Singapore Motorshow 2026: EVs, Fairlady Z & Hongqi’s Luxury Debut

I recently headed down to Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre for the 19th edition of the Singapore Motorshow 2026. Spread across four levels of the convention centre, this year’s show is easily one of the most impressive yet. With over 37 automotive brands and 2,500 cars on display, there was plenty to see, touch, and feel.

I was prepared for a long but exhilarating walk because the variety is staggering. From heart-thumping sports cars to the latest in sustainable tech, the show truly reflects how much our driving landscape is changing.

The Electric Revolution is Truly Here

One thing that immediately caught my eye was the sheer number of electric vehicles (EVs). More than 95% of the participating exhibitors are showcasing electric and hybrid models this year. It is clear that Singapore’s vision of 100% cleaner energy vehicles by 2040 is well on track.

The EV lineup is massive, featuring big names like Audi, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz alongside rising stars like BYD and XPENG. Even brands like Proton e.MAS and Zeekr are making their presence felt with mass-market and premium options. Whether you are looking for a practical family hatchback or a high-performance electric beast, there is something for everyone.

A Grand Entrance: Hongqi Makes Its Debut

A major highlight of the Singapore Motorshow 2026 is the official debut of Hongqi. Represented by the Eurokars Group, this legendary Chinese luxury brand has finally landed on our shores. Known as “China’s Rolls-Royce,” Hongqi brought a level of prestige that was hard to miss.

The star of their booth is undoubtedly the Hongqi E-HS9, a flagship electric SUV that is as massive as it is luxurious. I was told the cabin even has a meticulously engineered “scent” to ensure total comfort. Alongside the E-HS9, they also showcased the ultra-luxury Guoli and Guoya models from their “Golden Sunflower” series. These cars are essentially symbols of national pride and technological prowess.

Visitors can even participate in an interactive activity by placing iconic red flags on a Singapore map installation. If you are lucky, you might just walk away with an exclusive E-HS9 model car!

Under the stewardship of the Eurokars Group, Hongqi showcased its “Golden Sunflower” ultra-luxury series—a collection of cars designed not just for transport, but as symbols of national pride and technological prowess. Here is a look at the two flagship sedans that turned heads at Suntec City.

1. Hongqi Guoya: The Modern Aristocrat

The Guoya (represented in your first photo) is Hongqi’s answer to the Bentley Flying Spur and the Mercedes-Maybach S-Class. It blends “New Oriental Luxury” with cutting-edge hybrid performance.

• Background: Launched as part of a global push to redefine Chinese luxury, the Guoya is a massive 5.35-meter-long sedan that balances a modern aesthetic with traditional motifs.

• Technical Specs: * Engine Options: Available with either a 3.0T V6 Hybrid (394 hp) or a flagship 4.0T V8 Hybrid pushing nearly 490 hp and 800 Nm of torque.

  • Transmission: 8-speed automatic with a “HOT-V” twin-turbo setup for instant response.

• What Makes It Special: Look closely at the headlights; they utilize DLP pixel technology to project light patterns. Inside, it features a 32-speaker 3,240-watt sound system and a unique fragrance system infused with Chinese herbal scents, creating a multisensory “Zen” environment.

2. Hongqi Guoli: The “Rolls-Royce of the East”

The Guoli (shown in your second photo) is the civilian version of the state limousine used by heads of state. Formerly known as the L5, it is the most expensive production car ever made in China.

• Background: Its design is a deliberate “neo-retro” homage to the 1950s Hongqi CA770. It is a car of extreme status, often compared to the Rolls-Royce Phantom in both size and presence.

• Technical Specs: * Engine: A 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 producing 388 hp and 530 Nm.

  • Dimensions: It stretches nearly 6 meters in length with a massive 3.7-meter wheelbase.

  • Weight: A staggering 3,150 kg, built for “waftability” and maximum road presence.

• What Makes It Special: The Guoli is filled with symbolic details. The retractable hood ornament is tilted at exactly 23.5 degrees—the same angle as the Earth’s axis. The interior often features genuine jade inlays and handcrafted silk elements, making it more of a moving palace than a car.

Why You Should Look Out For Them

The arrival of the Guoya and Guoli in Singapore marks a significant shift in the luxury car market. For the first time, a Chinese brand is competing at the Ultra-Luxury level (S$1 million+ territory), moving beyond mass-market EVs to challenge the very top of the automotive hierarchy.

While the fully electric E-HS9 SUV will be the brand’s primary seller in Singapore, these “Golden Sunflower” models is proof of what Hongqi is capable of. They are worth watching because they offer a distinct “Oriental” alternative to the wood-and-leather luxury of the West.

