New Geely Emgrand Upward Series launches in China from RM 36.8k – what to expect for the Proton S70?

On 25 October, Geely officially introduced the all-new Emgrand Upward Series in China.

The refreshed sedan has received notable upgrades in its exterior details and interior equipment. Alongside a larger floating infotainment touchscreen, Geely has rolled out a limited-time launch price, starting from just RMB 59,900 (approx. RM 36,800).

Exterior

In terms of exterior styling, the new car retains the brand's signature family design language, whilst incorporating sharper and sportier styling touches.

Front-End Design: It adopts a cleaner vertical-slat front grille paired with a redesigned front bumper sporting generous black trims, adding an aggressive, sporty stance. 

Side & Rear Profile: The side profile carries over the sleek fastback silhouette, complemented by a fresh alloy wheel design. Around the back, the eye-catching full-width LED taillight is retained, while the rear bumper gains matching chrome garnish to visually tie in with the front fascia. 

Dimensions: Measuring 1,820 mm wide with a rear cabin width of 1,449 mm, the sedan delivers class-leading shoulder room and a remarkably commodious rear seating experience. 

Three premium paint choices are available: Alps Gold, Chaka Salt Lake White, and Pamir Grey.

Interior and Technology

The cabin maintains a layout that effortlessly blends digital tech with daily functionality:

Dual-Tone Interior: Finished in a classic black-and-brown two-tone colourway, substantially enhancing the cabin's upmarket and premium feel. 

Dashboard: Dominating the layered dashboard is a larger floating central touchscreen, providing a snappier and more intuitive operating experience.

Everyday Practicality: The centre console features a wireless smartphone charging pad and practical cupholders, greatly enhancing day-to-day convenience.

Powertrain

Under the bonnet, the new model is powered by a 1.5-litre naturally aspirated engine (1.5L NA Engine): 

Maximum Power: 120 PS

Peak Torque: 150 Nm

Transmission Options: 5-speed manual (5MT) or a CVT with 8 virtual gears

Notably, this 1.5L naturally aspirated engine and CVT combination mirrors the exact setup seen on our local Proton S70 Lite & Prime variants, prioritising long-term reliability, outstanding fuel economy, and pocket-friendly maintenance costs.

Pricing

The all-new Emgrand Upward Series is available in 3 variants in China:

Future Facelift Direction for Proton S70?

As Geely's powerhouse volume seller in the entry-level sedan segment, the Emgrand has long garnered strong market attention thanks to its cabin room and outstanding value for money.

The newly launched Emgrand Upward Series not only gains a sharper exterior aesthetic but also steps up its cabin tech, making it an exceptionally compelling package under the limited-time promotional pricing.

Given that our Proton S70 is intrinsically derived from the Geely Emgrand, this China-spec left-hand drive (LHD) model will not be brought into Malaysia directly.

Nevertheless, the styling revisions on the front bumper, cabin trim, and enlarged infotainment screen on this updated Emgrand could provide a clear preview of what to expect on future updates for the Proton S70.

What do you think of the updated Geely Emgrand, and would you like to see similar upgrades in a future Proton S70?