Proton Confirms it is Committed to South Africa

Following rumours of inventory issues, Proton South Africa has confirmed to CAR Magazine that it is committed to a long-term future in the country and has no plans to exit.

Proton

Image: Proton

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Following the recent release of CMH’s annual results, Proton South Africa has compiled a statement which officially reaffirms its long-term commitment to the local market. This comes following rumours that limited inventory remaining in the country wouldn’t be replaced.

Related: Newly Reintroduced Proton Could Exit South Africa Again

Proton added that despite this recent media speculation, Proton is not exiting the South African market. The reference made by CMH CEO Jebb McIntosh during the results presentation was strictly in relation to stock liquidation of ageing inventory in a very difficult and competitive market. Countering this statement, Proton added that this is ‘a standard industry practice to prepare for the arrival of exciting new models.’

Related: All of the CAR Magazine Top 12 Best Used Buys for 2025

The SUV market in South Africa is among the most competitive in the world, with new entrants attempting to steal a piece of the pie or carve up unique niches. That being said, Proton’s global strategy includes launching new-generation vehicles in the coming months and years, which include compact sedans, hatchbacks, and competitive B-segment SUVs with internal combustion and hybrid powertrains.

At the moment, Proton has four models on offer in South Africa, three of which cater to the SUV segment. Opening the lineup is the X50 which is priced between R449 900 to R579 900, with the X90 (R499 900 – R599 900) slotting in below the X70 (R529 900 – R639 900). Its remaining model is the Saga sedan, which caters to budget-oriented buyers with its price tag ranging between R209 900 and R244 900. In April, the Chinese-owned automaker sold a total of 66 passenger vehicles over the month, with the X50 leading the sales charge with 35 units. The Saga managed 23 units while 8 units of the X90 rolled off of the sales floor. No X70 models were sold in the period, which is likely contributing to the stock liquidation that was mentioned before. Speculation is that since its arrival in 2022, the automaker hasn’t seen the sales successes it would have once hoped and has been holding an ageing new vehicle fleet.

Proton further included that every X-Series model is backed by an industry-leading 5-year unlimited km warranty, with 24/7 nationwide roadside assistance throughout the full warranty period—fully transferable between owners. This means true peace of mind and exceptional resale value for all Proton vehicles, backed up by an exceptional local parts and service network.

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The post Proton Confirms it is Committed to South Africa appeared first on CAR Magazine.


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