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17 Best And Most Anticipated New Cars For 2018

Vukasin Herbez September 11, 2017

After several years of economic recession that hit the automotive industry hard, most experts say they can safely say that the worst is over. The car industry has fully recovered as you can tell by the number of new models and versions they introduce each year. Although 2017 was an exciting year with many new releases and announcements, 2018 is promising to be even better.

There have never been so many new models just waiting for the major car companies to present to the eager automotive public. From economy compacts like the all-new Ford Focus to high-end sports cars and luxury SUVs, every class is represented with updated new models. So, read on to learn more about 17 of the most interesting and highly anticipated models for 2018.

For some models, it is easy to find plenty of official photos and specifications, but for some, there are only magazine renderings and sparse information. However, all these new cars will be on the road in less than a year, so now is the best time to get to know the class of 2018 in detail.

1. Audi A6/A7

Audi has updated the new generation of the highly-successful A6 and A7 models for 2018. It will feature a new design with sharper lines, a lower roofline and the signature Audi big grille. Also, the new A6 and A7 will have a lighter chassis and possibly an aluminum body for weight reduction and improved performance. After the new A8, which they introduced earlier this year, you can expect similar turbo and supercharged engines for the A6, as well as some new drivetrain options.

Almost certainly, the base A6 will be front-wheel drive and the Quattro AWD system will be optional. The more powerful versions will come with AWD as standard. Recently, Audi announced it is thinking of introducing a new way of naming models according to the engine power. If this new nomenclature gets the green light by company management, you can expect them to introduce the new Audi A6 and A7 in 2018.

2. Land Rover Defender

They discontinued the original Defender in 2016, but you can still find some leftover models at the Land Rover dealership. This Land Rover was one of the models with the longest lifespan in the whole car industry. The first Series 1 model appeared in 1948. Over the years, they have improved and redesigned the Defender many times. However, it has still retained its rugged exterior, exceptional build quality, and uncompromised off-road capabilities.

The Defender would still be in production if it wasn’t for modern safety and environmental standards, which forced Land Rover to retire this iconic vehicle. That is why the new Defender is on its way for 2018. The final design should look like the DC 100 concept from 2011. Unfortunately, no further information is available, so no one knows what to expect in terms of engines or equipment. However, Land Rover never disappoints, so you can be sure the new Defender will fulfill the high expectations of off-road driving fans.

3. Buick Regal

Buick has released the new, second-generation Buick Regal or Opel Insignia in Europe as a 2018 model. For Buick and North American buyers, this is an important model since the previous generation saved the company. In fact, the success of the 2011 to 2017 Regal helped Buick stay profitable and relevant in the highly competitive mid-size sedan class.

Their new model has to continue the trend and also attract new customers, but it should be easy, thanks to the redesign. They created a slightly longer and wider body for the new Regal. Buick also added a four or six-cylinder engine that delivers a lot of power thanks to turbochargers. The base version will have a front-wheel drive with all-wheel drive as optional.

Interestingly, Buick will offer a station wagon body style, which is unique since SUVs killed the wagon market. The most interesting Regal will be the mighty GS in a performance version. It is due for release in the second half of 2018. It will feature a 310 HP turbocharged engine and a host of performance upgrades.

4. Toyota Supra

For a few years, numerous spy photos of Toyota’s new sports car have intrigued the automotive public. All most people know for sure is that they have named it the Supra. It will continue the tradition of fine, rear-wheel drive sports coupes from Japan. The Supra will feature brand-new styling and engines, as well as a platform they developed in cooperation with BMW. Also, the new Supra will debut in 2018 in its production form.

Back in 2014, Toyota introduced the FT-1, a sports coupe concept that sparked big interest from performance car fans and announced Toyota’s return to the segment. Some rumors say the base version will have around 300 HP, and more powerful models will follow.

Also, BMW is working on a new Z4 roadster which will have the same platform as the new Supra, but it will debut in 2020. Since the Supra is in the final stages of testing and finishing, you can expect the official announcement soon.

5. Volvo XC40

After the success of full-size XC90 and mid-size XC60, Volvo has prepared a compact-sized SUV with the same features and design cues as its bigger brothers. Most people know the SUV as a class is dominant these days. Volvo wants to be a part of the wave of compact, but spacious SUVs with premium equipment and an upscale look and feel.

Competitors like the BMW X1 and Audi Q3 are already established on the market and Volvo wants its share of the action with the XC40. They plan to start selling the car during the first half of 2018. You can expect it to come with several engines, all turbocharged with a possible hybrid option. They plan to issue a performance version later in the year, which they are calling the R model. Knowing new Volvo products, you can expect better driving and more refined models than their competitors.

6. BMW X7

The luxury SUV class is hotter than ever. After the release of the Bentley Bentayga, other high-end manufacturers are busy preparing similar models. In 2018, car enthusiasts can expect a new, full-size, super luxury SUV from BMW in the form of the X7. The X7 will be larger than the X5. It will have three rows of seats, an interior with every conceivable option including leather, and the finest wood.

