Car manufacturers have a challenging year ahead. The government’s ZEV mandate is forcing the industry to adopt electrification or face enormous fines. While that’s a very noble gesture for the climate crisis, there’s a problem. The latest new car sales figures show private buyers simply aren’t ready to go electric. Our own statistics back this up, with just 17% of Parkers readers shopping for an EV as their next car.
Currently, EV sales are being driven by the fleet market – but their higher purchase prices and appalling residual values are pushing private buyers towards hybrid cars instead. So, if car makers have any hope of encouraging drivers to switch to an electric car in 2025, they’ll need to launch some exceptional new metal over the next 12 months.
Fortunately, car manufacturers seem to have got the hint. There are very exciting new cars due for launch in 2025, ranging from fast, luxurious electric SUVs for those who can slot an EV into their lifestyle to zippy petrol-powered hot hatchbacks for those who can’t. Scroll down for a list of all the most exciting cars coming your way soon.
The best new cars coming in 2024
1
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa's biggest SUV (so far) goes electric
There are huge changes brewing at Alfa Romeo. The Italian marque is finally ready to take electric cars seriously as, next year, it’ll swing the axe on its petrol-powered Stelvio SUV (pictured above) and replace it with an electric successor. Then, in 2026, it’ll do the same thing with its much-loved Giulia saloon.
Both cars will be built on Stellantis’ new STLA Large platform. The underpinnings promise to deliver a maximum driving range of 435 miles and, thanks to a superfast 800-volt electrical system, its batteries can charge from 10–80% capacity in just 18 minutes.
Don’t think Alfa is abandoning its performance heritage in the pursuit of eco-friendliness, though. In their punchiest trims, both the new Stelvio and Giulia will produce a whopping 954hp, which should make them plenty brisk enough to keep up with the latest BMW X5 M and M5. So, watch out Munich. Alfa’s gunning for you. Again.
Both cars will be built on Stellantis’ new STLA Large platform. The underpinnings promise to deliver a maximum driving range of 435 miles and, thanks to a superfast 800-volt electrical system, its batteries can charge from 10–80% capacity in just 18 minutes.
Don’t think Alfa is abandoning its performance heritage in the pursuit of eco-friendliness, though. In their punchiest trims, both the new Stelvio and Giulia will produce a whopping 954hp, which should make them plenty brisk enough to keep up with the latest BMW X5 M and M5. So, watch out Munich. Alfa’s gunning for you. Again.
Pros
- Maximum range of 435 miles
- Superfast 800-volt electrics
- Alfa says it'll be good to drive
Cons
- It won't have Alfa's V6
- So, it won't make a nice noise
2
Alpine A390
French sports car brand moves with the times
This one’s sure to rile up the naysayers. Alpine – the brand synonymous with lightweight sports cars – has taken the rather bold decision to make a big, heavy coupe SUV. It’s called the A390 but, because it’s based on the same underpinnings as the Parkers award-winning Renault Scenic E-Tech, there’s a good chance it’ll drive well.
It previewed the car with the A390_β concept at the 2024 Paris Motor Show – and it was there that the company’s vice president of product, Sovany Ang, confirmed to Parkers that the design was ‘85% true to the final production car.’ It’ll only be available with punchy dual-motor powertrains, too, as a signal of Alpine’s upmarket intentions.
It previewed the car with the A390_β concept at the 2024 Paris Motor Show – and it was there that the company’s vice president of product, Sovany Ang, confirmed to Parkers that the design was ‘85% true to the final production car.’ It’ll only be available with punchy dual-motor powertrains, too, as a signal of Alpine’s upmarket intentions.
Pros
- Based on the Scenic's platform
- So, it should be decent to drive
- And it'll have a good EV range
Cons
- It's going to be heavy
- No word yet on price
3
Caterham Project V
A beacon of hope for keen drivers in the age of electrification
Caterham has a very interesting year ahead. The brand is set to launch the first working prototype of the Project V – the world’s first truly lightweight electric sports car. It’ll have a kerb weight of 1,190kg, which positively insignificant for something powered by batteries.
To put that figure into perspective, it would make the Project V around 200kg lighter than the most basic Porsche 718 Cayman. To achieve this exceptional figure, Caterham has teamed up with Yamaha and Xing Mobility to produce some space age batteries that the trio claim will offer ‘top-class’ energy density.
