In Singapore, “best car” is not mainly a brand question. It is a depreciation + COE runway + exit liquidity question. The biggest regret happens when people decide using monthly instalments instead of total exposure. If you’re unsure what exposure your income can realistically carry, run the salary affordability check.
Fast path (do this in order)
If you keep thinking “instalment looks okay so it’s affordable”, read: the financial mistake most buyers don’t see.
“Best” in Singapore usually means lowest regret: the car that fits your holding period, buffers, and logistics needs without turning into a forced-sell risk.
You want the lowest ongoing cost profile, not “nice-to-have upgrades”. Start here: cheapest cars to own (lowest cost profiles).
If you’re searching for the “best car for family” in Singapore, the correct lens is reliability certainty + manageable 5-year exposure — not just boot space or features.
Decide using: used vs new and validate with: true monthly cost.
Your primary risk is timing + forced-sale penalties. Prioritise resale liquidity and avoid near-COE-end “traps”. If COE timing is a worry, read: buy now vs wait.
If you’re already spending near break-even monthly, ownership can be rational. Run: break-even calculator then anchor the baseline: 5-year model.
Choose a “best car” candidate if: