Having spent a good amount of time dissecting the specification sheet of Pagani’s new hypercar, the Utopia, it got us thinking about how car brands in Singapore adopt a similar approach to layer potential customers’ purchasing experience with a level of exclusivity. The complexity behind introducing optional extras can be demanding from a logistical standpoint. But some brands in Singapore have managed to devise a formula that balances delivery times and exclusivity. This, in itself, is a highly respectable process.

Some cars in focus today incorporate a tailor-made approach within the purchasing experience. They might be headlined by the prices of each option, but we’d rather appreciate them as it is - some of which are fitted by craftsmen of the highest pedigree. In an era where manufacturers package two, or three trim levels at best for each variant, we’d be silly to dismiss the devout appeal of these options - a buffet spread of possibilities that can single-handedly illuminate the predictable sights on local tarmac.

Audi e-tron

A browse through the e-tron’s configurator led us to understand the myriad of possibilities available. Even in S Sportback trim (pictured), colleague Joel pointed out that “if there was a single opportunity where uniqueness could be bought, this would be it”. That’s without even exploring the configurator, which even includes additional comfort-centric features to EV ownership like a second charging access (S$2,211) and an air ioniser and aromatisation (S$1,964) - the latter we reckon useful for short bursts of charge ups while waiting in the car. If you spend plenty of time behind the wheel, it could also be useful to opt for the perforated seats option that combines two types of leather (Valcona and Milano), or go all out with the seat ventilation and massage feature for front seats (S$7,620) - these could be favourable reinforcements under Singapore’s sweltering heat. If you drive to Malaysia often in the wee hours, Audi got you covered with the Digital Matrix LED headlamps and LED rear combination lamps (S$21,384), an option that could even save lives. If you’re sold on Audi’s tech-forward stance and keen to get your hands on one fast, this pre-owned 8,000km e-tron Sportback advanced 55 quattro might suit. Or stick around till mid next year to get your hands on its successor.

Mercedes-Benz EQS 450+

We could also feature the Mercedes-AMG EQS 53 4MATIC+ but there are less factory fitted optional equipment to choose from, compared to the more “basic” (if it can even be classified as one) EQS 450+. In non-AMG trim for the EQS, customers can still opt for an AMG spoiler lip for S$1,900 and a rear axle steering system for S$6,900 to enhance both aesthetics and dynamic capability. The 450+ might already come with seats that rival models twice its price, but there’s still room to boost creature comfort - a panoramic sliding sunroof (S$8,400), Burmester surround sound system (S$6,400) and a classy ship’s deck open-pore walnut wood trim (S$15,400) could be had. All are part of 12 optional extras that customers can select if they feel the “standard” EQS 450+ requires further embellishment. At a sliver over half a million dollars (before going trigger happy with the options list) you could set your eyes on something else derived from older school AMG origins. A classic case of Dr Jekyll and Mr Hyde syndrome…

Mercedes-Maybach S-Class S 580 4MATIC

Over at the superluxury end of the spectrum we’ll get to appreciate the enigmatic nature of Mercedes-Maybach. With a price tag that only the extremely well heeled can afford, it leaves us to investigate what could be optioned, at least on paper as we are aware literally anything can be customised in this segment. The Mercedes-Maybach S 580 4MATIC can be optioned with a full “designo leather package” for S$65,900. That’ll drape the interior with nappa leather on the upper dashboard window frames, sunvisors, all pillars and roof liner. Fancy a mobile home theatre? A 31-speaker Busmester surround sound system (S$26,000) should satisfy your audio needs. One should not ignore a pre-owned unit if it pops up in the classifieds though, because every Mercedes-Maybach should be specced to the gills. This Mercedes-Maybach S Class S 650 looks like one designed for no nonsense first-class commutes.

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