Creator Of My Own Luxurious Little World

Oh my goodness. I'm extremely euphoric right now! Guess what? After many months of deliberation, me and mom finally decided on the most perfect new sedan for the family! :) As I've mentioned in a post 2-3 months back, mom already had plans to purchase a new sedan in automatic transmission ever since she got her license more than a year back. She wasn't and still isn't comfortable driving her current manual transmission Hyundai Accent 1.5L but she has got no choice. Switching sedans isn't as easy as what some people may think. So much money is involved and as such, mom needs a bit more time to save up before finally heading to the dealer to work things out. Haha.

I'm glad mom made it through the difficult times and finally saved enough to "splurge" on this new sedan. But, even with enough cash, that doesn't mean the problem is solved! Haha. We still need to choose the most perfect sedan. What I mean by perfect here is, the sedan must suit our extensive list of requirements (non-technical wise). Mom doesn't want to buy a sedan for the sake of buying. After all, I guess everyone knows that there's a 10 year bond involves, no? So it is just obvious that we have to be a little choosy. It's for a good cause! :)

So for the past 2-3 months, I had been actively doing an "in depth research" of all the targetted car models. Since it is a family sedan, we only target those that are at least 1.5 cc or above. If U recall, I did mention that we had settled for a Suzuki SX4 back then but eventually, I found out that it is not as good as I thought. As such, I came out with a few other models to be considered. Overall, the process was just tedious! Now, what was the chosen model and what were the rejected ones? Well, let's start with the negative. Haha.

These are the rejected models (coz they just don't fit most of our requirements):

HONDA FIT (1.6 A)

HYUNDAI VERNA (1.6 A)

SUZUKI SX4 SEDAN (1.6 A)

TOYOTA COROLLA ALTIS (1.6 A)

TOYOTA VIOS (1.6 A)

This is the CHOSEN model:

HYUNDAI AVANTE (1.6 A)

Now, I'm sure most of U would be asking why Hyundai? Korean sedans are so not appealing to most of U, no? Well, frankly, this is one model which I hate to own in the first place too. But as usual, human nature is to judge before finding out the truth. Haha. After a good talk to the dealer @ RTMT Motor, I found out that the sedan is actually comparable to any Japanese sedans and in fact, performs way better! It was really hard to believe in the first place but after experiencing the sedan personally, I must say that the statement is beyond true! Know what? There's absolutely no regrets in purchasing this sedan and drive it around for the next few years to come, at the very least. :D

Here are some "need to knows" of Hyundai Avante:

Model : Hyundai Avante 1.6 (A)
Engine Type : 1,591cc 16v in-line 4
Maximum power : 121bhp at 6,200rpm (most other models deliver only 109bhp)
Maximum torque : 153Nm at 4,200rpm
Gearbox : 4-speed automatic
Top speed : 180km/h
0-100km/h : 12.2 seconds
Plus Point : Smooth 1.6-litre engine, well-built interior, roomy cabin
Verdict : An exceedingly well put together small sedan that deserves to do well
Review : "You'd buy the Altis on the strength of the Toyota badge alone, but the Avante does offer a more up-to-date drive."

P/S: I think the sedan's too big for mom but not to worry, I'll take over it as soon as I get my driving license. Mom has agreed to let me take it after I graduate. Woohoo! :)

P/S/S: Mom already paid a so called "deposit" for the sedan but will only get to drive it home in mid January or early February 2009 as the newer models are currently being shipped in from Korea. Well, I guess patience does pays off! I really can't wait to see our new sedan in person! Weeeee~ ;)

Regards,
Niz