It’ll be built almost exclusively from aluminium and carbon fibre (to keep the weight down) and it’ll be powered by a 268bhp motor on the rear axle. That’ll give it a 0–62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 143mph. Plus, because it weighs about the same as a basket of aerogel, it’ll have a maximum range of 249 miles. Colour us excited.
To put that figure into perspective, it would make the Project V around 200kg lighter than the most basic Porsche 718 Cayman. To achieve this exceptional figure, Caterham has teamed up with Yamaha and Xing Mobility to produce some space age batteries that the trio claim will offer ‘top-class’ energy density.
It’ll be built almost exclusively from aluminium and carbon fibre (to keep the weight down) and it’ll be powered by a 268bhp motor on the rear axle. That’ll give it a 0–62mph time of 4.5 seconds and a top speed of 143mph. Plus, because it weighs about the same as a basket of aerogel, it’ll have a maximum range of 249 miles. Colour us excited.
Pros
- It barely weighs more than a tonne
- That's staggering for an electric car
- It should be a riot in the corners
Cons
- Limited electric driving range
- Erm... not a lot else, really
4
Cupra Raval
Let's hope it's as good to drive as the Born
The race for EV affordability rages on – and Cupra is one of the many brands aiming for the gold. The Raval will become the new entry point to the company’s range, slotting beneath the Born and riding on the Volkswagen Group’s upcoming, pared-back MEB Entry platform.
It measures just 4.03m long (making it four centimetres shorter than a Polo) and it’ll be available with a big enough battery for a maximum range of 273 miles. It won’t be slow, either. The fastest version will have 226hp electric motor and 0–62mph time of 6.9 seconds, which puts it firmly into small hot hatchback territory. Given how much fun its big sister can be, we’re very much looking forward to trying the Raval.
It measures just 4.03m long (making it four centimetres shorter than a Polo) and it’ll be available with a big enough battery for a maximum range of 273 miles. It won’t be slow, either. The fastest version will have 226hp electric motor and 0–62mph time of 6.9 seconds, which puts it firmly into small hot hatchback territory. Given how much fun its big sister can be, we’re very much looking forward to trying the Raval.
Pros
- It's small
- It'll be cheap
- It'll be nippy
Cons
- Prices aren't yet confirmed
- Small battery = limited range
5
Dacia Bigster
It's like a Duster, only bigger
Do you like cars that have been designed to look like Lego bricks? Are you looking for a rough and tumble 4x4? Are you sick of spending more than £30,000 on your new cars? Well, it’s good news, because Dacia is launching a new family SUV.
This rather handsome beast is the Bigster. It’s Dacia’s answer to the likes of the Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan but, because it comes from the most value-driven brand in the business, it’s a lot less complicated.
It’s based on the same CMF-B underpinnings as the smaller Duster but, because Dacia is all about eking everything it can out of every penny it has, it’s stretched the chassis as far as it can go without breaking. The result is enough space the cabin for four six-footers to travel in comfort and enough space in the boot to eat 600 litres of luggage.
The most basic Bigster has a mild-hybrid three-cylinder petrol engine with front-wheel drive and a manual gearbox, but you can upgrade that with an automatic ‘box and four-wheel drive. Above that there’s a self-charging hybrid model and an LPG-infused BiFuel model. Oh yeah, and prices will start from just £27,000. That’s an awful lot of car for the money.
This rather handsome beast is the Bigster. It’s Dacia’s answer to the likes of the Ford Kuga, Nissan Qashqai and Volkswagen Tiguan but, because it comes from the most value-driven brand in the business, it’s a lot less complicated.
It’s based on the same CMF-B underpinnings as the smaller Duster but, because Dacia is all about eking everything it can out of every penny it has, it’s stretched the chassis as far as it can go without breaking. The result is enough space the cabin for four six-footers to travel in comfort and enough space in the boot to eat 600 litres of luggage.
The most basic Bigster has a mild-hybrid three-cylinder petrol engine with front-wheel drive and a manual gearbox, but you can upgrade that with an automatic ‘box and four-wheel drive. Above that there’s a self-charging hybrid model and an LPG-infused BiFuel model. Oh yeah, and prices will start from just £27,000. That’s an awful lot of car for the money.
Pros
- It looks fantastic
- Reasonably priced
- Four-wheel drive
Cons
- Small-car underpinnings
- Basic interior
6
DS No8
A new beginning for the brand
Much like Alfa Romeo, DS is currently working through its personal development plan. The No8 is the brand’s latest statement of intent – and it’s setting quite a high bar. It’s destined to become a quirkier, more luxurious alternative for the likes of the BMW i4 and Volkswagen ID.7. As benchmarks go, they’re rather difficult ones to conquer.
