It wasn’t too long ago that the F66 MINI Cooper 3 Door was launched. Now we have its F65 MINI Cooper 5 Door joining the ranks with internal combustion engines. As with the F66, the F65 will see the standard Cooper designated with a ‘C’, and the performance variant with an ‘S.’

The 5 Door C features an inline three-cylinder turbocharged engine putting out 156hp and 230Nm of torque to its front wheels, and seeing off the 0-100km/h sprint in 8.0 seconds and on to a top speed of 225km/h.

On the other hand, the 5 Door S sports an inline four-cylinder turbo powerplant offering up 204hp and 300Nm of torque to the front tyres, and dusting off the century sprint in just 6.8 seconds. Top speed is 242km/h.

With a length of 4,036 mm, a width of 1,744 mm and a height of 1,464 mm, the body dimensions are almost identical to those of its predecessor. This means as much space liberated as possible within the MINI Cooper’s footprint.

The MINI Cooper 5 Door reflects its urban character via short overhangs, a small bonnet, a long wheelbase, and large wheels.

Standard LED headlights with individually adjustable daytime running light elements form the classic MINI headlights that are instantly recognisable.

Flush-fitting taillights feature at the rear, and the vertically aligned LED clusters are reminiscent of the classic MINI lights. Like the headlights, they can be switched to different settings.

11 body colours will be available, and the roof is offered with a choice of three contrasting colours, the car’s body colour and the characteristic multi-tone roof with a gradual colour gradient.

Four different exterior trims are also on offer. The Essential Trim, which comes as standard, emphasises the minimalist overall appearance and highlights certain functional parts such as the logo in Vibrant Silver.

Starting with the Classic Trim, the roof is available in black or white, as is the Multitone roof with its unique colour gradient, and contrasting with the body colour for a more expressive look.

In the Favoured Trim version, the front radiator grille frame and certain design elements are finished in Vibrant Silver, further enhancing the individuality of the MINI Cooper.

The JCW Trim emphasises the sporty side of the MINI Cooper 5 Door with exclusive design features such as the striking front and rear diffusers, radiator grille surround and high-gloss black JCW logo in a nod to MINI’s motorsport heritage. Chilli Red is available exclusively for the contrasting roof.

Wheel designs in 16- to 18-inch sizes offer further exterior options, and endow the MINI Cooper 5 Door with its go-kart-like darty handling characteristics.

The 60:40 folding rear seats increase the luggage compartment capacity from 275 litres to up to 925 litres, making this car pretty practical.

On the inside, the first items of note are the round instrument display in the centre and the characteristic toggle switch strip below, in a throwback to Sir Alec Issigonis’ interior styling of the very first MINI.

The central 240mm OLED display in the redesigned cockpit has been moved closer to the driver, making it easier to reach, and features a high resolution. MINI Operating System 9 takes centre stage here, and all vehicle functions can be controlled by touch or voice.

Vehicle-related information is displayed at the top. The lower part of the OLED display provides direct access to the navigation, media, phone and climate control menus. The home button returns the display to its default settings.

Behind the steering wheel, the optional, slim, combined head-up display ensures that all relevant content appears in the driver’s field of vision. As a result, the dashboard on the driver’s side does not require an additional instrument panel, so it opens the view to the front.

A specially developed knitting process is used to create the versatile, easy-care structure of the textile that adorns the dashboard and door panels in a two-colour design made of recycled polyester.

Seven MINI Experience Modes can be selected according to mood and personal preference. Using the MINI Projector on the rear of the OLED display, they transform the dashboard into myriad colours and patterns that extend into the door trim.

This brings about new possibilities for individualisation. In Personal Mode, for example, a personalised image can be selected as the OLED display’s background via the MINI App.

The dominant colours of the picture are then applied to the dashboard’s textile surfaces using a digital colour picker. The ambient lighting under the dashboard and in the door mirror is also colour-coded to match these projections.

The rocker switch strip with its toggle switches features the parking brake, gear selector, start/stop button, Experience Mode, and volume control all at one’s fingertips.

