October's first round of COE bidding exercise saw mixed results, with premiums for Cat B and E falling, while Cat A premiums rose.

Premiums for Cat A, for cars up to 1,600cc in engine capacity and with an output of no more than 130bhp, went up by $1,507 (three percent) to end the bidding tender at $51,507.

Premiums for Cat B, larger cars with more than 130bhp or engine displacements larger than 1,600cc, decreased by $2,500 (4.5 percent) and closed at $53,001.

In Cat E, the open category, prices decreased by $1,001 (1.8 percent), with premiums closing at $54,200.

In recent months, the launch of Cat A models like the Sienta and the Caddy - both affordable multi-purpose vehicles - could account for the increase in demand for more environmentally-friendly and economically-sound vehicles. COE premiums should also hold fairly steady for now, as potential car buyers are likely holding out till November to see if COE quota increases, after the unexpected quota shrinkage in the August to October period.