Each year brings new innovations and exciting developments in the motor trade, and 2016 looks set to up the stakes. The world’s leading manufacturers have revealed dynamic new hybrids, top of the range supercars and vehicles perfectly suited to our ever-changing needs for the new year; in this article we take a closer look at five stand-out examples to watch for in 2016.
Aspirational: Aston Martin DB11
Having thrilled the motoring world over the past decade with its effortless cool and superlative performance, the Aston Martin DB9 is to be phased out and replaced by a new model, the DB11.
While its hefty £170,000 price tag places this firmly in the aspirational bracket, those fortunate enough to afford such luxury won’t be disappointed.
A turbocharged V12 may power the DB11, although rumours suggest a Mercedes V8 twin-turbo engine could also feature.
With remodelled interior, luxurious touches and modified bodywork, the DB11 will look as stunning as its predecessor, and may outperform it too when it rolls off the production line in late 2016.
Market-busting SUV: Dacia Duster
At an estimated £9,000 the Dacia Duster is the cheapest car on our list, and combines excellent value, supermini-like insurance policy costs and excellent cabin space.
One of the better SUV options at its price point, the revised Duster benefits from updated styling, cracking interior flexibility and decent performance across its 1.5 litre diesel and 1.6 litre petrol variants.
All models are fairly thrifty, and the choice will be enhanced with a new 1.2 litre turbo option which should reach 50 mpg. The updated Dacia has been on sale in Europe for a couple of years but comes fresh to the UK market in Spring 2016.
Supercar superstar: Lamborghini Huracan Spyder
The Italian supercar giant have long been associated with some of the greatest driving machines that money can buy, and the new Huracan Spyder beautifully complements the existing range.
With the folding fabric roof down, the convertible Huracan oozes kerb appeal that is only enhanced when you take to the road. With a top speed in excess of 200 mph, and a dizzying 3.4 second 0-60 acceleration, this is yet another thoroughbred in a long line of classy Lamborghinis.
Its price tag of close to £200,000 does however mean that you won’t see too many on trade plates!
Hybrid appeal: Peugeot 308 R Hybrid
Hybrid cars are becoming ever more popular, and Renault appear set to revolutionise the hot hatch market with their new 308 R model.
By combining the existing turbo power of its 267 bhp engine with a pair of electric engines, the car will roar from 0-60 mph in less than 4 seconds, and output a staggering 493 bhp.
Four distinct driving modes can be selected, and the hybrid also benefits from four wheel drive. While the high performance figures appear to be a contrast to the safe, economical view of the hybrid, this marvel will also emit just 70 g/km CO2 and can be driven purely on its electric engines, making it among the most efficient cars in the world.
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Mid-range competitor: Renault Megane
The Ford Focus has long been the champion among the mid-size family market for both new and used cars, but it could well face its biggest challenge yet with Renault’s revamped and restyled Megane.
Boasting a stunning visual impact, thanks to sleek lines and C-shaped headlights, the Megane really ups the ante with its in-car gadgets and refinement.
Most models will feature 7 or 9 inch touchscreen displays, while the high-end sporty GT will marry sports seats, 18 inch alloy wheels and a range of efficient new petrol or diesel engines.
Previous criticism of the Megane’s poor quality finish will be blown away by this much-improved Megane, a serious competitor in the important family car sector.
