Proton Iriz R5 Will Mark Proton's Return To WRC

Apart from receiving a new update, the Proton Iriz is also going rallying, with the new Iriz R5 being developed by MEM. This marks the return of Proton into the World Rally Championship scene, after their withdrawal four years ago following the end of the Satria Neo's production.

The new Proton Iriz R5 is developed and built by the same folks behind the Satria Neo S2000, Chris Mellors' MEM. According to Autosport, MEM is working to unveil the Iriz R5 at next month's Goodwood Festival of Speed.

Chris Mellors said that the size and shape of the Proton Iriz is ideal for rallying, as the overall length is shorter than the Satria Neo, but with a longer wheelbase. The suspension strut top locations are also positioned nicely, plus the Iriz has sufficient space up front for cooling.

Power will come from a Mitsubishi Evolution X, though the engine capacity has been reduced to 1.6-litres. This, coupled with the Xtrac transmission, Cosworth electronics, Reiger dampers and Brembo brakes should make the Iriz R5 a competent rally machine. Homologation for the Iriz R5 is set to happen on 1 January 2018.

MEM said that the new Iriz R5 will be available in both right- and left-hand drive configurations.