Also, it will feature an updated design, with the signature BMW front end and a host of powerful engines, which are necessary to move this monumental SUV. BMW offers powerful six, eight and even 12-cylinder engines. The base version will have a 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine and the top of the line model will sport a V12 from the 7-Series limousine. There are no official photos, just magazine renderings and spy pictures, but the official premiere should be in the second part of 2018.

7. Kia Stinger

One of the biggest surprises for 2018 is the new Kia Stinger, and car enthusiasts are already crazy about it. So, how is it possible for a boring brand like Kia to generate such hype? It looks like the Korean brand has introduced a genuinely good-looking, fast, powerful and affordable sports sedan. Basically, Kia has made the perfect BMW, since BMW has moved on to more luxurious, heavier and expensive models.

The Stinger has rear-wheel drive and optional all-wheel drive, which is new for Kia’s non-SUV models. Under the hood, there are two engines. Their turbocharged four-cylinder will deliver 255 HP and their twin-turbo V6 will pump 365 HP. The acceleration times are up to 60 mph in around 4.9 seconds for the twin-turbo V6 version. This is respectable for any model, especially coming from an economy car bran,

such as Kia.

The Stinger will also come with a nice selection of standard equipment and a long list of optional extras. Nobody expected this move from Kia, but the automotive public is excited about the Stinger. In fact, it is one of the most anticipated car premiers for 2018. Kia has not revealed any information on the pricing, it will most likely be a lot less than the comparable Audi or BMW 3-Series.

8. Jeep Wrangler Pickup

Ever since the Gladiator Concept, Jeep fans have been demanding Jeep produce a pickup version of their favorite SUV. There are even independent small specialist shops that can convert it; however, it lacked a factory model – at least until now. For 2018, Jeep is preparing a new Wrangler model with an updated platform, engines, interior and overall design. They will also include a new pickup version.

Jeep enthusiasts worldwide are excited because they can finally use their Wranglers for work and transporting things, instead of just for off-road driving. The factory hasn’t revealed any official photos, but there are a lot of spy pictures floating around the internet. So far, all anyone knows is that Jeep will produce a crew cab Wrangler with four doors and truck bed, but they could introduce a single-car option soon.

No one knows much about the engine, except the diesel option will be available for North American buyers. However, this will be a welcomed addition to Jeep family. The production version will debut at the North American Car Show in Detroit in January 2018.

9. Lexus LS

Another upper-class model for 2018 is the all-new Lexus LS. The LS moniker is well-known among luxury car buyers as one of the most prestigious Japanese cars. The new LS has a tough job of competing with the Mercedes S-Class, the all-new Audi A8, the BMW 7-Series, the Jaguar XJ and a future model from Cadillac.

Lexus has revealed the official photos and most details of the new LS. The engine lineup starts with a base 3.5-liter V6 and will include V8 engines. Lexus will offer several hybrid options, as well. They plan to make this model available in early 2018.

10. Alpine A110

The legendary Renault Alpine A110, a rally legend and one of the best sports cars from the early 70’s finally have a modern version. For years, Renault has teased performance car fans with concepts and announcements. Finally, in 2017 they announced they would have a production-ready car available for early 2018. If you are familiar with the classic Alpine, you will instantly recognize the shape and the idea behind this fabulous car.

The Alpine is a small, lightweight sports coupe, with a rear-mounted engine and rear-wheel drive. It provides a high level of driving excitement and an unparalleled road holding and feel. And that was Renault’s exact idea behind the new Alpine A110. This small coupe weighs just over a ton and has a 1.8-liter turbocharged four-cylinder behind the driver to power the rear wheels.

It has more than adequate power with a 252 HP engine that runs through a seven-speed dual-clutch gearbox. The specifications are fantastic and acceleration times are under five seconds. This is one of the biggest affordable sports car premieres coming, and lucky buyers can expect their Alpine in early 2018.

11. Mercedes AMG GT Sedan

It is no secret that Mercedes AMG is an ambitious division of the Daimler Benz company when you look at their current lineup. They cover almost all segments, from the A45 AMG hot hatch to the super powerful G65 SUV, and from the crazy fast AMG GT coupe to the roadster. But, despite having powerful sedans in form of the C, E and S-Class AMG, Mercedes doesn’t have a four-door sports car.

That is why Mercedes is planning a four-door version of AMG GT sports coupe. It may seem like a crazy idea, but it’s also a crazy-interesting concept for every performance car enthusiast. The goal is to present a Mercedes that could beat the Porsche Panamera, not only as a luxury model but also as a sports car with four doors. When Mercedes presented the AMG GT Sedan concept this year, it was clear that a thoroughbred sports sedan was going to happen soon.

The prototypes are already in the final testing phase and they have set the official presentation date for 2018. You can be sure they’ll include a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 under the hood to deliver at least 475 HP.

