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Toyota v Honda. Same price but which one should you buy?
Singaporean motorists love Toyota and Honda more than any other car make. That’s according to a recently released comparison of the most popular cars in Singapore by ValueChampion, based on new car registration data for 2017 from the Land Transport Authority.
Two of the models- the Toyota Sienta and Honda City, from the two Japanese manufacturers leading the popularity rankings are very different vehicles, but are similarly-priced, according to a compilation of the list prices of popular cars in Singapore based on SGCarMart dealer price lists.
If you had a budget of around $92,000, which one should you buy?
Toyota Sienta- More room for fun
The Sienta has moved away from the boxy exterior of its predecessor to one that looks more stylish and contemporary. LED lamps and sporty aluminium wheels add a premium touch.
The spacious interior along with rear air-conditioning ensure the comfort of all on-board.
Power sliding doors, Smart Entry and Smart Start enhance the seven-seater MPV’s convenience. Versatile seating configurations and a variety of storage compartments up its practicality factor. The third-row seats fold flat to accommodate larger loads.
A 1.5-litre dual VVT-i engine mated to a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT) with seven-speed Sport Sequential Shiftmatic Mode deliver performance and fuel efficiency.
Safety features such as three airbags, Hill Start Assist Control (HAC) (Elegance variant only) and Anti-lock Brake System (ABS) with Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD) protect what matters most- your family.
Honda City- Small in size, big on features
The City adopts Honda's latest design philosophy that embodies "High Tech", "High Tension" and "High Touch". The platinum front grille, LED daytime running lamps and shark fin antenna make the City look every bit the luxurious, sporty sedan.
Its compact exterior belies the spaciousness of its interior with plenty of legroom up front and the roomiest rear cabin in its class. Rear ventilation outlets ensure that passengers in the back keep their cool at all times.
The Smart Keyless Entry System, Bluetooth Handsfree Telephone System, 60-40 split-fold rear seats and large trunk capacity make this compact sedan a convenient and practical package.
On the performance front, its 1.5-litre i-VTEC engine developed under Honda’s Earth Dreams technology works in tandem with a CVT transmission to deliver a performance that will benefit both the driver and the environment in terms of driving experience and fuel economy respectively.
Features such as the G-Force Control Technology (G-Con), Advanced Compatibility Engineering (ACE) body and Emergency Stop Signal (ESS) ensure the safety of both occupants and pedestrians.
Eeny, meeny, miny, mo
Both the Sienta and City share similar list prices, performance specifications and fuel efficiency figures, which make the decision on which one to purchase rather difficult.
It boils down to a few pertinent questions that you need to ask yourself:
- Do you need a car with seven seats? If so, go for the Sienta. However, do bear in mind that while it is nice to have more seats, the third row often ends up under-utilised.
- An MPV and a compact sedan project very different images. If you are concerned that the former may come across as too domestic, the City would be a safer bet.
- Do you enjoy an elevated driving position and the higher vantage point that it provides? If so, the Sienta is the one for you.
- If you are always out and about around the city, go for the City. It allows you to make the most out of a compact sedan and out of city living.
- Power sliding doors are extremely practical and make it much easier for young children and elderly folks to get in and out of the vehicle, especially in tight parking spots. If this is a priority for you, then the Sienta is it.
Car insurance costs
Finally, when it comes to car insurance, there is very little difference in price.
Comparing both 1.5-litre versions for a motorist who is:
A 45-year-old MARRIED man.
Ten years driving experience.
50% NCD
Honda City
Driving a Honda City 1.5
Comprehensive car insurance quote starts from $492.13
*Premiums shown are indicative. Actual premiums may vary based on various factors.
The same profile motorist driving a Toyota Sienta 1.5
Comprehensive car insurance quote starts from $475.76
*Premiums shown are indicative. Actual premiums may vary based on various factors.
Whichever model you decide on, be sure to call Budget Direct at 6221 2111 for a free quote on affordable motor insurance that meets all your needs.
By motoring expert, Lynn Tan.
