Best new cars to get on the 21-plate

Best new cars to get on the 21-plate

The new registration is nearly here. We take a look at the important new cars the plate is available on

It’s amazing how quickly the latest number plate comes around, and come March 1, buyers will be able to get their hands on the new ‘21’ registration. 

Though with current restrictions you might not be able to go and visit a showroom like normal, but car dealers are still working, with plenty of options to buy a car online. 

But what are the important new cars you should look at on this new 21-plate? Let’s take a look…

BMW M3 – from £74,755

There’s always a lot of anticipation for a BMW M car, and none more so than the brand’s new M3 Competition. Now packing 503bhp, it’s quicker than ever before, and gets a range of new technologies that aim to make it more engaging than ever. 

While the M3 is a saloon, if you want something that looks even sportier, you should also look at the mechanically similar BMW M4.

Enquire on a new BMW M3

Ford Puma ST – from £30,415

Ford’s Puma proved that small SUVs could still be fun to drive, and it’s got even better with the introduction of a hot ST model, which shares an engine and underpinnings with the sublime Ford Fiesta ST. 

Packing 197bhp and available in the menacing ‘Mean Green’ colour, pictured, this is proof that practicality doesn’t have to come with compromise when it comes to sportiness.

Enquire on a new Ford Puma ST

Skoda Octavia vRS – from £30,605

You might notice our list is quite laden with performance models, and that’s because there have been some brilliant sporty cars launched recently – and the fun-but-practical Skoda Octavia vRS is a great option. 

Wrapping loads of technology, spaciousness and affordability in one package, you can choose the vRS as a hatchback or even roomier estate. This latest model is also available as a petrol, diesel or plug-in hybrid, giving you a choice of powertrain to suit your needs.

Enquire on a new Skoda Octavia vRS

Audi e-tron GT– from £79,900

Think electric cars can’t be sporty and glamorous? Well, the Audi e-tron GT certainly proves that this doesn’t have to be the case. 

Based on the Porsche Taycan, the recently unveiled e-tron GT looks set to arrive in showrooms in the spring, and boasts a superb combination of practicality, style and performance that makes it one of this year’s most desirable new cars.

Enquire on a new Audi e-tron GT

Fiat 500 electric – from £19,995

Fiat has had huge success with its petrol 500, but is now also turning its attention to a new electric model. Set to arrive in showrooms in March, it offers the charming looks this model is known for, but with completely new underpinnings. 

Boasting an electric range of up to 199 miles, a fun driving experience and plenty of technology, it’s a brilliant EV, and more appealing when it’s available for less than £20,000. 

Enquire on a new Fiat 500

Mini – from £16,800

Minis continue to prove popular, and this British brand has now updated its Hatch and Convertible models for 2021, bringing with it a more striking look, new personalisation options and more in the way of standard kit. 

If you want something small, fun and affordable, both of these models will make great 21-plate options.

Enquire on a new Mini

Peugeot 3008 – from £27,160

The second-generation Peugeot 3008 helped to establish this manufacturer’s more premium ranking, with its fantastic interior and cool design now making it one of this French firm’s best-selling models. 

Changes aren’t huge on this update, but they’re worthwhile – including the introduction of the ‘claw’ headlights seen on other Peugeots, along with more enhanced technology.

Enquire on a new Peugeot 3008

Citroen C4 – from £23,005

Citroen’s reinvented its C4 as a cool-looking, raised-up hatchback and it’s arriving just in time to get it on the new 21-plate. 

You can also choose it as an EV, with the e-C4. Boasting a 217-mile electric range and impressive levels of comfort, it could be an ideal option if you’re considering switching to an electric car.

Enquire on a new Citroen C4

Volvo XC40 Recharge P8– from £59,950

While Volvo might have been producing hybrid models for some time, this year will see the introduction of its first EV – the XC40 Recharge P8. 

Retaining the same high-quality cabin as the rest of the range, along with a new Android-based infotainment system, this new model with its 260-mile electric range looks to be a very appealing new option. 

Enquire on a new Volvo XC40

Toyota GR Yaris – from £29,995

Last but certainly not least is one of the best performance cars of recent years – the Toyota GR Yaris. 

Being based on the Yaris rally car – rather than the more sensible hybrid supermini – this Toyota is a sublime hot hatch that delivers strong performance and an even more enjoyable driving experience.

Enquire on a new Toyota GR Yaris