So here we are again, at the end of 2013, and for our very last post of the year we’d like to continue on that begun last year – a Top Five list of the cars that more than caught our attention this particular calendar year.
Last year’s post was an exercise out of the ordinary, set about by the thought that it would provide you, the reader, with a better insight to what makes the editorial team here at paultan.org tick, and there’s no better way than coming up with a list like this. You’ll find that in the collective resides much individuality, as it rightly should be.
Again, we’ve set the marker at five, not because we have anything against going the usual route of 10, but to select five out of a host of new arrivals in any calendar year means having to be more selective about things – when first initiated, the idea was to encourage a more incisive thought process in going about the subject.
With that, here are the individual picks from the team, what each thought were the cars that got them going and stuck in the memory long after the music stopped. As always, we hope you enjoy reading it as much as we did writing it. Have a great end to the year, and we’ll see you in 2014!
JONATHAN JAMES TAN
Cars. They come in all shades, shapes and sizes for every person, purse and purpose, and I absolutely adore that about them. As such, my list is rather eclectic, consisting of two sedans, two SUVs and one coupe I consider my favourites of 2013 – each for a different reason.
5. Kia Cerato 1.6
It isn’t a very exhilarating drive; nor has it the most tastefully-appointed cabin, but it’s so hard not to turn around and give it a second glance.
The Kia Cerato‘s shape has no more curves than angles, nor more kinks than straight lines – it is complexity, balance of proportion and sophistication rolled into one. And just look at the warm glow of the LED tail lamps at night.
Yes, the recurring themes here are comfort, solace and refinement – especially with the free-revving 1.6 litre Gamma engine under the bonnet. A car doesn’t always have to be dynamically adept to be nice to drive – it depends on how you define “nice.”
4. Hyundai Santa Fe 2.4 petrol
No one’s more surprised by this decision than my diesel-loving self. Fearing that the Hyundai Santa Fe 2.2 CRDi would spoil me with its turbo power and 436 Nm worth of shove, I tried the petrol variant first, thinking I was saving the best for last.
The diesel is indeed faster and more frugal, but the considerably higher levels of NVH and the tall body’s acute reaction to all that torque made me miss the 2.4 Theta II’s smooth, quiet and linear operation. The petrol’s just so much more refined and gentle.
Practical, too – there’s lots of space, the second-row seats slide fore and aft, and air-con vents are provided for both second and third rows.
3. Ford Kuga
It’s not on my list because it makes a great family SUV, or because you can do a “Look Ma, no hands!” with the tailgate – it’s here because I have not tried another crossover this year that drove more like a car, as opposed to a car on stilts.
The Ford Kuga‘s recipe for road-holding comprises a 1.6 litre EcoBoost engine with a healthy 180 PS and 240 Nm of twist, a smooth-shifting but alert six-speed auto, relatively firm suspension and a very taut body.
It may be over 200 mm taller and 200 kg heavier than the car on which it’s based, but it certainly hasn’t lost much focus.
2. Infiniti Q50
How can a steering system with no mechanical connections between the wheel in your hand and those on the tarmac not feel like something made by Logitech?
My stints with the Infiniti Q50 S 3.7, Hybrid and S Hybrid in the US were very brief, but the Direct Adaptive Steering wasn’t keen on letting its talents go unnoticed. Feel, response, linearity, communication, weight – they’re all there, bettering those of some electric power steering systems too.
Inspired by this pleasant revelation, I gunned the handsome compact exec round a corner. The gradual step-out of the tail was reined in equally gradually and instinctively – all with the help of electronic signals. Now how’s that for a production first?
1. BMW M3 (E92)
Some strange emotions brewed in me while I was driving the BMW M3 Coupe at Sepang. I’d just stepped out of the M5 and the M6 Gran Coupe, which are technically far superior, newer, better-equipped and much faster machines, but this one spoke to me in ways the others just couldn’t.
In its wonderfully linear, merciless and unadulterated high-pitched scream up to the 8,300 rpm redline, the M3 seemed to be giving the world one final blast before the sun set over it and the high-revving, free-breathing BMW V8 at its heart. I was both thrilled and sad at the same time.
Thanks to an all-turbo line-up, no one from Munich will ever sing like her again. I’m glad I made it to the farewell tour.
HAFRIZ SHAH
2013 has been a year of change for me – making the transition from the world of monthly print magazine that I’ve made my own to this bigger, more immediate online realm. Suddenly, news takes precedence over car testing, and in the few and far between moments of the latter, a much more thorough and comprehensive approach than before is needed.
Still, I’d be damned if I say I didn’t enjoy every passing moment of it, and here are the top five cars – three large sedans with varying degrees of sportiness and two new reincarnations of all-time-greats – that made my 2013 a stellar year.
5. Mazda6
I’ll start off my list with the latest Mazda6, which I clearly adore. My first article on paultan.org was a review of this very car, in which I waxed lyrical of its smooth and silky dynamic abilities and quasi-premium details.
It’s one of very few everyday sedans that could take on Bukit Tinggi and not end up feeling second-rate. The otherwise-excellent Kia Cerato certainly failed that test, which explains its omission here.