The removal of the gear selector has freed up more space in the centre console, which now features a large open storage compartment in addition to the cupholders. Smartphones can be charged in the wireless charging area at the front of the console. Just like the exterior, four newly designed trims underline the feel-good concept.

The Essential Trim includes black sports seats with patterned multi-tone fabric and a matching fabric strip on the dashboard. Vibrant Silver, is used as an accent to highlight certain interior and exterior functional elements.

Starting with the Classic Trim, the standard two-spoke steering wheel is replaced by a three-spoke version with a textile band at the six o’clock position. A 2D knitted fabric in grey and black on the dashboard and doors contrasts with the imitation leather seats.

A two-tone houndstooth pattern features on the knitted dashboard, and the perforated Vescin sports seats are available in two colours with traditional accent stitching.

JCW Trim is sporty in nature. Combined with multi-coloured knitted fabric and black imitation leather with red stitching, the colour scheme echoes that of the dashboard and door trims.

The built-in MINI Intelligent Personal Assistant can be activated with the greeting “Hey MINI” or by using the steering wheel button. Voice-controlled interaction takes place on the circular OLED display in the form of an animation of graphic elements, typography, and an avatar.

Users can choose between the visualisation of “MINI” and the virtual travel partner “Spike”. The driver can easily control navigation, telephone, entertainment, and numerous vehicle functions by voice.

The new Parking Assistant Plus makes the parking process even easier. Thanks to 12 ultrasonic sensors and four surround-view cameras, possible parking spaces can be identified more clearly and even independently initiate space-restricted parking manoeuvres.

With MINI Digital Key Plus, the smartphone becomes the key and opens the car automatically, and is transferable to different users.

The welcome projection of the front and rear lights begins at less than three metres in proximity, and the doors are unlocked when the driver is less than 1.5 metres away from the car.

Local specifications for Singapore have yet to be announced. Watch this space.

Photo Credits: BMW MINI

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Toyota Motor Corporation (Toyota) has announced the addition of the “250” series to the Land Cruiser lineup in Japan. Alongside this, it has also released the special edition models ZX “First Edition” and VX “First Edition.” These special models are limited to a total of 8,000 units.

The all-new “250” series was created with the role and mission of supporting people’s lives by offering ease of handling based on strong off-road performance.

The development team set out to return the Land Cruiser Prado, which shifted toward high-end and luxury over time, to the light-duty model that customers have come to expect.

Under the keyword “back to the basics,” they defined the development concept as “The Land Cruiser: a vehicle that supports customers’ daily lives and one they can trust.”

With the same robust GA-F platform as the “300” series, the “250” series has pursued exceptional off-road performance. It is the first in the Land Cruiser lineup to feature electric power steering (EPS) and a Stabilizer with Disconnection Mechanism (SDM).

EPS reduces kickback during off-road driving, ensuring ease of handling whether on or off-road, while the SDM enables the front stabilizer state to be locked or unlocked at the touch of a button, delivering driving performance and ride comfort when off-road and handling stability when on-road.

The “250” series is available with two types of powertrains: a 2.8-litre direct injection turbodiesel engine with Direct Shift-8AT and a 2.7-litre petrol engine with 6 Super ECT.

The 2.8-litre turbodiesel offers up a maximum of 500Nm of torque from 1,600-2,800rpm, while the 2.7-litre petrol engine puts down 163hp and 246Nm of torque.

Power is sent to all four wheels by a full-time 4WD with TORSEN limited-slip differential (LSD) on the centre differential. The electric rear differential lock provides powerful off-road driving performance on rough roads, while the degree of freedom in front and rear driving torque distribution has been expanded to achieve even greater driving stability.

The “250” series adopts the traditional wheelbase of 2,850mm from the Land Cruiser “80” series with a body size of 4,925mm in length and 1,980mm in width. 408 litres of luggage space is available, and the second and third rows of seats can be folded to liberate more carrying capacity.

