR, 12 OCTOBER 2026 —

Proton has entered the final stages of development for its new A-segment SUV, codenamed AMA02 and rumored to be marketed as either the Saga Cross or the X30, with multiple prototypes spotted wearing minimal camouflage at the Proton Hoi Keen 4S showroom in Kuantan.

This sighting marks a significant milestone for the automaker, offering the public its clearest view yet of the highly anticipated model before its confirmed production launch in the final quarter of the year.

The AMA02 is the second model to be built on Proton’s new Advanced Modular Architecture (AMA), following the recent launch of the Saga. Unlike its budget-focused sibling, the AMA02 features an all-new body structure that does not trace its roots back to the 2005 Savvy platform. The design language appears to draw from Proton’s existing lineup, with door mirrors and pull-type handles reportedly lifted from the S70.

The front fascia features slim triangular headlights flanking a hexagonal grille filled with diamond-shaped pins, while contours framing the upper opening and a downturned air intake form an X-shaped front bumper. Along the side, shoulder lines run above the front and rear wheels, paired with sharply defined, squared-off wheel arches. The window line dips downwards at the A-pillars before rising at the C-pillars, meeting cant rails that form a fin-like shape at the rear.

At the rear, the prototypes sport slim taillights and a prominent rear wing, a design element that ties the vehicle to the X50 Flagship. This suggests that the top-spec variant will feature this spoiler, which will not be available on other trims. Additional visual evidence includes videos posted by users @anffwiee, @harithizzddn, and @ch3mmm on Threads, showing prototypes on the move, as well as photos of three units at a Petronas station posted by @uddin.amii.

The advanced stage of completion of these mules indicates that the vehicle is ready for imminent market entry, with production already confirmed for the current quarter.

Under the hood, the AMA02 is expected to offer two powertrain options. The base model will utilize the new 1.5-litre i-GT naturally aspirated four-cylinder engine, producing 120 PS and 150 Nm of torque, mated to an Aisin four-speed automatic transmission. A Punch CVT option is not expected for this model. Instead, the range-topping variant is set to feature a hybrid powertrain showcased at the recent Kuala Lumpur International Mobility Show (KLIMS) as the FutureMotion HEV.

This system utilizes the Atkinson-cycle four-cylinder engine, electric motor, and single-speed dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) from the eMas 7 PHEV, albeit without the larger plug-in battery. The powertrain is tagged DHT120 for the AMA02, likely indicating that the motor’s power output is 120 kW, or 163 PS.

The introduction of the AMA02 is expected to intensify competition in Malaysia’s affordable SUV segment, directly challenging Perodua’s dominance with models such as the Ativa, the 1.5 Myvi, and the top-range Bezza. Market observers suggest that the launch will have a massive impact on Perodua’s market share, potentially prompting the rival automaker to initiate another round of price cuts to prevent further erosion.

The vehicle’s positioning as an affordable segment SUV, with a design that avoids the "low cost" aesthetic, aims to capture buyers seeking a more premium feel within a budget-friendly price range.

Proton’s strategy with the AMA02 reflects a broader shift in its product lineup, moving away from rebadged platforms to develop models on its own modular architecture. While some online commentators have questioned the brand’s independence, noting that Proton is a subsidiary of Geely, others have pointed out that this specific model is Proton’s own development, with Geely potentially planning to rebadge it for left-hand drive markets.

The vehicle’s design has drawn comparisons to the Honda HRV, with some noting the grille and headlamp shape, while others have criticized the small wheel size, though comparisons with a Honda City suggest the wheels are larger than typical for the segment.

The launch of the Saga Cross or X30 is imminent, with production confirmed for the final quarter of the year. The minimal disguise on the prototypes suggests that the final production models will closely resemble the spotted units.

The inclusion of a hybrid powertrain in the top variant positions the AMA02 as a technologically advanced option in the A-segment, offering efficiency and performance that may appeal to environmentally conscious buyers and those seeking lower running costs. The vehicle’s arrival is expected to reshape the competitive landscape in Malaysia’s automotive market, forcing rivals to respond with aggressive pricing or new features to maintain their market position.

As the launch approaches, consumer interest remains high, with discussions on social media platforms highlighting the vehicle’s design and potential pricing. The advanced stage of the prototypes, combined with the confirmed production timeline, indicates that Proton is ready to roll out the AMA02 soon. The model’s success will depend on its ability to balance affordability with the premium features and hybrid technology that distinguish it from its competitors.

The automotive industry in Malaysia is poised for a significant shift as Proton introduces this new model, which is expected to challenge the status quo in the affordable SUV segment.