Proton GEN-2 news - Next GEN - 2008

Too often, the summer months can be quiet times in the world of new cars, and we're reduced to feeding, vulture-like, for scraps of fresh metal.

Not this year, though, because there's a new Proton GEN-2 coming to the UK! New! New! Well, not totally new. But a bit different.

Yes, everybody's favourite Malaysian hatchback has been updated, with some red stuff on the inside as well as - and we quote - 'a redesigned glove box for added comfort and convenience'.

OK, we may mock a little - quite a lot, in fact - but at least the GEN-2 is cheap. As in under £9,000 for the 1.3 GLS, including a six-year powertrain warranty. If you're feeling truly flush, you could opt for the 1.6-litre, 100bhp GSX.

Best of all, you'll be pleased to know that all GEN-2s come with crumple zones as standard. Because it's always a chore to have to tick that 'crumple zone' option box.