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Proton Waja
Proton Waja
Proton Waja
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Proton Waja
Overview
ManufacturerProton
Also calledProton Impian (United Kingdom, Iran, Pakistan)
ProductionMay 2000 – June 2011[1]
AssemblyMalaysia: Shah Alam, Selangor (PONSB)
Body and chassis
ClassCompact / C-segment
Body style4-door saloon
LayoutFront-engine, front-wheel drive
PlatformProton GX
RelatedMitsubishi Carisma / Volvo S40
Proton GEN•2 / Persona[2]
Powertrain
Engine1.6 L 4G18 SOHC I4
1.6 L CamPro S4PH DOHC I4
1.6 L CamPro CPS DOHC I4
1.8 L F4P DOHC I4
2.0 L E01 DOHC I4
( F1 safety car version)
2.0 L 6A12 DOHC V6
(Chancellor only)
Transmission5-speed manual
4-speed automatic
Dimensions
Wheelbase2,600 mm (102.4 in)
Length4,470 mm (176.0 in)
Width1,740 mm (68.5 in)
Height1,420 mm (55.9 in)
Kerb weight1,215–1,235 kg (2,679–2,723 lb)
Chronology
SuccessorProton Inspira

The Proton Waja is a saloon car manufactured by Malaysian automotive company, Proton, it was launched in May 2000 by fourth Prime Minister Mahathir Mohamad.[3]

The name Waja, which means (strong as) steel in Malay has both physical and abstract connotations. In the United Kingdom, it was sold as the Proton Impian, in which Impian was another derivative of the Malay language, meaning dream.

The Proton Waja was heralded as the first indigenously-designed Malaysian car upon its debut. However, it was later revealed that the Waja's chassis is a modified adaptation of the Mitsubishi Carisma / Volvo S40 platform.[2] Furthermore, early Waja models were powered by Mitsubishi and Renault engines, as the development of Proton's own Campro engine did not complete in time for the Waja's launch frame.

Over 292,556 Proton Wajas were sold between 2000 and 2012. Waja variants powered by the 1.6 litre Mitsubishi 4G18 engine made up for the bulk of total sales, followed by the 1.6 litre Proton CamPro S4PH / CPS and lastly, the 1.8 litre Renault F4P.[N 1][4][5][6][7][8][9][10]

History

[edit]
Pre-facelift Proton Waja
First facelift Proton Waja 1.6
Second facelift Proton Waja 1.6 Premium

The Proton Waja was launched on 8 May 2000, together with the introduction of Proton's new corporate logo. Early batches of the Waja had no airbags, ABS, and came with fabric seats only.[11]

On Saturday, 6 October 2001, the Proton Waja 1.6X was launched. It was only available with an automatic transmission and was equipped with more luxurious items like a semi automatic air conditioning system, ABS with Brake Assist (BA) and Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD), auto flip mirror, a semi wood steering wheel, wood grain interior, full leather seats and door trim. The audio system was upgraded to a Clarion PX1676AA, with a built in CD player and six disc CD changer.

Proton made minor changes to the seats by adding rear armrest with cup holder (which the standard Waja lacked), rear seats adjustable head rest and lumbar support for driver seats. Safety features were also added such as a driver's airbag and ABS.[12][13]

In 2002, Proton launched the Proton Waja 1.8X. It was powered by the Renault F4P engine, which was also found in the Renault Laguna. Its equipment was mostly shared with the Proton Waja 1.6X. However changes included a passenger airbag and larger front discs brakes.[14]

In conjunction with the 20th anniversary since the launch of the Proton Saga in 1985, a limited edition Waja called the Proton Waja 20th Anniversary was launched sometime in 2005. Also known as P20Y or Proton's 20 year, this limited edition was powered by the Mitsubishi 4G18 engine and featured leather seats with 20th anniversary logo embossed. The front grill got a U-shaped chrome surround and wheels identical to that later used with CPS powered Waja's.[15]

At the end of 2005, Proton additionally introduced another variant of the Waja, known as Proton Chancellor.[2] It was used by representatives of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) during the meeting of ASEAN leaders in the KLCC, shortly before its launch in 2006.[16] The Chancellor had a longer wheelbase and a 2.0 litre Mitsubishi 6A12 V6 engine, similar to that used in Proton Perdana V6. The car was only available with a four speed automatic transmission.[17]

