WHATEVER YOUR PARTICULAR taste in cars might be, 2017 is shaping up to be one of the better years for new models in recent memory.
However, there are a few cars that I am looking forward to testing out more than others.
These cars may be a little more out there in terms of design, technology, performance and price but each one of them should offer a unique and enjoyable drive.
The anticipation is killing me.
Tesla Model X
One of the most exciting prospects for 2017 will be the official arrival of Tesla Cars in Ireland. We’ve seen the various versions of the Model S, but it’s the seven-seat Model X that will be one of the cars to drive.
From its falcon wing rear doors and phenomenal Ludicrous Mode launch control this all-electric people carrier with its autopilot function will make commuting on the often jammed motorways of Ireland so much more relaxing.
Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio
Alfa Romeo will attempt to set pulses racing again with the roll-out of its new Giulia saloon. The stylish new addition to what can often be a bit of a dull segment is a welcome one – but if I’m honest, it’s the Quadrifoglio version that I’m most excited about driving.
This super saloon is powered by a 3.0-litre twin-turbocharged V6 petrol engine that produces 510hp and 600Nm. Who needs a BMW M5 when you can have this?
Renaultsport Megane RS (no official images yet)
The last few years have seen some pretty remarkable hot hatches come our way, and 2017 will welcome another: a new version of the Renaultsport Megane RS. The current model is regarded by many as among the best-handling chassis ever to grace the hot hatch segment, so this all-new upgrade will have big boots to fill.
It should look pretty decent too, going by the standard car’s design. Expect this one to arrive later on in the year, though it will almost certainly be worth the wait.
Bentley Bentayga Diesel
These days SUVs are everywhere, with practically every manufacturer producing at least a few. But there is one that, perhaps more than any other, I want to drive and that is the new Bentley Bentayga Diesel.
Yes, diesel may still be a dirty word in some quarters, and many petrolheads struggle to fathom the very thought of a Bentley SUV, but the Bentayga is sheer luxury on (very large) wheels. Even adding just a few options will see this monster’s price head towards €500,000 – but those who can afford it will enjoy massive amounts of power and virtually unrivalled luxury inside.
One particular interior option – a Breitling Tourbillon clock for the dashboard – will set you back a crazy €150,000 alone.
Ford GT
But the one car, more than any other, that I am bursting to get behind the wheel of is the new Ford GT. Will Ford ever just unleash it already!
This new model honours the 50th anniversary of Ford’s historic 1-2-3 sweep at Le Mans in 1966 by drawing inspiration from the winning GT40. The savage-looking car is powered by a 650hp 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6 engine mated to a Getrag seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and it is sure to be a grin-inducing drive.
Until the GT is launched I’ll just keep building my own using the time-zapping Ford GT configurator. Warning: hours will disappear from your day if you click on the link.
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