Proton R3 Satria at the 2008 Melbourne Motor Show

Proton's R3 Satria hot hatch is still under development but that didn't stop Proton bringing it to Melbourne this week.

Proton are currently 'keeping mum' on the R3’s engine type and specifications, but they have hinted that we can expect a significant power increase over the standard Satria’s Campro 1.6 litre twin cam multi-valve engine.

According to Tengku Djan Ley, head of the team who have designed the R3, IT has been developed as a spiritual successor to the Satria GTi, the first Proton to utilise the expertise and performance credentials of Proton's subsidiary company Lotus.

“We have very much focussed on the Lotus philosophy of performance through lightweight, utilising intelligent powerplant solutions while minimising weight and enhancing Satria’s already impressive handling,” said Djan.

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