I’m one of the nine fussy judges on the ST-Torque jury for the best cars of 2014. Our initial list of the year’s 50-odd newcomers was carefully whittled down to a shortlist of 10, and then we cast our secret votes using our proven, points-based system. The criteria are performance, handling, ride, build quality, economy/efficiency, ergonomics, styling, value for money and the X factor. Each car in the running is rated against its peers in the same segment, which would mean the A3/S3 Sportback and MINI in the case of the top scorer and overall champion.
Even though BMW’s i3 electric five-door hatchback beat the Mercedes-Benz S-Class limousine by a solitary point (in our nail-biting tiebreaker), it is still a big victory and a prestigious feather in the cap for the groundbreaking Bimmer.
Compared to past ST Cars of the Year (2013 Volkswagen Golf, 2012 Porsche 911, 2011 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque and 2010 Jaguar XJ), the BMW i3 is a unique proposition that comes complete with its own street-smart, “plug-and-play” mobility programme.
Here are my three reasons why the i3 is a deserving ST Car of the Year 2014:
1. It is the iPad of the automotive world. Like everyone’s favourite computer tablet, the i3 combines state-of-the-art hardware with innovative, user-friendly software and dependable, top-drawer quality.
2. It is the X-Man of modern electric cars. Like those Marvel superheroes, the i3 is a mutant superautomobile with special powers that include instant awesome torque, extended-range operation and a practical interior housed within a radical exterior, plus an unbeatable X factor.
3. It is the kopi gao of city driving. Like the thick coffee served in kopi tiams, the i3 is a powerful pick-me-up that gives the jaded/tired/frustrated driver a caffeine boost on his commute, making it downright enjoyable instead of merely tolerable.
