The Inspira is a full rebadged Lancer but used selling prices have a wide gap
Someone asked us if the Proton Inspira is worth a second look in our used car market today. Well it can be a worthwhile purchase for some buyers, especially those seeking a spacious sedan with decent performance and handling, taking into consideration the car’s age and potential maintenance requirements needed.
Well, Proton launched the Inspira in 2010 providing Malaysians with three-variants, a 1.8E manual, 1.8E CVT and 2.0P CVT. At it launch the RM85k 1.8E CVT model was predicted to be the best seller but majority of customers paid the added RM7,000 for the top-of-the-range 2.0P variant which was a in reality a Mitsubishi Lancer GT which had a sticker price of RM123k at its launch 4 years earlier.
As a fully rebadged Mitsubishi Lancer, the Inspira offers a lot of car for the money, particularly in the used market today. Yes, Proton’s technical input was little and the design department worked hard to get the Proton badge ‘right’ on the front rear of the car and also on the steering wheel centre cap.
The Mitsubishi engineered 2.0-liter MIVEC engine provides good power and acceleration, especially for its class. The immediate rivals were the Mazda3, Honda Civic and Toyota Corolla.
Proton’s technical input was the suspension and chassis tuning which they claimed resulted in a comfortable ride and confident handling. Well, if you drove both cars back to back……. you will get a better understanding.
This D-segment sedan offers ample space for passengers but the luggage space was not class best.
While maintenance parts may be a little pricey due to being imported, the car is generally reliable and easy to maintain with readily available parts in the used and new shops.
The Inspira is a popular choice for those who enjoy modifying their cars, with a large aftermarket for parts and upgrades. That is why you see many modded units in the used car market.
The Proton Inspira was retired in 2015, so today there are many many used units in the used car market. Running and maintenance cost will be friendly and much better than a used Persona or used Proton Preve. Plus, this is a fully imported Mitsubishi. Parts will be easy to find and you do not need a specialist mechanic.
Its a Mitsubishi, so it is generally reliable, some components like the air-cond blower motor, alternator, steering rack and throttle body may need replacement, and parts may be a little more expensive when compared to other Proton models but they will last longer.
Make sure the CVT gearbox is checked. This can be an expensive fix.
Today, some 15 years later, the Lancer GT still commands decent used value against the lower used price of the Proton Inspira. Well, despite just a ‘badge’ (Proton vs Mitsubishi) separating their value, we suggest the Lancer GT if your budget permits. Well, build quality and badge snobbery says a lot. However, a used Inspira 1.8L manual is the car we suggest ……. if you can handle a manual gearbox. It’s the best version to own and less maintenance also.
Finally, if you are looking for a spacious, capable, and relatively affordable sedan, and are comfortable with the idea of owning a used car with potential maintenance needs, the Proton Inspira can be a good option at RM19k to RM26k.
However, thoroughly inspect the car (best to get a trusted mechanic) and consider its age before making a purchase.