3. Hyptec SSR: The Groundbreaking Supercar

The Hyptec SSR (which stands for Super, Star, Rapid) is China’s first mass-produced electric supercar, brought to Singapore by the Vincar Group.

• Background: Produced by GAC Aion under its premium Hyptec brand, this car was developed to challenge European hypercar supremacy. It is a physical testament to the engineering ambition of GAC, using technologies originally developed for aerospace.

• Technical Specs:

  • Power: A staggering 900 kW (1,207 hp) and 12,000 Nm of wheel torque.

  • Performance: It dispatches the 0-100 km/h sprint in just 1.9 seconds.

  • Architecture: It utilizes a high-efficiency 900V SiC (Silicon Carbide) chip platform for ultra-fast power output and cooling.

• What Makes It Special: Beyond its dramatic scissor doors, the SSR is a global record-holder. It currently holds the Guinness World Record for the highest drift speed achieved by a pure electric vehicle, clocking 213.523 km/h. Its “wind-suction” aerodynamic design and extensive use of carbon fiber make it a true track-ready machine.

4. IM5: The History-Making Champion

The IM5 (Intelligent Mobility 5) is a luxury electric sedan from IM Motors, a joint venture between SAIC, Alibaba, and Zhangjiang Hi-Tech.

• Background: The IM5 made history in late 2025 by becoming the first-ever Chinese car to win the prestigious The Straits Times Car of the Year award in its 23-year history. It was lauded for pairing “old-school charm with technological chic”.

• Technical Specs:

  • Variants: Available in Luxury (75kWh), Sport (100kWh), and Performance (100kWh) trims.

  • Performance: The flagship Performance AWD model hits 0-100 km/h in 3.2 seconds, while the Sport variant offers a massive 655 km (WLTP) range.

  • Agility: Despite its size, it has a turning radius of just 4.99 meters thanks to its advanced four-wheel steering.

• What Makes It Special: The IM5 is built on a “Digital Chassis” that integrates steering, braking, and suspension into one intelligent system. Its standout feature is its “crab-walk” capability, allowing the rear wheels to turn in the same direction as the front for diagonal movement—perfect for tight Singaporean parking. Inside, the cabin is dominated by a massive 26.3-inch panoramic screen and a secondary 10.5-inch touchscreen.

Why You Should Look Out For Them

These two cars represent the two poles of the modern EV era. The Hyptec SSR is a “showstopper” that proves China can build a world-class supercar capable of breaking world records. Meanwhile, the IM5 is the “thinking person’s luxury car,” having beaten established European and Japanese rivals to win Singapore’s most coveted automotive title.

Whether you are looking for raw, 1.9-second adrenaline or the most award-winning “intelligent” sedan on the market, these models are the benchmarks for the industry in 2026.

5. Xpeng X9: The “Starship” MPV

The Xpeng X9 is a flagship 7-seater MPV that combines futuristic “starship-inspired” aesthetics with luxury typically reserved for high-end sedans.

• Background: Launched as part of Xpeng’s aggressive global expansion, the X9 is the first MPV built on an advanced 800V high-voltage platform, focusing on ultra-fast charging and “intelligent” space management.

• Technical Specs:

  • Range & Charging: Offers up to 590 km (WLTP) range; its 800V architecture allows for a 10–80% charge in just 20 minutes.

  • Performance: The Long Range variant produces 315 hp (235 kW) and 450 Nm, while its intelligent chassis features active rear-wheel steering, giving it a turning radius of just 5.4 meters—comparable to a compact SUV.

  • Architecture: It is the first MPV to feature a front-and-rear integrated aluminum die-cast body for superior rigidity and safety.

• What Makes It Special: It is designed as a “living room on wheels”. The second row features Zero-Gravity captain seats with an 18-way adjustment and 10-point massage functions. Passengers also enjoy a massive 21.4-inch ceiling-mounted entertainment screen, a 10.8L integrated hot/cold refrigerator, and a “windless” central air conditioning system.

6. Deepal S07: The Intelligent Lifestyle SUV

The Deepal S07 is a premium mid-size electric SUV from Deepal (a brand under Changan Automobile) that focuses on “digital luxury” and sleek, aerodynamic design.

• Background: Since its global debut, the S07 has become a massive hit, selling over 50,000 units in its first five months. It arrived in Singapore to challenge established rivals with its mix of aggressive pricing (starting around S$213,999 with COE) and high-end tech.

• Technical Specs:

  • Powertrain: A rear-wheel-drive (RWD) setup delivering 218 hp (160 kW) and 320 Nm of torque.