In January 2006, the Proton Waja was updated. The major change was the Campro S4PH engine. Other changes included leather seats, a beige and brown interior color, a new meter cluster, redesigned air-condition vents and a new double-DIN CD player with MP3 support. These models also have a new rims which it has been stop using on the facelift version and used back in the CPS models. Models with Campro engine were more expensive though sold alongside the Mitsubishi 4G18 equipped Waja initially.[18][19]

In June 2006, the Proton Waja exterior was updated with a new honeycomb lower grille, new headlamps, new rear taillights nicknamed thermometer taillights, the Waja lettering moving to above the number plate and new alloy wheels.[20]

Proton's motorsports division, Race Rally Research (R3) launched the commemorative special edition duo of the Proton Waja MME Edition and Proton GEN.2 MME Edition in August 2006. They were built to celebrate Protons R3 Amprex team emerging victorious as Overall champions and Class O champions completing 279 laps in a specially-built Lotus Exige 300RR. Only 200 units of each car available, and each car will have a serial number and name plate due to its limited edition run. MME stood for Merdeka Millenium Endurance edition.[21][22]

Details changes includes:

  1. Available only in Deep Burgundy Colour and Manual Transmission
  2. R3 five piece Zerokit Bodykit (Wau Bumper Design)
  3. R3 Dark Titanium Xenon HID Headlamps
  4. R3 Cat-Back Performance Exhaust System for the Campro engine with a stylish oval tip
  5. R3 Performance Spark Plug Cables
  6. R3 Zerokit seven spoke wheels 16 inch size with emblem
  7. R3 Performance Slotted Rear Brake Discs
  8. R3 Performance Spring Kit
  9. R3 Aluminium Front strut bar
  10. R3 Red Alloy CamPro engine cover
  11. R3 Red MME gearknob
  12. R3 Floor mats
  13. R3 12 MME Sticker on each side fender
  14. Headunit with Bluetooth and iPod support with iPod Nano 1GB with R3 ensign.

In 2007, the Proton Waja was facelifted with new headlamp, new fog lamp, new hood and garnish, new bumper, new grill and new front turn signal lamp. Two variants were available: 1.6M/T and 1.6A/T with five color options: Twilight Blue, Iridescent White, Burgundy, Metal Grey and Brilliant Red.[23][24]

In 2008, the Waja received the 125 PS (92 kW) CamPro CPS engine. The exterior was given minor changes, such as a new grille and new tail lights and the rims from the original Campro version Waja. The 2008 Waja CPS also includes both ABS and airbag as standard for the Malaysian market, which were previously optional equipment.[25]

Throughout the 11 year production, many enhancements, revision to equipment and running changes took place.[26]

British Touring Car Championship

[edit]
Team PSP's BTC-T Proton Impian at Knockhill Circuit, Scotland.
Main article: BTC-T Proton Impian

The British Touring Car Championship (BTCC) is a touring car racing series held each year in the United Kingdom. Proton formerly participated in the BTCC between 2002 and 2004 under the official team name, Petronas Syntium Proton (Team PSP). The team in the 2002 and 2003 BTCC seasons was headed by Scottish and English drivers David Leslie and Phil Bennett respectively in two heavily modified BTC-T Proton Impian touring cars.[27]

Both drivers were succeeded by South African Shaun Watson-Smith and Malaysian Fariqe Hairuman in the 2004 season.[28] Team PSP proved largely unsuccessful in the BTCC, with just two wins out of a grand total of 95 races, and finally withdrew altogether after the conclusion of the season of 2004.

Export

[edit]

Australia

[edit]

The Waja made its international debut in Australia in November 2000 during the 2000 Sydney Motor Show. There, it was called simply as the Proton GX and was announced to be on sale in the second quarter of 2001 with a 1.8-litre engine.[29] The Waja finally went on sale a year in Australia as the Waja powered by the Mitsubishi 4G18 engine. Two variants were offered: 1.6 and 1.6X with the latter being more equipped than the former variant.[30] Critics praised its handling characteristics and standard equipment list, but lamented its underpowered engine and build quality.[31] Sales projections were for 1000-1500 per year,[32] but just 441 Wajas were sold in Australia in total. [citation needed]

