Is this a Proton Saga R3 prototype? From first impressions it’s got a very familiar front bumper (like the Satria Neo R3 2010) and the R3 Advanti rims from the new Satria Neo R3 2011. Looking pretty fierce don’t you think?

Submitted by Kamarul Zainuddin. Got tips? Send them to us at info[at]r3gister.org.

Satria R3 with plate number WMY 5956 was stolen at 4-5am yesterday morning.  Has black Spoon Sports Rim 15″. If anyone seen or has any information on this car, please contact The R3gister.

PROTON’s Chris Atkinson steered his Proton Satria Neo S2000 to victory in the Malaysian Rally to claim first place and giving his 2011 Asia Pacific Rally Champions (APRC) campaign a solid start. Team mate Alister McRae claimed third place to make it a double podium.

The race was not at all smooth sailing for Atkinson as he had to nurse a right rear puncture sustained midway into the opening 12.42km special stage at Tai Tak – Court House. Team MRF’s Gaurav Gill in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X continued to pile on pressure on the race leader.

“In a rally that was incredibly difficult, celebrating a victory and having two cars on the podium is absolutely rewarding for PROTON and the entire team, as much as it is a big boost to the brand and consumer appeal in our products,” said PROTON Holdings Berhad Group Managing Director Dato’ Sri Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

For more of PROTON Motorsports race exploits, visit http://protonmotorsports.wordpress.com

Official Press Release

JOHOR BARU: PROTON rallied to a difficult and well-deserved victory on home soil in the Malaysian Rally to claim 1st and 3rd overall, and giving its 2011 Asia Pacific Rally Championship (APRC) campaign a big early boost.

Making the most of an entirely new suspension set-up and significant engine enhancements, Chris Atkinson steered the signature yellow Proton Satria Neo S2000 to victory to finish 1 minute 36.6 seconds ahead of Team MRF’s Gaurav Gill in the Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X, with PROTON team mate Alister McRae claiming third place.

Restarting the third and final day of the rally in Kota Tinggi with lead of 2 minutes 10 seconds, Atkinson was quickly forced to concede 30 seconds to an attacking Gill, as he nursed a right rear puncture sustained midway into the opening 12.42km special stage at Tai Tak – Court House.

With the punctured tyre replace and unable to afford another puncture, Atkinson then paced the Satria Neo S2000 through the two remaining 11.97km and 14.26km special stage to return safely to the scheduled service interval. With four special stages remaining, the PROTON driver needed only to steer clear of trouble and maintain an already comfortable lead.

“This is a fantastic result for PROTON. The Satria Neo S2000 performed extremely well throughout the rally and it is especially satisfying to have been able to demonstrate the car’s true potential, competitiveness and its level of pace and performance in front of the home crowd,” said Atkinson who celebrates his first ever victory and only second podium finish with PROTON since joining the team last year.

Victory was even more meaningful for his co-driver Stephane Prevot who in his 24 years of rallying, celebrated his 300th rally on top of the podium and the APRC standings.

For McRae, third place was every bit rewarding considering he had to manage an overheating problem caused by debris and vegetation blocking the air path to the radiator through the front bumper grille. The podium finish also places him second behind Gill, in the Asia Cup category.

The third and final day of the Malaysian Rally was run over seven special stages totaling 79.80km. Heavy downpour just hours before the rally was due to start on the second day had wrecked havoc on the event, inflicting so many serious casualties and eliminating most of the top seeded drivers, as what had earlier been dry and dusty quickly became muddy and slippery conditions.

“In a rally that was incredibly difficult, celebrating a victory and having two cars on the podium is absolutely rewarding for PROTON and the entire team, as much as it is a big boost to the brand and consumer appeal in our products,” said PROTON Holdings Berhad Group Managing Director Dato’ Sri Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

“The results are also a manifestation to all the testing, development, hard work and heart that have gone into building on the Proton Satria Neo S2000′s competitiveness. The Satria Neo S2000′s pace and performance in Malaysia forms a strong foundation for further development in preparation for the next round of the APRC which moves to Australia next month and with five more very competitive rounds to contest.”