DS is confident in its new car’s ability, though, not least because of its claimed specs. The No8 will be built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform (which is the same collection of parts found under the likes of the Peugeot e-3008 and the Vauxhall Grandland) – and it promises a maximum driving range of up to 466 miles and as much as 375hp.
It won’t be short on technology, either. Inside, there’s a massive 16.0-inch infotainment system and a posh Focal stereo system. The chassis will also be available with DS’s Active Scan suspension, which can ‘read’ the road surface and preload the chassis, compensate for any imperfections and make the ride smoother. Allegedly.
Still not sold? Well, we should probably also mention that it’ll have a starting price of around £50,000. That sounds quite reasonable given the claims DS is making. Let’s all hope DS can get the leasing deals down to a sensible price at launch.
DS is confident in its new car’s ability, though, not least because of its claimed specs. The No8 will be built on Stellantis’ STLA Medium platform (which is the same collection of parts found under the likes of the Peugeot e-3008 and the Vauxhall Grandland) – and it promises a maximum driving range of up to 466 miles and as much as 375hp.
It won’t be short on technology, either. Inside, there’s a massive 16.0-inch infotainment system and a posh Focal stereo system. The chassis will also be available with DS’s Active Scan suspension, which can ‘read’ the road surface and preload the chassis, compensate for any imperfections and make the ride smoother. Allegedly.
Still not sold? Well, we should probably also mention that it’ll have a starting price of around £50,000. That sounds quite reasonable given the claims DS is making. Let’s all hope DS can get the leasing deals down to a sensible price at launch.
Pros
- Striking looks
- Comfortable (claimed) ride
- Interesting technology
Cons
- Leasing deals are a lottery
- Claimed range is likely optimistic
7
Fiat Grande Panda
The popular Panda finally gets refreshed
Fiat has finally given the Panda an update. The Grande Panda is the result of its labour – a funky fresh, boxy slab of nostalgia built on the same underpinnings as the rather attractive Citroen C3 SUV. It'll launch with an electric powertrain first, like its sister car, it was also designed to be compatible with a hybrid powertrain to keep its appeal as broad as possible.
For such a small car, it's loaded with clever features – but the very best is at the front. Fiat designed a integrated charging cable that concertinas out of the front bumper like a coiled hosepipe. That's solved the problem of struggling to wind a belligerent charging cable into the boot after each charging session.
It's also spacious for its size. Fiat says there are 13 litres of storage space in the dashboard alone, while its 361-litre boot is considerably larger than the C3's. Plus, Fiat also says the cabin has enough space to 'comfortably transport five people.'
For such a small car, it's loaded with clever features – but the very best is at the front. Fiat designed a integrated charging cable that concertinas out of the front bumper like a coiled hosepipe. That's solved the problem of struggling to wind a belligerent charging cable into the boot after each charging session.
It's also spacious for its size. Fiat says there are 13 litres of storage space in the dashboard alone, while its 361-litre boot is considerably larger than the C3's. Plus, Fiat also says the cabin has enough space to 'comfortably transport five people.'
Pros
- Built-in charging cable!
- Loads of space for its size
- Hybrid and electric power
Cons
- You still can't buy one
- No word on a 4x4 version
8
Ford Puma Gen-E
Sharp-driving SUV goes green
Ford has finally realised that legislators won’t let it build petrol cars forever. That’s a shame considering how good the petrol-powered Puma and Kuga are to drive. Still, Ford is at least trying to keep its model range looking as familiar as possible with this – the new, electric version of the Puma SUV.
It’s called the Puma Gen-E – and it’ll grace our showrooms in early 2025 sporting a 43kWh battery pack and a rather modest range of just 234 miles. Ford acknowledges both these figures aren’t that impressive on paper, but it insists, because the Puma Gen-E will spend most of its time dithering around town, that doesn’t really matter.
In addition, because the battery isn’t the same sort of town-powering behemoth Mercedes is shoehorning under its latest EVs, the electric Puma should drive almost as well as the petrol model. It only weighs 247kg more than the standard SUV which, for an EV, isn’t bad at all. As an added benefit, the Gen-E also has a bigger 574-litre boot thanks to an even larger underfloor storage area which Ford has dubbed the Gigabox.
