It’s a common practice for Singaporean to time the purchase of a brand new vehicle before their respective ethnic New Year, so that visitation to family and friends can be made in the new shiny car. With the Chinese Lunar New Year looming just around the corner, this is the time that many Chinese Singaporeans are taking ownership of their new cars.
Whether you are shopping for a new car deal, or just a motoring enthusiast wanting to check sexy lines and attractive headlights, the Singapore Motor Show 2016 has something for you. The show is held at the Singapore Suntec Convection & Exhibition Center, levels 3 and 4, between 14th Jan to 17th Jan.
Mazda MX-5. Photo © Justin Teo.
The Great Unveil
Car makers unveiled several all-new models on the first day of the show. Notable new launches include the Audi A4, BMW 740Li, Citroen DS5, Hong Legend Sport Hybrid, Ford S-Max and C-Max, Infiniti QX80, Jaguar XF, KIA Optima, Mitsubitshi Outlander Hybrid, Nissan Pulsar, Renault Kadjar, Subaru Levorg and XV, Suzuki Vitara, Toyota Prius, and Volvo S60 T2.
The all-new Audi A4 and the second-generation Audi R8. Photo © Justin Teo.
Unveiling the Mazda 2 sedan with SkyActiv Technology. Photo © Justin Teo.
Among these unveilings, one that got my heart stirring was the launch of the Lexus GS-F. Lexus has been progressing fast and furious in the motor sporting arena, and many of its research and development fruits have been filtering to its consumer vehicles via the “F” labeling. Just like the M badge on a BMW or the AMG badge on a Mercedes, the “F” label on the Lexus GS-F means that there is a beast underneath the hood. 470-bhp from the 5-litre V-8 is driven via an 8-speed Automatic transmission to the rubber, propelling the GS-F from standstill to 100 km/h in 4.6 seconds.
The 470-bhp luxury sports sedan that got my heart racing, the Lexus GS-F. Photo © Justin Teo.
The other close contender that got me excited was the second-generation Audi R8. Although not yet available in Singapore, the new R8 was specially flown in for the Singapore Motor Show 2016. The Audi R8 may share similar innards with its Italian cousin, the Lamborghini Huracan, such as the 5.2 litre V10 engine and platform, but the design and styling are different as day and night; one is an understated German sophistication while the other carries the loud flamboyance of Italian flair.
Unveiling the Audi R8. Photo © Justin Teo.
The rear of the Audi R8. Photo © Justin Teo.
5.2 litre engine, the V10 heart of the Audi R8. Photo © Justin Teo.
Practicality and Versatility
The launch of several compact SUVs and crossovers such as the Suzuki Vitara, Mazda CX-3 and Renault Kadja, among others, indicate that the market desire for rugged practicality. In addition, there are also stationwagon-style models like the Subaru Levorg, and the new Volkswagen Golf Variant to cater to the needs of larger families.
Introduction of the compact crossover, Mazda CX-3. Photo © Justin Teo.
Mediacorp artist Ann Kok is the new Suzuki Vitara brand ambassador. Photo © Justin Teo.
The all-new Renault Kadja crossover with Bose soundsystem. Photo © Justin Teo.
An odd mix, the Subaru Levorg, a sporty stationwagon. Photo © Justin Teo.
Model at the Singapore Motor Show 2016. Photo © Justin Teo.
Model at the Singapore Motor Show. Photo © Justin Teo.
Model at the Singapore Motor Show. Photo © Justin Teo.
Although the Singapore Motor Show 2016 features a new section dedicated to car accessories and non-vehicle exhibitors at Level 3, the showing pales in comparison to the main show area on level 4. Do check out the Shell booth on level 3, where throughout the 4-day event, Shell will share with visitors their latest products and innovations and visitors can stand to win Shell goodie bags and gift packs. Shell escape members may also redeem a 2-hour complimentary car park coupon from the booth.
Redemption of goodie bag at the Shell booth on level 3. Shell Escape members may also redeem a complimentary 2-hour parking coupon here. Photo © Justin Teo.
A tank of a vehicle, the all-new Infiniti QX80. Photo © Justin Teo.
Subaru Viziv 2 concept car. Photo © Justin Teo.
Stunt-driving performance by Russ Swift will also be making a return this year. Visitors may collect the free performance tickets on-site and in-person an hour before each show timing. Tickets are limited to 350 tickets per show and will be given out on a first-come first-served basis.
Visitors to the show will also stand a chance to win the Subaru Impreza by participating in a lucky draw. More information can be found on the reverse side of the general admission ticket.
Singapore Motor Show 2016
Date: 14th – 17th January 2016
Venue: Level 3 and 4, Suntec Singapore Convection & Exhibition Centre. 1 Raffles Boulevard, Suntec City, 039593.
Opening Hours:
14 Jan (Thurs) 1 pm to 10 pm (Special Preview)
14 Jan (Thurs) 5 pm to 10 pm
15 Jan (Fri) 11.30 pm to 10 pm
16 Jan (Sat) 10.30 am to 10 pm
17 Jan (Sun) 10.30 am to 8 pm
Ticket Price: Special Preview S$10 per person per entry Daily – S$6 per person per entry Free – Anyone below 120 cm in height.
Tickets available only on-site at the ticketing counter on Level 3, Suntec Convention & Exhibition Centre.
