SINGAPORE'S top model continues to be Korean. Where once it used to be Japan's Toyota Corolla Altis (although this is assembled in Thailand), the numbers are now firmly in the Hyundai Avante's favour and it looks like the winsome Korean sedan will go on to take the 2009 title.

With 4,472 units delivered in the first nine months of 2009, the Avante is streaking ahead of the previous bestseller, the Corolla Altis at 3,533 units.

The Avante's popularity began in December last year, boosted by an attractive low price.

Although COE premiums have since risen, the 1.6-litre Avante still starts from $50,999 with a manual gearbox - significantly less than the $65,988 of the most affordable Corolla Altis.

The latter's price is a consequence of its relatively high OMV or open market value, currently at an average of about $17,800.

Among authorised distributors in Singapore, another Korean model which is steadily speeding up the popularity charts is the Kia Cerato Forte. It has garnered total registrations of 2,470 and is now in fourth position.

Singapore's No. 1 model in 2008, the Honda Civic, is now in seventh position, slowed down by the strong Japanese yen.

The rest of the Top 10 is still filled with familiar nameplates but one surprise entry to the list is the Mitsubishi Lancer EX.

With total sales of the 1.5 and 2.0-litre variants at 1,017 units between January and September, this newer model has overtaken the ageing Lancer GLX model, which is still popular because of its low price.

But gone from the Top 10 are small hatchbacks such as the relatively premium Honda Jazz, and the Kia Picanto, once the cheapest car in Singapore before the China-made competition arrived.