Proton's upcoming compact SUV is getting harder to hide. A convoy of lightly camouflaged AMA02 prototypes has been spotted at a Proton dealership in Kuantan, giving Malaysians one of the clearest looks yet at the potential Perodua Ativa rival.
And here's the interesting part: Proton previously targeted a 2026 launch for the AMA02. Could the latest sighting mean its debut is getting closer?
TL;DR: WHAT WE KNOW SO FAR
MODEL: Proton AMA02, an upcoming compact SUV.
LATEST SIGHTING: Proton Hoi Keen 4S dealership, Kuantan.
POTENTIAL RIVAL: Perodua Ativa.
LAUNCH: Proton previously targeted 2026; exact date unannounced.
PRODUCTION: Supplier disclosures point to Q4 2026. BitAuto reports trial production underway, with mass production expected in late October.
POSSIBLE NAMES: Saga Cross or X30, neither confirmed.
POWERTRAIN: Petrol and hybrid options reported, final lineup unconfirmed.
A Proton SUV With Almost Nothing Left To Hide?The latest sighting reportedly involved six prototypes at the Proton Hoi Keen 4S dealership in Bandar Indera Mahkota, Kuantan. Unlike earlier test vehicles wrapped in heavier camouflage, these units reveal more of their bodywork, proportions and styling.
The SUV appears to have an upright stance, prominent wheel arches and design cues reminiscent of Proton's existing X-series models. However, the interior remains largely concealed, with dark window tint preventing a proper look inside.
The latest AMA02 prototypes wear considerably less camouflage, revealing more of the upcoming SUV's exterior design. (Credit: harithizzddn viaThreads)WHAT'S DIFFERENT THIS TIME?
Rather than another heavily disguised test mule, we're seeing multiple lightly camouflaged vehicles together at a Proton dealership. That's an encouraging sign of development progress, although it doesn't prove the SUV is production-ready.
Could Proton Finally Challenge The Perodua Ativa?This is arguably the biggest reason Malaysian buyers should pay attention. Proton already offers the X50, X70 and X90, but the AMA02 could give the national carmaker a smaller SUV positioned below the X50. If that happens, the Perodua Ativa would be an obvious competitor.
For buyers who want SUV practicality without stretching their budget too far, another option in this segment would certainly be welcome.
THE BIG QUESTION: PRICE
Proton has not announced the AMA02's official price. Until its market positioning is confirmed, we shouldn't assume it will match or undercut the Ativa.
Saga Cross Or X30? Even The Name Is A MysteryWhile AMA02 is the project's designation, two potential production names have circulated in reports. Saga Cross would suggest a connection with Proton's entry-level sedan, while X30 would fit neatly below the X50 in the brand's SUV family. Neither has been officially confirmed.
What About A Hybrid Version?There's another reason the AMA02 is attracting attention: hybrid technology. Proton showcased its latest hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) system atKLIMS 2026and again atGATE 2026.
The technology combines a dedicated hybrid engine with a dedicated hybrid transmission, designed to improve efficiency in everyday driving conditions. However, although reports have linked the AMA02 to this system, Proton has not confirmed the SUV's final powertrain lineup.
Proton's CEO previously indicated a 2026 launch target for the AMA02, according toearlier reporting.Separately,supplier-related disclosures reported by Paultanpointed to production in Q4 2026.
More recently,BitAuto reportedthat trial production has reportedly begun, with mass production expected in late October 2026. That is a more specific claim, but it has not been established through an official Proton production announcement.
Combined with the latest Kuantan sighting, the timeline suggests the project may be nearing an important milestone. It does not, however, confirm that mass production has started or that a launch date is imminent.
PROTON AMA02: WHAT WE KNOW SO FARCONFIRMED / DOCUMENTED
✓ AMA02 is a Proton development project.
✓ Proton previously targeted a 2026 launch.
✓ Supplier disclosures point to a Q4 2026 production schedule.
✓ Lightly camouflaged prototypes have been photographed.
REPORTED / EXPECTED
• Compact SUV positioned as a potential Perodua Ativa rival.
• 1.5L naturally aspirated engine, reportedly producing 120 PS and 150 Nm.
• Trial production reportedly underway; mass production expected in late October 2026, according to BitAuto.
• Petrol transmission remains uncertain, with reports differing between a four-speed automatic and CVT.
• Hybrid variant potentially using DHT120 technology.
STILL UNKNOWN
? Official production name.
? Exact launch date.
? Final engine and hybrid specifications.
? Official selling price and variant lineup.
Note: The Q4 2026 schedule comes from supplier-related disclosures. BitAuto's trial-production and late-October mass-production claims are reported expectations, not official confirmation that mass production has started. Final specifications remain subject to Proton's announcement.
The AMA02 certainly looks closer to revealing its final form. Whether it becomes a genuine Ativa challenger will ultimately depend on its price, equipment and powertrain options.
And for Malaysian buyers, those are probably the three answers worth waiting for.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)What is the Proton AMA02?It is the project designation for an upcoming Proton model widely expected to be a compact SUV.Is the Proton AMA02 the Saga Cross?Saga Cross and X30 are both names circulating in reports. Proton has not confirmed either.When will the Proton AMA02 launch?Proton previously targeted a 2026 launch. Supplier-related reporting points to Q4 production, while BitAuto reports trial production underway and mass production expected in late October 2026. Proton has not announced an exact launch date.Will the Proton AMA02 be a hybrid?A hybrid variant has been reported as a possibility. Proton has showcased relevant HEV technology but has not confirmed the AMA02's final powertrain lineup.How much will the Proton AMA02 cost?Official pricing has not been announced.Will the Proton AMA02 compete with the Perodua Ativa?The Ativa is a likely competitor based on the AMA02's apparent size and positioning, although Proton has not confirmed its final market positioning.