Imagine the next Proton X70 wearing that mean face
Geely has officially launched the new Boyue X in China, where it will be sold at prices ranging from 112,800 yuan (RM72,884) to 142,800 yuan (RM92,269).
Taking over from the Boyue Pro as the range-topping model, the Boyue X arrives with a striking front fascia that is sure to catch the attention of Chinese car buyers. Geely says the design is heavily inspired by the Vision Starburst concept car introduced back in June.
While the shape of the LED headlights is similar to that of the model it replaces, the huge, gaping grille in with gloss black finishing and intricate motif gives the SUV a mean look. Not exactly beautiful but the new design is nevertheless a welcome change from the aging Expanding Cosmos grille.
The Boyue X also gets large vertical air intakes on each front corner, which are embellished with contrasting orange trim pieces. The same colour is also found on the side mouldings, as well as front and rear brake calipers. 19-inch alloy wheels in gloss black complete its clean-cut side profile.
At the rear, changes are limited to new bumper design and a diffuser. These are accompanied by a gloss black trim piece with a neatly spaced ‘GEELY’ script in between the taillights, and an ‘X’ logo on the right hand side of the tailgate.
The changes you’ll find in the cabin are equally notable. Apart from a new dashboard design that has a chrome strip enveloping the central display, where the automaker’s Milky Way infotainment system can be accessed, the Boyue X also brings with it a two-tone leather upholstery in blue/white or red/black colour schemes.
To create a better in-cabin experience, Geely has also thrown in a 12-speaker Bose audio system and an ambient lighting system. Everything else, including the 12.3-inch digital instrument cluster, is the same as in the Proton X70.
This also includes the engine, of course. Powering the Boyue X is a 1.8-litre turbocharged four-cylinder engine that makes 184 PS and 300 Nm of torque – the same amount of power the X70 has. Power is routed to the wheels via a seven-speed dual clutch transmission.
Unlike the Boyue Pro, which is sold as the Azkarra in the Philippines, the Boyue does not come with Geely’s 1.5-litre mild-hybrid powertrain.
We know that the question on everyone’s mind right now is – will the Boyue X come to Malaysia as the next iteration of the X70? We have a strong that it eventually will but considering the locally-assembled X70 was only launched a year and a half ago, it will be some time before we can see the Boyue X bearing the tiger logo here.