Outstanding results for PROTON at the Malaysian Rally also extended to the two debutante front-wheel driven 1600cc Satria Neos. Competing for the very first time, the two cars finished 8th and 9th overall at the hands of PROTON Cusco Rally Team’s Akira Bamba and Kosuke Takashino. Both drivers also clinched 1st and 2nd in the APRC Junior Cup category.

As announced earlier, here’s the official press release issued by Proton on the launch of the 2011 R3 Satria Neo.
NEWS RELEASE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

SUBANG JAYA, 7th March 2011 – Engineered for more spirited and dynamic driving enjoyment, PROTON today introduced an exclusive hot hatch, the Proton R3 Satria Neo.

Built by PROTON’s Motorsports Division under the Race, Rally, Research (R3) brand name, the car is distinctively recognizable by its striking Fire Red exterior with a black painted roof.

Running the tried and tested 1600cc CAMPRO CPS engine, R3 engineers have upgraded its performance with the addition of Stage 2 performance upgrades inviting car enthusiasts to experience a greater dose of excitement. This increases power from the standard 125 bhp and 150 Nm of torque to 145 bhp at 7000 rpm and 168 Nm of torque at 5000 rpm coupled to a close ratio 5-speed manual transmission.

“Motorsports is one of several key strategies being pursued to enhance the PROTON brand. It is a platform that allows us to not only promote the brand and increase awareness in new and potential markets, both domestically and abroad, but it is an equally rewarding proving ground,” said PROTON Holdings Berhad Group Managing Director Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

“The R3 Satria Neo is an extension of our involvement and experience in motor racing, and it caters to a demanding segment of customers and enthusiasts who desire vehicles that are purpose-built for performance as much as it is practical for everyday usage.”

The R3 Satria Neo’s promise of an exhilarating drive is further conveyed by its all-round CPS bodykit; an R3 designed rear roof spoiler; a front lip for improved down force; titanium coloured side strips; and a more muscular stance the result of a 10 mm drop in ride height. R3 engineers also made significant enhancements to ride and handling, with the use of specially-designed R3 performance springs for reduced body roll; recalibrated alignment, toe and camber settings for more grip and steering precision; and R3 edition 16” inch gunmetal lightweight alloys wrapped in softer compound Bridgestone Potenza RE001R 205/45 series profile tyres for better traction.

Inside, the R3 Satria Neo features a sporty, yet classy and alluring matte red and black two-tone interior. R3 limited edition front bucket seats wrapped in nappa leather with ‘Trivel’ finish, carbon effect PVC and red stitching replaces the standard seats. Its fiery personality is also accentuated by the use of matte red dashboard trims, gear console and handbrake handle; two-tone door trims; R3 floor carpets, an engine start button; aluminium foot pedals and gear knob.

Safety features built into the car include high performance brake pads capable of withstanding high-temperatures of up to 400 degree Celsius for increased fade resistance often associated with constant heavy braking; dual front airbags, and anti-lock braking system (ABS) with Electronic Brake Distribution (EBD). The car also comes fitted with Ecotint solar and security protection, and a 2-DIN audio head unit with 3D GPS navigation.

Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin said motorsports has a very unique way of establishing a strong emotional bond between car manufacturers and enthusiasts in that it injects excitement into a brand or a particular model, often inducing sales – and with achievements, reinforces brand superiority.

“While PROTON may still be in its infancy of introducing performance-based vehicles, I assure you of many more exciting new variants in the future.”

The R3 Satria Neo is priced at RM79,797 on-the-road inclusive of road tax and insurance, and can be viewed at Proton Edar’s Crystal showroom at the Proton Centre of Excellence, Shah Alam and any of the three Platinum showrooms located at  Mutiara Damansara, Juru and Plentong. Bookings can be made immediately at any of Proton Edar’s 23 sales branches throughout Peninsular Malaysia with a fee of RM2,000 and purchasers can expect the car delivered to them within four weeks of obtaining loan approval.

For more information, visit your nearest PROTON showroom today, call our PROTON i-care at 1-300-880-888 or log on to www.r3.proton.com.

TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS

About PROTON Motorsports Division
PROTON Motorsports specializes in the research, development and production of race cars, special and performance-driven road going models and performance parts for the Proton range of vehicles.

About PROTON
PROTON, established in 1983, is Malaysia’s largest manufacturer of automobiles, and the only full-fledged OEM car manufacturer in South-East Asia. With operations in key markets from UK to the Middle East, and across South-East Asia and Australasia, especially in countries like China and Iran, PROTON produces cars to suit a range of consumer demands and preferences.

Its offerings include versatile and reliable four-door family vehicles, two-door hatchbacks for the young-at-heart, luxurious and stylish executive sedans, spacious and affordable multi-purpose vehicles, as well as the world-renowned sports cars from Lotus. Most importantly, PROTON models are now developed with Lotus Engineering, offering customers superior ride and handling experience in every drive.

PROTON’s inception as a key driver of national development has seen the brand accelerate its learning curve through technology transfer with strategic partnerships and technical collaborations. By listening to the needs of customers, PROTON cars are now steadily on track to achieve the mission for the future, with PROTON set to become a marque which builds cars with passion and soul; cars that are a delight to drive – and a pleasure to own.

PROTON LAUNCHES R3 PERFORMANCE ACCESSORIES AND NEW IDENTITY FOR R3

Kuala Lumpur, 2nd December 2010: PROTON Holdings Berhad today launched its new line up of R3 Performance Accessories giving PROTON car owners, especially racing enthusiasts, the opportunity to redefine their car’s performance and aesthetics for more excitement on the road.

The new line up, developed for the PROTON Satria Neo and Gen2 models by its motorsports division, Race.Rally.Research (R3), is geared to significantly enhance performance through superior handling, improved drivability while providing a modern and distinct style through affordable quality parts and accessories.

The launch of R3 Performance Accessories was made official by YB Dato’ Seri Kong Cho Ha, Minister of Transport, Malaysia, when he unveiled the new logo which connote the attributes of a dynamic and futuristic brand. The Brand Name and Logomark are slanting to their right to denote the energy and positiveness of the brand in moving forward.

YB Dato’ Seri Kong Cho Ha was accompanied by PROTON Advisor Tun Dr. Mahathir Mohamed, and Group Managing Director, Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin Syed Mohamed Tahir.

Addressing the media during the launch held at the KL International Motorshow, Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin said, “Through our market research, we found that many PROTON car owners have a keen interest in accessorising and modifying their cars, but our case studies have shown that often safety may be compromised when it is not done appropriately”.

“As part of our motorsports division, R3 has an extensive experience on the race tracks, and it was only natural, that we developed a line of performance accessories customised for PROTON vehicles as an extension of our commitment to provide Malaysians with the best in automotive at affordable prices.”

R3 Performance Accessories roll out six packages that offer car enthusiasts a range of enhancements from body kits, to exhaust systems, camshafts, spoilers, spring sets, and 15” and 16” wheels and tyres. Packages are currently available for the PROTON Satria Neo Baseline, CPS and non-CPS, , Gen2 and Gen2 CPS. Offered with easy financing, those interested can make their way to the PROTON Edar showrooms in Shah Alam (Centre of Excellence), Mutiara Damansara, Plentong in Johor Bahru and up north in Juru, Penang.

“Together with our vehicles’ superior Lotus Ride and Handling feature that improves steering precision, cornering and handling capabilities, the R3 Performance Accessories is the perfect complement to enhance our drivers’ experience on the road,” Dato’ Haji Syed Zainal Abidin added.

Another highlight of the event was the PROTON Satria Neo R3 Concept car, which boasts one simple objective – ultimate performance. Kitted with R3’s very own force induction system that allows it to produce 200hp and 250NM of torque, the Satria Neo R3 Concept is by far the fastest Neo developed by PROTON to-date.

