The Proton Savvy is a small hatchback known for its peppy drive and wallet-friendly running costs. Its parking ease also makes it a strong solution for town and city drivers.
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Overall rating 3.5/5
Running costs
Comfort
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Space Practicality
Perfect for busy places or as a first car, the Proton Savvy was designed to offer easy everyday driving at a more appealing price than the likes of a Ford Ka or Fiat Panda. It launched in the UK in 2005 and was sold until around 2012. While it can't compete head-on with big-name superminis for the likes of interior quality, it does have a decent list of equipment in higher specs. Its five-door design also means accessing the back isn't hard work. Plus, every seat can comfortably fit adults – even those on the taller side. When it comes to driving performance, expect some punch. The engine may only be 1.2 litres, but it can reach motorway speeds without much difficulty. That's likely due to Lotus engineering elements featured inside the car.
Low running costsCompact size for city useGood space in the front and back 
Basic quality interiorCan feel bumpyView may be restricted for taller driversThe Proton Savvy mainly has basic safety features such as driver and passenger airbags and ABS brakes. However, all models have reverse parking sensors to help keep the car in tip-top condition. When buying used, check that all these features are functioning properly.
UK Savvys all feature a 1.2-litre petrol engine sourced from Renault. The manual gearbox can reach 0 to 62mph in less than 14 seconds, while the automatic transmission achieves the same speed in almost 16 seconds.
Expect to see wind-up windows on the most basic Street model. The Style model offers electric windows and air conditioning. But the infotainment offering is minimal by today’s standards, so you'll need to use a portable device if you want navigation or Bluetooth streaming.
The 1.2-litre petrol engine returns around 50mpg on average, making it economical for everyday journeys. Actual efficiency can vary depending on age, mileage and driving style, but the car generally delivers low fuel costs.
Look for a full service history and check for signs of neglected maintenance. Inspect the electronics and pay attention to the gearbox function. To see whether your chosen used car has any hidden issues, consider The AA Vehicle Inspection.
Proton built the Savvy with dependability in mind, and many owners find it robust for daily use. As with any older car, maintenance is crucial, but overall, the model is sturdy if serviced regularly.
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