New cars to look forward to in 2018
Whether you’re looking for an SUV, supermini or family hatch, there will be something to suit all tastes for new car buyers in 2018.
2018 promises to be an exciting year for new car releases
Here we take a look at some of the most exciting models due for launch in 2018.
City cars
Ford Fiesta Active
The newest addition to the best-selling Fiesta line-up is the Active trim, the first-ever crossover Fiesta model. Set for release in January, this car offers rugged SUV styling with all the driving dynamics you’d expect from a hatchback Fiesta. Inside, bespoke detailing and a smart 8-inch colour touchscreen create the perfect driving environment.
MG3
This small hatchback will benefit from an updated exterior and fresh interior, expected to follow styling cues from the MG ZS SUV, which was released earlier this year.
Kia Picanto X-Line
The smallest car in Kia’s line-up gets a crossover make-over with updated body cladding, suspension lift, SUV-like bumpers and raised ride height. We’re spotting a trend here…
Hot hatches
Ford Fiesta ST
Fans of fast Fords will be pleased to hear that the all-new Fiesta ST promises to be the most powerful yet. The new 1.5-litre, three-cylinder turbo engine will produce 197bhp with peak torque up to 290Nm. It is expected to arrive in early 2018 and be priced under £20,000.
Mercedes-AMG A 45
Need even more power? The next-generation Mercedes-AMG A 45 won’t disappoint, its 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo is likely to produce over 400bhp – making it the world’s most powerful hot hatch. But you’ll need to wait for this one; it’s due to be released in late 2018, and is expected to be priced around £45,000.
Hyundai i30N
Hyundai’s first-ever performance hatch will be arriving early next year. The turbocharged 2.0-litre engine can reach up to 271bhp and zoom from 0–62mph in just 6.1 seconds with the optional performance package. Sports styling tweaks, supportive seats and generous equipment levels make this a solid contender in the competitive hot hatch segment. Orders can be placed from 4th January, with prices starting at £24,995. Contact your local Hyundai branch for more information.
Family cars
Ford Focus
The 2018 Ford Focus will benefit from a completely new, more practical shape. The only official image released so far by Ford (above) shows a new model with a more sophisticated and distinctive appearance. Buyers are likely to be able to choose between the 1.0- and 2.0-litre, three-cylinder EcoBoost engines, both of which offer an ideal mix between power and efficiency. Official pricing and release dates are yet to be announced.
Kia Cee’d
The Kia Cee’d should be almost unrecognisable when the new model launches in 2018. The Mk3 Cee’d will spearhead a new design direction from the manufacturer, taking cues from the Pro_cee’d model that was showcased at the Frankfurt Auto Show earlier this year (pictured above). Expect a dramatically different body style, with sloping roof, sleek lines and large ‘tiger-nose’ grille. Further details and pricing are yet to be announced – so watch this space!
Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan
For families looking for something a bit larger than a standard hatch, with all the flexibility you’d expect from an MPV (but none of the boxy dimensions), the Volkswagen Golf Sportsvan is a great bet. New features on the facelifted model include traffic jam assist, an updated infotainment system, emergency braking and the latest TSI and TDI petrol and diesel engines. Orders can be placed now, with deliveries expected early 2018. Prices start at £18,795.
SUVs
Volvo XC40
Volvo’s first compact SUV focuses on individuality and playfulness, with dozens of possible colour combinations, materials and patterns to choose from. Volvo’s designers took inspiration for the worlds of fashion, architecture and even cartography to craft this thoroughly modern and distinctive SUV. In terms of technology, the XC40 is one of the best-equipped models on the market, with class-leading safety features, wireless phone charging and Harmon Kardon speakers providing optimal comfort inside. The XC40 is available to order now, with deliveries expected in spring 2018. Prices start at £27,905. Contact your local Arnold Clark Volvo branch for more details.
Volkswagen Polo SUV (T-Cross)
Volkswagen released its Golf-inspired T-Roc this year, and has set its sights on giving its much-loved Polo the SUV treatment in 2018. This mini SUV was spied testing recently in Finland. Although the particulars have been kept under wraps, we can see that the T-Cross is likely to be styled similarly to the T-Cross Breeze concept that was showcased at the Geneva Motor Show 2016 (pictured above). Due to be released mid-2018, the T-Cross is reported to have a starting price of £15,000, rising to £25,000 for top-spec models. We’ll be keeping an eye out for more details!
Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio
Alfa Romeo impressed this year with hit releases Stelvio and Giulia Quadrifoglio. Its plan for 2018? Mesh them both together! The upcoming Stelvio Quadrifoglio is a performance SUV that has already set the new lap record for an SUV on the Nürburgring circuit. Its 503bhp 2.9-litre bi-turbo V6 engine with eight-speed auto gearbox is sure to get pulses racing and neat touches inside, such as the Alcantra leather and carbon-backed seats, add a little slick to this stylish SUV. Arriving in the UK next summer, this rear-powered rocket is expected to be priced around the £65,000 mark.
Mitsubishi Shogun Sport
This 7-seat SUV is a tough off-roader with plenty of features to assist drivers in all terrains. From hill descent assistance to off-road traction control and multiple drive modes – there’s nothing the Shogun Sport can’t tackle. Expect a roomy cabin and high levels of standard kit in this gargantuan SUV. Arriving in spring, pricing yet to be announced.
BMW X2
Combining the sleek proportions of a coupé with the robust looks of the BMW X range, the X2 is sure to deliver on style. The interior detailing and standard equipment levels are in keeping with the high standard you’d expect from BMW, and the xDrive AWD system offers perfect harmony between sporting dynamics and efficiency. Arriving early next year, prices will start at £33,980. For more information or to place an order, contact your local BMW branch.
Executive cars
Vauxhall Insignia GSi
The hottest version of the current Insignia is powered by a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that offers an output of 252bhp and 295lb ft torque. The new model can lap the Nürburgring circuit quicker than its predecessor, despite having less horsepower on paper. This is attributed to improved agility and weight, and the addition of a new four-wheel-drive system. Inside, bespoke leather upholstered sports seats are complemented by a leather-wrapped steering wheel and metal pedals. Set for launch in March 2018.
Mazda 6
This good-looking saloon gets a facelift next year, with updated styling, handling and ride. Elegant and precise lines freshen up the 6’s image while new tech offerings such as the seven-inch digital instrument cluster and eight-inch infotainment screen broaden its appeal. Attention has been made to making the new model more comfortable to drive, with changes being made to the steering column and chassis to improve responsiveness and rigidity. Expected to arrive in UK showrooms in late 2018, pricing not yet revealed.