Geely has revealed a refreshed version of its fourth-generation Emgrand sedan in China, potentially offering an early glimpse of what could be in store for the Proton S70 facelift.
The connection is worth watching because the Malaysian-market S70 is based on the same-generation Emgrand. However, Geely has yet to confirm whether these latest updates will eventually make their way to Proton’s sedan.
Sharper Exterior, Familiar Overall Design
The updated Emgrand receives a redesigned front grille featuring prominent vertical chrome slats, giving the sedan a more striking appearance. The lower front bumper has also been revised, with more pronounced side vents and a horizontal chrome accent.
At the sides, the car retains its existing 17-inch dual-tone alloy wheels, suggesting that the changes are primarily focused on refreshing its appearance rather than introducing a completely new design.
The rear styling remains largely familiar. The bumper has received minor revisions, with the reflectors integrated into the lower black trim, while the lower central reflector remains in place.
A More Noticeable Interior Redesign
The cabin appears to receive more substantial changes than the exterior.
The dashboard has been redesigned around a larger central infotainment screen, accompanied by a smaller, horizontally oriented digital instrument display. The central air-conditioning vents have also been repositioned lower on the dashboard instead of forming part of the previous continuous vent layout.
A row of physical buttons remains below the screens, preserving direct access to essential functions. The centre console, meanwhile, appears largely unchanged.
One of the more noticeable additions is a dual-tone tan interior, which gives the cabin a warmer appearance and provides greater contrast against the darker dashboard and surrounding trim.
Will the S70 Keep Its Current Engines?
Geely has not announced any powertrain changes for the updated Emgrand. The current model’s naturally aspirated option uses a 1.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine producing 120 hp and 150 Nm, paired with either a CVT or a five-speed manual transmission, depending on specification.
In Malaysia, Proton recently introduced a naturally aspirated 1.5-litre engine to the S70 range. As a result, if the Emgrand’s facelift eventually influences the Malaysian model, the turbocharged S70 variants could be a more likely focus for an update.
That remains speculation, however. The Chinese-market Emgrand and Malaysian-market Proton S70 do not necessarily receive identical equipment or interior designs, as demonstrated by differences between the locally sold Proton X50 and its Geely counterpart in China.
Proton S70 Facelift Could Still Be on the Way
The possibility of an S70 facelift has gained further attention after camouflaged prototypes were reportedly spotted testing on public roads. These test vehicles were said to feature a quad-exhaust arrangement similar to the Proton X50.
An updated S70 has been rumoured for a possible late-2026 arrival, although Proton has not officially confirmed its launch date or final specifications. The company’s other product plans could also affect the timing.
For buyers considering the current model, the Proton S70 lineup starts from RM56,800, including the stated 2026 rebate, for the naturally aspirated variants, while the 1.5-litre Turbo Flagship X tops the range at RM94,800.
For now, Geely’s refreshed Emgrand offers an interesting indication of how the S70’s design could evolve. Whether Proton adopts these changes, develops its own revisions or keeps the current design for longer remains to be seen.