The special edition ZX “First Edition” and VX “First Edition,” which were designed with the spirit of returning to the origin of the Land Cruiser, are being sold to commemorate the launch of the “250” series. A total of 8,000 units will be sold.

The ZX “First Edition” is based on the ZX turbodiesel, and includes special equipment such as round Bi-Beam LED headlights, matte black painted aluminium wheels, and 18-inch off-road tyres to emphasize its return to its roots.

The VX “First Edition” is based on the VX petrol and turbodiesel versions, and features an exclusive Sand exterior colour and Dark Chestnut interior colour. Toyota Safety Sense and Toyota Teammate with advanced functions are also available to further enhance safety and security equipment.

To support customers in customizing their Land Cruisers into their own unique vehicles, they can now choose interior and exterior items from both JAOS and Toy-Factory brands in addition to Toyota genuine parts and MODELLISTA parts.

Photo Credits: Toyota

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Cycle & Carriage Singapore announced the launch of local sales for the smart #1 Pro+ and the smart #1 BRABUS at VivoCity today.

The smart #1 Pro+ is priced at $207,000 (inclusive of COE), while the smart #1 BRABUS will start selling at $242,000 (inclusive of COE), for the first 20 units.

The two all-electric, intelligent, premium compact Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) will be Smart Automobile’s first electric vehicles (EVs) to be sold in Singapore, since Cycle & Carriage Singapore was appointed as their general distributor in January 2024.

Designed by Mercedes-Benz’s Global design team and engineered by Smart Automobile’s research and development team, smart’s all-EV portfolio will be riding on the crest of the green mobility wave in Singapore.

Mr Wilfrid Foo, Managing Director, Cycle & Carriage Singapore, said, “We are excited to bring the smart #1 to the Singapore market. smart represents a new definition of premium EVs, bringing together the best of the East and the West through its ingenious design language and innovative engineering.”

“We envision that the smart #1 will appeal to the discerning consumers who are familiar with the Cycle & Carriage ethos, and have a deep, refined appreciation of premium craftsmanship, thoughtful interior, and exterior composition, as well as cutting-edge technology.”

Taking place at Vivocity from now till 28 April 2024, the smart #1 roadshow goes beyond a traditional automotive pop-up at a shopping mall.

The inclusion of interactive lifestyle booths called Smart Active, smart Beats, and Smart Style, aims to showcase how this EV integrates seamlessly with urban culture and complements the spirit of co-creation.

These activities, including photo booths, workshops and silent disco, are organised in collaboration with brand partners, Beats by Dre and Puma Golf, as well as Smart’s renowned merchandise label, Smart Idea.

At the launch event, smart announced the first batch of ‘smart Inspiring Creators’, including actress Sheila Sim, Kiss92 radio host Daphne Khoo, entertainment industry veteran Paul Foster, and musician Daniel Sid.

These inspiring trend-setters will echo the vision of the smart by embodying the spirit of co-creation. The car will also be a feature at the Sunset Cinema event which will take place at Tanjong Beach, Sentosa from 25 April to 12 May 2024.

Check out our previous article for more information, or head down to Vivocity to see and experience the smart #1 up close.

Photo Credits: smart Singapore, Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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The all-new 2025 INFINITI QX80 resets the full-size luxury SUV segment benchmark. It brings together an understated yet detailed style, intelligently integrated technology and a commanding, effortless driving experience.

As the flagship of the lineup and the first new model in INFINITI’s product renaissance, the all-new QX80 delivers extraordinary comfort, convenience and technology for all three rows.

The exterior embodies Artistry in Motion. In front, QX80 wears the newest iteration of the signature INFINITI double-arch grille complementing the illuminated INFINITI emblem, which now has a more three-dimensional appearance.

In a nod to the Japanese principle of thoughtful hospitality, the all-new QX80 features a dramatic welcome sequence that includes activation of the available INFINITI Light Path, and flush door handles that automatically extend when approaching the vehicle with the key fob.

In the interior, QX80’s dashboard concept uses two 14.3-inch displays. The latest INFINITI inTouch system comes with Google built-in, so that Google Maps, Google Play, and Google Assistant are the latest available to further make the drive comfortable.