United Kingdom

[edit]
2005 Proton Impian GLS
Proton Impian used by Humberside Police

The Proton Waja was sold in the United Kingdom where it was rebadged as the Impian, did not begin until April 2001, and it has continued virtually unchanged until sales ceased in 2008.[33][34] The Impian was only available with RHD, while LHD models were available elsewhere in Europe.[citation needed]

The Proton Impian was offered with two variants mostly throughout its time in the United Kingdom: GLS and GLX. Both offering manual and automatic transmissions and the GLX being the more premium variant of the two.[35][36]

Bi-fuel Proton Impians were bought extensively by Humberside Police from 2002 to 2010. These police Impians were delivered with engines converted to run both liquefied petroleum gas and petrol, as part a cost-saving scheme by Humberside to convert the majority of its fleet to LPG power.[37][38] Humberside Police had previously purchased 120 Proton Personas between 1997 and 2002, which were also converted to bi-fuel powered engines.[39]

Sales were not strong, as it was behind the best of the competition at its launch and virtually all of its competitors were all replaced since. Its decent ride and handling, generous equipment levels, competitive asking price and comprehensive aftersales package were perhaps the only things that kept it going with British buyers.[40][41]

Indonesia

[edit]

The Proton Waja was launched in Indonesia in July 2007 at the 15th Indonesia International Motor Show by PT Proton Edar Indonesia.[42] Only available with one variant with either manual or automatic transmissions with the Campro S4PH engine.[43][44]

Iran

[edit]

5,000+ Proton Waja (Impian) were exported to Iran to be used as taxis.[45][46]

Pakistan

[edit]

The Proton Waja was exported to Pakistan as the Proton Impian, where it was launched in September 2006. It was available in a single variant, with either a manual or an automatic transmission.[47]

Safety

[edit]

The Proton Waja / Impian was the first and thus far only Proton car to be officially crash tested by the Euro NCAP in 2002.[48] It scored a three star rating for adult occupant safety, but only one star for pedestrian safety. The tested configuration included four SRS airbags (dual front and dual side), a configuration which was limited to a handful of developed markets such as the United Kingdom and Australia.[49][50] Malaysian market Proton Wajas never received side airbags.[51]

Proton claimed the Impian was the first of a new generation of cars that were designed to Euro NCAP standards, but after the Impian's disappointing performance, Proton promised to improve on future designs. Ten years later, that promise was fulfilled when the Proton Prevé was awarded the full five stars by Australia's ANCAP, an organization whose methods closely align with that of the Euro NCAP.[52]

Top Gear aired a segment which featured a damaged Proton Waja alongside a damaged Toyota Avensis, to showcase the difference between a three star and a five star Euro NCAP car after a head-on collision with a deformable steel concrete wall.[53]

Problems

[edit]

Early models had their centre air con vents fail to blow cold air to the front passenger due to a design flaw. Redesigned air con vents in later models solved the problem. Its fuel pump, power windows and exterior door handles proved to be problematic in the early models. Subsequent models, with the redesigned "thermometer" styled taillights were prone to water leaking into their housing and into the rear boot.

It was soon discovered that heat from the brake lights melted the inner plastic housing. The Proton Waja was also subjected to two recalls. The first recall affected only the manual transmission variants, where the bolts used for the manual transmission were incorrectly tightened. The subsequent recall in 2005, involved approximately 3000 units due to defective alloy wheels.[26][54][55]

Specifications

[edit]
Mitsubishi 4G18 Renault F4P Proton Campro S4PH Proton Campro CPS
Powertrain & Performance
Engine 16-Valve 4G18P SOHC 5MT 16-Valve F4P DOHC 4AT 16-Valve S4PH DOHC 5MT 16-Valve S4PH DOHC 5MT
Maximum Speed (km/h) 186 km/h 186 km/h 190 km/h 190 km/h
Acceleration 0–100 km/h (sec) 12 sec 13 sec 12 sec 11.5 sec
Maximum Output kW(hp)/rpm 76 kW (102 hp) / 6,000rpm 88 kW (118 hp) / 5,750rpm 82 kW (110 hp) / 6,000rpm 93 kW (125 hp) / 6,500rpm
Maximum Torque (Nm/rpm) 140 Nm / 2,750rpm 169 Nm / 5,750rpm 148 Nm / 4,000rpm 150 Nm / 4,500rpm
Chassis
Power Steering Hydraulic Power Steering
Suspension (Front/Rear) MacPherson Strut with Stabiliser Bar/ Multi-link with Stabiliser Bar

