Singapore’s sideliner car brands have the potential to steer out of the shadows cast by the mainstream Japanese automakers which dominate the market.
Subaru has always had a cult (polite term for “tiny”) following, but the new Impreza impresses with an amazing chassis. It responds to aggressive inputs with grace and calmness, and will definitely be suitable for a more powerful range of engines and better transmissions. Now that Toyota has increased its stake and involvement in the company, Subaru’s future looks even brighter.
Suzuki has had hits and misses in recent decades, but the new Swift looks more than promising. And the Swift Sport could be the next hot hatch for those who want fun, performance, dependability and value for money. Suzuki also has a knack for making interiors which are roomy, minimalistic and youthful. A lot more zany and interesting than interiors of its Japanese compatriots, for sure.
In addition to Subaru and Suzuki from Japan, we also have Kia and Hyundai from Korea – brands which punch above their weight. Meanwhile, Renault from France continues to wow with its value proposition and high useability. The Renault Zoe Long Range electric hatch and Hyundai Ioniq Electric are set to drive electrification here.
