since 1976
since 1976
National automotive company PROTON continues to widen the gap between itself and other OEMs after recording sales of 16,995 units in May, despite an estimated 15.4% decline in Total Industry Volume (TIV) compared to the previous month. The strong performance reinforces the company's position as one of Malaysia's fastest-growing automotive brands in 2026 and highlights the growing appeal of its expanding portfolio of internal combustion engine (ICE), electric vehicle (EV), and plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) models.
For the first five months of the year, PROTON has delivered 84,294 vehicles, representing year-to-date growth of 38% and an estimated market share of 26.7%. In contrast, overall industry volume is estimated to have contracted by 1.4% over the same period, underlining PROTON's ability to grow market share in a challenging operating environment.
Proton Saga reclaims national crown as PROTON strengthens leadership across multiple segments While other Proton ICE and NEV models grab headlines, the Proton Saga continues to be the stalwart of the Proton range, ringing up industry leading sales numbers. The biggest story for May is therefore the return of the Proton Saga as Malaysia's best-selling vehicle.
Delivering 7,398 units during the month, the iconic national model once again proved its enduring appeal to Malaysian buyers by combining proven reliability, modern technology, and exceptional value. Year-to-date sales now stand at 37,375 units, a remarkable 41% increase over the same period in 2025.
Further bolstering ICE model sales were strong performances posted by the Proton S70 and Proton X50. The former achieved 2,350 units to bring its YTD total to 10,525 units, 32.5% ahead of last year. It is the third consecutive month the C-segment sedan has breached the 2,000-unit barrier, which it did only once in 2025.
The Proton X50 continues to dominate SUV sales, by being the best-seller in its class and segment. 2,793 units delivered in May brings the YTD total to 12,967 units. 33.6% ahead of 2025. Also leading its segment is the Proton X90. Launched on 11 March with a new i-GT engine, better connectivity, and better value, it has undergone a sales renaissance to lead the D-segment SUV market. 402 units delivered in May elevates its YTD total by 38.6% more than in 2025.
“PROTON’s performance in 2026 shows Malaysians continue to respond positively to products that deliver strong value, advanced technology, and a rewarding ownership experience. What is especially encouraging is the breadth of our success. The Proton Saga remains Malaysia's favourite car, the Proton X50 continues to lead the SUV market, while our e.MAS range is establishing itself as the benchmark for electrified mobility in Malaysia.
"As we continue to invest in new products, our retail network and after-sales capabilities, our focus remains on delivering vehicles and services that exceed customer expectations while strengthening PROTON's position as a leading automotive brand in Malaysia,” said Dato. Ir. Abdul Rashid Musa, Deputy Chief Executive Officer, PROTON.
Proton e.MAS strengthens leadership in Malaysia's electrified vehicle market
Proton e.MAS continued its strong momentum in May, cementing its position as one of the driving forces behind Malaysia's transition to electrified mobility. Combined deliveries of Proton e.MAS models reached 3,022 units during the month across domestic and export markets, bringing year-to-date sales to 14,687 units after the first five months of 2026.
Leading the charge is the Proton e.MAS 7 PHEV, which recorded its second consecutive best-ever monthly sales performance with 1,181 units delivered in May. Just four months after its launch on 4 February, the model has rapidly established itself as Malaysia's best-selling plug-in hybrid electric vehicle, with cumulative sales now reaching 2,936 units.
The Proton e.MAS 7 also enjoyed a breakthrough month, reclaiming its position as Malaysia's best-selling electric vehicle. With CKD production now stabilised, deliveries surged to 958 units, marking the model's second-highest monthly sales total since launch and bringing its year-to-date volume to 2,394 units.
Meanwhile, the Proton e.MAS 5 continues to underpin PROTON’s EV success story. While deliveries moderated to 883 units in May ahead of the commencement of local assembly operations, the model remains Malaysia's best-selling EV on a year-to-date basis with 9,357 units delivered. With CKD production scheduled to begin this month, Proton e.MAS expects supply to strengthen further in the coming months to support growing customer demand.
Commenting on the performance, Zhang Qiang, Chief Executive Officer of PRO-NET, said, "The strong response to the Proton e.MAS range reflects growing consumer confidence in electrified vehicles and their ability to deliver lower running costs, advanced technology and an enhanced ownership experience. We are particularly encouraged by the market's reception towards both our EV and PHEV offerings, which demonstrates that Malaysian consumers are embracing multiple pathways towards sustainable mobility.
“As local assembly operations continue to ramp up for the Proton e.MAS 7 and commence for the Proton e.MAS 5, we are strengthening our ability to meet customer demand while supporting the development of Malaysia's EV ecosystem. We believe Proton e.MAS is well positioned to maintain its leadership role as the market continues to evolve."
