CITROEN
C4 Cactus
The French automaker’s rediscovery of its Gallic flair continues with the C4 Cactus, the bohemian cousin of the trendy DS4. The Cactus’ innovations include Airbump anti-ding capsules on the doors, a ceiling-mounted airbag for the front passenger and a 7-inch dashboard device that controls all the main vehicle functions. There are also storage compartments aplenty and sofa-inspired front seats.
FORD
Mustang
Finally available in right-hand-drive, Ford’s pony coupe is expected to gallop into Singapore by the end of the year. There are two engine options for the new-generation Mustang: a beefy 5-litre V8 and a relatively skinny 2.3-litre turbo inline-four. The 435bhp/542Nm eight-cylinder is a Big Mac and the 310bhp/433Nm four-cylinder is a packet of French fries, but both have hardworking ponies that provide donkey-proof sporty performance.
Mondeo
One of the most multinational mid-size cars in the business, the newcomer has American “Blue Oval” badges, Germanic handling, Italianate styling and Japanese-like ergonomics. And it’s made in Spain. Ford supplies a lot of Mondeo for the money, with numerous features such as adaptive LED headlights, a 10-inch digital-analogue instrument display, multi-function connectivity, highly effective climate control and “hands-free” parking assistance.
S-Max
One of the most fun-to-drive MPVs in recent years will return to satisfy family men behind the wheel. Available as a five-seater or seven-seater, the new people-mover is powered by a 2-litre Ecoboost engine with 240bhp put through a 6-speed Powershift dual-clutch gearbox. With 32 different interior configurations and the comforts of a mobile home, the S-Max promises to be a family car par excellence.
HONDA
HR-V
This SUV offshoot of the Jazz hatchback is a good-looking vehicle aimed at a younger, groovier demographic than the CR-V. The HR-V is compact on the outside, yet roomy on the inside, with easily adaptable “Magic Seats” that give class-leading versatility. Well equipped and well built, the new Honda crossover will compete against the Mazda CX-3, Nissan Juke and Subaru XV.
Mobilio
Honda’s direct rival to the Toyota Avanza follows the same basic formula of “seven seats, cheap and good, made in Thailand”, but looks more interesting, especially in bodykitted RS specification. The Mobilio sits on the same platform as the Brio (a low-budget runabout for South East Asia), which has been stretched to accommodate three-row seating.
HYUNDAI
Sonata
This is not a Comfort taxi. The latest Sonata is a comfortable 2-litre private car for folks upgrading from the Elantra segment, who want a big saloon that offers equally big value for money. Hyundai’s counterpoint to the Toyota Camry, Nissan Teana and Honda Accord tries to beat them at their own game, while its design is a roadgoing dose of Korean drama.
JAGUAR
XE
Slotting below the current XF in the Jaguar model range, the XE is a sports saloon that targets the BMW 3 Series. The British manufacturer claims that its newest “cat” is the lightest, stiffest and most aerodynamic it has ever created. The XE’s excellent attributes include an intuitive infotainment system, sophisticated safety technology and a spacious, luxurious cabin. The engine line-up, called Ingenium, starts with a turbocharged 2-litre four-cylinder, fuelled by either petrol or diesel.
JEEP
Renegade
Not confirmed for Singapore yet, but this Fiat Punto-based junior Jeep will certainly appeal to suburbanites who want something cute yet rugged. It has a cheeky exterior and a funky yet functional interior that comes with removable roof panels.