A second look at it through our Driven Web Series saw it tumble against its class rivals in the back-seat department. But, I’d happily trade the new Accord’s business-class accommodation and comfort for the Mazda’s sleek looks and superior dynamic ability. Sex appeal sells, and the Six has plenty going for it.
4. Audi A6 hybrid
The Proton Suprima S almost made it into my list. No, seriously. For all its faults, it’s a clear step forward for the local company, and it’s truly a fantastic steer. But for each of its fortes, there are two or three faults that water down the experience.
Back to those that did make the list, the direct opposite holds true for the Audi A6 hybrid. As for all of its blunders – small boot, disappointing drive – a host of other fine qualities make it a noteworthy class contender, not least its incredible value for money.
Yes, it’s more affordable than cheap, but it’s an Audi – a proper premium marque, not a mere wannabe, i.e. Volkswagen. A quick look at oto.my reveals a few “new” units going for more than the original list price. How’s that for good RV, eh?
3. BMW M6 Gran Coupe
This is the big one, and I mean it both literally and metaphorically. BMW’s big and mean machine is the most powerful car I’ve had the pleasure of driving in 2013, and it left a big mark. All 560 hp worth of it.
Don’t get me wrong though, for the M6 Gran Coupe is about so much more than just power. It’s equally talented in cruising around, munching on miles around Munich than it is at bruising the twisty black stuff.
If anything, it’s the cruising, not bruising, that makes it so special in my books. It’s more comfortable than the BMW M5, yet is no less engaging to those who matter. It’s both Mental and Multi-faceted. It’s just Mega.
2. Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7
Having the latest Golf GTI in this list is a no-brainer. Without any exemptions, it’s the absolute best car I’ve driven this year. Bar none. So what’s it doing in second place, then? I’ll get to that in a minute.
Once again, the world’s King of hot-hatches has become better. In all aspects, I must add. The electric steering is much-improved (though not quite as good as the high of the Mk5 GTI’s hydraulic helm), and the way all the available power can be put to good use is beyond impressive.
More than that, it stays a perfectly usable family car that’s as good as the standard Golf 1.4 TSI, and that’s saying something. One small caveat – it needs the optional DCC adaptive suspension; you’d be mad to have one without it.
1. Peugeot 208 GTi
So this, then, is the highlight of my 2013. Nevermind that the Golf GTI above shades it in every measurable manner (I drove them both through the same endlessly beautiful French Riviera roads), the Peugeot 208 GTi tickled my fancy more vigorously.
You see, I fully expected the Volkswagen to be good – and great it is – but this little French Fräulein truly left me surprised. After all, the base 208 is better known for its chic looks and premium features. Its dynamic prowess, less so.
To me, the fact that this hot version managed to shatter the form books in such a resounding fashion makes it the bigger, more momentous achievement. Better yet, it’s manual or nothing! Putting money where my mouth is, I’ve put my name down for one. 2013, I’m a big fan.
ANTHONY LIM
Quite a number of cars were memorable for me this year, and some of those that didn’t make the cut were far from slouches – the Golf GTI Mk7 and Ford Kuga, to name but two. But five is where the bump stops, and so an estate, an SUV, a sedan, a hatch and a coupe make up my selection. All have certainly impressed, one way or another.
5. Hyundai i40 Tourer
Not since the Kia Optima (in its Oz suspension tune) has a Korean car caught my attention in such a manner. The i40 Tourer turned out to be a revelation when it came in for the Driven Web Series – I’ve always had a soft spot for estates, and this continues the roll. Never expected it to shape up as absorbingly as it did though.
The 2.0 GDI has plenty of punch, and best of all, it’s not zingy when you stand on things. The ride is the biggest surprise of all – it’s compliant without feeling spongy, and the overall coherency impresses as you pile on the miles. These days, taking the long route home with evaluation mules is a rare occurence, but I certainly did with this one, and not just once.
4. BMW ActiveHybrid 5
Be it this or the previous generation 5er, everyone usually lusts after the wild, hot M sister, but that doesn’t mean there aren’t equally engaging – and less temperamental – siblings in the mix. For the E60, that happened to be the sterling 545i, and for the F10, the ActiveHybrid 5 is very much the pick of the ‘standard’ crop.
Twice, on two continents, has it bowled me over – plenty to love, from the oodles of accelerative push (the midband is especially winsome) to the tidy, taut character hiding under all that blue. I really don’t know about the saving the planet thing though, not when you’re going to be inclined to gun it all the time, but it promises to be one of the funnest shades of green to do so in. The ticket price ain’t cheap though.
3. C346 Ford Focus ST
Sure, something like the Golf GTI Mk7 is a far sharper scalpel in terms of drive dynamics, and I remain taken by the Seven’s technical qualities, but it somehow never struck a chord with me emotionally the way the third-gen ST did when I finally saddled it in June.
Perhaps it’s a sign of age, but the less gilt-edged feel of the C346 ST works, and then some. Compliant, forgiving even, the softer focus (haha!) means it’s the sort of car you could putter around all day in and consider as front-line, everyday transport, despite its stick-shifter nature. That I’m signing on the dotted line for one tells you how old I’ve become.
2. Range Rover Sport – second-generation
Never been a big LR/RR fan, and the older Range Rover Sport never pushed my buttons despite its brutishness. The second-gen one does, and in a massive way – lots to like, from the nattier, modernised interior to the tauter exterior lines and impressive specification of tech and kit available.
