NEXT YEAR SEES a whole host of new cars hitting our shores but which ones deserve your attention?
We’ve rounded up the best and most hotly anticipated cars that will be available to buy during the 171 registration period. Although some of these cars won’t be out until later in the year, we think they are worth the wait.
(This is only the first half of our 171 preview, we’ll bring you more next week.)
Volkswagen up!
This fun and funky little car gets updated styling with new bumpers and lights front and rear. Inside, the dashboard has been updated and it now features a clever smartphone holder – which can integrate your device with the car for music streaming, on-board computer and driving data as well as functioning as a sat nav unit.
The 60- and 75hp engines remain but there is new 90hp version on range-topping five-door High up! model which is mated to a five-speed manual gearbox and is priced from €17,065rrp.
There is also a new Hyundai i10 hitting the market during the 171 period. This is more a facelifted model than a new version.
Nissan Micra
A name that is very familiar to motorists in Ireland, the Nissan Micra will get a sharp new look in 2017 as the latest generation is launched. It will have a very different appearance to previous versions of the Micra, and it has grown a little more in size.
A big grille, sleek headlights and sweeping lines along the sides all bring the styling up to date. Under the bonnet there will be a choice of 0.9- and 1.0-litre petrol engines and a 1.5-litre diesel. Nissan claims it will be one of the best in the segment for interior space. The new Micra is due here in April. Click for more details.
Also coming our way in Spring 2017 is the new Ford Fiesta with four production variants; an upscale Vignale version, a sporty ST-Line, and a Titanium model and Active crossover – all available with three or five doors. Click here to read our news story.
Fiat Tipo
Having been on the periphery of this popular segment for many years Fiat looks set to make a return with its all-new Tipo model, which will come in five-door hatchback, saloon and estate versions.
With pricing starting from just under €18,000 the Tipo is aiming to be more competitive than many of its rivals. There will be a choice of diesel and petrol engines while standard equipment will include all-round electric windows, air conditioning, Bluetooth and multifunction steering wheel. It looks good too. Click to read more.
Also keep an eye out for the new considerably updated Skoda Octavia range, which is due here at the start of the year. Click for more details.
Toyota C-HR
This seriously funky looking C-HR is Toyota’s latest crossover and could be one of the most popular cars of 2017. Unlike its rivals Toyota isn’t going to offer a diesel engine with this car, instead, there will be a choice of a 1.2-litre petrol or a 1.8-litre petrol hybrid.
Both claim low emissions and low fuel consumption, while the chassis that it shares with the larger Prius means it should drive well too. Its styling really makes the C-HR stand out and while it might prove divisive it moves Toyota away from that boring look it used to have.
The MINI Countryman Crossover is also hitting the roads during the 171 registration period. It will be available with all-wheel drive and is expected to be a big seller.
Skoda Kodiaq
The Czech car maker’s first proper SUV will offer seating for seven and loads of versatility – and it should be hitting Irish showrooms by March. Its sharp looks are matched with refined handling and a choice of both petrol and diesel engines, while front and all-wheel drive models in either manual or automatic mean there should be a Kodiaq to suit everyone.
With pricing expected to start just shy of €30,000, it will appeal to many looking for a larger SUV.
Another one to watch out for is the new seven-seat Land Rover Discover, which starts at €58,000 and should be on sale in February. Click here to read more about this car.
Next week we’ll bring you part two of this 171 preview guide.
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