SINGAPORE – Maintain calm and stick with it, so says a 1939 British wartime poster. Sensible phrases to dwell by, particularly in these making an attempt instances.
In that spirit, we honour one of the best automobiles of 2021. Solely all-new fashions launched by authorised brokers listed here are thought of on this annual train. To be as related to as many individuals as potential, automobiles priced above $750,000 are excluded.
The judges have shortlisted 10 contenders, out of 45 automobiles launched within the 12 months from mid-November 2020. They are going to deliberate and resolve which automotive deserves to be The Straits Occasions Automobile of the Yr 2021.
In the meantime, readers are invited to vote which automotive they suppose ought to win the honour. Their votes, nevertheless, is not going to affect the choice of the judges – all of whom have pushed the automobiles shortlisted right here and cumulatively have greater than 200 years’ expertise in road-testing automobiles.
Voting ends at midday on Dec 12.
1. Audi e-tron GT
A high-performance electrical saloon which rivals the Porsche Taycan, the 2020 ST Automobile of the Yr. The 2 automobiles have many issues in frequent, however the Audi additionally stands by itself – with a unique design language and driving expertise.
2. BMW iX3
Based mostly on the X3 sport utility car, the iX3 might be the cleverest and most environmentally sound electrical automotive right here.
It modulates energy recuperation in line with visitors circumstances, and is manufactured with much less cobalt and with out uncommon earths. It is usually designed to be extremely recyclable.
3. Cupra Formentor
That is the primary automotive from Seat’s efficiency spin-off Cupra to be shortlisted for ST Automobile of the Yr. Seat is Volkswagen Group’s Spanish unit.
The Formentor is much like, but completely different from, the Audi RS Q3. However is that ok for it to clinch the title?
4. Honda Jazz
The brand new Jazz is the primary absolutely hybrid Honda, however that isn’t why it’s right here. The supermini is exceptionally cheerful, with a wholesome mixture of efficiency, effectivity and premium stylishness.
If it wins, will probably be the primary Honda to take action since 2006.
5. Hyundai Tucson Hybrid
Few new automobiles impress with real newness just like the Hyundai Tucson Hybrid. From the way in which it appears to be like to the way in which it operates to the way in which it performs, it’s clearly a notch above its stablemates.
6. MG 5
The primary and solely electrical station wagon on the town can also be one of the reasonably priced electrical automobiles. But, it presents a degree of driveability and refinement not fairly attainable by automobiles in its value section.
7. Peugeot 2008
This compact crossover presents an exceptionally candy experience and dealing with. Its modern styling and beneficiant tools degree are icing on the cake.
8. Renault Arkana Fastback
Not each market is prepared for electrification, so hybrids are nonetheless related. The Renault Arkana Fastback is a novel hybrid – with a 1.6-litre engine, two motors and a dog-clutch computerized gearbox.
9. Tesla Mannequin 3 Efficiency
This was launched in 2017, however formally made obtainable right here solely this 12 months. Inside months of the primary supply in late July, the Tesla grew to become Singapore’s best-selling electrical automotive.
It’s obtainable in Commonplace Vary and Efficiency. Solely the latter was made obtainable for media check drives.
10. Volkswagen Golf
The eighth-generation compact automotive boasts extra of all the things – together with refinement, digital tools, connectivity and efficiency – making for a noticeably extra polished automotive worthy of the Golf lineage.