Proton X90 vs Subaru Forester: An Experienced Driver Explains the Differences

In the Malaysian SUV market, many buyers compare Proton X90 and Subaru Forester when choosing a car. These two cars are quite close in price and positioning. Today, we will make a detailed comparison from multiple aspects to save you the time of doing research.

Price and Versions

The OTR price of Proton X90 in Malaysia is RM 106,800 - 122,800, with a total of 4 versions, including 2026 1.5T Prime X (RM 122,800), 2026 1.5T Prime (RM 116,800), 2026 1.5T Lite (RM 106,800), etc.

The OTR price of Subaru Forester in Malaysia is RM 174,000 - 197,000, with a total of 3 versions, including 2024 2.0L S EyeSight GT Edition (RM 189,538), 2024 2.0L S EyeSight (RM 177,538), 2024 2.0L L EyeSight (RM 167,538), etc.

In terms of price, Proton X90 is indeed RM 67,200 cheaper than Subaru Forester at the starting price. If your budget is limited, Proton's entry-level version can meet daily needs. However, note that the few thousand difference might involve trade-offs in features, depending on your specific requirements.

Power and Fuel Consumption

Proton X90 is equipped with 1.5L Turbo, 140 hp. Official fuel consumption 7.0 L/100km.

Subaru Forester is equipped with 2.0L 4-cyl, 170 hp. Official fuel consumption 8.0 L/100km.

In terms of power, Subaru Forester's 2.0L 4-cyl has 30 more horsepower than Proton X90's 1.5L Turbo. However, for daily driving in the city, the power of both cars is sufficient and won't feel insufficient.

Safety Features

Proton X90's safety rating is 5★ (ASEAN NCAP), active safety systems include ADAS (ACC, AEB, LKA, LDA, BSM, RCTA).

Subaru Forester's safety rating is 5★ (Euro NCAP), active safety systems include EyeSight.

In terms of safety features, both cars have received good ratings. However, there are some differences in functionality between Proton X90's ADAS (ACC, AEB, LKA, LDA, BSM, RCTA) and Subaru Forester's EyeSight. If you value active safety, you can compare their feature lists carefully.

Space and Comfort

Proton X90 body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

Subaru Forester body length 4400 mm, trunk 400 L.

The dimensions of both cars are almost the same, interior space difference is not significant. For cars of this class, daily use is fully sufficient.

Who is this suitable for

Proton X90 and Subaru Forester are both mainstream choices in the Malaysian market, suitable for family use and daily commuting. If you value brand reputation and resale value more, you can prioritize the one with better reputation; if you care more about value for money and features, choose the one with richer configuration. Ultimately, it is recommended to test drive both, as personal experience is the most important.

Conclusion

Overall, Proton X90 and Subaru Forester are both very good car models in the Malaysian market. Which one to choose depends mainly on your personal needs and budget. It is recommended to do your research, compare quotes from several dealerships, and then test drive to make a final decision. Buying a car is a big matter, taking some time to do research will never be wrong.