FORD KH LASER 5D HATCHBACK (1991-1992)
THIS is the Laser that lost it, despite having excellent (Mazda Astina-donated) dynamics. Its US-designed body was bloated, losing any of the old bubble model's appeal. Class-leading cabin space was the upshot. Power steering was optional but very necessary. It became the last Laser to be locally made.

DAEWOO 1.5i 5D HATCHBACK (1994-1995)
GOOD cabin space, hatchback practicality and pleasant styling is about all the 1.5i offers. Otherwise you're left with a very old (1984-1991) GM Vauxhall Astra built down to a price in South Korea. Its 57kW 1.5 engine is adequately powerful. Everything else feels decades behind the rest. Only if very cheap.

NISSAN N14 PULSAR 5D HATCHBACK (1991-1993)
THE last local Pulsar had real quality, with impressive performance from its 81kW 1.6, great economy and efficiency, keen handling, a good ride and refined cabin comfort. Cap all that off with Nissan reliability and durability and you've got one satisfying hatch. Plus its '95 N15 successor wasn't as good.

MAZDA 323 5D HATCHBACK (1989-1994)
THE quality, Japanese-made Astina hatchback combines style to the 323's usual long array of core attributes, that include above-average performance, handling, economy, comfort, versatility and reliability. Its 76kW 1.8 engine loves a rev too. Great resale value reflect this model's enduring popularity.