An Exora It Is

We were torn between the Naza Rondo and Proton Exora. We loved the Rondo for its 2-litre engine, space, and groovy cockpit. However, we decided that we could handle an under-powered car (if you've driven a Wira 1.3, you'd know what we mean) than deal with accessibility problems for the passengers.

So, after mulling over MPVs over the past few weeks, we are now owners of a brand new silver Proton Exora 1.6 H-Line :o). The booking was made on 9 January 2010. On the 12th, we were informed that the loan was approved and that we could pay the downpayment. The 13th saw us signing the loan papers. On the 15th morning, we were informed of the registration number. That evening, we collected our Exora :o). Yoohoo!

Having driven it for a week, we are still adjusting to driving a broader and longer car with a higher seating position (feels great!). We are also learning the behaviour of its automatic transmission and hence, haven't been pushing the car too much (these drive-by-wire machines need some getting use to). As expected, pickup or quick climbs are not the Exora's forte (we have observed that the engine revs up to 3,000-3,500rpm if we are impatient on slopes), but the drive is pretty fun and smooth none the less.

The odometer today reads 297km and the low fuel warning light is already flashing. The trip computer indicates that the fuel consumption is 14.4l/100km, which is rather dreadful. However, the engine is still new. Hopefully, the consumption will improve once it has run in.

The acoustics in the cabin is pretty good. Passengers at the back can be clearly heard from the front and vice versa without raising their voices, and yet the sound of Justin crying doesn't sound as loud as it would be in our other car, the Wira.


[Angie in the cockpit of the Exora]


[Our Exora from the front]


[Rear view of our Exora]

15 January 2010 also saw us letting go of the Satria, our faithful workhorse of 11 years. So, dear Satria, we shall miss you... *sniff, sniff*


[Farewell to our Satria]