10) Lancer GLX (from $52,988)
The GLX is basically a cut-price version of the previous generation Lancer. Despite its age, it’s still a popular choice thanks to it’s ‘Made in Japan’ appeal and attractive price tag. The engine is a little noisy though, and the CVT gearbox not the most efficient.
9) Honda Jazz (from $69,100)
The Jazz is the island’s most popular compact hatchback model, and it’s not hard to see why. The little Honda is possibly the smartest packaged small car out there, offering acres of space on the inside. Another strong point of the Jazz is its fuel efficiency – the engines are absolute misers when drinking unleaded.
Nissan Latio (from $71,000)
The Latio’s stable mate, the Sunny, used to be the biggest-selling car. Although popular, the Latio isn’t as popular, perhaps due to the many cheaper models available these days. The compact Nissan comes in either a five-door hatch or four-door saloon to widen its appeal.
7) Honda Civic (from $83,300)
One of the hot favourites in recent years, Civic sales have fallen recently due to its premium pricing and age. There are a wide variety of variants available to suit almost every need, including a hybrid version and a hot Type R performance model.
6) Toyota Camry (from $96,988)
One of many Toyota models in the top ten – it seems that local car buyers can’t seem to stay away from the Japanese brand. The Camry dominates the large saloon class even though there are plenty of talented competition in the form of the Nissan Teana, Mazda 6 and Honda Accord, among others.
5) Toyota Wish (from $72,000)
The Wish is Singapore’s most popular MPV, by far. Just like the Toyota saloon models in the top ten, it’s a logical choice for car buyers here. Despite its relatively compact exterior dimensions, the interior offers reasonable space for seven occupants. Fuel economy is another strong point thanks to the efficient 1.8-litre VVTi motor. A new generation model is due later this year.
4) Kia Cerato Forte (from $46,999)
The Cerato Forte has been the surprise of the year so far. Kia’s latest compact saloon is a quantum leap in all areas over its predecessor. It’s biggest draws are probably the sharp styling inside and out, and the amount of standard equipment it offers despite its budget price tag. If there’s a car that ought to convince you that the Koreans have reached or even surpass the standard of the Japanese, the Cerato Forte will be it. I expect this to be an even more common sight on our roads by year’s end.
3) Toyota Vios (from $56,888)
Yes, another Toyota – they’re in a strong position to be the number one brand here by year’s end. Just like the Altis (see below), the Thai-made Vios is a car designed and developed specifically for South-East Asian markets, catering to the needs of the region’s drivers. The styling is a tad on the boring side, but its other virtues are more than enough to make up for this.
2) Toyota Corolla Altis (from $72,488)
Live with an Altis for a couple of days and you’ll understand its appeal and popularity. There is just little to loathe about this car – the engines offer strong and efficient performance, the equipment list is long, and it looks inoffensive. Best of all, it offers Toyota dependability.
1) Hyundai Avante (from $47,999)
The Korean marque bounced back to the upper reaches of the sales charts after a rather quiet past few years. The Avante has been around for several years but recent price revisions (thanks to the weak Korean won), has made it really popular for those on a limited budget for a compact saloon. That said, there’s hardly anything outstanding about the Avante other than its affordable price.
