184
DRIVE
AWARDS
2018 ***
ELLE
THE
FIRST LOVE
PRIZE
MG3 AUTO*
This freshly updated, highly nimble and
pleasantly feature-packed hatch may have
only just hit our shores, but it has taken out
our First Love award with aplomb.
Aside from its practicality, this hatch also
boasts a bit of personality, while sitting pretty
in the first-car-buyer’s bracket. And with parking
sensors, a rear-view camera, cruise control and
active cornering brake control as standard,
baby’s first ride has come a long way when it
comes to safety and tech. Couple that with
a mega eight-inch screen with Apple CarPlay, an
optional four- or six-speaker sound system and
a fierce, anime-like stare (especially if you opt
for the rear spoiler), and it’s hard to top.
The winning edge: Everything you need
and nothing you don’t. The MG3 Auto has
had a cool-girl makeover of late, but don’t
judge it on looks alone – this fresh drop’s
nimbleness is not to be underestimated.FROM
$15,990
1.5L
4CL
82KW
150NM
9.2L/100KMTHE
ECO-CHIC
PRIZE
*
LEXUS LS HYBRID
When it comes to explaining how Lexus has
absolutely nailed executive chicness with this
sedan (specifically the hybrid variant), where
does one start? With the architecturally
designed interior? The body-coddling seats
(that have a seven-stage massage function in
the Sports Luxury model)? Or the flawlessly fluid
and speedy hybrid engine, the head-turning
lines of the exterior that become more beautiful
with each glance and the impressive safety tech
that can judge a collision, reduce your speed
by 40kmph and help park your car like never
before seen in a Lexus? Once considered
a bit of a snoozy ride, that attitude is no more- Lexus is bringing sexy back to its sedans.
The winning edge: Lexus and parent
company Toyota have mastered hybrid
engines like an art form for decades now,
so it’s hard to top the Japanese giant in that
sector. However, this time around, the LS
isn’t just green, it’s also beautiful.
FROM
$190,500
3.5L
V6
301KW
600NM
6.6L/100KM