To find out more, read our Ford Puma review
It’s called the Puma Gen-E – and it’ll grace our showrooms in early 2025 sporting a 43kWh battery pack and a rather modest range of just 234 miles. Ford acknowledges both these figures aren’t that impressive on paper, but it insists, because the Puma Gen-E will spend most of its time dithering around town, that doesn’t really matter.
In addition, because the battery isn’t the same sort of town-powering behemoth Mercedes is shoehorning under its latest EVs, the electric Puma should drive almost as well as the petrol model. It only weighs 247kg more than the standard SUV which, for an EV, isn’t bad at all. As an added benefit, the Gen-E also has a bigger 574-litre boot thanks to an even larger underfloor storage area which Ford has dubbed the Gigabox.
To find out more, read our Ford Puma review
Pros
- Not much heavier than the petrol
- Even bigger 574-litre boot
- Revamped interior design
Cons
- Modest electric range
- Weight will dull handling
9
Hyundai Ioniq 9
A new Range Rover rival, at a (hopefully) affordable price
This comically large slab of metal is the Hyundai Ioniq 9 – and it’s the new flagship of the Korean company’s electric car range. It offers enough space inside to carry up to seven passengers in comfort (on account of it being longer than a Range Rover) for up to 385 miles between charging stops.
It’s also quite clever. The centre console between the two front seats can slide as far back as the second row – and it has charging ports and climate controls for rear-seat occupants attached to it. There’s even a UV sanitisation station for your phone hiding on board, along with a massive 620 litres of boot space. That’s with all seven seats up, too.
Hyundai uses the same E-GMP underpinnings as the Kia EV9 and, like that car, we expect the Ioniq 9 will be quite the bargain. Expect Range Rover space and tech for the same sort of money as a fancy BMW 5 Series.
It’s also quite clever. The centre console between the two front seats can slide as far back as the second row – and it has charging ports and climate controls for rear-seat occupants attached to it. There’s even a UV sanitisation station for your phone hiding on board, along with a massive 620 litres of boot space. That’s with all seven seats up, too.
Hyundai uses the same E-GMP underpinnings as the Kia EV9 and, like that car, we expect the Ioniq 9 will be quite the bargain. Expect Range Rover space and tech for the same sort of money as a fancy BMW 5 Series.
Pros
- Vast dimensions
- Loads of technology
- Promises big comfort
Cons
- We hope it's as affordable as the EV9
- But we can't see any other flaws yet
10
Kia EV9 GT
Huge space and monstrous performance
Kia’s engineers seem to have gone quite mad. This is the EV9 GT – a massive seven-seat family bus with around 100hp more than a Mercedes-AMG A 45. Kia says it can get from 0–60mph in a rather alarming 4.3 seconds, making it the quickest block of flats we’ve yet seen by a country mile.
We reckon it’ll be much more than a traffic-light dragster, though. The standard EV9 is remarkably agile for its size – and this GT model should improve on that with some trick adaptive suspension and a new electronic limited-slip differential, both of which should help it transmit its monstrous performance to the tarmac.
Plus, to increase its appeal to marginalised petrolheads, Kia has given it the same gearshift tech as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. We can’t wait to have a go in it.
To find out more, read our Kia EV9 review
We reckon it’ll be much more than a traffic-light dragster, though. The standard EV9 is remarkably agile for its size – and this GT model should improve on that with some trick adaptive suspension and a new electronic limited-slip differential, both of which should help it transmit its monstrous performance to the tarmac.
Plus, to increase its appeal to marginalised petrolheads, Kia has given it the same gearshift tech as the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. We can’t wait to have a go in it.
To find out more, read our Kia EV9 review
Pros
- Hilarious performance
- Should handle well for its size
- Still has EV9 comfort
Cons
- It's the flagship...
- ... so it'll be expensive
11
Land Rover Defender OCTA
It's a supercar in a 4x4 costume
Land Rover has its occasional wild streak, what with its fondness for chucking supercharged V8 engines at its high-riding off roaders. But this might be its daftest idea yet. It’s called the Defender OCTA – and it’s powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre V8 engine with a monstrous 635hp. That’s 125hp more than you get from a Porsche 911 GT3.
As a result, this high-riding off-roader can get from 0–62mph in a staggering 3.8 seconds. To continue the comparison, that’s only 0.4 seconds off the pace of the GT3 – and, thanks to some clever chassis trickery, Land Rover reckons the OCTA can transmit pretty much all that power onto the ground, regardless of the terrain.