Oh, that it drives as well as it does also has much to do with it – the new RRS has much sharper handling and is inherently more refined than the old one. The V6 petrol unit is a more engaging experience compared to the SDV6 oil burner, but the V8 is immense, and what a sound it makes!
Whether you’re wading door deep in a stream, climbing into modified 747s or just gliding your way down to the local for a pint, this one will always be your huckleberry, and sweetly so. Range Rover fan, moi – who’d have thought it.
1. Toyota 86
A month and a half ago, if anyone had ventured that my No 1 choice for 2013 would again be that of 2012 I’d have thought him completely Martian, but here it is, and all it took was just 10 minutes and a couple of hot laps on the Spa Nishiura Motor Park track in Gamagori to set the heart aflutter all over again.
No, it wasn’t anywhere close to the full-blown Waku-Doki affair Danny had with the 86 racer, and there’s still not enough power, but the outing on the short course served a strong reminder of just how alive this one makes you feel and how much visceral, emotional appeal it truly has. The civilian 86 is special, and it’ll always have a place in my heart.
DANNY TAN
By all accounts, 2013 wasn’t a vintage motoring year for yours truly. I drove a couple of ‘coming soon’ cars that you will hear about in due time, but they are everyday mass-market machines that are more worthy than wacky.
Locally, many drives passed me by, but helping out in the Driven Web Series meant that I got to finally acquaint myself with some not so new cars. In the end, the pool was just about big enough to fish out a few nice catches, each memorable in its own way.
5. Hyundai i40 2.0 GDI
I had Korean cars all figured out, or so I thought. Flashy styling, bold cabins to match, lots of kit, technically great on paper, but insipid to drive. Break down the latter and you’ll find detached steering, engines that aren’t that smooth, and chassis tuning that fails to deliver either sport or comfort convincingly.
The Hyundai i40 bucks the trend. The debuting direct-injection 2.0 GDI engine is strong on paper and practice, strong enough to make you not miss a regular 2.4L. The cabin is very well isolated from outside noise, and ride comfort is brilliant – even Rawang’s third-world roads (my ultimate test) are pummelled into submission. A soothing companion for the daily grind.
4. Honda Accord
The eighth-gen Honda Accord was quite a good drive despite its size, but it wasn’t the complete D-segment sedan. Refinement is far from class leading, the dashboard manages to eschew both form and function, and there weren’t many toys to distract either.
It was as if Honda heard this grouchy writer when developing the new Accord. Rolling refinement and NVH are much improved, and the new cabin is class act, with added tech. The masters of packaging have also carved out a bigger cabin from a smaller (and lighter) body, which is handsome to these eyes.
All these make for a plusher big exec, but the Accord drivetrain is still zestier than most in the class and it remains a good drive. Great all-rounder.
3. Maserati Quattroporte S
The new Quattroporte is Maserati’s first missile into mainstream German premium marque territory. No longer an overgrown sports sedan, the QP is now the longest standard wheelbase limo in town. There’s even a downsized V6 turbo under that shapely hood in Modena’s quest to broaden appeal and sell 50,000 cars per year by 2015.
The resulting car isn’t as disastrous as romantics would expect, and there’s still a sports car buried within. It’s not as spine-tingling as the old NA V8 aurally, but the twin-turbo V6 provides plenty of thrust, and Sport mode transforms gentleman limo to loud hooligan in a press of a button. Q4 torque vectoring provides astounding traction. Anyway you want, boss.
2. Toyota 86 6M/T ‘Club Racer’ @ Sepang
My top car of 2012 is like a subtle, delicate dancer in an age where forced induction rules Planet Car, and where superminis hammer out 200 hp without enthusiasts batting an eyelid. There’s no package with this much fun and finesse at RM250k, or RM500k for that matter.
A Sepang trackday I attended showed a different side of the Toyota 86. My steed for the day was a Club Racer-style stripped out car with a stick shift, and we got to race each other on track like there was no tomorrow. The three things I learned were: 1) The 86 can take plenty of punishment. 2) VSC Sport is infallible, you have to be an idiot to crash 3) Buyers of the automatic 86 need help.
1. Honda CR-Z 6M/T Facelift
Like the Toyota 86, the Honda CR-Z makes a repeat appearance on my list. A year on, the coupe has gained a facelift and a new IMA battery. The lithium-ion pack is more power-dense and charge retention is better – the difference is palpable.
It still isn’t very fast, but I’ve always believed that fun and speed are distinct and separable, and there’s plenty of driving fun to be had south of 150 hp and 150 km/h. The CR-Z is that, and goes for (much) less than RM150k. And that six-speed manual is as sweet as they come.
Although this writer did state that he “won’t be buying one because of that fish face, the useless rear seats and the image it brings,” those words have since been swallowed.
PAUL TAN
This year has been by far the most active ever for the automotive industry and also for this site. A record number of car launches took place in 2013 and, most interestingly, we saw some massive improvements in terms of pricing and/or equipment level in a lot of the cars that arrived. Here are the five cars that I experienced this year that stood out the most.
5. Peugeot 208 GTi
The 208 was on my list last year, and this time it’s time for the top of the range to make an appearance. Peugeot successfully reinvents the old 205 GTi, and what you get is a car that can truly live with every day, yet offers so much driving joy when you call for it.
