The family runabout was once a no-frills saloon that was relatively spacious and efficient. Buyers today, however, have come to expect more than just these basics, and carmakers have duly responded.
The newest contender in this story is the Subaru Impreza. Utilising a new platform, the model is roomier and more comfortable than before. Apart from these attributes, Subaru also promises a more dynamic driving experience compared to its predecessor.
Trying to be more impressive than the Impreza is the Hyundai Elantra in Elite spec. We’ve always been impressed with this Korean saloon, which has an upmarket feel, an ergonomic cabin and a well-tuned suspension. It was recently updated, and now has a Euro 6-compliant engine. But can the Korean car beat its two Japanese rivals here?
The strongest competitor facing the Impreza and Elantra is the Honda Civic, which boasts improved performance and nicer styling compared to its predecessor, The current Civic was voted as Singapore’s “Best Family Saloon” at the 2016 ST-Torque Awards.
Can the Civic emerge ahead in this shootout? Or will it have to give way to a better 1.6-litre contender? Keep reading and find out!
Impreza cockpit is the group’s most driver-friendly. It has the best forward and lateral visibility, plus the sportiest pedals and the strongest air-conditioning. With four USB ports and two 12-volt outlets, this cockpit offers the best connectivity, too.
Civic cockpit is the most driver-focussed. It has the most supportive seats and the easiest-to-reach gearshift lever, and is also the only one with paddle shifters. But the short centre armrest and small front doorbins reduce practicality.
Elantra cockpit feels even more solid than its two rivals’, and the large storage points make it more practical, too. But the car’s lower cost has meant the deletion of features such as the blind spot monitor and ventilated seats.
