Could Geely's new Preface be the next-gen Proton Perdana HEV we've been waiting for?

Geely has teased its latest Preface L90 sedan, bringing a host of updates, including a dedicated hybrid powertrain, LiDAR, and a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.0 L/100 km.

While there's currently no indication that Proton is developing a new flagship sedan, the latest Preface does raise the inevitable 'what if' question. Wouldn't you like this to be the successor of Proton's long-absent Perdana nameplate?

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The idea isn't without precedent. The Proton S70 itself is based on the Geely Emgrand sedan, which was adapted and localised for the Malaysian market. Its arrival showed that Geely's existing sedan platforms could be successfully transformed into Proton models.

With Proton's current line-up consisting of the Saga, Persona, S70, X50, X70, and X90 (and also the e.Mas models), there is still a noticeable gap above the S70 for buyers seeking a larger, more premium four-door sedan.

This is where the new Geely Preface L90 could fit into the picture. Although Geely has only released teaser images for now, the updated Preface appears to receive more than just a cosmetic facelift.

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The sedan is expected to feature a dedicated hybrid (HEV) powertrain capable of returning a claimed fuel consumption of just 4.0 L/100 km. It also gains a roof-mounted LiDAR sensor, suggesting more advanced driver assistance features than before.

Measuring around five metres in length, the Preface would also be significantly larger than the S70, putting it closer to traditional D-segment executive sedans such as the Toyota Camry.

Should Proton ever decide to revive the Perdana nameplate, the new Preface already appears to offer the size, technology and electrified powertrain expected of a modern flagship sedan model.

2024 Geely Preface L powertrain

The Geely Preface L90 will reportedly be offered with both internal combustion engine (ICE) and hybrid (HEV) powertrain options. The ICE range is expected to include a 1.5-litre turbo engine producing 201 PS and a more powerful 2.0-litre turbocharged unit with 272 PS.

The HEV variant is expected to use Geely's latest i-HEV system, combining a 1.5-litre engine with an electric motor to deliver up to 238 PS, while achieving a claimed fuel consumption of just 3.98 L/100 km.

Older Malaysians will remember the Proton Perdana as one of the country's most recognisable executive sedans.

From the first-generation Mitsubishi-based model to the later Honda Accord-derived version, the Perdana became closely associated with ministers and senior government officials. Proton even produced a stretched Perdana Limousine for official use (even by the PMX back in 2022).

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The return of a modern, locally assembled Proton Perdana HEV could once again provide Malaysia with a homegrown flagship sedan suitable for official duties, while also giving private buyers a premium alternative within the Proton line-up.

At this stage, there is no evidence to suggest that Proton is planning to introduce a new Perdana based on the latest Geely Preface. However, the S70 has already shown that Proton can adapt to Geely's sedan platforms for the Malaysian market.

With a larger body, hybrid technology and flagship-level features already available, the new Geely Preface arguably looks like one of the strongest candidates should Proton ever decide that the time is right to bring back one of its most recognisable nameplates.