With the new year just around the corner, we're taking a look at some of the most eagerly anticipated cars due to be launched in 2016.
BMW M2
Image Credit: © Copyright BMW AG, München, Deutschland.
Due for release in April 2016, BMW’s M2 will become the entry level model in the M series. Customers will have a choice of a six speed manual gearbox or a seven speed automatic transmission. The automatic model will feature launch control technology, which reduces the acceleration time from 0-62mph in 4.5 seconds to 4.3 seconds. The rear-wheel drive M2 has a 3 litre engine, with 365bhp. The stylish exterior has a number of features which make it stand out from other models in the 2 series, including a new style grille, rear spoiler and four exhaust pipes. The interior is fitted with leather seats, leather covered steering wheel and aluminium footrest.
The starting price for the M2 is expected to be £44,070.
Honda NSX
Image Credit: © 2015 HONDA MOTOR EUROPE LTD
Originally planned for release in late 2014, Honda’s petrol-electric hybrid supercar is now due to be launched in 2016. It replaces the original NSX which was first produced in 1995. The new NSX boasts a twin-turbo charged V6 engine and three electric motors. Official figures have not yet been released, but an output of 550bhp is anticipated. The Honda NSX will have a nine speed automatic gearbox with dual clutch, and features four modes: Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track. Quiet mode is designed for eco friendly short journeys using battery-power, while Track mode is at the opposite end of the performance spectrum.
The Honda NSX will be priced at £120,000.
Jaguar F-Pace
Image Credit: © Jaguar Land Rover
Unveiled at the Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the F-Pace is Jaguar’s first venture into the SUV market, and it looks set to impress. Buyers will be able to choose from a petrol engine available in 2 litre or 3 litre editions, and a 3 litre diesel engine. There will be a choice of automatic or manual gearbox. The rear wheel drive version has the advantage of more economical fuel consumption, with official figures of 57.7mpg.
The Jaguar F-Pace will go on sale in April 2016, with a price tag of £34,170.
Maserati Levante
Full details of Maserati’s first SUV are not yet known, but it is understood that the car will offer strong off-road performance as well as excellent road handling, and is likely to be a convincing contender in the luxury SUV market. Components will be Maserati’s own, rather than being sourced from other parts of the Fiat Chrysler group. The official unveiling of Maserati’s SUV is expected to take place in March 2016 at the Geneva Motor Show, with production commencing in February.
Pricing for the Maserati Levante has yet to be disclosed.
McLaren 540C
Image Credit: © Copyright McLaren Automotive Limited
Set to compete with the likes of the Porsche 911 Turbo and the Audi R8, the 540C will be an entry level vehicle in the McLaren range. The car’s 3.8 litre twin turbo V8 engine will take you from 0-62mph in 3.5 seconds and can reach 199mph. These are the same engines used in the 570s, although tuned down.
With Normal, Sport and Track settings to choose from, supercar performance is accessible at a relatively low price point.
Already available to order, for a starting price of £126,000, the McLaren 540C will reach customers in early 2016.
Aston Martin DB11
Set to replace the DB9, the DB11 will become one of the core cars in the Aston portfolio. The company chose not to release a DB10 to the public, reserving its few models exclusively for use in the Bond film, Spectre. The DB11 is expected to incorporate an enhanced turbocharged version of the V12 engine, while the electrical systems are thought to be supplied by Mercedes. Aston Martin are likely to launch the DB11 at the 2016 Geneva Motor Show, with first deliveries to customers later in the year. The Aston Martin DB11 may not be available until late 2016, but it will be well worth the wait.
The estimated price for the DB11 is £170,000.
Lamborghini Huracan LP610-4 Spyder
Image Credit: Copyright © 2015 Automobili Lamborghini S.p.A.
The Spyder brings a super stylish convertible edition to Lamborghini’s Huracan range. Although it is not quite as light as the coupe, the Spyder can still reach 62mph in 3.4 seconds, and has a top speed of 200mph, when the roof is down. The roof can be lowered and stowed in just 17 seconds.
Launched at this year’s Frankfurt Motor Show, the Huracan is expected to go on sale in spring 2016, retailing for around £200,000.
Tesla Model X
Image Credit: Steve Jurvetson
The all electric Tesla Model X delivers an impressive range of features as well as enviable performance standards and a sleek design. The top of the range edition can take you from 0-62mph in as little as 3.2 seconds, in its high performance mode. With seven full size forward-facing seats, the SUV makes an ideal family vehicle and also incorporates top safety technology. However, there is some debate about the efficacy of the bio weapon protection feature.
The Tesla Model X will be available in early 2016, with an estimated price of £50,000.
With such an impressive range of new models due on the market, 2016 promises to be an exciting year for car buyers.
Title Image Credit: © Jaguar Land Rover (Image Cropped)