A separate, 9-inch touchscreen mounted below provides convenient control of all climate functions, as well as front seat heating or cooling operations and a selection of QX80’s drive modes.

A segment-first technology, available Biometric Cooling, helps keep the second row at a comfortable temperature. An infrared sensor integrated into the vehicle’s headliner detects when a passenger is hot and near-instantly adjusts the temperature and air flow to send cool air to the second row.

In addition, Front Wide View9, a world-first technology, uses cameras to provide a wide view of the sides of the vehicle across both 14.3-inch displays. Similarly, innovative functions include Invisible Hood View, which uses advanced image processing to take footage from the vehicle’s exterior
cameras to project an image of what’s directly in front of the vehicle onto the in-car displays, and the Journey Diary function can capture photos or videos from the forward-facing camera to share on social platforms.

The Klipsch premium audio system, another segment-first technology, is on the QX80. Lighting can also help set the mood with 64-color Personalized Ambient Lighting, incorporated within the dashboard and doors.

All models feature a standard VR35DDTT 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged engine, rated for 450hp and 702Nm of torque. Complementing the new engine is a 9-speed automatic transmission with a 40% wider gear-ratio range, allowing for both responsive acceleration and efficient highway cruising.

Also, the available Electronic Air Suspension and Dynamic Digital Suspension further refine the ride and handling of the QX80. The air suspension lowers by 30.5mm at speed for aerodynamic improvements. When parked, it can lower by 71mm from normal to an Easy Access level, significantly easing the ingress and egress of passengers or loading or unloading baggage.

For use in more rugged terrain, an off-road setting raises the air suspension 61mm above the QX80’s normal ride height. The Dynamic Digital Suspension allows constant measuring of the vehicle’s motion, helping automatically regulate damping force with electronically controlled capability.

Additional ride and handling enhancements include a frame with 58% greater lateral stiffness versus the preceding QX80 and the adoption of an electric power steering rack, which has 300% increased torsional stiffness and facilitates advanced driver assistance features.

As standard, the QX80 includes an extensive list of advanced driver-assistance technologies, including ProPILOT Assist 2.1, applied to INFINITI models for the first time, that elevates the experience by allowing attentive drivers to take their hands off the wheel in certain freeway driving scenarios.

The QX80 is expected to reach US retailers later this summer with a starting MSRP of US$82,400. Other markets with an appetite for humongous SUVs such as the Middle East would probably also see the QX80 sold in their region.

Photo Credits: Nissan/INFINITI

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Dedicated to “pursuing the ultimate driving pleasure,” the GT-R R35, affectionately known as ‘Godzilla’, has steadily evolved since debuting in 2007 as Nissan’s flagship super sports car.

Premium Edition Godzillas are available in six grades – Pure Edition, Black Edition, Premium Edition, Premium Edition T-Spec, Track Edition engineered by NISMO, and Track Edition engineered by NISMO T-Spec.

The Premium Edition T-spec and the Track Edition engineered by NISMO incorporate high precision weight-balanced piston rings, connecting rods and crankshafts, previously only available in the NISMO Special Edition, for snappier revs and faster turbo spooling.

Both models also feature GT-R-exclusive aluminium takumi certification name plates as well as gold-coloured model number plates in the engine compartment. The Premium Edition is available with a special new interior colour, Blue Heaven.

Two NISMO variants will also be available – the NISMO, and the NISMO Special Edition.

All editions come with Nissan’s six-speed dual-clutch transmission with all-wheel drive and are Japan-market only or JDM as known in enthusiast circles.

Although orders can now be placed at Nissan dealers and Nissan High Performance Centres in Japan, production is limited and Nissan says that some orders might not be accepted.

We don’t know of anyone crazy enough to parallel import this new Godzilla into Singapore. Given the new vehicle tax and emissions structures currently in place, a base-model Pure Edition could likely cost close to $500,000 once COE is also factored into the equation.

