2016 is a pretty big year in the world of cars. With a mixture of new and updated and refined models there’s something there for everyone. Here’s our list of the top models that will have your pulse racing this year.
Audi R8 Second generation
Audi are releasing their second generation R8; making use of a new CRFP (Carbon Fibre Reinforced Polymer) Modular Support System which has shaved more than 100 kilos off the cars chassis. It may well end up stealing some of the Lamborghini Huracán’s thunder not only does it provide similar performance but it also offers more space and comfort at reduced cost.
Faster and lighter than its predecessor, if there’s one super car in 2016 for the daily run around it’s this one. There are two models set for release, a V8 and V10 with 532 and 602 BPH respectively.
Jaguar XE
Gone is the old-fashioned Jaguar styling, replaced with a much more contemporary interpretation of the brand. Aluminium is used to great effect making considerable weight savings, ensuring this car manager an efficient 68 MPG. The XE is great fun to drive it’s marginally faster and more economical, than the XF which is slightly more comfortable, more spacious and arguably better value for money.
Subaru WRX STI (Hatchback)
The Saloon was released last year but, there’s a big unveil in store for the WRX STi hatchback, giving the Hot Hatch market a much needed shake up. The 2.0 Litre turbocharged Boxer (named for its 4 cylinder horizontal punching motion) has upgraded performance and higher spec suspension with a slightly more aggressive stance. It’s a shame that the folks at Fuji Heavy industry forgot to put ‘Impreza’ on the name plate, but at heart it’s still our definitive rally car.
Porsche 911 GT3 RS
A car built for motorsport. Its water-cooled six-cylinder engine is seated in the rear and offers exceptional power. The GT3 RS Accelerates from 0 to 60 mph in 3.1 seconds and includes technology carried over from the 918. The wing produces more down force that the GT2 RS’. At 120 MPH it generates an astounding 345kg of down force. Sadly it isn’t a car that you won’t get the most of on the roads and gear heads will need to hit the track to experience the exhilarating highs.
Only 600 will be produced making it scare before it hits the market, tough luck if you want one and didn’t order it.
Mazda MX-5 ND
The new MX5 has to be on this list. First released in 1989 it has been through three generations, the forth might be the most impressive to date.
Now, the Mazda MX-5 ND may not have the performance of a Porsche 911 GT3 RS, but any committed MX5 connoisseur would argue it’s a hell of a lot more fun when you aren’t on the track. Mazda have thrown out the residual cuteness of the first generation to hail in the most assertive front end yet. Complete with a loud black grille; it foregoes the bland electronic niceties that clutter the experience of modern driving; its simplicity restores the fun and purpose that driving has always been about.
McLaren 675LT
The LT stands for Longtail alluding to its refined aerodynamic design; 1.5 inches longer than the 650S its airbrake produces 40% more down force.
Despite the cars increase size, reductions in weight have been significant due to alterations to the car’s monocoque optimising track performance.
The 675 is kitted out with a retuned twin-turbo 3.8 litres v8 that offers a monstrous 666BHP, 25 BHP more than the 650S. It manages 0-60 in 2.9 seconds. Both convertible and coupe versions will be in production with the convertible predicted to be McLaren’s fastest convertible yet.
Bentley Bentagya
The Bentley Bentagya is the fastest 4×4 in the world with 187MPH top speed. Bentley are taking a new direction, no longer restricting themselves to saloons and executive cars. It is the undisputed king of a new class of car; the super luxury 4×4 it puts the Sport in Sports utility vehicle. Currently offering a Twin-turbo 6.0-liter W-12 petrol engine; diesel and hybrid power trains are expected in the near future.
Honda NSX
Honda describes the NSX as the ultimate hybrid super car and it’s not hard to see why. Powered by a twin-turbocharged V6 engine and three electric motors it manages 0-60 in less than 3 seconds. The electric and petrol power units are teamed up with a nine-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) Combining the best of a manual and automatic gear box. Packed with more than 550bhp, it looks like a cross between an Audi R8 and McLaren 650S it is a bold step forward for Honda.
Porsche Cayman gt4
Porsche says “The new Cayman GT4 is the long-awaited step beyond the boundary. The step over to the other side of the frontier – onto the racetrack”. It’s a car aimed at the motorsport enthusiasts and those motivated to performance. The engine, chassis, brakes, and aero are designed to perform without hindering the utility expected of a two-seater sports coupe. This makes the car drivable on all surfaces even those without rumble strips and apex markers.
Mercedes C Class
The main competition to BMW’s 3 Series the C class offers a luxurious cabin and dazzling geometry. Its low CO2 emissions will save you money on your tax bill offsetting the higher cost of the vehicle, which as excuses to splash out on one goes; is perfect.
The optional Airmatic suspension is a versatile addition letting you raises the car over uneven surfaces, can be stiffened up to for a sporty performance and automatically lowering at over 60 MPH to improve aerodynamics.
If there’s any cars you think that we missed add them in the comments below.