First Drive: Proton eMas 5 Review – What does a RM 60k EV drive like?
We have all heard the headlines. Malaysia’s first affordable EV, priced between RM 60k and RM 80k, rear-wheel drive, and over 3,000 bookings so far. But what’s it actually like to drive? Let’s find out in this Proton eMas 5 review.
Proton eMas 5 Specs and Price
- Power: 116 PS / 150 Nm
- Battery: 40.16 kWh
- Range: 325 km (WLTP)
- Drivetrain: RWD
- 0-100 km/h: ~10s
- Top Speed: 135 km/h
- Estimated Price: RM 60k–RM 80k
Proton eMas 5 Review: First Impressions
In short, very typical of a modern EV (especially ones from China). The controls feel clean and filtered, devoid of feel. Steering is light and accurate enough to place confidently, though the ratio is a touch on the slow side. You turn, it goes, but it doesn’t talk back.
Pedal response tells a similar story. The eMas 5 prefers to ramp up its power smoothly rather than give an instant punch. Some might call it refined, but to me it feels detached. I’d rather the car do exactly what I ask when I ask. Legacy brands like BMW or even Hyundai tend to get that balance right. Having said that, the eMas 5 feels more than brisk enough for daily traffic.
Brakes could use more polish. Again. there’s no pedal feel to speak of, which makes modulating them more guesswork than precision. You end up relying on your body to sense how much the car is slowing down. It’s a common EV trait, but some brands manage a smoother blend between regen and hydraulic braking.
Being rear-wheel drive, there is that faint sense of being pushed instead of pulled, but the usual yaw or rotation you’d expect never really showed up, at least during my time with the car. Even with stability control off (traction control was nowhere to be found), it refused to play along. This is despite the easily-overwhelmed tyres.
Where the eMas 5 redeems itself is in ride quality. It feels planted, more substantial than its size suggests, and it deals with bumps and surface changes impressively well. The test track wasn’t exactly punishing, but the car stayed calm and composed throughout.
In terms of overall refinement, it sits a step below the eMas 7, which is expected given its price and positioning. There’s a bit more road and wind noise at higher speeds, but it’s still quieter and smoother than most cars at this price point.
Cabin ergonomics are mostly fine, though the lack of telescopic adjustment feels like an oversight. The steering reach is still decent, and the seats held me in place comfortably enough for the short drive. As this is still a pre-production unit, judgement will be reserved for now on the interior quality.
Overall, the eMas 5 is refined and city-friendly. It’s not trying to be sporty, and that’s fine.
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