  • Range: It provides a range of 475 km (WLTP) on a single charge.

  • Charging: Supports DC fast charging, moving from 30% to 80% in approximately 35 minutes.

• What Makes It Special: The “Sunflower” cabin is the main draw. It features a 15.6-inch central touchscreen that can rotate up to 15 degrees toward the driver or passenger, complemented by a massive 55-inch AR-HUD (Augmented Reality Head-Up Display). The exterior stands out with frameless doors, hidden door handles, and “Star Petal” LED lights, while the interior is inspired by yacht design with high-quality perforated leather and a panoramic glass roof.

Why You Should Look Out For Them

For Singaporean families, these models represent a shift toward high-tech, high-value mobility. The Xpeng X9 is the ultimate choice for those who want a large family car that doesn’t feel like a “bus” to drive thanks to its rear-wheel steering. Meanwhile, the Deepal S07 offers a more stylish and tech-heavy alternative to traditional mass-market SUVs, making advanced “smart cockpit” features accessible at a more competitive price point.

7. Zeekr 9X: The “Hangzhou Bay Cullinan”

The Zeekr 9X is a full-size flagship luxury SUV designed to blend the presence of a Rolls-Royce with the performance of a supercar and the off-road capability of a Range Rover.

• Background: Built on the advanced SEA-S 900V platform, the 9X debuted as a preview model to showcase Zeekr’s most advanced engineering and design ambitions for the global market.

• Technical Specs:

  • Powertrain: A revolutionary “Super Hybrid” system pairing a 2.0-liter turbocharged engine with a tri-silicon carbide motor setup.

  • Performance: A staggering combined output of 1,030 kW (1,381 hp) and up to 1,280 Nm of torque.

  • Acceleration: It dispatches the 0–100 km/h sprint in just 3.1 seconds.

  • Battery & Charging: Equipped with a massive 70 kWh CATL Freevoy battery, it supports ultra-fast 6C charging, allowing a 20–80% charge in just 9 minutes.

  • Range: Offers an industry-leading pure electric range of up to 380 km (CLTC).

• What Makes It Special:

  • Gargantuan Presence: Measuring over 5.2 meters long and 2 meters wide, its “land yacht” design features a massive integrated grille with over 42,000 diamond-cut facets and a 2.15-square-meter clamshell hood.

  • Cloud Lounge Comfort: The three-row 2+2+2 six-seater interior features “Zero-Gravity” recline seats with integrated speakers in the headrests and a 32-speaker Yamaha/Naim surround sound system.

  • Autonomous Intelligence: It debuts the G-Pilot H9 system, utilizing 5 LiDAR sensors and dual Nvidia Thor-U chips for 1,400 TOPS of computing power, making it Level 3 autonomous-ready.

  • Chassis Excellence: Features dual-chamber air suspension with 110 mm of ride height adjustment and a 48V active stabilizer bar to eliminate body roll.

Why You Should Look Out For It

The Zeekr 9X is a “technological tour de force” that redefines the limits of a hybrid vehicle. It serves as a clear signal of the brand’s intent to compete at the absolute top of the luxury segment. For those who want zero range anxiety without sacrificing the 1,300+ hp performance of an electric hypercar, the 9X is the benchmark for 2026.

8. Mini Cooper x Deus Ex Machina: “The Machina” & “The Skeg”

For the fans of “go-kart” handling, the MINI booth is a must-visit. This year, MINI is celebrating its racing DNA by showcasing a MINI Cooper in a special race livery. This one-of-a-kind display commemorates their recent podium success at the grueling Nürburgring 24-Hour race.

What makes it even cooler is the collaboration with global lifestyle brand Deus Ex Machina. By fusing racing grit with street style, the car looks like a moving piece of performance art. It has this raw, artistic vibe that makes it look like a sketchbook on wheels. It is a fantastic tribute to MINI’s 60-year racing legacy and a reminder that driving should always be fun.

• Background: The partnership debuted two exclusive, one-off John Cooper Works (JCW) concepts: “The Skeg,” inspired by coastal surf culture, and “The Machina,” forged for the track. The car showcased at the Motorshow (pictured) features a livery inspired by the Nürburgring 24-Hour race, where the two brands first combined their passion for craftsmanship.

• Technical Specs:

  • The Machina (ICE): A combustion-engine model producing 170 kW (231 hp).

  • The Skeg (Electric): A fully electric JCW J01 variant delivering up to 190 kW (258 hp).