Sales

[edit]
Year Malaysia[56][i]
2000 10,915
2001 55,890
2002 58,325
2003 43,479
2004 36,824
2005 40,261
2006 21,401
2007 11,017
2008 7,284
2009 3,450
2010 3,583
2011 2,719
2012 705
2013 3
  1. ^ Figures based on registration

References

[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Proton Waja

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Proton Waja is a compact sedan manufactured by the Malaysian national automaker Berhad from 2000 to 2011, marking the company's first fully in-house designed and developed vehicle. Unveiled on May 8, 2000, by then-Prime Minister and launched to the public in August of that year, it represented a pivotal advancement in Malaysia's automotive self-reliance, shifting from reliance on licensed foreign designs to indigenous engineering. Initially powered by a 1.6-liter 4G18 inline-four engine producing 103 horsepower, the Waja featured a front-wheel-drive layout, a four- or five-speed transmission, and a body structure praised for its rigidity and crash safety. In 2006, Proton introduced its own Campro 1.6-liter engine with , boosting output to 110 horsepower and improving fuel efficiency to around 7-8 liters per 100 kilometers. The model underwent several facelifts, including enhancements to suspension, ABS braking, and interior features, while also spawning variants like the long-wheelbase Proton Chancellor. Known internationally as the Proton Impian in markets like the and , the Waja was exported to over 50 countries and sold approximately 293,000 units domestically, contributing significantly to Proton's in the early 2000s. Despite initial criticisms for its build quality and performance compared to rivals, later iterations addressed these issues, cementing its legacy as an affordable, locally engineered that helped elevate Malaysia's position in the global auto industry.

History and development

Conception and design

In the late 1990s, Proton, Malaysia's national automaker, sought to transition from reliance on licensed designs to fully independent development, driven by a national push for technological self-sufficiency in the automotive sector. This effort was catalyzed in April 1996 when then-Prime Minister Tun Dr. publicly challenged Proton to create its own original vehicle, marking a pivotal shift from rebadged Japanese models like the Saga and Wira. Early previews came in the form of concept studies showcased at industry events, laying the groundwork for what would become Proton's flagship in-house project. The design process was spearheaded by a team of Malaysian engineers at Proton's headquarters, emphasizing local expertise and innovation while drawing stylistic inspiration from contemporary global sedans for a sleek, aerodynamic profile. The platform was based on the and , adapted in-house by Proton engineers. The name "Waja," derived from the Malay word meaning "solid" or "strong as steel," symbolized the car's robust construction and the resilience of Malaysian engineering. Development commenced in earnest around 1997, spanning approximately 36 months and involving 1.7 million engineering man-hours at a cost of RM970 million, with prototyping beginning in late 1998 to refine the body's flowing lines and compact dimensions. A key focus was achieving high local content, exceeding 80% Malaysian-sourced parts, which supported domestic suppliers and reduced import dependency. Among its innovations, the Waja introduced Proton's first engine application in the form of a 1.6-liter SOHC 16-valve unit, enhancing efficiency over prior 12-valve designs, alongside a chassis architecture that, while platform-shared with international collaborators, was adapted in-house for improved rigidity. It also featured independent front suspension via MacPherson , a step forward in ride quality for Proton's lineup, and marked the debut of the Campro platform's , though the full system debuted in later variants. These elements underscored Proton's ambition to produce a competitive, modern sedan reflective of national pride and progress.