The 208 GTi ticks all the necessary checkboxes for me when it comes to a small, fun sports car – six-speed manual gearbox, great suspension that can be comfortable at the same time, a fantastic looking interior, bucket seats that don’t overdo it in terms of tightness, and at RM140k it has a pretty damn decent price tag too. Imagine the same formula in a MINI and think of how much that costs.
4. Kia Cerato 2.0
The Cerato is one of the few C-segment cars that still seems to make sense in a market where C-segment pricing seems to be on the uptrend, while D-segment pricing is on a downtrend. Thanks to B-segment cars getting larger and more competent, many buyers completely skip the C-segment and opt for a D-segment offering instead.
While shooting our Driven Web Series C-segment 2.0 litre sedan episode, getting into the Cerato from the other cars – especially the Honda Civic – felt like I was moving between completely different segments of cars. Nevermind the Cerato’s eye-catching exterior design, the Civic interior felt like that of a B-segment car next to the Cerato. And those ventilated seats are perfect for Malaysia’s hot climate.
It has good materials, tons of features, and there’s a lot of attention to detail such as wherever a colour LCD screen is placed, Kia has ensured it’s of a high enough resolution to not look cheap, which is something that even Lexus can miss with their current generation of cars. Too bad it isn’t a very fun drive. More cars in the C-segment should follow the lead of the Cerato – it’ll make the segment a better place to be.
3. W222 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Mercedes-Benz calls it the best car in the world. The W222 S-Class impressed during the international media test drive in Canada, which you’ll be reading about soon. The interior is a big level up from any of its competitors, including its own predecessor, and combines that classic luxurious feel together with technology in a way never seen before.
I managed to sample Magic Body Control, which really works, but don’t expect it to be available on any model in Malaysia, since there’s a preference for the Airmatic suspension here (Magic Body Control is based on the hydraulic-based ABC suspension). The ABC-based cars that I drove were very sharp, hiding most if its bulk when you gun it, but it remains to be seen if the Airmatic-equipped car will behave like that.
2. Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk7 (with DCC)
The undisputed king of daily-driver hot hatches continues to impress. When equipped with DCC, the Golf GTI Mk7 is a seriously versatile machine. Fantastic in the bends, be it in sports or comfort mode, it can truly be lived with as a daily driver.
The TSI engine offers gob loads of instant low RPM torque and an immediate crisp throttle response, thanks to the quick mechanical link-up of the DSG gearbox – the combo really brings about a special feeling when you drive this car.
1. Kia Picanto
I’m a big advocate of basic safety equipment in cars. It’s just sad that the brands that enjoy the most support from Malaysian car buyers are just shafting us in the rear when it comes to safety specs – how’s that for a nice thank you, eh? If you have the budget for a B-segment car, but don’t really need B-segment space, have a look at this hatchback instead.
Thanks to the new Kia Picanto, six airbags and ESP comes to the masses. This has never been done before. Yes, even for the manual version, which costs RM55k – the auto, with extra goodies, costs just RM5k more. Parents, if you’re buying a simple car for your post-SPM child to drive to university and back, this is the car for you. There’s simply no other car at this entry-level price range that gives your child the safety net of ESP stability control.
Fuh… Luckily no VIOS!!!
Hidden due to lowcomment rating. Click here to see.
Hidden due to lowcomment rating. Click here to see.
List for average Malaysians:
1.Saga FLX SV – cheap running car with smooth CVT gearbox. 3 star Asean NCAP rating
2.Preve – 6 airbags with less than 60k? Spacious cabin and boot. Want turbo then add only 10k. Trounced all top five cars listed by PT price/specs wise.
Exora – you cannot ferry 7 people on board after paying 150k for most cars listed. That sucks big time. Before anyone say why not buy bus or lorry, I want to say please be realistic, mature and thinkful.
And oh before forget, it’s about price/specs. Any car manufacturers can do it better than those listed cars here but the price? Duh.
That Punch CVT is anything but smooth
It’s cheap because of other brands being forced to price it higher and not allowed compete B-segment sedan directly against Saga below RM40K price.
Winning by hitting below the belt. Duh.
My Top 5 cars of 2013:
5. Honda Jazz Hybrid
4. Toyota Camry
3. Honda CR-V
2. Honda Accord
1. Toyota Vios
where is your hilux?
Dont believe Toyota sales man. When they change their job to Kia, all top 5 will be Kia list.
Top Profit Grossing from my end :-
1) Hyundai Sonata
2) Hyundai Elantra
3) Hyundai Santa Fe
And almera
Will most likely accept KIA as trade in after CNY
So K5 and Cerato/Forte owners, hang on to that hailat feeling until after CNY
got 300++ vios owner dislike ur comments. that’s remarkable.. why people use vios anyway? overprice junk.. better buy saga.
cos they like the fuel saving tech engine and less prob car
proud to see many korean made into the list ~
Congrats oppa -_-‘
2014 will be my most exiting year for those oppa owners trade in their Hailat car when these cars launch:
1: Toyota Altis
2: Toyota Camry Hybrid
3: Honda Accord Hybrid
4: Honda Jazz
5: Honda Vezel
As the feedback dislike you’ll know the answer dude! Please study the Econ market and only comment rightful thoughts.