Besides superb engine performance, the Satria Neo R3 Concept Car brings drivers one step closer to the world of motorsports with its AP Racing brakes & Ohlins suspension system, R3 designed bodykit with front splitter for optimal down force, and a lightweight carbon fiber bonnet and FRP fenders with reduced overall weight. Other features of the car include Recaro full bucket motorsport seats that provide the driver with ultimate support during spirited driving, a MOMO steering wheel for added control and a colour coded half cage to give the driver added protection. The car also features a motorsports digital multi-information display dash and integrated 2-DIN multimedia built- in navigation system.

The PROTON Satria Neo R3 Concept Car will be on display at the PROTON booth during the KL International Motorshow at the Putra World Trade Centre (PWTC) until 12th December 2010.

About PROTON

PROTON, established in 1983, is Malaysia’s largest manufacturer of automobiles, and the only full-fledged OEM car manufacturer in South-East Asia. With operations in key markets from UK to the Middle East, and across South-East Asia and Australasia, especially in countries like China and Iran, PROTON produces cars to suit a range of consumer demands and preferences. Its offerings include versatile and reliable four-door family vehicles, two-door hatchbacks for the young-at-heart, luxurious and stylish executive sedans, spacious and affordable multi-purpose vehicles, as well as the world-renowned sports cars from Lotus. Most importantly, PROTON models are now developed with Lotus Engineering, offering customers superior ride and handling experience in every drive.

PROTON’s inception as a key driver of national development has seen the brand accelerate its learning curve through technology transfer with strategic partnerships and technical collaborations. By listening to the needs of customers, PROTON cars are now steadily on track to achieve the mission for the future, with PROTON set to become a marque which builds cars with passion and soul; cars that are a delight to drive – and a pleasure to own.

For further information, please contact Group Marketing & After Sales Division:

Gary Lee at hp: 016 2166515 / tel: 03-80269514 / email: leekh@proton.com
Norhani Ahmad at hp: 010 4000 868 / tel: 03-8026 9512 / email: norhanaj@proton.com

Artist Impression of the Satria Neo R3 RS-spec

Proton Satria Neo R3 RS To Come in 2011

Following up on the preview of the drool-worthy Satria Neo R3 Concept previewed at KLIMS 2010 yesterday, a spokesperson from R3 revealed that a RS-spec Satria Neo R3 will be launched some time next year. R3 is expected to only build 70 units of these babies.

Powered by the same 1.6-litre CamPro CPS from the Satria Neo R3 Lotus Racing which outputs 145hp (108kW) @7,000rpm and 168Nm @ 5,000rpm, the upcoming SNR3 RS will feature many of the performance bits currently seen on the SNR3 Lotus Racing edition. Gone, however, will be the OHLINS suspension and 4-pot AP Racing brakes, instead replaced by R3 lowering spring set over stock dampers and 400-degree semi-race brake pads up front.

The many enhancements like the R3 engine management system, R3 camshafts with adjustable pulleys, R3 Titanium headers, R3-tuned exhaust system and R3 carbon fibre intake box is expected to remain intact. Exterior-wise, the SNR3 RS will be painted metallic red with a black roof top. The aggressive wide body styling with aerodynamic FRP bumpers both front and rear will be complemented by a R3 carbon fibre bonnet. Also expect lightweight 16″ Advanti rims wrapped in sticky Bridgestone rubber.

No specs were revealed regarding the interior, but we anticipate Nappa leather with faux carbon fibre bits and semi-bucket Recaro seats.

It’s going to be mighty exciting for R3 in 2011 so stay tuned!

PROTON Satria NEO R3 Concept car @ KLIMS 2010

PROTON showcased a menacing, track-focused Satria Neo R3 Concept at KLIMS 2010 today, setting a new benchmark in performance within PROTON’s product line up. Powered by a R3-developed turbocharged CAMPRO CPS which outputs 200hp and 250Nm of torque, this is the fastest Neo by PROTON to date and purposely built as a Time Attack weapon. The  signature R3-red is gone, replaced with new yellow-striped livery. Enough goodies to satisfy hardcore nuts and R3 fans alike!

