A $600k Range Rover Sport, Mercedes-Benz SUVs, petrol-electric hybrid taxis, best non-EV cars and new auto dealerships – that’s what CarBuyer Singapore’s most read news stories have been about in the first eight months of 2023

SINGAPORE
From electric vehicle news to new distributorships and dealers, 2023 has again proven that the automotive world is always up for some exciting twists and turns. We delved into the archives to discover which news stories have been garnering the most clicks in 2023 so far.

EVs news dominated the list we did back in 2021. While the current recap definitely has a fair share of electric vehicles, there are also a few interesting stories that we’re surprised made it into the top 10.  Here’s a pit stop to catch up on the top 10 car news stories that have come and gone for the year:

10. Komoco Holdings announced as official importer and distributor of Alfa Romeo cars in Singapore

We broke news of Komoco Holdings being the official importer and distributor of Alfa Romeo cars in Singapore. Somehow this got people reading and it made Top 10. We guess it’s safe to assume the locals are very interested in Alfa Romeo cars.

9. Vantage Automotive appoints new official dealer for BYD passenger cars in Singapore

BYD has had an amazing 2022. With a huge 783% year-on-year increase in sales in 2022, it’s only logical business sense that BYD seeks to expand the brand’s reach and operations right here in Singapore. If you want to know who the dealer is, read the story!

8. SG Motorshow 2023: The Best Non-EV/ Petrol Cars

Remember earlier when I mentioned ‘twists and turns’? While the buzz is on electrification and EVs, there’s no doubt that people are still interested in ICE vehicles. We’ve got facelifted BMWs, SUVs and also a crossover-y, hatch-y, estate-y thing. I think you’ll understand what we’re trying to describe when you watch the YouTube video that we’ve done here!

7. Mini Asia has a new head honcho

You’ve probably wondered if a Mini owner is as fun as the car, but have you ever wondered who is the head of Mini? Our readers definitely did. There’s been a changing of the guard within the ranks at BMW Group Asia. Mr Daren Ching (pictured above), who joined the BMW Group Asia team in 2005, has taken over as Head of Mini Asia.

6. The Maxus MIFA 9 is a S$282,999 full-size electric luxurious MPV

Did anyone say EV and luxurious MPV? With a premium interior that is good enough to be a mobile office, it’s no surprise that the Maxus MIFA 9 made the list as one of the most-read stories of 2023 so far. You’ve got everything you need to ride in luxury and comfort, from massage seats to a 3-pin power adaptor. We’ve also done a video review for you to check out our thoughts on this fully electric premium MPV.

5. Toyota’s new bZ3 electric vehicle begins production in China

When the good ol’ Toyota Camry receives the EV update, could it possibly take over the Tesla Model 3? The Toyota bZ3 has gone into production, and it’s a joint venture with First Automobile Works. (FAW) BYD also has a hand in this collaboration as they are supplying the drive system and lithium-ion battery packs. Unfortunately, as we speak the bZ3 is exclusive to China, we will have to wait and see if it arrives on our shores.

4. All-new Mercedes-Benz GLC launched in Singapore

Since its introduction in 2015, the GLC has consistently been one of Mercedes-Benz’s best selling models. With the new plug-in hybrid GLC, Mercedes-Benz is on track for a full electric line up. The fancy interior with a vertical 11.9-inch central touchscreen along with the MBUX infotainment system are some key highlights for the new GLC.

3. Kia Singapore unveils Niro Plus Hybrid fleet of taxis and PHVs, not for sale to public

Kia Singapore has put approximately 700 units of its Kia Niro Plus Hybrid in 2023 as taxis. These will not be for sale to the public but is a partnership between Kia and Singapore-based taxi operator, Premier. These are Kia’s first Purpose-Built Vehicles (PBV), with more leg room, boot space and additional USB ports, designed specifically for use as high-mileage taxis. If you’re in need of a ride and see any of these ‘Green’ cabbies, maybe it’s worth a ride.

2. Mercedes-Benz reveals the all-new E-Class

We have our runner-up and it’s the Second Mercedes-Benz story on the list! Since 1964, Mercedes has sold over 16 million units of the “upper mid-range” vehicles. Bet you didn’t know that. The W214 generation E-Class borrows design cues not only from the S-class and C-class, but also the EQS and EQE. You definitely need to check out the option of the MBUX superscreen, which can be found in the linked article!

1. Third-generation Range Rover Sport goes on sale in Singapore

New of the launch of the third-generation Range Rover Sport hit a spot. There seems to be an enormous interest in big luxury SUVs this year for some reason and news of the Range Rover Sport garnered plenty of interest.

The car was launched here with a twincharged, 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder engine with mild-hybrid technology. There’s 400 horsepower on tap, and despite weighing a chunky 2,385kg it rockets from 0 to 100km/h 5.7 seconds. If that’s not enough, there is an all-electric version confirmed for series production.

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