The car of the year for me would definitely be the Mazda 6 ;)
Where’s Paul’s list?
Paul’s top five list has been added in – apologies if we kept you waiting for it; the fireworks and alcohol dragged me from the worktable rather forcibly earlier, but I’ve put them in their place… :)
Saw the Picanto in the collage of pics but not in any of your top 5 list so was sure it was Paul’s list which was missing earlier :)
And it’s a no brainer to see the S-Class in it. Paul’s fav car. Mine too. Fantastic suspension. So comfortable even with bling bling 22″ rims!!
Anthony, are you crazy or what? Ford Focus ST will give you more “boy racer” image compared to the Golf GTI so saying that you took it over the GTI because of age is not acceptable. I also prefer the Focus ST over the GTI, not because of age but because it is a “hotter” hatch than GTI with its manual box and exhaust note.
Paul didn’t give a list?
But anyway, wow. After seeing everyone’s list here, I don’t think I can make a top 5 of my own. Too many great cars here.
For me, it would be the following (in no particular order):
Kia Cerato 2.0/1.6
Both are great cruisers. Comfortable, safe, good build, looks and feels good. At a price of the base Focus for the 2.0 Cerato, it a lot of kit (more than the Focus), although it won’t drive as well as one, but anyhow it is good. Better than the Civic, but have to wait for the new Mazda 3 to see if it beats that.
Audi A6 Hybrid
Yes, it is not the sportiest, nor does it have a very usable boot. No spare tyre or run flats too. Interior feels not as nice as an F10 in terms of design imo. But at 280k it is a steal. I mean, an Audi full size sedan at the price of 50k over then VW CC, and the same price as a 328i (which is a size smaller)? Yes please.
Volkswagen Golf TSi
Now, I am not a big fan of VAG products. The DSG is far from bulletproof. Nor are the interiors exciting or gonna set your pulse in race mode. But the thing is the VW Golf is a VW that I think is rather good (save for the not so reliable DSG).Besides the Scirocco, i’d say this is the best VW. I don’t like the new GTi, feel the older Mk GTi was better, but this Golf, it just feels… right. I might make an exception for it.
Mazda 6
This sushi car. It does it all right. Looks like a supermodel, efficient as ever, and reliable. Also quite good fun. At a reasonable price? Mazda is back. Be afraid. Be very afraid.
Range Rover
Ultimate go anywhere car. Only thing it can’t fly. The attention to detail is amazing. Heck, there is a range rover lettering on the outer ring of the main beam projector, like a camera lens, in the headlights!
Kia Picanto
This is it. Deal of the year. sub 60k price, good specs. Who says you need to pay tons for a safe and fun hatch?
Kia Rio
First test drive of 2013, for me. And it was good. Also another reasonably priced car, but needs a stronger engine. 1.4 + 4 speed auto is not enough. Same as the 208 VTi. Both fall in the engine department. Though the Rio is pretty spacious.
BMW M6GranCoupe
Nuff said. 6 series is captivating. M6 GC is causing salivation. Time to save up.
Happy new year both to the writers and readers!
I would’t as far as say the Mazda 6 is reliable…yet, as the skyactiv has only been doing duty for abit more than a year and a half in the CX-5 , personally I’ll give time the matter of judgement.
Thou I do agree with the GranCoupe, but personally this year, my five cars are…
Honda Accord:
its the most criticize for its image, yet in all departments it supersceeds the predescessor in all departments. the drive-train and suspension re-tune, and the inside is for me, the most gorgeous in the D-seg, and lets face it thats where you would spend most of your time……and I’am a Honda guy
BMW I8:
Very little car can compare with the I8’s achievment in automotive engineering. Its in-line with the greats of the McLaren F1, Bugatti Veyron and Nissan GTR, for achieving a new yardstick in automania.
Mclaren P1, LaFerrari and 918 combo:
Its hard to compare all three or seperate them, they each serve their different fan base, but the three together have push the bounderies of automotive technology in the persuit of speed in their own unique ways. Like the I8, its not a new car, its a new yardstick.
Kia K9:
this makes all beautiful Korean cars dull, everything on the street of Seoul(K5,Equus,Grandure, Genesis) just becomes another common cal ala Vios when one of these appears. Its LED and sheer size demands presence and it got it.Well done Peter, well done. and I take back what I say that it looks like a 7-series.
Eagle Low Drag Coupe:
I was going to say F-type but this recreation of the old E-type Low Drag Coupe is just simply too stunning to ignore. I can almost sell my kidney for one. Sadly even than my kidney isn’t worth nearly the asking price.
PLEASE BUILT IT CONCEPT COTY!!!
Honda S660:
That lightweight roadster is way overdue
Nissan IDx:
Toybaru 86rz prove that the cheap(not locally), somple, RWD coupe is not dead. So Please Nissan, built the damn thing as a 510 revival.
Porsche Sports Turismo:
The looks to go with the Panamera’s performannce.BUILT IT
Haha. I understand the scepticism with SkyActiv, but judging by Mazda’s track record, they should be pretty OK. Plus, it is Japanese!
Honda Accord is better than Camry. If only they put the curtains in on all models, I’d put it here. Looks sharp and nice at night too.
