Proton Lekir: 2010 Kuala Lumpur Auto Show

Just the Facts: A rebadged Lotus Europa, named Lekir, is on display as a Proton concept at a Malaysian auto show.The Lekir concept has mildly revised bumpers, some unappealing black trim and new wheels.Proton says the Lekir could be powered by either a turbocharged 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine.

KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia — The Proton Lekir unveiled here at the 2010 Kuala Lumpur Auto Show looks vaguely familiar — and it should. It's a barely warmed-over version of the Lotus Europa, which was last updated in Europe in 2008.

And why not? Proton owns Lotus, so a rebadged and lower-priced Europa makes a certain amount of sense, if not a compelling business case.

According to the Malaysian Web site PaulTan.org, the Europa started life in Malaysia as the Proton Sepang project. Now, the Lekir concept appears to be the reincarnation of the Europa, with mildly revised bumpers, some unappealing black trim and new wheels.

Proton says the Lekir could be powered by either a turbocharged 1.6-liter or 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, and would be priced at just under $50,000.

Inside Line says: If the Lekir makes the cut for production, its volume potential will be extremely limited. — Paul Lienert, Correspondent

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