• What Makes It Special: Both cars share a signature white “X” on the roof, symbolizing the joint creative venture. Look out for the “polka” graphics on the rocker panels and the neoprene upholstery in the bucket seats—a material typically used for wetsuits—linking the interior directly to surf culture.

9. Lexus LC 500: The Sculpted Flagship

The LC 500 (Luxury Coupe) is Lexus’s flagship sports coupe, a vehicle that famously transitioned from a radical concept car to a production reality with almost no changes to its futuristic silhouette.

• Background: Built at the legendary Motomachi plant—the same facility that produced the iconic LFA supercar—the LC 500 is the ultimate expression of Lexus’s “Takumi” craftsmanship. It is designed to be a “Front Midship” grand tourer, placing the driver at the center of the chassis for a perfectly balanced driving experience.

• Technical Specs:

  • Engine: A rare, high-revving 5.0-liter naturally aspirated V8.

  • Performance: Delivers 470 bhp and 540 Nm of torque.

  • Acceleration: Dispatches 0-100 km/h in 4.7 seconds.

  • Transmission: A lightning-fast 10-speed Direct Shift automatic transmission designed for rhythmic, sport-focused gear changes.

• What Makes It Special: * Auditory Experience: Unlike modern turbocharged rivals, the LC 500 utilizes a sound generator and active exhaust valves to harmonize a visceral, “old-school” V8 roar that is increasingly rare in the industry.

  • Infinite Design: Its signature 80-LED tail lights create a stunning “infinite dimensional” motif inspired by a jet’s afterburners.

  • Exquisite Interior: The cabin features hand-stitched Alcantara door panels and a 13-speaker Mark Levinson Reference Surround Sound System specifically calibrated for the coupe’s unique acoustics.

Why You Should Look Out For It

In an era dominated by electric motors and smaller turbocharged engines, the Lexus LC 500 is a “future classic”. It is worth seeking out because it represents a “vanishing breed” of naturally aspirated V8 luxury. For the Singapore audience, it remains one of the most striking “rolling pieces of art” on the road. It offers a level of reliability and build quality (Takumi) that few European exotic cars can match.

10. The Return of an Icon: Nissan Fairlady

If you prefer pure combustion power and a dose of nostalgia, you have to check out the Nissan Fairlady Z. Presented by Tan Chong Motor Sales, the seventh-generation Z-car is making a confident return to Singapore.

The Fairlady Z stays true to its roots with a bold design and a powerful V6 twin-turbo engine. I spent quite some time admiring the heritage-inspired details, like the rear lamps that nod to the original 300ZX. It is a beautiful blend of nostalgia and contemporary engineering.

• Background: This seventh-generation model follows a long drought for Nissan performance fans in Singapore. It draws direct design inspiration from its predecessors, particularly the original S30 Fairlady Z and the Z32-generation 300ZX.

• Technical Specs:

  • Engine: A 3.0-liter twin-turbocharged V6 engine, a significant shift from the naturally aspirated engines of past models.

  • Power: It delivers a peak output of 400 bhp and 475 Nm of torque.

  • Transmission: While the preview model featured a nine-speed automatic with paddle shifters, it is also available internationally with a six-speed manual gearbox.

  • Layout: Classic front-engine, rear-wheel-drive configuration for traditional sports car handling.

• What Makes It Special:

  • Retro-Modern Styling: The car’s rear combination lamps are a direct homage to the Z32 300ZX, while its long hood and short deck silhouette mirror the original 240Z.

  • Analog Heritage: The dashboard features three analog gauge clusters (boost, turbo speed, and voltmeter). It maintains a tactile, old-school feel amidst a modern 12.3-inch digital instrument display.

  • Intelligent Tech: Despite its retro soul, it includes Nissan Intelligent Mobility technologies. Such as advanced driving assistance systems to enhance safety and control.

Nissan’s EV Selection

While the Z-car stole the spotlight, Nissan also displayed a very complete electrified range. This includes the all-new Serena e-POWER SMART 8, which is perfect for families needing versatility with its 7 and 8-seat configurations. The best part? Their e-POWER technology gives you an electric-drive experience without ever needing to plug in for charging.

Not forgetting the Nissan Note e-POWER, Nissan Kicks e-POWER in Premium, and the Nissan X-Trail e-POWER e-4ORCE. They all offer an electric-drive experience without plug-in charging. Also on show are the fully electric Nissan Ariya EV and the Nissan Qashqai mild-hybrid.

Final Thoughts

The Singapore Motorshow 2026 is getting better and more impressive every single year. Whether you are a hardcore petrolhead or someone looking for your first EV, there is so much to discover.

We are already in anticipation for more futuristic tech that awaits in 2027. See you there!