Oh my, how could I forget the BMW i3 and i8?! Yes, both are amazing creations. And I really hope they bring them (or at least the i3 REx to Malaysia).
And for me, I love the McLaren MP4 player (MP4-12C). Its … speechless….
K9 is interesting. The front grille is a bit too big? But it is a fine reason why the Japanese cannot stop, with the Koreans at this pace.
Oh and the Jag F-Type. Melts.
Actually, my scepticism with the skyactiv is the high comprasion ratio of the engine. Not something I’am betting to be reliable but who knows, the Japanese have did it before with the Honda S2000.
And ya, its also a bummer that curtains are not implemented in all Honda but the CRZ ,CRV 2.4 and Odyssey. And considering the Thai Accord has curtains, this is actually down to the negotiation between DRB and Honda Tokyo, and please don’t tell me our CKD facilities dosen’t have curtain Airbags installers.
Personally, as this two cultures go, Korean and Japan, the cars reflect them.As of now, after my recent Korean trip, I can see that their car reflects on the society. The Koreans are espacially particular with outward appearence and presentability, and the cars reflect too. They look good, and much more presentable in comparison with the rivals. Althou they don’t drive well, but they are infinitely more presentable ,stylish and more IN-Trend than any Japanese make. And with the current rather narcissistic culture we live in, they’ve hit the jackpot. But I see a lack of car culture in their society. The modding/aftermarket/racing scene seems to be abscene there, there a sense that a car is more like an accessory rather than a partner.
As far as I know, the Japanese are more focus on the task at hand, if given a goal in their cars, they would try their best to achieve said goals. This can be reflected in their best products, the Toybaru, to achieve driving perfection at a budget(not here), the Nissan GTR, to beat the Porsche 911 Turbo. Thou sadly, their normal offerings are to achieve the goal to create the perfect driving appliaces. Honda created the dissapointing FB Civic in view of the economic crisis, people would budget up…..a Huge mistake they are trying to recover. But of late, toyota is at least trying to steer in the right direction espacially with Lexus. Honda unveiled new , more modern drivetrains. But they’ve lost a huge step to their counterparts across the Tsuchima straits.
Oh finally, its not the F-type, its the Eagle low drag coupe. This will melt any eyes that gaze it and makes the F-type, look like a Corolla.
Yea. Skyactiv does have a super high compression rate. Plus with our fuels, it is a bit questionable, though I think I’ll trust them. There is a 5 year warranty so OK la.
Nah, the CRV 2.4 is made here in Malaysia only! Not that they don’t know how to install, but more of a give-only-what-is-necessary concept. You know la, Malaysian people want to see where their money is going into. While LaneWatch is good, I would trade it for the curtains. Hopefully the facelift will bring it.
Oh wow, was Korea nice? Heard it is a beautiful country, like Japan. Korean cars are very pretty to look at. Some drive well too, like the Hyundai i10 is a little fun box for the price of the Myvi. Same as the Picanto which shared the same platform. Even the Cerato is really civilised (it is designed for that), super comfy ride. I guess for them, it is a tool, they don’t see the point of trying to mod it maybe? Quite the opposite of the Japanese with Type R, MPS, STI and the likes. (No, your TRD Sportivo doesn’t count, that is a plastic job only).
Japanese are focused. Really focused, that was why Toyota managed to realise the dream of the GT86, which I respect them for. They really go all out. FB Civic was a mess, The FD was the best Civic to date, imo. Till today it looks sharp, especially the mid life facelift. Inside, especially the 2.0 was good too. FB also suffers some poor plastics, looks very econoboxy. And it is a pity, they did not bring in the updated US one in here. The Civic Si, even in the FB one, is nice however. Like it. Agree, Toyota is trying to come back. But I don’t think anything is very groundbreaking, save for the 86. Earth Dreams and iDCD is interesting though. Could Honda make a DCT that is reliable as how other Hondas are?
Happy New Year, wishing the PaulTan team and the ever entertaining commentors the best for the coming months.
Great list btw, and nice to see some diverse selection between the Korean, Japanese and European(thou something domestic is missing).
PS: And is it weird that I find the Accord attractive.
“even Rawang’s third-world roads (my ultimate test) are pummelled into submission….”
I know it’s bad, but that bad? And I have to endure it in a day-to-day basis. Sigh
Regarding Paul Tan’s no.1 choice, the new Kia Picanto, at first I was like WTFFFF. But then after I read the explanation, it makes so much sense. Strongly agree that the Picanto should be the choice for post-SPM kids.
I hope more cars from that segment in our market can follow Kia’s step.
First of all, being a korean made, how do you know the 6 airbag works? 2nd of all, the megane RS isnt in the list but the gti is? cmon if you know your cars you know the megane is simply the champion!
Megane RS? Champion? The ‘Ring SMASEHS the Megane RS while the VW Golf GTI Mk7 SMASHES both the ‘Ring and the Megane RS altogether. Sorry Renault, your hot-hatch age of dawn is OVER
great list guys…for all regular beings like most of us its good that a 60k car made it into the list and also top of pauls choice :)…and no Suprima?…its probably the best value with all the specs and features… nevermind the vios though :)
i pick picanto… Superb safety features, with so many features at affordable price… Malaysian shud start to think about life value rather than resale/brand value…
Dear paul tan
LGE must have bought his car based on your advice. Happy new year to all readers.
