30 January 2015
6 Mins read

Cars to look forward to in 2015

The next 12 months are set to see a number of new models and revamped favourites on car showrooms across the UK.

It is expected 2015 will see a growth in the range of hybrid models on sale as more buyers look at eco-friendly options. It is also predicted that crossovers will feature heavily, with lots of the top car makers releasing their own versions.

Plus with a whole host of options in the SUV and supermini classes, there is bound to be something to suit the majority of budgets.

The recent Paris Motor Show saw the updated Audi TT Roadster revealed and it is set to be popular with fans of the iconic design. One of the new features is a completely electric folding fabric roof that makes being caught in the rain a little easier – there is a hard-top option available as well. Prices will start from around £30,000 for the base model.

BMW is launching its M2 in the second-half of 2015 and will build on the success of the M235i. Offering rear-wheel-drive, the car is expected to feature a 3.0-litre straight-six turbo capable of in excess of 350 bhp.

Also BMW will be releasing its 2 Series Convertible next month. The car will have the same engines as the existing 2 Series Coupe, with the top-of-the-range option offering 0-62 mph in 5.2 seconds.

The basic car will start at £29,180 and will feature Bluetooth, DAB radio and alloys as standard. Additional options will include sports seats, automatic air-con and a multifunction steering wheel.

One of the most anticipated crossovers is the Fiat 500x. Slightly larger than the standard Fiat 500, these model will make use of the Punto platform and there will be a four-wheel-drive version, as well as various petrol and diesel options. Starting around £14,000 it will be available to buy within the next few months.

Families may also be pleased to see the revamped Ford S-Max. The popular seven-seater MPV has been given a makeover and now features a number of high-tech innovations, such as a hand-free tailgate, automatic parking and power-folding seats. Ford are planning for the S-Max to be on sale by the middle of the year and prices will begin at around £24,000.

At the budget end of the market, the Honda Jazz's third generation model is due to go on sale soon. The popular supermini has had a bolder design, but will still offer the same 1.2 litre and 1.4 litre petrol options. It also continues to feature one of the largest boot spaces available in a small hatchback, with a capacity of around 400 litres.

Green motorists could be tempted by the petrol-electric Jazz Hybrid, which could help to reduce fuel consumption costs.

Vauxhall is also planning to establish more market share at the entry level, with its new Viva model. Starting at £7,500 the five-door compact will be available by spring in ten different colours. The 1.0 litre engine will offer 74 bhp and Vauxhall claim it has been built for comfort and city driving. There will be a range of additional options including lane departure warning, park assist, cruise control, a sunroof, foglights and heated front seats and steering wheel.