You get massive 33-inch tyres, Dakar-tested air suspension, a wider stance, 29mm of extra ground clearance and some reprofiled front and rear bumpers that improve the car’s approach and departure angles. All this performance doesn’t come cheap, however. If you want one, you’ll need to set aside £145,000.
To find out more, read our Land Rover Defender review
As a result, this high-riding off-roader can get from 0–62mph in a staggering 3.8 seconds. To continue the comparison, that’s only 0.4 seconds off the pace of the GT3 – and, thanks to some clever chassis trickery, Land Rover reckons the OCTA can transmit pretty much all that power onto the ground, regardless of the terrain.
You get massive 33-inch tyres, Dakar-tested air suspension, a wider stance, 29mm of extra ground clearance and some reprofiled front and rear bumpers that improve the car’s approach and departure angles. All this performance doesn’t come cheap, however. If you want one, you’ll need to set aside £145,000.
To find out more, read our Land Rover Defender review
Pros
- Unstoppable off-road abilty
- Supercar-slaying acceleration
- Looks fantastic
Cons
- Very expensive
- And very thirsty
12
MINI Cooper JCW
As if the Cooper S wasn't enough of a lunatic
MINI hasn’t given up on petrol power just yet. Meet the new Cooper JCW – a 225bhp pocket rocket with a BTCC body kit, a 0–62mph time of 6.1 seconds and top speed of 155mph. For something that’s the same size and weight as a training shoe, that’s a lot.
Rather worryingly, it’s also front-wheel drive. Considering how lively the Cooper S is under power, we reckon it’ll be quite the fight to keep the JCW between the lampposts – but we think that’s all part of the fun. You do at least get some upgraded adaptive suspension, which should tame what little body roll the standard car has.
But the best part about it, we think, is that rear end. The less powerful Cooper S seems rather ashamed of its petrol engine, hiding its exhaust under its rear bumper – but the JCW makes no apologies for its powertrain. You get a massive centre exit exhaust sticking out of its offensive rear diffuser. Just as God intended. Want one? Set aside £32,600.
To find out more, read our MINI Cooper review
Rather worryingly, it’s also front-wheel drive. Considering how lively the Cooper S is under power, we reckon it’ll be quite the fight to keep the JCW between the lampposts – but we think that’s all part of the fun. You do at least get some upgraded adaptive suspension, which should tame what little body roll the standard car has.
But the best part about it, we think, is that rear end. The less powerful Cooper S seems rather ashamed of its petrol engine, hiding its exhaust under its rear bumper – but the JCW makes no apologies for its powertrain. You get a massive centre exit exhaust sticking out of its offensive rear diffuser. Just as God intended. Want one? Set aside £32,600.
To find out more, read our MINI Cooper review
Pros
- Even more power than the S
- It'll handle fantastically
- And look at that exhaust!
Cons
- No manual gearbox
- No manual handbrake
13
Porsche Boxster EV
Another bold EV choice from Porsche
Porsche has made some bold decisions about electrification in the past five years. Most recently, it relaunched the Macan as an EV – which, considering the petrol Macan was the brand’s best-selling car ever and that EV sales are struggling, is quite brave. Now, it’s done the same thing with its similarly popular Boxster sports car.
Porsche hasn’t yet showed us the finished car, but it’s due to hit our showrooms in 2025 – and these spy shots of a pre-production prototype are our best look yet at the EV. We also haven’t yet received final specifications for the electric Boxster, but we know it’ll have a battery mounted mid-ship (where the engine would be on the current Boxster), the option of both rear and four-wheel drive and a maximum range of around 300 miles.
The interior is set to receive a significant upgrade, too, pinching plenty of components from the Taycan and 911. I’ll have a similar digital instrument cluster, infotainment screen and steering wheel – and, praise be, there’ll be a collection of physical climate control switches on the centre console. An electric version of the Cayman will follow.
Porsche hasn’t yet showed us the finished car, but it’s due to hit our showrooms in 2025 – and these spy shots of a pre-production prototype are our best look yet at the EV. We also haven’t yet received final specifications for the electric Boxster, but we know it’ll have a battery mounted mid-ship (where the engine would be on the current Boxster), the option of both rear and four-wheel drive and a maximum range of around 300 miles.
The interior is set to receive a significant upgrade, too, pinching plenty of components from the Taycan and 911. I’ll have a similar digital instrument cluster, infotainment screen and steering wheel – and, praise be, there’ll be a collection of physical climate control switches on the centre console. An electric version of the Cayman will follow.