And LGE is in deep waters now.
He should have continued to use his Camry 2.5V or perhaps get an Accordana Limo, the same one as Najib
That Hailat Merc is the state’s official car,not his.Lim has a Honda CRV at his home.
What do you want to tell here, please explain ?
Nope. i think LGE too embarrassed to use Sam Loo junk camry
Put it last minute of 2013…. PRO
Thanks for the lists.. But all mixed up.. No category on price segment.. Totally mess up.. Like they are all priced the same & cheap.. Well, you all just tested them.. But you don’t care much on their price right, do you? Of Course I too will be impress with Audis, BMW, 86.. I would say the Picanto is the big winner.. 1st place & just 55K… Suprima S also a big winner.. Just 70K.
Spot on.
Have an F10 appearing in a middle of the list does not make sense at all
I must say that someone had a hangover when the article was made
What do you want to hint here, please explain ? Dont talk like budak kecil although yu already an uncle.
Rubbish that the Suprima S should be in the list, it is expensive and does not offer any much more than a Preve. In fact it is slower as well.
The list was made for cars that impress. If it was made with price and sensibility cars like the Almere, vios and saga sv would have been on the top of the list.
Expensive? Slower? That means you don’t know how to read specs and never driven a Suprima.
It has improved VT3+ gearbox and tuning. EVP for the brake system (braking power trumps other C-segment). More soundproof. Anthracite leather seats. Hill Hold Assist. Better suspension tuning. You can’t find all that in Preve (maybe EVP la in 2014 models.
Btw, real 0-100km/h acceleration (S mode) is 8+ secs, avg tested FC is 7L/100km. Proton is just playing safe or “honest” with the official specs.
Really? Specs points out 0-100 in 9.9 secs. And why would proton want to derate the acceleration timing and fuel consumption figures, no one will be stupid enough to not promote the full potential of their cars.
No way can the Suprima S do the century sprint below 9 secs. It you would like to do it, please feel free to send all of us here a video. I doubt even proton dares to make such claims.
The Suprima S can destroy the Nurburgring roads. It will SMASH even a Pagani Huayra on the lap run in the ‘Ring.
Ohh.. And a Maserati in the list? How’s that make sense to you? Why not put a Lambo or Porche in the list?
Can’t comment any of the cars mentioned above because, never drove any one of it. :P
Thank you Paultan.org for all the efforts you have completed. Well done, keep it up. [Applauds]
Woaa… One bought a Focus ST whilst another booked a 208 GTi.
Life must has been good for paultan writers.
Where can I apply?
how dare they buy such cars while the rest of the rakyat is tightening their belts???
And as for Danny
“Although this writer did state that he “won’t be buying one because of that fish face, the useless rear seats and the image it brings,” those words have since been swallowed.”
Does this mean you also bought something in 2013?
bloggers r damn rich. can drive s-class, bmw f30, peugeot 208 gti, focus st, honda crz… heck even rockybru drive bmw x6…
If I’m the one making the list, Suprima S or 2014 updated-spec Preve should be on the list. It may be not as good or refined as other more expensive C-segment cars, but hey that’s pretty darn good value for money. Perfect for Malaysians
GT86 is really great car and will always be. But in Malaysia, the formula in this car does’t work. Rarely saw this car on the road, only 2 times I saw it (not include in T showroom, ok).. ;)
p.s. hopefully can afford to own it in near future
I fancy 1) Honda Accord
2) Proton Suprima
3) Vw Polo 1.6 mpi ckd
As for my liking to suv, i reserved for new model of Nissan X-Trail.
Thumbs up for the lists :) Well done to paultan.org for all the excellent reports and unbiassed reviews! All the best for 2014!
thank for this is a nice sharing. doesn’t matter what choice. the importance thing shared the driving experiences. happy new year to all paultan.org members.
what’s wrong with you guys (the commenters)?
can’t you have any respect on what they choose?
they choose it for a reason, and if u all have not drive as much cars as they have, shut up then.
other than that, those are their choice. its how the cars impact them. if u all got time, go and test different cars youself and you will understand why certain cars will stuck in you (only applicable for people who understands and knows cars, not people who just know how to comment but no knowledge on cars).
Sam loo gonna show his hilux face after reading this article, where are A,B,C,D segment toyota? only GT86 listed. Poor Uncle Sam…
How do you guys like my new AVATAR?
Fraulein is a german word. Not french lol
Picanto in the list! And picked by the Man himself. Anyways, the Q50 is a gorgeous car (even better in the flesh), but that magic steering system with no rack/no mechanical connection between steering and wheels was recently recalled in the US. So urmm, maybe its not quite ready yet.
My choice for number 1 would be the Quattroporte. Beautiful car. Can’t wait for its smaller brother Ghibli (which is even better looking) to grace our shores. 2014 looking good.
Paul’s No 1 pretty sums it up for me.
I’m a big advocate of safety equipment and KIA has been trailblazing the local market with all their offerings having the full complement of safety gear as STANDARD.
While their products aren’t the most stellar to drive, they have indeed struck a chord with buyers with a well equipped product line at a competitive price.