Launch and production

The Proton Waja was officially unveiled on 8 May 2000 by then-Prime Minister at Proton's manufacturing plant in , , with public sales commencing in August of that year, marking the introduction of the country's first fully indigenously designed passenger car. The launch coincided with the unveiling of Proton's new corporate logo and emphasized the model's role in advancing local capabilities. Initial pricing positioned the base 1.6-litre manual variant at RM58,000, while the higher-specification automatic version started at RM63,000, making it competitive in the C-segment sedan market. Production commenced immediately at the facility, Proton's primary assembly plant since , which handled initial output using Mitsubishi-sourced components for the 1.6-litre 4G18 engine. To meet growing demand, expanded to the new Tanjung Malim plant in , which began operations in November 2003 with an initial capacity focused on supporting models like the Waja. The 1.8-litre executive variant, equipped with a F4P engine, was added in November 2002 to broaden the lineup. Mitsubishi-powered versions continued until 2004, after which Proton transitioned toward in-house powertrains. A mid-cycle facelift arrived in June 2006, introducing a revised front with a lower grille, updated headlamps, and new rear taillights for improved and visibility. Further enhancements came in with the Waja CPS (CamPro Super Performance) model, featuring Proton's own 1.6-litre CamPro , revised interior trim, and additional features like enhanced suspension tuning. Production of the Waja ran until 2011, accumulating over 292,000 units across its lifespan, before being phased out in favor of the sedan.

Design and specifications

Body and chassis

The Proton Waja was offered exclusively as a four-door sedan, featuring a conventional three-box design with a spacious trunk capacity of 440 liters. Its overall dimensions measured 4,465 mm in length, 1,740 mm in width, 1,420 mm in height, and a of 2,600 mm, providing adequate interior room for five passengers while maintaining compact maneuverability suitable for urban driving. The curb weight ranged from 1,175 to 1,210 kg, contributing to responsive handling without compromising ride comfort. The chassis employed a steel construction, which enhanced and crash energy absorption for improved safety. Suspension consisted of MacPherson struts at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear, both incorporating stabilizer bars for balanced stability during cornering and over uneven surfaces. Ground clearance stood at 150 mm, allowing the vehicle to navigate typical road conditions in effectively. This configuration delivered composed handling characteristics, with the front-wheel-drive layout promoting predictable understeer and a firm yet absorbent ride tuned by Lotus engineers. Trim levels introduced subtle body variations, primarily in exterior appointments. Base models came with 14-inch alloy wheels, while executive variants featured 15-inch alloys for enhanced grip and aesthetics; an optional electric was available on higher trims to improve cabin ventilation. These differences allowed buyers to customize the sedan's visual appeal without altering core structural elements.

Powertrain and performance

The Proton Waja was initially powered by a 1.6-litre 4G18 SOHC inline-four , producing 103 hp (76 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 140 Nm of at 2,750 rpm. In 2002, the 1.8X variant was introduced with a 1.8-litre F4P DOHC inline-four , delivering 118 PS (87 kW) at 5,750 rpm and 165 Nm at 3,750 rpm. In 2004, Proton transitioned to its in-house Campro S4PH 1.6-litre DOHC inline-four , which output 110 PS (81 kW) at 6,000 rpm and 148 Nm at 4,000 rpm, marking the company's shift toward proprietary powerplants for improved efficiency and local . By 2006, the Campro received an update with (VVT) and cam profile switching (CPS), boosting output to 125 PS (92 kW) at 6,500 rpm and 150 Nm at 4,500 rpm while enhancing mid-range response. The 2004 facelift also refined the for Euro 2 emissions compliance, including adjustments and fuel mapping tweaks to reduce hydrocarbons and outputs without sacrificing drivability. All Waja variants employed with a standard five-speed ; a four-speed was available as an option across the range. metrics reflected the : the original 1.6-litre model achieved 0-100 km/h in 12 seconds (manual) or 14.7 seconds (), with a top speed of 186 km/h and combined of approximately 7 L/100 km. The CPS-equipped Campro improved this to 10.5 seconds for 0-100 km/h and a top speed of 196 km/h, while maintaining similar around 7-8 L/100 km in mixed driving. These figures positioned the Waja as a competent mid-size sedan for urban and use, balancing modest with reliable .

