Coronavirus has put the brakes on many things in the automotive world – not least due to factories across the world having to close as a result of the ongoing risk of the virus.
It’s meant that plenty of cars have been delayed, but with factories beginning to restart across Europe and elsewhere, there is fresh hope for the industry.
And with many manufacturers having a whole host of new models ready to debut, the rest of this year is set to be busy. Here are 10 important new models that are still set to arrive in showrooms before the end of the year…
Volkswagen ID.3
Few new cars are as important as the Volkswagen ID.3. Not only is it Volkswagen’s first bespoke EV, but the new MEB platform that it sits on will be utilised by a whole host of models from across the Volkswagen Group. The cool model signals a new start for Volkswagen, and will be an affordable Golf-sized car that offers superb interior space and a range up to 340 miles. It was due to arrive in July, but is more likely to arrive in September now.
Renault Clio Hybrid
While Renault is a known pioneer when it comes to electric cars, the manufacturer has been slow to embrace other types of electrification – namely hybrids. But later in 2020, Renault will introduce a range of hybrid models – including the Clio E-Tech Hybrid. Promising to be good to drive, as well as efficient, it’s expected to be a great, innovative addition to the Renault range. Plug-in hybrid versions of the Captur and Megane will also debut.
Seat Leon
Following in the footsteps of the eighth-generation Volkswagen Golf, which arrived in showrooms just ahead of the lockdown, the mechanically similar Seat Leon will also arrive in the summer months. With its stylish looks, new mild-hybrid tech (a first for a Seat) and option to have an estate or hatchback from launch, this new Leon is expected to be another big hit for the Spanish firm.
Skoda Octavia vRS iV
The standard version of Skoda’s new fourth-generation Octavia will arrive in showrooms in July, but the model we’re really looking forward to is the vRS iV. It will be Skoda’s first performance plug-in hybrid model, and produce 242bhp from its combined electric motor and battery and 1.4-litre petrol engine. However, it’s set to also be very cheap to run, too, thanks to its 35-mile electric range.
BMW M2 CS
The BMW M2 is already regarded as one of the best driver’s cars around, but BMW isn’t stopping there, and later this year will launch a more hardcore ‘CS’ version. With power increased by 40bhp to 444bhp, along with a host of lightweight touches – including a carbon fibre bonnet and roof – this is set to be one of 2020’s must-have sports cars. The special edition model is also set to be produced in limited numbers to add to the appeal further.
Audi e-tron Sportback
The Audi e-tron debuted last year as an upmarket electric SUV, which is brimmed with technology. It’s proven popular for Audi, and later in 2020 the brand will introduce a new Sportback variant. As with models such as the Q3 Sportback, it will feature swoopier coupe-like styling. However, the aerodynamic shape also means you can expect a few more miles of range from it – increasing to 240 miles.
Mini GP
The ‘GP’ versions are the crème-de-le-crème of Mini’s line-up, and are even sportier and extreme versions of the already hot John Cooper Works variant. The latest version will be one of Mini’s fastest models to date, and features a 302bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine that can accelerate the model from 0-60mph in just five seconds. Extreme styling also accompanies the performance, while just 575 will come to the UK. It was set to arrive in showrooms in March, though models are likely to be available as soon as dealers can reopen again.
Jeep Renegade 4xe
The Jeep Renegade 4xe will be both the brand’s first electrified model and its first plug-in hybrid car. Its launch has been pushed back by coronavirus hold-ups, but you can expect it to arrive in September now. It will be by far the most powerful Renegade to date – producing an impressive 236bhp, while also still being ‘trail-rated’ by Jeep. That essentially means it will prove unstoppable off-road.
Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA
While revised versions of both the hot Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio will go on sale in summer, the model that’s most exciting will arrive in December – the GTA. It’s essentially an even more extreme version of the Giulia Quadrifoglio, and offers increased power, an even more focused drive, greater exclusivity and a bespoke driving experience. An even more hardcore GTAm version receives additional carbon-fibre elements, as well as a stripped-out interior to save weight.
Honda Jazz
The Honda Jazz might not be in the same league as other models on this list, but there are plenty of reasons to look forward to this new small-MPV/supermini arriving in dealerships in the summer months. The model has switched to become a hybrid, while a more rugged-looking Crosstar trim level gives this popular car a new look. However, it remains as spacious and versatile as always – especially with its ‘magic’ flip-up rear seats.