Honorary mention goes to Proton as well, which FINALLY decided to ape KIA in getting 6 airbags in their Preve line. They have at least listened to customers. Remember, this is one company that even omitted ISOFIX points on their then new MPV. Now all they need is to work on refinement and a powertrain that befits that of the excellent chassis.
The Shame list of 2013 goes to Toyota, Honda and the worst of the lot, Hyundai for skimping on safety gear.
Perhaps 2014 will be a more interesting year. Interesting to see how the automakers will try to compete in what will likely be a shrinking market due to increased costs and eroding standard of living. I, myself may be looking to replace our 2007 Citra perhaps with the new Rondo, if KIA decides to equip it with the 2.0 GDI or a 1.6T.
Happy new year!
Not even a Proton? Kah Kah Kah! Global car konon.
Kudos, PaulTan team. You’ve done a great job in 2013, and I meant great in every sense of the word. Keep it up. I’m sure 2014 will be more exciting with the line up of cars that is bound for Boleh-land. And oh, keep up the great writing, guys.
Yes for Safety, Picanto and Paul!
I am surprised that James Tan pick the petrol version of the Sante Fei? Wouldn’t it be more expected that a car enthusiasm like him should be going for the most powerful one available in the market? Whilst on the subject, I saw numerous 7 or is it 8 seater Hyundai Starex in Hong Kong! The present 11 seater being sold in Msia only caters to a limited market. If the smaller version is sold locally with the same engine and specs as the 11 seater, this will spell the end of the more expensive Alphad, Previa, Grandis etc!
Agreed, the Diesel Version of Santa Fe has better trade in and resale value compared with petrol version
My Top 5 Car List In 2013
-Kia Picanto
-Mazda 6 2.5
-Kia Cerato
-Ford Focus
-Kia Optima K5
Go home please T&H
Most T&H salesman does not need to stay too late coz their sales usually exceed their quota, unlike kimchi salesman
2013 has already passed. Now it’s 2014, and our hopes for cars – our beloved vehicle are:-
1) Real significant tax reduction for cars.
As Government pushes ahead with 6% GST 2015, perhaps there’s nothing that can stop them from doing so. A more suitable approach is to pressure Govt to reduce other kind of taxes. One of them is excise + import duty for cars. Win-win situation for Govt & citizens.
2) Real improvement in fuel grade and quality.
If BHPetrol can make a kind of Euro 3 petrol & diesel without price difference, surely other oil companies can do so. To encourage them to improve fuel quality, tax incentives should be provided. Better fuel = less consumption = less pollution.
3)Toll fares review.
Agreements between Govt & concessionaires should be made public, in order to help with review of those agreements to a better-agreeable terms for everybody. Yes, there are no toll increases yet, but surely any difference between current toll fares and agreed fares must be paid by the Govt to those concessionaires, and they are people’s monies too.
By the way, matter #1 & #3 are already included in Barisan’s Akujanji for GE13. Janji Ditepati. Harus Ditepati.
Wow! W222 Mercedes-Benz so attractive. I am so crazy for Mercedes and a big Mercedes lover.
my top 5 just for the fun of it:
1)subaru impreza WRX STI 2013
2)Porsche Cayman S
3)BMW 335i
4)Toyota 86
5)Focus ST
was lucky enough to test drive the WRX but sadly in AUTO. Sold the Toyota 86 MANUAL to accomodate my family and now driving the Focus ST. Though personally i feel the Mark7 GTI is better than the Focus ST, i have no regrets getting it as it s less common and very torquey
1) Volvo V40 T5
2) VW Golf GTI MK7
3) Audi A5 Sportback
4) VW Golf MK7
5) Kia Cerato
IMO :
1. Mazda CX5 – most popular compact suv. Safe buy
2. Honda Jazz Hybrid – Huge discount prompt mad sales and good size and drivability.
3. Mazda 6 – New class by itself wedged in between accord/camry and BMW3/AClass
4. Hyundai Santa Fe high spec model – imo great design/feature SUV, alternative to luxury suv
5. Toyota Vios J – Good value for money car
Interesting seeing how each of you justify your ranking….esp with cars from such a wide range of segment. Not often does one read a car article with both the Picanto and Quattroporte in it!
No surprises that the hot hatches (golf and pug) made it to more than one lists… but the Cerato? I suppose it speaks volume of how the Koreans have progress in terms of putting the right package into a car.
BTW, Hafriz, shouldn’t the 208GT be a French “Mademoiselle” instead of a “Fräulein”?
no doubt mercedes CLA
Own all!
In a Driven test episod 4, Paul tan has provided the data to show that the fuel comdumption for Kia Cerato is much much better than from competitor from Honda Civic and Ford Focus, how’s actually they put on a criteria to define it as 15.9km/Little ?? I would interesting to know how to simulate this to make this data is more visible to everyone?
I been survey to buy the best in malaysia since 2002 to 2014,
So far, The only and worth car to buy from 2005-2015 is as follow:-
My top list
1. Porsche Cayenne used 2 yrs only rm320k
2. BMW 328i F30 new rm270k
3. Peugeot 207cc cabrio used rm60k
3 cars give me different feelings !!!!!!!
Enjoy my 3 cars everyday
Thank you to all car lover :)