They say it's a man's world, and that cool cars are sure-fire "chick magnets", but these kinds of sexist conventions really ought to be turned on their heads. Women these days aren't content with admiring good-looking cars from a distance, instead, they're buying them for themselves, and making a bold statement about their independence at that. If the car looks good and performs on other ways, i.e. comes with a reasonable price tag, low running costs and manoeuvrability - all the better!
Sure, women are very practical shoppers, but the truth of the matter is, they also want cars that they can feel sexy in. In the age-old question "What do women want?" we can safely say that women want sexy cars. Of course, some cars are better than others at arousing the passions of a female buyer, and hey, it doesn't have to come in pink! After all, sexy is as sexy does! Check out our list of Asian cars with definite powers of seduction:
1 Nissan 370Z Roadster It's not just men who can appreciate smooth curves, and this has got to be one of the sexiest convertibles around. Like a beautiful women in a red dress, it's smooth curves turns heads; it's 3.7-liter V6 engine packs a serious punch. Reviewers have noted that the steering is accurate and responsive, and the grip is hard even in tight bends. Though this is a powerful car, it delivers nothing but poise and precision, as well as stability, which inspires confidence in the driver. It also revels in being pushed, which should suit women who like to take it to the limit. The car's rev matching system also makes you look like a pro behind the wheel. If you want a sports car without the hefty price tag, this could be the one for you.
2 Honda Jazz Described as "the car for those driven by themselves," this gorgeous subcompact has two things going for it - sleek good looks and immense practicality. Its small size makes it handy about town, but the new Jazz also boasts a bodacious re-crafted interior and spacious cabin. Equipped with five doors, including a hatchback, and ample trunk room, it lends itself well to busy lifestyles. Its 1.5-liter engine is fuel efficient, even with automatic transmission. Honda's hallmark quality means that it'll last. It also comes with a gunmetal mesh grille, newly-added fog lights and double aerodynamic bumpers for a sharper, sexier look.
3 Perodua Myvi Responsive and dependable, the Myvi has become one of the most popular car models in Malaysia. Although it looks compact, it actually has generous head and leg room, as well as convenient storage compartments. Women also appreciate its sporty character and refined elegance, particularly its limited edition range, which has been known to target the fairer sex. If you're a woman who loves music, check out its entertainment system, which includes an MP3/WMA player, Bluetooth and USB reader. Also to note are its new dash-mounted gear shift, chrome door handles, spoiler, round fog and rear LED lamps, and round alloy rims.
4 Toyota Prius This hybrid electric mid-size hatchback has become the car of choice for environmentally-conscious ladies, partly due to the fact that sexy celebs like Leonardo Dicaprio and Cameron Diaz have also opted for this ride. The Prius gets you going in style, but is kind to Mother Nature. Rated by the EPA and CARB as one of the cleanest vehicles around, it's so quiet that the Wall Street Journal has called it a 'possible safety risk'! The low-noise factor isn't likely to perturb female buyers though, because quiet equals calm, and what women wouldn't want to welcome more zen in her life? If rising fuel prices are anything to go buy, shoppers will continue to scramble for the Prius.
5 Mazda MX-5 Mazda's website proudly proclaims that this is "The Ultimate in Convertible Cars," and they're not kidding. The MX-5, also known as the Miata, is officially the world's most popular open-top sports car. The multi-award winning, lightweight, two-seater roadster boasts an offront-engine and rear-wheel drive layout, which makes driving a blast. It's so well engineered that you'll feel in synergy with the car. Fusing together modern design with traditional sports car values, the MX-5 comes with minimal mechanical complexity.
6 Proton Satria Neo With the tagline "desire has a new name," the Satria Neo's engaging curves make a bold statement for the woman who drives it, with its superlative levels of ride and handling. The Satria Neo has a real X-factor and is winning hearts with its looks and value. While you're driving off into the sunset with your leading man, why not play your favourite CD or MP3 on its Blaupunkt stereo system? Surely a great way to set the mood.
7 Hyundai Tuscon Blessed with flowing curves, graceful lines and style to spare, this well-equipped compact SUV has a tilt-and-telescopic steering wheel and a driver seat that can be configured eight ways. Its 2.0-liter engine has plenty of horsepower to keep up with your daily adventures. Impressive advanced safety features include hill start assist control and downhill brake control. The tech-savvy woman will appreciate its cool tech options, like the integrated Bluetooth hands-free phone system that lets you take calls on the road. There's also the Tucson Navigation System, with a rearview camera for backing up, and XM NavTraffic, with realtime road conditions to help you avoid traffic jams and give a clear picture of alternative routes.
8 Mitsubishi Lancer To some, it's a family car, but to us, it's stylish. The sportiest option among affordable small cars, it gets stellar marks for handling and comfortable seating. Fun and safe to drive, with its 5-star ANCAP rating, the Lancer has become increasingly popular because it greatly improves from generation to generation. Available in DE, ES, GTS and Ralliart trims and features safety features like standard antilock brakes and stability control. Its Rockford Fosgate hard-drive-equipped audio system and high-tech features like keyless ignition, automatic climate control, a touchscreen navigation system and Bluetooth connectivity also draws high praise.
9 Suzuki SX4 The abbreviation SX4 stands for "Sports X-over For All Seasons," which suggests this compact all-wheel drive can help you weather the storm. What woman will say no to that? Good to drive, well-equipped and attractively priced, it gives you 4x4 looks without the high running costs. Its sporty styling also means that it doesn't look as strange as other crossovers. Its inside consists of a simple yet functional interior dressed in tasteful metallic accents. It may have been designed to function like a mini-CUV, but you can be the judge of that. The doors open at almost 90 degrees, the ceiling is high, the fabric seats are comfortable and the front view is panoramic. You need to be comfortable to be sexy, right?
10 Kia Forte Koup This compact car comes in a sporty two-door variant with an aggressive bodywork, a front bumper that adds a dose of attitude, a new billet grille and headlights. Its look comes off as clean and expressive. It also boasts of solid ergonomics and a multi-function steering wheel that comes with a switchgear for standard cruise control, hands-free calling and a six-speaker stereo. Infotainment gadgetry abound aplenty - standard Bluetooth, two 12V outlets and ports for an auxiliary audio cable and USB. You can even plug in your iPod and iPhone. The Forte Koup's 2.4-liter four-cylinder produces 173 horsepower and 168 pound-feet of torque, which makes for a decent ride.