Pros
- All-new chassis
- Sharp new styling
- Should be fast enough
Cons
- Charging it up
- The lack of engine noise
14
Range Rover EV
The Rangey's about to get even quieter
Land Rover has been talking about an electric version of its flagship SUV for a long time, but 2025 is the year it’ll final go on sale. Given its reputation as the king of the luxury SUV hill, it should come no surprise to you that it’ll be one of the most tech-heavy and long-legged cars in its class.
It’ll have a battery big enough to power a town, a lightning fast 800-volt electrical system and a maximum driving range of around 400 miles, which is no small feat in something with the aerodynamic properties of a house brick and the density of osmium.
Plus, because its wheels are driven by electric motors, Land Rover was able to create a sophisticated new four-wheel drive system that can independently increase or decrease the amount of torque at each wheel in as little as one millisecond (compared to 100 milliseconds in the combustion-powered Rangey). That means it should feel smoother and more luxurious to drive off-road.
To find out more, read our Range Rover review
It’ll have a battery big enough to power a town, a lightning fast 800-volt electrical system and a maximum driving range of around 400 miles, which is no small feat in something with the aerodynamic properties of a house brick and the density of osmium.
Plus, because its wheels are driven by electric motors, Land Rover was able to create a sophisticated new four-wheel drive system that can independently increase or decrease the amount of torque at each wheel in as little as one millisecond (compared to 100 milliseconds in the combustion-powered Rangey). That means it should feel smoother and more luxurious to drive off-road.
To find out more, read our Range Rover review
Pros
- Unbeatable luxury
- Impressive claimed range
- Unstoppable off-road
Cons
- Won't be as convenient...
- ... and could be even pricier
15
Skoda Elroq
It's just like an Enyaq, only smaller
Skoda’s done it again. The Elroq is a new electric SUV designed to sit beneath the Enyaq in its line-up – and can do almost everything its bigger sibling can for a lower entry price. The only thing you’re sacrificing is a bit of space, but even that’s not such a huge drawback because it still has loads of legroom and headroom in the back and a generous 470 litres of boot space.
Plus, you get the same range of powertrains as the Enyaq. The cheapest model in the range has a 52kWh battery and a 170hp electric motor, while the current top spec version has a 77kWh battery and a punchy 286hp electric motor. There’s more to come, too – Skoda is already planning a vRS variant, which we expect will have the same 340hp powertrain as the equivalent Enyaq.
If that wasn’t enough, the Elroq is also a screaming deal. Prices start from £31,500 at launch, meaning its costs about the same as its petrol-powered equivalent, the Karoq. That’s stunning value alongside similarly priced rivals such as the Peugeot e-2008 and Volvo EX30, both of which are smaller.
To find out more, read our Skoda Elroq review
Plus, you get the same range of powertrains as the Enyaq. The cheapest model in the range has a 52kWh battery and a 170hp electric motor, while the current top spec version has a 77kWh battery and a punchy 286hp electric motor. There’s more to come, too – Skoda is already planning a vRS variant, which we expect will have the same 340hp powertrain as the equivalent Enyaq.
If that wasn’t enough, the Elroq is also a screaming deal. Prices start from £31,500 at launch, meaning its costs about the same as its petrol-powered equivalent, the Karoq. That’s stunning value alongside similarly priced rivals such as the Peugeot e-2008 and Volvo EX30, both of which are smaller.
To find out more, read our Skoda Elroq review
Pros
- Plenty of space inside
- High-quality interior
- Good to drive
Cons
- Not particularly exciting
- Long range model is pricey
16
Skoda Kodiaq vRS
The weapon of choice for large, impatient families
Skoda’s fast petrol cars aren’t dead yet. Sure to be loved by time-poor families and PC plod alike, the replacement for the Kodiaq vRS is coming – and it has more power than the car that preceded it.
How much more? Well, power has jumped from 245hp to 265hp, which has trimmed the SUV’s 0–62mph time down to 6.4 seconds (an improvement of 0.2 seconds). Top speed remains the same at 144mph.
These figures don’t sound all that impressive, but the Kodaiq vRS was never about whip-crack acceleration or tyre-torturing cornering ability. It was about long-distance flexibility – and the extra poke should make it even better at belting down the motorway.
Skoda has chucked a few go-fast toys at it, though. The biggest changes are some new ventilated brake discs and the Volkswagen Group’s coveted adaptive dampers. Which we hope will have an extra squidgy function to cope with the particularly battered section of the A66 at the top of Bowes Moor. Because we’re taking it to the Lake District as soon as we can get behind the wheel.
