First Drive: Proton X70 Gets 181PS i-GT Engine Transplant For 2026, But What Else?

Kickstarting 2026 with a bang, Proton has officially pulled the covers off the updated X70 MC3 – and it’s happening barely 17 months after the last facelift. As Malaysia’s long-running C-segment SUV enters its eighth year on sale, this latest update signals that Proton isn’t done keeping its bestseller fresh. In this video, we take you through what’s new with the 2026 X70, from the simplified two-variant line-up and subtle changes to the cabin, right through to what’s been removed (yes, the panoramic sunroof is gone) and what you still get as standard, including the big twin 12.3-inch screens, wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ventilated seats, and a 360-degree camera. But the real headline sits under the bonnet. The X70 now ditches its old three-cylinder for Proton’s new 1.5-litre i-GT turbo four-cylinder engine, bringing more power, significantly more torque, and even a claimed improvement in fuel efficiency. We break down what this engine upgrade really means for performance, refinement, and ownership, plus how the Executive and Premium variants stack up in terms of wheels, features, and safety tech. So is the MC3 update enough to keep the X70 competitive in 2026? Watch on as we dive into all the details. ___________________________ Follow us: Website: https://www.carlist.my Facebook:   / carlist.my   Instagram:   / carlistmy   Tiktok:   / carlistmy   CarTell:   / cartell