New Geely Emgrand Xiangshang Series revealed with new interior – could the Proton S70 follow suit?

Geely has released a fresh set of official images showing the updated Emgrand Xiangshang Series (or UP series), ahead of its upcoming launch in China.

The facelift brings minor styling changes and a revised interior, with a larger floating infotainment screen among the most noticeable updates.

Exterior

The updated Emgrand looks largely the same as before, as Geely concentrates on smaller styling changes rather than a complete redesign.

Up front, the vertical-slat grille has been simplified, while the lower bumper gets a new design with black trim for a sportier look.

The side profile is largely unchanged, retaining the gently sloping fastback-style roofline. A new set of alloy wheels is among the few visible changes.

At the back, the full-width LED taillights have been carried over, but the rear bumper has been redesigned with additional chrome trim to match the updated front end.

Interior

The changes are more noticeable inside. Although the basic dashboard layout remains familiar, the updated Emgrand now features a black-and-brown interior colour scheme.

The dashboard retains its layered design, but the previous infotainment display has been replaced by a larger freestanding touchscreen. It's the biggest change to the cabin and gives the interior a more modern appearance.

The centre console also includes a wireless phone charging pad and cupholders, keeping everyday essentials within easy reach.

Powertrain

There are no major mechanical changes expected. The updated Emgrand Xiangshang series is likely to retain the existing 1.5-litre naturally aspirated petrol engine, which produces 120 PS and 150 Nm of torque.

Transmission choices are also expected to remain the same, with a CVT automatic or five-speed manual gearbox.

What could this mean for the Proton S70?

For Malaysian readers, the updated Emgrand is particularly interesting because the Proton S70 is based on the same model.

The left-hand-drive Emgrand shown here isn't destined for Malaysia, but some of its interior changes and new equipment could eventually find their way into a future S70 facelift.

Whether Proton will adopt any of these updates remains to be seen, as nothing has been officially announced.