Expect prices to start from around £50,000.
To find out more, read our Skoda Kodiaq review
How much more? Well, power has jumped from 245hp to 265hp, which has trimmed the SUV’s 0–62mph time down to 6.4 seconds (an improvement of 0.2 seconds). Top speed remains the same at 144mph.
These figures don’t sound all that impressive, but the Kodaiq vRS was never about whip-crack acceleration or tyre-torturing cornering ability. It was about long-distance flexibility – and the extra poke should make it even better at belting down the motorway.
Skoda has chucked a few go-fast toys at it, though. The biggest changes are some new ventilated brake discs and the Volkswagen Group’s coveted adaptive dampers. Which we hope will have an extra squidgy function to cope with the particularly battered section of the A66 at the top of Bowes Moor. Because we’re taking it to the Lake District as soon as we can get behind the wheel.
Expect prices to start from around £50,000.
To find out more, read our Skoda Kodiaq review
Pros
- Faster than the old car
- User-friendly interior
- Loads of room inside
Cons
- It probably won't be thrilling
- And it's expensive for a Skoda
17
Suzuki e-Vitara
Suzuki's first foray into the electric car market
Plucky little Suzuki is finally braving the electric car game with this – the new e-Vitara. It looks like a sensible little motor, too, with a pair of modest battery packs (sized at 49kWh and 61kWh), affordable battery chemistry and a simple interior with plenty of physical buttons. That means it should be a) cheap to buy and b) easy to live with.
The cheapest e-Vitara will have Suzuki’s smallest battery and a single 144hp motor on its front axle. The middling option is powered by the larger battery and a 174hp motor, while the flagship model gains an extra motor on its rear axle to boost power to 239hp. Plus, the four-wheel drive model has a Trail drive mode that promises to deliver better off-road performance.
Prices haven’t yet been announced, but we suspect the e-Vitara will be compete against the most affordable electric SUVs, such as the MG ZS EV and Volvo EX30. A starting price of around £30,000–£33,000 sounds about right to us.
The cheapest e-Vitara will have Suzuki’s smallest battery and a single 144hp motor on its front axle. The middling option is powered by the larger battery and a 174hp motor, while the flagship model gains an extra motor on its rear axle to boost power to 239hp. Plus, the four-wheel drive model has a Trail drive mode that promises to deliver better off-road performance.
Prices haven’t yet been announced, but we suspect the e-Vitara will be compete against the most affordable electric SUVs, such as the MG ZS EV and Volvo EX30. A starting price of around £30,000–£33,000 sounds about right to us.
Pros
- Reasonably priced
- Decently practical
- Off-road mode
Cons
- Modest range
- Loads of rivals
18
Toyota Land Cruiser
Legendary heavy-duty 4x4 gets an overhaul
If you want a heavy-duty modern SUV, with serious off-road and towing credentials, you’re in luck: a new Toyota Land Cruiser is just around the corner. Yes, the fabled Land Cruiser has been overhauled entirely. It retains the classic body-on-frame construction of its predecessor but uses a new chassis that's more rigid, and benefits further from technology such as electronic power steering, an electronic front anti-roll bar disconnect and advanced driver support and safety features.
It also gets bold retro-inspired styling, but no compromises have been made in terms of its off-roading capability – it still has short overhangs, so its approach and departure angles are on point. Only one powertrain option will be offered initially, which will be a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel coupled to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and 4x4 system. If the new Defender feels like it’s trying a bit too hard to be cool, this could be the ideal alternative. Expect more details soon, ahead of UK sales starting in the first half of 2024.
To find out more, read our Toyota Land Cruiser review
It also gets bold retro-inspired styling, but no compromises have been made in terms of its off-roading capability – it still has short overhangs, so its approach and departure angles are on point. Only one powertrain option will be offered initially, which will be a 2.8-litre four-cylinder diesel coupled to an eight-speed automatic gearbox and 4x4 system. If the new Defender feels like it’s trying a bit too hard to be cool, this could be the ideal alternative. Expect more details soon, ahead of UK sales starting in the first half of 2024.
To find out more, read our Toyota Land Cruiser review
Pros
- Focus on durability and usability
- Plethora of useful new tech
- Five- or seven-seat configurations
Cons
- Just one diesel engine option
- Hybrid due in 2025, but just a mild one
19
Toyota Urban Cruiser
Small, affordable and kind of funky
Look! It’s another compact electric SUV! This one’s from Toyota – and it marks the return of a rather unusual nameplate. The Urban Cruiser was a quirky experiment from the Japanese brand, launched right at the end of the 2000s, that tried to blend the looks of an SUV with the size and practicality of a family hatchback.