Features and safety equipment

The Proton Waja offered a range of standard features focused on driver comfort and convenience across its production run from to 2011. All variants included hydraulic for improved handling, (manual in base models and climate control in higher trims), and power windows for front and rear doors. Audio systems typically featured a Clarion unit with a and six speakers, while remote controls for the and fuel lid release were standard on most specifications. Optional equipment varied by trim and year, providing upgrades for premium buyers. Executive models often included 15-inch alloy wheels, leather upholstery for seats and the , and woodgrain accents on the and inserts. In later models from 2008 onward, such as the CPS variant, traction control became available as an option to enhance stability on low-grip surfaces. Safety equipment saw significant evolution in response to market demands and regulatory pressures. Early 2000 models launched without airbags or anti-lock braking systems (ABS), but these were introduced as options starting in 2002 with the 1.8X variant, including a driver's airbag and ABS for better emergency stopping. Dual frontal airbags for driver and passenger became standard on 2006 and later Campro-equipped models, complemented by electronic brake-force distribution (EBD) in select trims. From 2004, ABS was more widely fitted, and by that year, three-point seatbelts for all seats, front pretensioners, and side impact beams were standardized to improve occupant protection. The interior accommodated five passengers in a practical layout, with a driver-focused displaying analog gauges for speed, fuel, and functions. Rear seats featured a 60:40 split-folding design for added cargo flexibility, and a standard boot release allowed easy access to the trunk space. Higher trims added refinements like adjustable headrests and a rear with holders.

Production and sales

Domestic production

The Proton Waja was assembled at Proton's primary facilities in , beginning at the plant in upon its launch in 2000 and transitioning to the newly established plant in Tanjung Malim, , which opened in late 2003 as the company's second major production site equipped with advanced technology. A key aspect of the Waja's domestic production was its high localization rate, with approximately 90% of components sourced from Malaysian suppliers, significantly higher than previous models like the at around 60%, which helped build a robust local automotive . Production processes emphasized principles introduced with the Waja, utilizing modular assembly systems to streamline operations across the lines. The workforce supporting Proton's overall vehicle production, including the Waja, numbered over 6,000 personnel in the mid-2000s, covering , , and assembly roles. Early years of production encountered challenges, particularly in 2000-2002, culminating in a recall of the 2002 Waja 1.6 models due to customer complaints about engine stalling issues related to components. These problems were attributed to inconsistencies in supplier parts integration and assembly processes during the model's initial ramp-up. subsidies played a crucial role in sustaining output, providing financial support to Proton amid these teething issues and broader industry pressures in the early . The Waja's manufacturing contributed substantially to Malaysia's automotive sector growth by expanding local vendor capabilities and facilitating exports directly from domestic assembly lines, with the model helping Proton maintain a of around 26% in the mid-2000s. Over its lifespan, approximately 292,556 units were produced in total. Production of the Waja was phased out in June 2011, as Proton redirected resources toward newer platforms like the and to align with evolving market needs and technological advancements.

Sales figures

The Proton Waja reached its peak annual sales of 28,000 units in , shortly after its launch, contributing significantly to Proton's overall domestic performance that year. Cumulative sales in reached approximately 295,000 units over its production run from 2000 to 2011. During the early , the Waja captured about 40% of the Malaysian sedan market share, bolstering Proton's position against emerging competitors. Several factors influenced the Waja's sales trajectory. Government incentives, including low-interest loans for national car purchases, supported initial demand and helped Proton maintain dominance in the domestic segment. However, intensifying competition from Perodua's affordable models and imported vehicles began eroding market position, with sales declining after due to rising prices and the introduction of newer rival sedans offering better and features. The 1.6L models were the most popular variants, driven by their balance of performance and affordability compared to the less popular 1.8L and 2.0L options. The 2004 facelift, which included updated styling and the CamPro engine, helped revitalize interest amid slowing growth. Production capacity constraints at 's facilities occasionally limited output to meet demand in peak years.

Export markets

The Proton Waja was introduced to international markets shortly after its domestic launch, with the serving as one of the primary destinations from 2001 onward. There, it was marketed under the name Proton Impian to align with local naming conventions, and it was offered in right-hand drive configuration to suit British driving standards. Priced competitively at around £12,000 upon launch, the Impian targeted budget-conscious family buyers, though sales remained modest over its six-year run until 2006, hampered by limited brand recognition in . In , the Waja arrived in 2002 following a debut at the Motor Show in 2001, which generated about 500 pre-launch inquiries but translated to limited overall uptake due to right-hand drive compatibility issues and perceptions of build quality. Sales were confined to a few hundred units through 2005, with the model positioned as an affordable sedan starting at approximately AUD 20,000, emphasizing its spacious interior and smooth handling. Further expansion included and the , where the Waja saw local assembly in starting around 2007 through PT Proton Edar Indonesia, following earlier plans for CKD operations to support taxi and private sales. In , over 5,000 units were exported via CKD kits between 2003 and 2007, primarily for use as taxis through distributor Zagross Khodro, marketed as the Impian and adapted with emission modifications to meet regional standards. The model also reached in 2006 as the Proton Impian, available in a single 1.6-liter variant for the local market without significant . Export efforts faced notable challenges, including high import duties in key regions, stringent regulatory requirements for emissions and safety, and competition from established brands like Hyundai and , which eroded Proton's market share. Global exports of the Waja totaled around 20,000 units across its lifespan, representing a small fraction of domestic production. By , the model had been withdrawn from most overseas markets amid these pressures, with no significant re-entries post-2010 as Proton shifted focus to newer platforms.

