Buying guide after October Round 2 COE bidding

This week’s round of Certificate of Entitlement (COE) bidding threw up a mixed bag of results, with Category A prices heading south and Category B prices moving in the other direction.

With a quota of 647 at stake, a total of 817 bids were lodged for Category A (Cars below 1600cc and Taxis) COEs, which dropped 2.2% to $32,415.

A total of 766 bids were lodged for Category B COEs (for cars above 1600cc), of which 478 were successful. It now stands at $44,600, a 4.2% rise over the previous round. Despite this, there’s still a few good deals to be found in showrooms this weekend.

It’s a Volvo, a sportier one. SM Motors launched the Volvo S60 last week. It is a saloon with a sporty, coupe-like profile.

The S60 comes with an all-new 2.0 litre GTDi (Gasoline Turbocharged Direct Injection) unit pumps out a healthy 203bhp and 300Nm of torque from 1750rpm, with an additional 20Nm available on overboost.

Power is sent to the front wheels via Volvo’s six-speed Powershift twin clutch gearbox. And inside, the S60's interior not only looks good but offers a high level of perceived luxury and build quality that matches the German models as well.

Saab distributor Trans Eurokars is offering selected units of the Saab 9-3 Sport Sedan available from S$139,888. Terms and conditions apply and specifications may vary.

The 9-3 Sports Sedan packs a 1998cc turbocharged inline 4 under the hood, delivering 150bhp and 240Nm of torque from as low as 2,000rpm.

It has a strong presence, with its distinct grille and handsome lines. And at the price aforementioned price, it is a worthy consideration for those looking at the executive sports sedan market.

Another point to note is that members of the public can also get a sneak peek of the upcoming Saab 9-5 which is on display at the showroom as well. This new model is expected to be launched at the end of the year or early next year.

Cycle & Carriage Kia has knocked $8,000 off the list price of the Kia Sorento EX 2.4. It comes with a 2359cc, 4-cylinder power plant that churns out 174bhp at 6000rpm and a maximum torque of 226Nm at 3750rpm—more than enough to get the Sorento moving.

When it comes to seating and storage, the Sorento comes into its own. It seats a party of seven, with an easily split/fold 50/50 third row of seats. The second row seats can also be further folded down to offer a humongous load area for your forays to Ikea. With all seats folded down, the Sorento offers a load area akin to that of a small van.

We like the Sorento because it delivers a well-damped ride, a well-built cabin with a high level of standard kit. It is exceptional value for money.

In the small car category, the real mover proved to be the Ford Fiesta 1.4, with Regent Motors slashing prices by as much as $4,000.

Available in both 3- and 5-door variants, the Fiesta produces 96bhp and 127Nm of torque from its 1388cc engine. It’s frugal too, sipping just 6.5 litres of fuel per 100km. It comes with a Euro NCAP rating of 5, and is equipped with driver, passenger, and side airbags.

And if you look closely, you’ll see hints of its bigger brother the Focus in its curvaceous lines. It handles as well as it looks too, after all it comes from the same bloodline.

The Ford Fiesta – it looks good, handles great, and it’s practical too.

A local favorite that also has a marginal drop in price is the Toyota Vios J. Its 4-cylinder in-line 1.5 litre engine (1497cc) delivers 109bhp and 142Nm of torque, which is more than enough to motor your family around town. With a Euro NCAP rating of 5, the Vios J comes with a single airbag. Borneo Motors is currently giving a free upgrade discount to a Vios E worth $1,000. The Vios J is currently priced at $68,988 (non-guaranteed COE) and $70,988 (with guaranteed COE).

Credits: JoeYadao