Suburbanites who want a rugged-looking SUV without a bulky body and all-wheel-drive might want to check out Jeep’s entry-level model, which has front-wheel-drive and a road tax-friendly turbocharged 1.4-litre engine.
JEEP RENEGADE
PRICE ON APPLICATION
Suburbanites who want a rugged-looking SUV without a bulky body and all-wheel-drive might want to check out Jeep’s entry-level model, which has front-wheel-drive and a road tax-friendly turbocharged 1.4-litre engine. Younger buyers will appreciate the funky and practical cabin, which has anodised paint accents that match the exterior, a front passenger seat that can be folded forward and a height-adjustable boot floor.
RIVAL: MAZDA CX-3
ASTON MARTIN DB11
FROM $859,000 ON THE ROAD
This grand tourer, which succeeds the DB9, is also the first turbocharged model from the British carmaker. The DB11’s powerplant, a 5.2-litre V12, kicks out 600bhp and enables this coupe to demolish the century dash in 3.9 seconds. Apart from its advanced aerodynamics, which eliminated the need for a rear spoiler, this Aston also boasts a high-tech cockpit with modern infotainment and a digital instrument panel.
RIVAL: BENTLEY CONTINENTAL GT
ALPINA B7
FROM $730,800 ON THE ROAD
Towkays who want a limousine that stands out in their company carpark could consider this model instead of the usual German suspects. The B7 has the same turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 as the 750Li, but after Alpina revised the motor, it now delivers 608bhp and 800Nm, putting it on a par with BMW’s V12-powered M760Li. The B7, however, accords owners greater flexibility when it comes to personalising the car’s exterior and interior.
RIVAL: BMW M760LI XDRIVE
LEXUS LC500
PRICE ON APPLICATION
The Japanese luxury brand’s flagship coupe will tempt well-heeled enthusiasts with its head-turning design, sublime handling and naturally aspirated V8 engine. Producing 477bhp and driving the rear wheels via a 10-speed automatic, the LC500 does the century sprint in 4.7 seconds and has a governed top speed of 270km/h. The eco-friendlier, petrol-electric hybrid LC500h variant will follow in due course.
RIVAL: JAGUAR F-TYPE R