For context, that’s double or more what Godzilla cost to own in Singapore when it first came out in 2007. Let’s not even talk about what the NISMO variants would cost to bring to Singapore.

The Nissan GT-R online catalogue can be perused here.

Photo Credits: Nissan

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Regular readers may remember that we tested the Peugeot e-2008 GT back in December 2022. Here we are in March 2024 with a Mid Cycle Action (MCA), or a refresh or facelift. The main reason behind this shorter-cycle refresh is as plain as the E-2008’s face.

Sporting Peugeot’s new emblem, the new front end is now wider and includes a specific lateral pattern that connects to the headlamps. The grille features a vertical pattern in the same colour as the bodywork, which extends to subtle dark inserts.

Being body-coloured, the pattern of the grille also better integrates into the front bumper.

Also new at the front-end is the new Peugeot Signature Light. Where the predecessor had three vertical daytime running lights in the headlight itself and extending down to one in the front bumper, the MCA has three vertical claw daytime running lights in the bumper itself.

In the E-2008 GT, the striking effect of the three claws is extended in the lighting of the full LED headlamps through the use of three light modules. This distinguishes the E-2008 GT from the rest of the range with an exclusive front-end signature.

This three-claw design theme carries on in the back of the SUV with the taillights. Three superimposed horizontal double slats contrast with the predecessor’s three diagonal items, and offer a refreshed look.

Along with the taillights, reverse and turn-signal lights are also LED items.

Six body colours will be available for the MCA’d E-2008 GT, namely Selenium Grey, Artense Grey, Okenite White, Black Perla Nera, Elixir Red and Vertigo Blue.

Also new is its battery pack. Where the predecessor had a 50kW item, this refresh brings an additional 4kW to the E-2008. The claimed WLTP range increases from 345km to 436km, which is heartwarming to know and something we’ll be testing during our review drive.

Furthermore, this E-2008 is equipped with a high-performance 100kW DC / 11 kW AC on-board charger.

Charging the car from 0% to 80% on a DC 100kW charger is said to take just 30 minutes. Something else that we’ll test when we get behind the wheel.

A feature we really liked with the predecessor is also here – the 3D holographic digital instrument panel.

The infotainment features a 10-inch high-definition touchscreen, and comes standard with wireless Apple CarPlay, Android Auto and Mirror Screen.

Active safety features include automatic hands-free access with walkaway auto-lock, VisioPark 180° Reverse Camera, lane departure warning and speed limit information with intelligent speed adaptation.

As of writing this article, the E-2008 GT is set to retail for $153,888. For more information, contact Peugeot Singapore.

Photo Credits: Sean Loo (@auto.driven)

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Since its debut in 1997, the Prius has been an emblem of hybrid innovation and efficiency. Toyota has steadily improved upon the original hybrid formula, resulting in what we see here – the fifth generation Prius.

With the self-charging hybrid system, combined power output with the 1.8-litre naturally aspirated engine is 138hp, and the 0-100km/h sprint is dispatched in 9.3 seconds.

Of course, what’s paramount here is fuel economy, and Toyota boasts a claimed 4.1-litres/100km or 24.4km/litre efficiency, which is an 18% improvement over its predecessor.

Furthermore, its innovative self-charging hybrid capability means this full hybrid eliminates the need for external charging infrastructure, providing a hassle-free and convenient driving experience for users in Singapore.

This resonates with Singapore’s dedication towards sustainability and urban mobility.

“The Toyota Prius Hybrid has always been associated with innovation and fuel efficiency, and our newest version continues to uphold this reputation.

Not only have we continued this tradition of excellence, we reinvented the hybrid pioneer to enhance our consumers’ driving experience, while also contributing to a more environmentally sustainable future,” said Ng Khee Siong, Managing Director of Inchcape Singapore.

“The all-new Prius Hybrid is not just a head turner with a stunning exterior. It is a full package that comes along with cutting-edge hybrid technology. The fifth-generation Prius Hybrid symbolises a true hybrid reborn.”

