As we head into 2018, it’s time to say goodbye to some of the cars we love. But fear not! There will be more up-to-date replacements. Here are some of the ones that are due their curtain call, along with what we know about their 2018 replacements.
Goodbye, then, to the following models:
Dacia Duster
The Dacia Duster was the car that parent company, Renault, used to launch the brand into the UK back in 2012. It has always represented terrific value for money as a no-nonsense family motor.
As the old Duster gets taken to the cleaners, a new one will sweep in – expect it to be more refined, more expensive and less cheap and cheerful - but probably still great value.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
It looks like variants of Germany’s iconic off-roader, The G-Class, will also bite the dust. The G-Class is based on the original G-Wagen, a 40-year old design.
Mercedes says a replacement is due (set to debut at the Detroit Motor Show in January 2018) and although it will retain the iconic looks, it will be a completely different vehicle.
Suzuki Swift
The current third-generation Swift, Suzuki’s top-selling compact car, ticked more boxes than ever before and was a worthy competitor to the ubiquitous Fiesta.
The 2018 Swift has been given a complete overhaul with all-new underpinnings and a wheelbase that’s been extended by 20mm to increase interior space. It’s also got fresh new looks, which aren’t entirely dissimilar to the outgoing model but which look a lot sleeker than before.
Nissan LEAF
The original Nissan LEAF was a game changer when it debuted in 2011, as the first pure EV that was capable of offering a decent electric range. Back then, 155 miles to a charge was impressive, but it now lags behind more up to date rivals.
A new LEAF is imminent, but it looks far more conventional than the quirky original. It comes with battery upgrades and lots of new tech. Nissan also revealed a new finance package available.
Mercedes-Benz A-Class
The 2017 A-Class was a popular choice, making it into the top 10 best selling cars.
It looks set to get an overhaul in 2018, with an unveiling supposedly scheduled for the 2018 Detroit Motor Show.
Vauxhall Corsa
The current Vauxhall Corsa debuted at the 2014 Paris Motor Show. It's not the best-selling supermini in the country, that's the Ford Fiesta, but it's a consistent top three player overall.
2017 saw the release of a new Polo and a new Fiesta, meaning it's time for the Corsa to get an update to keep up with its rivals. The new Corsa is set to take styling cues from the new Astra and will be the first produced since the takeover of Vauxhall and Opel by the PSA Group. It's set to be revealed in 2018, and could cost from £10,000, although Vauxhall hints it may not be released until 2019.
