JUST two models of Proton's Satria three door hatch were available from 2001 until 2004 although a new model bearing the name came out in 2007.
The older Satria was available with petrol 1.5 108bhp or 1.8 133bhp engines and the suspension was sorted by Lotus around the time it became a wholly owned subsidiary of Proton.
The Satria therefore has a decent ride with good handling in the 1.5 and excellent handling with a rougher ride in the 1.8 GTi.
Both have very good power steering that makes them very easy to manage in town and gives good feel on the open road.
Reliability is also excellent but do make sure that any you are interested in have the all-important full service history.
Satrias are fairly cheap second hand because of low new prices and steep depreciation.
Safety is below average, with just a driver's airbag and side impact bars but the GTi does have anti-lock brakes.
Interior
The front seats are supportive and there is enough adjustment for a good driving position if you are not too tall.
Equipment includes tinted windows, central locking and electric front windows and GTi adds aircon, alarm and a CD player.
FAST FACTS
Proton Satria GTi
Price: £1,800 for an '02 02-reg, £2,350 for an '03 03-reg or £3,000 for an '04 04-reg
Mechanical: 133bhp, 4cyl petrol engine driving front wheels via 5spd manual gearbox
Max speed: 126mph
0-62mph: 7.8 secs
Combined mpg: 32
Insurance group: 16
Marks: 9/10
Main rival: Citroen Saxo/C2 VTS