No one can deny that this hybrid looks sharp. Aiding its sleek looks is the Electronic Rear Door Opener Switch, which allows for a clean aesthetic down the side while still keeping things easy to open the door.

Boot space is 370-litres, and can be further expanded by dropping its 60:40 split rear seatbacks.

Wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto are here, along with cutting-edge Toyota Safety Sense features.

Utilising camera sensors and millimetre-wave radar, the system detects potential collisions and engages automatic braking as needed to prevent accidents.

A comprehensive set of safety features, including Dynamic Radar Cruise Control, Lane Departure Alert, Lane Tracing Assist, Automatic High-Beam, and a robust configuration of seven SRS Airbags are also standard fit.

The Prius Hybrid will be available in seven colours, including the two new Ash and Mustard colour options. For more information, contact Toyota Singapore.

More to come when we drive it. Stay tuned.

Photo Credits: Toyota Singapore

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The standard Cooper is designated with a ‘C’, and the performance variant with an ‘S.’ This is how MINI designates the performance levels of its
petrol engines within the new model family.

“At MINI, ‘Power of Choice ́ means that in addition to all-electric MINI models, we also offer models such as the new MINI Cooper with a petrol engine. The car is ideal for all those people who want to drive a classic MINI 3-door and appreciate the performance and characteristic sound of a combustion engine,” said Stefanie Wurst, Head of MINI.

The four-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper S puts down 204hp and 300 Nm of torque and dispatches the century sprint in 6.6 seconds. On the other hand, the three-cylinder engine of the MINI Cooper C offers up 156hp and 230Nm of torque and does the same sprint in 7.7 seconds – not slow at all.

Equipped with a suspension and damping system designed for agile handling as well as the precise typical steering and powerful brakes, MINI looks to offer its owners a high level of driving pleasure, safety and comfort.

On the exterior, short overhangs and a short bonnet contrast with the long wheelbase, giving the car typical MINI proportions. A new octagonal grille with its filigree contours defines the MINI Cooper’s characteristic face even more.

BMW Group’s smallest radar sensor to date is positioned on the horizontal strut between the air intakes. A total of 12 ultrasonic sensors support the driver assistance systems and increase driving safety.

Horizontal LED daytime running lights underline the new appearance in the standard setting. The striking appearance is further enhanced by three selectable light signatures for the daytime running lights of the MINI LED headlights and the redesigned matrix rear lights. All three selectable light signatures begin and end with a specially orchestrated welcome or goodbye animation.

On the inside, one finds the new steering wheel, a round OLED Display and the typical MINI toggle bar, and a two-tone textile dashboard. A panoramic glass roof adds to the bright and friendly atmosphere.

The most important driving functions, namely the parking brake, gear selector, start/stop key, experience mode toggle and volume control, are directly accessible via the distinctive toggle bar.

The gear selector in the centre console makes way for the new Wireless Charging Shelf 2.0. Smartphones can be stored here and charged wirelessly.

The MINI Interaction Unit has been moved closer to the driver in the cockpit. The 240mm-diameter high-resolution, thin OLED display with high-quality glass edge is operated similar to that of a smartphone and intuitively by touch.

Relevant vehicle-related information, such as speed and fuel consumption, is displayed at the top of the screen. In the main menu, the functions are arranged horizontally as widgets and can be selected by swipe and touch.

In the lower area of the OLED display, the menu items Navigation, Media, Telephone and Climate can be selected directly at any time.

As part of the optional MINI Experience Modes, two projector units beam various illuminated graphics onto the dashboard. The interplay of visual design, ambient lighting and sound design changes the appearance of the cockpit and opens up new possibilities for personalisation.

Each mode has its own dynamic background and can be selected according to the driver’s personal preferences. In personal mode, a personal photo can be set as the display background via the MINI app. The dominant colours of the photo then extend across the textile surfaces of the dashboard and the door panels as illuminated graphics.

Numerous driver assistance systems are also offered. The standard-fit Safe Exit function monitors the area around the parked vehicle and warns approaching road users before the door is opened. The function not only delays the unlocking of the doors but also uses light signals outside the vehicle to warn of a possible collision.