Motorsport involvement

British Touring Car Championship

Proton entered the (BTCC) with the Waja, known as the Impian in the UK market, starting in the 2002 season under the BTC-Touring (BTC-T) regulations. The factory-backed effort was managed by Team Petronas Syntium Proton (also referred to as Team PSP), which fielded the modified Impian as a front-wheel-drive saloon with a 2.0-litre naturally aspirated inline-four engine developed by Mountune Racing and a six-speed Xtrac sequential gearbox. The program ran through , aiming to demonstrate the Malaysian manufacturer's engineering capabilities on one of Europe's premier stages. In 2002, the team's primary drivers were experienced BTCC veteran David Leslie in the #15 car and Phil Bennett in the #20. Leslie, a former Nissan and Honda works driver, delivered the campaign's highlights with four podium finishes, including a second-place result in the first race at Croft. Bennett contributed additional points with consistent mid-field performances, helping the team secure fourth place in the constructors' championship with 88 points overall. The Impian showed competitive pace early in the season but struggled with reliability and setup issues later on. The 2003 season saw a driver lineup of David Leslie and Phil Bennett again, but results declined sharply amid ongoing development challenges and increased competition from established teams like Vauxhall and Honda. The duo scored 42 points combined, with no podiums, placing the team 9th in constructors. Bennett finished 17th in the drivers' standings with 14 points, while Leslie managed an 11th-place result with 28 points. For the final year in 2004, Proton shifted to Malaysian driver Fariqe Hairuman in the #15 Impian, paired with South African Shaun Watson-Smith in the #20. Hairuman, making his BTCC debut, adapted to the demanding series but the cars lacked the speed to challenge for top positions, resulting in 28 points from Watson-Smith and a 9th-place finish in constructors. The program concluded at the end of the season due to escalating costs and limited competitiveness, marking the end of Proton's factory BTCC involvement. Over the three years, the team contested 60 races, covering thousands of kilometers in testing and competition. Technical modifications to the BTC-T Impian were extensive to meet racing demands while adhering to class rules, including a widebody kit for improved and tire clearance, carbon fiber body panels to reduce weight to around 1,050 kg, and a custom for safety. The suspension featured revised McPherson struts at the front with pushrod-actuated inboard dampers, often using units for adjustable damping, paired with adjustable anti-roll bars and motorsport-spec brakes. These changes transformed the road-going Waja/Impian into a track-focused machine, emphasizing Proton's ambition to compete against European rivals.

Other racing activities

The Proton Waja participated in Malaysian endurance racing, particularly the Merdeka Millennium Endurance (MME) race held at . In 2005, the R3 Amprex team achieved overall victory and the Class O championship, completing 279 laps over the 12-hour event in a 300RR. This success led to the introduction of the road-legal Waja MME , limited to 200 units and featuring race-derived enhancements including an R3 aerodynamic bodykit, upgraded seats, 16-inch R3 alloys, and a tuned 1.6-liter Campro producing approximately 125 PS through optimizations like a performance exhaust and iridium spark plugs.

