Local News: Price drops after close of COE bidding on 6 Jan

COE prices might have risen across the board after January’s first bidding exercise closed on Wednesday but you can still find some models to be more affordable this week. Here are the top five price ‘losers’ of the fortnight:

OneShift Editorial Team

08 Jan 2010

Subaru Exiga GT $101,400 (-$7,600)
The turbocharged Exiga GT is a seven-seater MPV for the family person in a hurry. With the Exiga GT, you get an interior that actually accommodates seven, impressive pace thanks to a turbocharged flat-four motor, a five-speed automatic gearbox, Subaru dependability and the security of all-wheel drive. Downsides include an interior that lacks quality and finish and questionable looks on the outside. It’s a darn good buy thanks to the $7,600 price reduction though.

Renault Laguna Coupe 2.0T $131,888 (-%5,611)
Can’t afford an Aston Martin, this French number is as close as it gets when it comes to looks that resemble an Aston Martin’s. The Laguna Coupe’s gorgeous looks are complimented by the practical four-seat interior and a well-built cabin. It’s not all show and no go either – the 2-litre turbo lump makes enough poke to give the big coupe reasonable go. Rarity is another plus point.

Mazda2 V $62,188 (-$4,500)
You’d be better off with a Honda Jazz if utility is your main priority but for a fun and engaging drive in a compact supermini, the 2 is hard to beat. The 2 is not only a tidy handler but looks pretty and purposeful as well. The Peugeot-like face is complimented by the pert backside as well. The V grade model here is now $4,500 more affordable than before and it is really an attractive buy indeed.

Subaru Forester 2.5XT $91,400 (-$3,600)
In 2.5 XT guise, the Forester is one of the most powerful compact SUVs out there. The charismatic turbocharged flat-four churns out more than 200bhp and gives the Forester some serious go indeed. On-road dynamics feels very sorted as well although it is far from capable on the rough stuff. Major letdowns include the hard plastic interior and the four-speed auto box.

Mazda5 $92,488 (-$3,000)
Mazda’s compact MPV is an attractive $3,000 more affordable even though Cat B COE prices have risen by a significant 7.3 percent. The 5 is a highly practical MPV thanks to its twin electrically operated sliding doors for ease of access. It might not be as spacious as the Toyota Wish on the inside but it sure is a more engaging and fun drive. The 5 is well-equipped – electric sunroof, factory stereo, rear air-con vents are all standard.

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