1.
Mercedes-Benz GLA
Launch: Early 2015
Merc’s latest A-Class has ditched its
costly and complex ‘sandwich’ platform for much more traditional underpinnings,
meaning more models can be spun from the same base platform. We’ve already seen
the B-Class MPV, the CLA (on page 22) and in just under two years’ time comes
this little GLA crossover. It’s lower and sportier than rivals which means it
shuns the A-Class’s lesser engines and the range will be topped by a 257kW
GLA45 AMG. Entry-level models will be front-drive, but more powerful versions
(including the AMG) will use Mercedes’ new 25% lighter 4Matic four-wheel drive.
A two-door GLA, to take the fight to the Evoque, is under consideration too.
Mercedes-Benz
GLA
2.
Porsche 911 Turbo
Launch: Late
2013
Nissan’s GT-R has knocked the 911 Turbo
down a peg or two, but this latest 991-generation model aims to fight back
against the Japanese upstart with trick four-wheel steering, a swifter-acting
all-wheel-drive system, and yet more power from its turbocharged 3.8-litre
flat-six engine, and there’ll be a 410kW S version as well.
Porsche
911 Turbo
3.
Land Rover Freelander
Launch: Late
2014
It looks like an Evoque but the extra
inches of bodywork mark this taped-up mule out as the all-new Freelander 3. The
reinvention of Range Rover will be complete when the new Sport arrives in the
coming months, so now it’s the turn of Land Rover, with this, the next Disco,
and a 21st century Defender.
Land
Rover Freelander
4.
Mercedes-Benz C-Class
Launch: Late
2014
Mercedes may be niche filling as never
before with models like the CLS Shooting Brake and the recently unveiled CLA,
but it’s readying a new version of its best-selling C-Class too. It remains
rear-wheel drive, there will be estate and coupe variants too, and the hot AMG
versions will be powered by a new turbocharged 4.0-litre V8.
Mercedes-Benz
C-Class