On the road, the MINI Navigation package optionally provides support with 3D visualisation and Augmented View, displays the current traffic situation, provides information about parking options including digital payment options, and more.

Camera and radar-based assistance functions increase safety by supporting steering and lane keeping as part of the comprehensive Driving Assistant Plus package. Automatic speed and distance control make city driving even more comfortable.

MINI Digital Key Plus function turns the smartphone into the car key via the MINI app. The welcome animation of the front and rear lights begins as soon
as the driver is less than three metres away; the doors are unlocked when the driver is at a distance of less than one and a half metres.

This convenient vehicle experience can be digitally transferred to different users, including their personal vehicle settings.

Two can ride in the back of the MINI Cooper, and practicality is not forgotten. By folding down the rear seat in a 60:40 ratio, the luggage compartment can be flexibly expanded from 210 litres to provide a volume of up to 725 litres.

The new Essential, Classic, Favoured and JCW trim variants offer a wide range of customisation options. Depending on the trim, the new MINI Cooper C and MINI Cooper S are available with different body paint finishes and interior trims. The exterior colours can be combined with one of four roof colours and create a variety of contrasts.

An exclusive option in conjunction with the Favoured Trim package is the Spray-Tech design of the distinctive Multitone Roof. This features a three-colour gradient.

More to come when this fifth-generation MINI Cooper lands on our shores.

Photo Credits: MINI

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The G22 and G23 BMW 4 Series coupe and convertible respectively have gotten a mid-cycle refresh, or Life Cycle Impulse in BMW-speak. Market launch is expected to be in March 2024.

Both coupe and convertible receive slim LED headlights, and the large kidney grille continues its appearance here. The headlights themselves are visually and functionally upgraded.

The side lights, daytime running lights (DRLs) and turn signal indicators are vertically arranged. Cars equipped with Comfort Access will have a new Welcome Light Animation.

Adaptive LED headlights with matrix beam, urban lights and exclusive BMW M4 CSL-esque Laserlight rear lights can be ordered as options. M Shadowline lights are also optionally available as part of the M Sport Package Pro.

Design element changes in the rear end see the 4 Series’ width emphasised even more. An optional M Sport package includes a black diffuser and larger 100mm tailpipes.

Two new paint colours, New Cape York Metallic and Fire Red Metallic, have been added to the range of shades. If that’s not enough, pick from an extensive selection of BMW Individual paint colours and BMW Individual special paint finishes.

Three new 19-inch alloy rims are also optionally available, as is an M Carbon exterior package and a wide selection of BMW M Performance Parts.

On the inside, both coupe and convertible receive newly-designed steering wheels. Both the standard and M leather steering wheels feature flat bottoms.

BMW Curved Display is also here, and features Operating System 9 or iDrive 9. The number of buttons and controls in the cockpit is further reduced as a result.

The standard-fit sports seats are covered in Sensatec perforated material. Optional Vernasca leather trim with decorative quilting is now offered in bi-colour Black/Red. BMW Individual Merino leather is also available in three colours.

However, if leather is not your thing, M Perfomtex is available as a sustainable alternative for the 4 Series Coupe. High-quality velour-type material in Black is available exclusively for cars fitted with the M Sport package, and for M Performance models.

Underhood, three petrol and three diesel engines will be available from launch. Singapore will likely receive the petrol engines only. The M Performance models will enjoy a six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine with an output of 374hp for the M440i.

Two four-cylinder engines will also be available with 184hp in the 420i and 245hp in the 430i. xDrive all-wheel drive will be standard in the 430i and M440i. A 48V mild hybrid system will come as standard in the M440i, and all engines get an eight-speed automatic Steptronic Sport transmission.

Production of the G22 & G23 LCI 4 Series will continue at BMW Group Plant Dingolfing, which also produces the 8 Series and M4.