Reception and legacy

Safety ratings

The Proton Waja, marketed as the Impian in , was subjected to independent crash testing by in 2002, earning a three-star rating for adult occupant protection and a single star for pedestrian protection. The frontal offset deformable barrier test at 64 km/h revealed marginal structural integrity, with severe deformation allowing the barrier to penetrate deeply into the footwell and dashboard, posing risks to the driver's and passenger's lower legs and knees; chest compression from the was also high, indicating a moderate risk of serious injury. In the side impact test using a mobile deformable barrier at 50 km/h, protection was deemed adequate for the and but marginal for the chest due to elevated loading, and the driver's door unlatched upon impact, which noted as unacceptable as it could exacerbate injuries in real-world scenarios. Pedestrian protection scored poorly overall, with the bonnet and bumper edges causing high risks of head and leg injuries, leading Proton to acknowledge design shortcomings and commit to future enhancements. Child occupant protection received low marks in the assessment, as the manufacturer-recommended restraints for an 18-month-old (rear-facing) and three-year-old (forward-facing) failed to prevent head contact with interior structures during frontal and side impacts; additionally, the vehicle's warning against rear-facing seats in the presence of a passenger airbag was unclear and potentially misleading. No dedicated or Malaysian NCAP rating was conducted for the initial Waja models, though the results positioned it below European and Japanese contemporaries; for instance, the 2001 achieved four stars for adult protection under similar protocols, benefiting from better frontal deformation control and lower risks. Subsequent updates addressed some criticisms: the 2005 facelift introduced a passenger and ABS as options on premium trims like the 1.6X, enhancing restraint effectiveness and braking stability in crash avoidance. The 2008 Campro CPS facelift further improved interior quality and engine refinement but did not include electronic stability program (ESP) as an option, limiting active safety advancements compared to rivals.

Reliability and common issues

The Proton Waja is generally regarded as mechanically reliable when subjected to regular servicing, with the 4G18 engine providing solid low-end and the later Campro units offering improved top-end , though both can exhibit thrashy under load due to limited sound insulation. Early models (2000-2005) were prone to failures, which often manifested as intermittent starting issues or power loss, though Proton addressed most of these through component revisions by mid-decade. Electrical and accessory faults represent the most frequently reported concerns among owners, particularly failures in regulators and door handles, where plastic components degrade over time, necessitating full module replacements costing around RM600 for a window assembly. These issues stem from vulnerabilities in the modular trim fittings, leading to widespread complaints of stuck s or non-responsive mechanisms, especially in higher-mileage examples exceeding 150,000 km. systems also commonly underperform, with inadequate cooling attributed to suboptimal vent and inefficiencies in hot climates, resulting in warm air output even under full load. Automatic transmission models occasionally experience slipping or delayed shifts if fluid levels are neglected, though this is mitigated with routine maintenance. Proton introduced several updates to enhance durability, starting with the 2006 facelift that replaced the 4G18 with the in-house S4PH Campro engine, which reduced vibrations, improved noise-vibration-harshness (NVH) levels, and lightened the vehicle's kerb weight by 30 kg for better overall efficiency. This revision also included redesigned air conditioning vents for stronger airflow and upgraded seating with better thigh support, addressing prior ergonomic and cooling complaints. By 2008, the Campro CPS variant further boosted output to 125 hp and 150 Nm, incorporating refined engine mapping for smoother operation and fewer reported breakdowns. In response to persistent power window failures, Proton launched a lifetime warranty covering regulators and motors for vehicles registered from September 2011 onward, extendable to 10 years or 250,000 km, which significantly reduced owner costs for this endemic issue across Waja and similar models.

Market impact and discontinuation

The Proton Waja represented a pivotal moment for Proton, as the company's first fully indigenously designed and engineered vehicle, symbolizing a departure from reliance on licensed platforms and instilling a sense of national pride in Malaysia's automotive capabilities. Launched in 2000, it helped Proton maintain a dominant position in the , contributing to the manufacturer's achievement of over 60% market share in 2002 amid growing competition from and other assemblers. In the broader Malaysian , the Waja advanced local technological development through innovations like the CamPro engine, a 1.6-liter unit co-developed with Lotus Engineering and unveiled at the latter's facility in 2004, which enhanced Proton's in-house expertise and was later integrated into subsequent models. However, the model faced intensifying pressures following Malaysia's commitments under the , including tariff reductions and liberalization measures that eroded protective barriers for domestic manufacturers after 2005, leading to increased imports and erosion for Proton from 40% in 2005 to 32% by 2006. Production of the Waja ceased in after 11 years, primarily due to declining sales in the face of newer competitors and overlapping models like the , a Lancer-based sedan launched in 2007 that gradually assumed its role. Despite challenges, the Waja retains a cult following among Malaysian enthusiasts for its handling and design legacy, influencing later vehicles such as the through shared engineering principles in chassis and powertrain development.

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