Some specs at a glance:

• AP Racing brakes and Ohlins suspension system provides the ultimate driving experience
• Racing aerodynamics enhanced by R3-designed bodykit with a front splitter for optimal down force
• Lightweight carbon fibre bonnet and FRP fenders to reduce overall weight
• Recaro shell seats provides ultimate driver support during spirited driving
• SPARCO steering wheel R323 for added control
• Integrated, colour-coded half cage gives added protection to driver.

Detailed Vehicle Specifications

BODY

• PROTON SATRIA NEO
• 2 door compact
• R3 bolt-on CDS 4-point half roll-cage

DIMENSIONS

• Overall length – 4473mm
• Width – 1821mm
• Wheelbase – 2600mm
• Track front – 1488mm
• Track rear – 1488mm

ENGINE

• 16V 1597cc CAMPRO 4-cylinder in line DOHC
• R3 forged pistons 11:1 comp ratio
• R3 steel conrod
• R3 performance camshafts
• R3 reworked cylinder head
• R3 4-2 exhaust system stage 3
• R3 carbon airbox
• R3 management computer
• 170PS/200hp & 200Nm @ wheel

TRANSMISSION

• R3-spec close ratio gearbox

INTERIOR

• R3-designed interior wrapped with Alcantara and Nappa leather
• SPARCO steering wheel R323, 330mm with R3 60mm spacer
• R3 4-point half roll-cage, colour-coded yellow

SUSPENSION

Front

• McPherson strut with stabiliser bar
• R3-tuned Ohlins coilovers

Rear

• Multi link with stabiliser bar
• R3-tuned Ohlins coil over

WHEELS AND TYRES

• R3-designed 15” wheels M7510 Wheel Assy 15 x 7 ET 37
• Bridgestone Potenza RE55S semi slick tyre 190/50 R15

BRAKES

• AP Racing 4-pot brake system
• AP Racing floating disc 295mm
• AP Racing performance brake pads

Picture Gallery

[Show as slideshow]

[View with PicLens]

Visit the Proton Motorsports blog site at , like the Official Proton Satria Neo Super 2000 page or follow Proton Motorsports on Twitter.

000 Da Bitch – Reincarnated as a Stock GTI, still black but no Recaros R3 wheels etc.
001 Da Slut – Siting in workshop unused waiting for new owner to buy the car
002 – Formerly Proton’s Corp Comm Media Car. Stolen June 2006 in CoE Car Park
003 – Sold to a Proton staff.
004 – Sold, Proton BoD member
005 – Sold
006 – formerly Prozac
007 – Raj (formerly Crash)
008
009  - kaYz1e (formerly Sousuke)
010

011
012
013 Handsome Lala
014
015
016
017 mzs a.k.a ZULKIFLI
018 formerly Shaunchen
019 sabreena
020 Engku Faiz
021
022 halimrrr
023
024
025 MaxiMauL
026
027
028 fadzly
048 harvey
049 khld
051 lixrym@rosmi
052 Desmosedici
056 stan aka ninja_iga
058 Eddy
061 Andrew Lee aka jÅkùùZèèMån©
067 Redwacko
072 Shaffy (formerly akmal_has)
073 vinoviruz
074 Incube
076 Dean
077 Dummy7718
083 Buahdurian
084 Dayton
085 fi3
086 Amchikarai
092 rancor
093 – Racer Boy
094 – ammetUIA
097 GajenDie (formerly r0ok)
098 Jeremy
099 – RT90
105 – Robin
106 neuralyzer
107 Punisher
111 Rizal
114 efie
115 john800
118 Raj
119 KINGTOZ
121 kanai
122 Ajoy
123 Zainal (zf)
124 GeneX
125 Gei Ko (2522)
126 pistola
129 Apexi
130 Hugh
133 Commander Reza
140 rickmoh
141 Shanashi
142 fitry
144 chivas
145 fordrunger
147 Nazrin
148 – aishah
149
150

Pretty surprised to see R3′s maiden commercial project car – the Satria R3 being featured on Proton’s site. As you may already know, the www.racerallyreseach.com website was shutdown circa 2008. Looks like Proton’s committed to moving the R3 brand forward. Yippee.