12. Ford Focus

The fourth generation of Ford’s global best-seller, the compact Focus is on the way for 2018. Even though the current generation is still a fresh, attractive model, Ford knows that tightening competition from Mazda, Toyota and Honda demands an even hotter, newer model.

That is why they plan to present the new Focus soon. It will be available globally in the first half of 2018. Don’t expect a radical departure from existing style or technology. In fact, the design of the fourth generation will include improved looks of the current model. The interior will feature more space and better materials, as well as an updated design of the dashboard. The engine lineup will include some more powerful four-cylinder power plants. They plan to turbocharge every engine since Ford is one of the pioneers of downsizing modern turbo technology.

Ford will add some well-known and highly-anticipated performance versions like the ST or RS later. But, in the first year, expect a five-door hatchback and wagon in regular trim.

13. BMW 3-Series

BMW has developed the next BMW 3-Series under the codename “F20,” and it will debut in 2018. Over two years, various prototypes have emerged all over the world during testing in different conditions and road surfaces. That shows how serious BMW is about their new model. The 3-Series is their most popular and iconic series, but competitors like the Mercedes C-Class, the Cadillac ATS and the Audi A4 have moved into BMW’s territory and sales.

The next 3-Series will feature a radical redesign, new platform and engines, and possibly some new sub-models like a minivan. However, they have confirmed nothing. Unfortunately, they may downsize their engine lineup with base engines under 1.5-liters of displacement.

BMW has split the 3-Series into two models. The 3-Series is the sedan and wagon, and the 4-Series is a coupe and convertible. They plan to continue this form of naming their new offerings to the next generation, as well.

14. Cadillac CT8

Cadillac has been trying to reinvent itself and reclaim its position as the world’s leading luxury brand for a long time now. After the successful ATS and CTS models, as well as the elegant CT6 limousine, the time has come for Cadillac to present the ultimate sedan in the form of the new CT8. They haven’t confirmed anything yet, but it’s clear Cadillac is working on a super luxury model with a new, unique platform, engines and design.

This model should exceed the new CT6 by featuring an unbelievable level of luxury and style. They will offer V8 engines exclusively, as well as rear-wheel drive with AWD as an optional extra. They plan to issue a possible hybrid version and even a coupe model later. Sources claim Cadillac will present the new CT8 in 2018 with sales following shortly.

15. Audi Q8

Another highly-anticipated Audi for 2018 is a super luxurious SUV called the Q8. Audi will place it above the existing full-size Q7 and pair it with the newly introduced A8 sedan. The Q8 will battle the new BMW X7, the Cadillac Escalade, the Lincoln Navigator and the Mercedes GL-Class for the title of the most opulent, luxurious and spacious SUV on the market. The basis for Q8 is the Q7 platform but they have stretched it to accommodate a third row of seats and more trunk space.

These two cars will share most of the same mechanic components and engines, but the Q8 will be bigger, as well as more upscale and expensive. Expect the premiere in the first part of 2018 and sales will start around mid-year. The base model will feature a 3.0-liter supercharged V8, along with Audi’s signature all-wheel drive they call the Quattro.

16. Jaguar I-Pace

After the big success of the F-Pace SUV, which introduced British performance and sports styling to the SUV audience, Jaguar is planning a fresh model with an interesting twist. The new I-Pace is a crossover/SUV electric model with Jaguar’s signature styling. It will have space for five adults and zero emissions.

Interestingly, Jaguar has developed their electro motors and battery pack in-house. The new I-Pace will have a speed range of around 220 miles. The factory is claiming a 0 to 60 mph acceleration time of 4.0 seconds, which is quite fast. Jaguar has announced the car officially and revealed the basic specifications. It should arrive in 2018, but at a high price of approximately $90,000.

17. Chevrolet Corvette Zora

The most famous American sports car, the Chevrolet Corvette will make big news in 2018. The current C7 generation will be sublime powerful and crazy fast with the ZL-1 option. But, similar to Camaro’s ZL-1, it will also feature a new sub-model. For the first time in the 64-year history of Corvette, there will be a model with an engine behind the driver.

The mid-engine Corvette will be closer to the Ferrari 458 than to a muscle car and this is big news, indeed. This is because most Corvettes have become too powerful. The classic front engine rear wheel drive layout is not enough for the 600+ HP that modern Corvettes produce.

That is why Chevrolet decided to fully re-engineer the car. The working name is Zora, after the famous Corvette engineer and racer Zora Arkus Duntov, but they could change it before the official release. People have witnessed prototype testing all over the country, so Chevrolet should be ready to present it to the public in production form in 2018. Although the rest of the specifications are a mystery, it will deliver 650 horsepower with a highly-possible price tag of $100,000.

If you’re in the market for a new car for 2018, you’re in luck. Your options are exciting, innovative and fresh, so get ready to shop for your dream car.

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