Now, the car has evolved into a small SUV which – surprise! – shares its underpinnings with the Suzuki e-Vitara above. That means it’ll be available with the same range of battery packs and motors, and it shares the same interior tech. Badge engineering ahoy.
It sounds like the Toyota will be a little more upmarket than the Suzuki, however. Certain versions of the Urban Cruiser will be fitted with such luxuries as an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a JBL stereo and a panoramic sunroof. We’ll get a closer look at the car at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show.
Now, the car has evolved into a small SUV which – surprise! – shares its underpinnings with the Suzuki e-Vitara above. That means it’ll be available with the same range of battery packs and motors, and it shares the same interior tech. Badge engineering ahoy.
It sounds like the Toyota will be a little more upmarket than the Suzuki, however. Certain versions of the Urban Cruiser will be fitted with such luxuries as an electrically adjustable driver’s seat, a JBL stereo and a panoramic sunroof. We’ll get a closer look at the car at the 2025 Brussels Motor Show.
Pros
- Should make a good town car
- It'll have a great warranty
- Decent optional extras
Cons
- Short-ish EV range
- It's a little anonymous
20
Volkswagen ID.2
The first truly affordable European EV
Remember the Cupra Raval from above? Well, the ID.2 is its Volkswagen-badged counterpart. It’s also based on the Group’s MEB Entry architecture and it’ll share the same maximum output of 226hp and the same maximum driving range of 280 miles.
Volkswagen has already previewed the production car with the ID.2all concept – and, as that bon mot badge suggests, it was designed to be an affordable electric car for everyone. The brand has already confirmed the car will cost ‘less than €25,000’ (around £22,000) by the time it hits the showrooms, which could make it the first European EV that can compete with the incoming Chinese electric cars on price.
Volkswagen has already previewed the production car with the ID.2all concept – and, as that bon mot badge suggests, it was designed to be an affordable electric car for everyone. The brand has already confirmed the car will cost ‘less than €25,000’ (around £22,000) by the time it hits the showrooms, which could make it the first European EV that can compete with the incoming Chinese electric cars on price.
Pros
- VW says it'll be cheap
- The top-spec car should be nippy
- Looks great
Cons
- That price is still a target
- It's been delayed before
21
Volvo EX90
It's like an XC90, only it's battery powered
Volvo took its sweet time with this one. It’s been two years since the EX90 was first shown to us but, starting in 2025, you’ll be able to put one on your driveway for a mere £100,000.
That’s an awful lot of money for a Volvo – but it’s also an awful lot of car. You get seven seats, a stunning interior, class-leading safety performance and exceptional refinement. Plus, every EX90 has a huge 111kWh battery that furnishes it with a maximum real-world driving range of around 300 miles. For something this big, that’s not bad at all.
To find out more, read our Volvo EX90 review
That’s an awful lot of money for a Volvo – but it’s also an awful lot of car. You get seven seats, a stunning interior, class-leading safety performance and exceptional refinement. Plus, every EX90 has a huge 111kWh battery that furnishes it with a maximum real-world driving range of around 300 miles. For something this big, that’s not bad at all.
To find out more, read our Volvo EX90 review
Pros
- Comfortable ride
- Whisper quiet inside
- Space for seven passengers
Cons
- Frightening price
- Irritating touchscreen foibles
The best new cars coming in 2025: buyers’ guide
If you’re thinking about buying a new car, it’s well worth investigating how old the model in question is, and whether it’s about to be replaced. Crucially, this can help avoid significant disappointment: you don’t want to buy a new car and then find its successor is just around the corner, packing the latest in desirable technology, design and features.
Alternatively, if you’re not fussed about the latest and greatest, it’s still essential to check if a new model is upcoming – because, if it is, you stand to get a better deal on the car you’re interested in now. The launch of a new generation of a car usually leads to discounts on the outgoing version, knowledge which you can use to potentially net yourself a better bargain when you’re shopping.
If you’re thinking of buying a car now, it’s also worth considering delivery times. A car you order now might not arrive for some time, at which point its successor might be available. You get your new car, sure, but it’s the previous-gen model with older tech, styling and capabilities, and its residual values and running costs might also be worse than the newer offering. A quick 10-minute internet search could help you avoid this, so bear it in mind.
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