Proton’s five door hatchback the GEN-2 has undergone a refresh for spring 2007 and is now sporting a new dark cloth or leather interior and new alloy wheels.

The GEN-2’s spacious cabin now offers drivers a new dark grey interior colour scheme extending to the seats, door inserts and a new darker dashboard and door trim. Customers wishing to add a touch of luxury can currently opt for black leather upholstery for free on all GEN-2 models.

The interior of the car, which was designed by the Lotus Design Studio, ensures customers do not have to sacrifice style and individuality for comfort and practicality. Its comfortable front seats with integrated headrests, driver foot rest and height adjustable Seat is complemented by the unique vertically stacked heating controls and dashboard with integrated Blaupunkt radio/CD player. Rear passengers will find ample leg and head room plus adjustable headrests and rear electric windows in GSX models. Providing practicality when space is needed there are 60:40 split folding rear seats leading to a boot capacity of 850 litres with the seats down.

Entertainment is provided by an integrated Blaupunkt radio/CD player with RDS and a four way speaker system. Also available as standard across the range are steering wheel mounted audio controls. A Bluetooth hands-free kit which works through the audio system can also be fitted as an accessory.

Keeping cool in the summer or de-icing the car during the winter months are not a problem in the GEN-2, as air conditioning with pollen filter is standard on the GLS models, and climate control with pollen filter standard on the GSX range.

The GEN-2 comes with a choice of 1.3 or 1.6 litre Lotus engineered CamPro engine which delivers a maximum output of 110bhp and 148Nm of torque. To support this, an Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution is standard along with side impact bars, crumple zones and anti-roll bar. Reverse distance sensors and power assisted steering on all GEN-2 models also help to deliver a stress-free drive.

While away from the car, an engine immobiliser, alarm with ignition lock protection and remote central locking will all add to the peace of mind motoring. All Proton vehicles including the GEN-2 have a 6 year/ 100,000 mile powertrain warranty, 3 year/ 60,000 mile total vehicle warranty and three years’ free RAC cover.

Add to this the benefit of Lotus engineered handling and the sleek exterior design which includes new alloy wheels and the GEN-2 is hard to resist, with prices starting at just £8,995 OTR.