Here are 5 memorable cars launched in 2021

Slowly but steadily, the local automotive world seemed to return close to the "old normal" in this not-so-post-COVID year of 2021. For one, car sales appeared to recover and rose with the improving pandemic numbers. 

For another reason, saying that 2021 was a competitive time in the industry would be an understatement. All carmakers made sure their offerings stood out — in terms of looks, performance, and equipment — in a crowded market. 

So with that said, it was difficult for a model to be noticed by consumers. Perhaps a car needed that magic mix of price, desirability, features, and luck in order to make it a hit.

Frankly, many great expectations rested on the shoulders of every new car of 2021. 

But here at ZIGWHEELS PHILIPPINES, we think there are five cars that stood out among the herd. Admittedly, though, while some of  these cars don't offer that magic mix, we believe that they still excelled in one or two qualities in that criteria, which made them worthy of consideration, purchase, or praise. 

So, in no particular order, below are the five memorable cars that hit the market in 2021.

Nissan Leaf

What was considered as the first mainstream, non-premium electric vehicle (EV) in the world made its way in the country this year. While the Leaf couldn't be priced at the same level as traditional vehicles, props to Nissan for bringing it in. The Leaf is sure to show consumers the road to zero-emissions motoring. 

The Leaf is equipped with a 40kWh lithium-ion battery, which can muster an estimated range of up to 311 kilometers when fully charged. Along with electric motors, the Leaf's powertrain produces 148hp. 

A dedicated wall outlet can charge the Leaf in 15 to 18 hours, and at quick charging stations found in select Nissan dealerships, the vehicle gets full juice anytime from 40 minutes to an hour.

Toyota GR Yaris

Toyota's 260hp, four-wheel drive performance hatchback is memorable to many — to those who got their hands on precious few units, and the rest of us who are happy the performance hatch is right here, right now for us to admire. 

Why is the GR Yaris so coveted? 

Made by Toyota's performance arm Gazoo Racing, the GR Yaris is a homologation of the carmaker's World Rally Championship car. That means the car is equipped with WRC-derived gizmos such as the GR Four system, which optimizes the car's four-wheel drive for the terrain of a rally stage, or the smooth tarmac of a race track.

The GR Yaris packs a 1.6-liter turbo engine, which is considered as the most powerful three-cylinder engine ever made, with 268hp and 300Nm of torque. A six-speed manual is the sole transmission option. 

Mitsubishi Mirage G4

Now here's something more down to earth — and you may argue, not so new. Mitsubishi's familiar Mirage G4 may be launched in 2014, but its new Dynamic Shield and restyling make the small sedan handsome enough for 2021 and beyond.

We'll also go as far as to say that the along with the Mirage G4's equipment list, this very nearly makes it the car you'll ever need. Because of its usability, this sedan makes it to this list. 

Across the variants, the Mirage G4 features keyless entry, push start ignition, electric power steering, auto climate control, audio mounted controls, and a seven-inch touchscreen infotainment system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. The screen also boasts of a reversing camera. 

MG ZS T

The crossover segment is hotly contested, and MG's entry elbowed its way into the class with a badge with British roots and a turbocharged engine in the  ZS T, the top-of-the shop model of the ZS range. 

The ZS T’s 1.3-liter turbo engine churns out a maximum power output of 163ps and 230Nm.

Matching this new powerplant is a new look, featuring an all-new Obsidian Matrix grille with full LED projector headlights and daytime running lamps (DRL). Its two-tone, 17-inch new Tomahawk design alloy wheels with red brake calipers also upgrade the SUV’s road presence.

Maxus D60

The D60 showed that it wasn't just another SUV with a third row of seats. On the one hand, its Maxus badge has stood out in the sea of commonplace emblems. On the other hand, its styling distinguished itself from its Japanese-make, pickup truck-based peers. 

The Maxus D60 exterior follows the so-called Maxus Tarantula concept, which ideally represents the dynamic, active, and confident urban lifestyle of growing families and young professionals.

In five-or seven-seater form, the D60 is equipped with an eight-inch infotainment system and rear air-conditioning vents. Additional convenience and comfort comes courtesy of power folding side mirrors, leather seats, and a keyless entry and push start.

Considering excellence of this year's crop, 2022 is sure to raise the bar once again. 

Photos from Nissan Philippines, Toyota Motor Corporation, Maxus Philippines, MG Philippines, and Roy Robles