Christopher Tan, The Straits Times Journalist Profile

Articles

Car review: Volvo XC90 proves age is just a number

1 week ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

SINGAPORE – The saying “if it ain’t broke, don’t fix it” certainly applies to the Volvo XC90. Since the Swedish brand introduced its segment-busting seven-seat sport utility vehicle (SUV) in 2002, the car has undergone only one model change – in 2015. The XC90 has clinched several awards over its lifetime – for design, value and, notably, safety. In 2003, it was named the first Straits Times Car of the Year. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Car review: Unboxing the Xpeng X9

1 week ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

SINGAPORE – The Chinese must be head over heels in love with multi-purpose vehicles (MPV), going by how almost every brand has at least one multi-seater in its line-up. The latest to arrive in Singapore is the Xpeng X9, a 5,293mm-long, 1,988mm-wide and 1,785mm-tall carrier which stands out from the crowd with its sheer size and unconventional design. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you. CarsCar reviewElectric and hybrid vehiclesChina
Car review: How Deepal is your love?

3 weeks ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

UPDATED Mar 28, 2025, 01:00 PM
Paving the way for a financial future

1 month ago | buletinmutiara.com | Christopher Tan

THE proposed Penang International Financial Centre (PIFC) marks a significant step forward for the state, positioning it as a key player in the financial industry while complementing its existing strengths in manufacturing and the electrical and electronics (E&E) sectors.
Car review: Dial 911 for drama and driving magic with Porsche’s eighth-generation model

1 month ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

Subtle sprinter: The facelifted eighth-generation 911 retains the model's classic styling, with minor cosmetic tweaks which include new LED headlights. ST PHOTO: CHONG JUN LIANGSINGAPORE – With electric cars being so blindingly quick and effortless, will the sun be setting on combustion beefcakes like the Porsche 911? Never say never, but not just yet. Porsche sold a record 50,941 units of the 911 in 2024. This was up 2 per cent from the previous record year in 2023.
Chief Minister clarifies RM400mil fund transfer for PDC housing projects

1 month ago | buletinmutiara.com | Christopher Tan

THE Penang government has clarified recent media reports regarding the Penang Development Corporation (PDC) requesting a RM400 million fund transfer, stating that the amount is part of the proceeds from a land transaction involving the Bayan Mutiara development project in 2011. Chief Minister and PDC chairman, Chow Kon Yeow, explained that the transaction, valued at RM1.07 billion, had been deposited into the state government’s revenue account between 2011 and 2018.
How to make an impact that outlives you

1 month ago | businesstimes.com.sg | Christopher Tan

Your legacy isn’t measured by wealth alone, but by the lives you touch, the wisdom you share, and the values you upholdPublished Mon, Mar 17, 2025 · 06:03 PM[SINGAPORE] In the context of legacies, you may expect this article to talk about index-linked universal life policies (ULPs) or wills and trusts. I am not surprised. In the world of wealth management, a legacy is usually about those things. But a legacy is more than just a name on a tombstone, or assets left behind.
Car review: Audi A3 loses power, gains attractiveness

1 month ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

SINGAPORE – The Audi A3 started life as a baby to the A4. But at almost 30 years of age now, it is no longer a baby. Indeed, its size says as much, having grown considerably to match the dimensions of the first-generation A4. The A3 sedan, introduced in the latter half of the A3’s lifespan, suits the Singapore market particularly well. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
Car review: Hyptec HT electric SUV is hip, plush and full of wow tech

1 month ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

SINGAPORE – If there is a cure for jadedness which comes with driving too many homogenous electric vehicles (EVs), it has to be a car like the Hyptec HT. Hyptec is a premium brand from GAC Aion, one of the top EV-makers in China. The HT is a 4,935mm long, 1,920mm wide and 1,700mm tall full-sized sport utility vehicle (SUV) with rear gullwing doors and a huge wow factor. Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you. CarsCar reviewElectric and hybrid vehiclesChina
Car review: Civic with poise, polish and purpose

1 month ago | straitstimes.com | Christopher Tan

SINGAPORE – Let us start with the elephant in the room. At $233,999 with certificate of entitlement (COE) but before applicable discounts, the Honda Civic 2.0 petrol-electric sedan is $45,000 costlier than its 1.5-litre turbocharged twin reviewed in October 2021. Why would anyone of sound mind pick the 2-litre hybrid over the 1.5-litre turbo, when both are at a glance indistinguishable? Is authorised Honda agent Kah Motor a little mad to import the 2.0? If it is, there is method to its madness.