KUALA LUMPUR: PROTON has started 2026 on a strong note, registering 19,833 vehicle sales in January – its highest monthly sales performance in 15 years.
This represents a 35.3% increase compared to December 2025 and nearly double the 9,918 units sold in January 2025.
The overall industry volume (TIV) grew an estimated 28.3% year-on-year, despite falling around 28.6% from December’s industry high.
PROTON’s estimated market share stood at 30.6% – its strongest since January 2012, supporting the brand’s target of selling 200,000 units in 2026.
The strong January result was driven largely by the 2026 Proton Saga, which achieved its highest monthly sales in the model’s history.
A total of
10,285 units of the 2026 Saga were sold in January alone. Since its launch on 27 November 2025, over
19,000 units have been delivered – equivalent to one vehicle every five minutes.
With nearly
100,000 bookings received so far, the 2026 Saga is expected to remain PROTON’s top seller.
PROTON Deputy CEO Datuk Abdul Rashid Musa said the Saga’s success reflects the model’s enduring strength in the local market.
He added that very few nameplates can survive for more than four decades and still set new sales records.
“This is a proud achievement for PROTON and Malaysians. With the Saga launching in Brunei this February and expansion to other overseas markets, we expect more successes this year,” he said.
Other PROTON models also posted strong growth in January:
- Proton X50: 2,429 units (+69.3%)
- Proton X70: 672 units (+16.5%)
- Proton S70: 1,604 units (+40.3%) – best result since May 2025
- Proton X90: 252 units (+24.1%)
Abdul Rashid said the strong start to 2026 validates PROTON’s strategy of refreshing its model line-up, offering both ICE and EV vehicles, and improving its technology communication to customers.
“PROTON will continue to strengthen its market presence and increase local production to ensure customers receive high-quality vehicles at competitive prices,” he added.
BYD
