If you’re like us, spending your spare time sifting through used car classifieds (international sites inclusive) could infer that most “clicked on” pre-owned cars often fall under the “aspirational” category. But as investigated in our previous popular cars feature, practical haulers also rank high on the desirability scale. You are searching for cars to actually own, which always spells good news for the classifieds. But this time round, most searched cars have an additional layer of spice, while retaining the functional aspect. What cars have you found that fit the magical middle ground? Let’s find out!

2009 Honda Civic 2.0 (M)

Those not entirely invested in Honda’s Type R addiction might not be able to tell bonafide FD2Rs apart from tastefully modded FDs, which also goes to show that the aftermarket scene is just about hanging in there in Singapore.

For a fraction of a Type R’s depreciation, you can experience a manual-equipped Civic (an increasingly rare one in fact) without the FD2R’s rock solid suspension setup. For daily duties, it has perhaps struck the sweet balance between comfort and engagement.

2008 Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution X

Opinions were split when the Evo X hit the shelves - it was heavier and also did away with the tough-as-nails cast iron 4G63 engine. But with a dual clutch (SST) option sold alongside the manual, the X’s usability reached a broader spectrum of enthusiasts, without sacrificing on brutal pace.

This listing, according to the description, is “sprayed with a gorgeous yellow that is sure to attract the attention of the chicks on the streets”. Not too sure about that, but for sure it has attracted plenty of curious clicks!

2020 Renault Megane RS

Despite a hot hatch’s tendency to be firm and less comfort-oriented, apparently a fair few of us are treating this as a winning recipe. This 2020 Megane RS listing popped up way before a Golf GTI, which goes to show that we like our hot hatches spicy.

Sure, with an automatic shifting gears now we can argue that high intensity hooning could have taken a hit. But in this shade of stealth grey packaged in a sleek yet functional form factor, Q car appeal is well and truly represented here.

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