Photo Credits: BMW

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Many Singaporeans looking to make their first or next car purchase will likely look at cars that fall under COE Category A or Cat A. This is thanks to our world-famous taxation system that doubles or even triples a car’s selling price and then tacks on a “digital paper qualification to purchase” called the Certificate of Entitlement or COE.

COE Cat A prices have usually been lower than those of Cat B, making the purchase prices of cars under this category more palatable. Here are the new launches of Cat A cars from the Singapore Motor Show 2024.

BMW

Two hot new models were unveiled to satisfy customers looking for their next “continental” upgrade.

Representing electrification is the BMW iX1. Readers would know that its X1 ICE sibling won the AutoApp Car of the Year 2024 award, and here’s an electrified version that brings about more quietness to the commute.

In eDrive20 guise, the X1 features 147hp and 250Nm of torque and a 0-100km/h sprint in 10.5 seconds. Its battery pack has a usable energy content of 64.8kWh and can be charged from 10%-80% in just 29 minutes at a DC fast charging station.

On the inside, two-zone climate control and newly-developed more comfortable seats mean that occupants can likely look forward to a cushier and quieter ride than its petrol-powered sibling.

The X1 eDrive20 xLine is priced at $240,888 including COE (accurate at the time of writing).

If an SUV SAV coupe body style is more your thing, the X2 is now available for purchase. Looks stylish, especially in the show car’s bright red hue. Putting down 122hp and 230Nm of torque in sDrive 16i guise courtesy of its 1.5-litre turbo three-cylinder mild hybrid petrol engine, the 0-100km/h sprint is dispatched in 10.5 seconds and on to a top speed of 197km/h.

The interior features dual-zone climate control, an M Sport leather steering wheel, automatic tailgate operation, cruise control with brake function, Parking Assistant with Reversing Assist Camera and Reversing Assistant, and BMW’s latest generation Operating System 9 or iDrive 9.

On the outside, 20-inch M light-alloy rims and tyres are standard, while 21-inch items are optionally available.

The X2 sDrive16i M Sport is priced at $233,888 including COE (accurate at the time of writing).

Citroën

The e-C4X is touted as Citroën’s first fully electric sedan. Carrying on the design language seen in the e-C4 from 2023, this quirky lifted sedan is eye-catching but not in a garish way, just as a Citroën should be. We look forward to an oh-so-cushy and comfy quiet ride in the e-C4X.

Equipped with a 54kWh battery pack, the e-C4X is said to boast a maximum range of 436km on a single charge. And speaking of charge, the battery pack is said to be able to charge from 20%-80% in just 30 minutes at a 100kW DC fast charger. The battery pack powers an electric motor which puts 134hp and 270Nm of torque to the road via the front wheels, with 0-100km/h taking 10 seconds.

The e-C4X is priced at $148,999 inclusive COE (accurate at the time of writing).

Hyundai

Hyundai showed off three Cat A cars at their stand.

The first is the Avante, the only hybrid sedan in its class in Cat A. Featuring a 1.6-litre hybrid powerplant that puts out 130hp and 265Nm of torque, it’s heartwarming to see that this sleek sedan is still an option for customers shopping in the Cat A segment but don’t want an SUV.

The Avante Hybrid is priced starting at $165,999 including COE (accurate at the time of writing).

Next up is the IONIQ 6 EV RWD, or what I affectionately call “my Korean Saab.” Featuring a 53kWh battery pack that can be charged from 10%-80% in just 18 minutes at a suitable DC fast charger, and with a maximum range of 429km, this is certainly one eye-catching Cat A sedan to add to your consideration list.

The IONIQ 6 RWD is priced starting at $188,888 including COE (accurate at the time of writing).

Then there’s the Kona EV. A 48.6kWh battery pack offers up to 456km of range. 135hp and 255Nm of torque mean that the Kona Electric is no slouch. DC fast charging is also available.

The IONIQ 6 RWD is priced starting at $156,888 including COE (accurate at the time of writing).

We’ll have more details to come when we get behind the wheel of these attractively priced Cat A vehicles. In the meantime, perhaps mosey on down to the respective showrooms for a test drive?

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