2023 is likely a year many Singaporean drivers will remember because of one very big letter 'P' - and no, we're not talking about the Presidential Election.

The word in question instead? Premiums. At the time we're writing this, premiums for Category B and Category E COEs have both vaulted across the $130,000 line. Category A is above $100,000.

Still, as Singapore retains its status as one of the most difficult places to sell cars, the automotive space has remained as vibrant and soul-stirring a space as ever. New names and faces landed in full force; some older, legendary ones came back into the picture. A couple even changed hands and departed. One particularly Singaporean phenomenon we've noted? Existing names, reintroduced with slightly altered power outputs.

Of course, electric cars are continuing make their presence felt on our roads. Don't let the number of nominees alone fool you - there are 20 of them this year, just one more than in 2022. But among them, we've seen a larger diversity of brands, models, body styles - and even asking prices. COE prices be damned, this is no longer a space dominated purely by luxury carmakers.

Amidst the simultaneous turbulence and excitement of the year, car launches and events have returned in full force as the pandemic continues to fade in our rearview mirrors. In tandem, the Media Team has also intensified its efforts in documenting every experience so that you guys, our loyal audience, are constantly taken along for the ride.

Whether it's written homages to automotive icons of yesteryear, or a new series on our YouTube channel equipping drivers with vital tips on the road and in their journeys of car ownership, we've also spent much of 2023 extending the content we share with you in every possible manner. You may have even noticed an entirely fresh reading experience when browsing the latest reviews or news stories on our site - which kicked in sometime in June.