New Cars 2020: what's coming this year and when?

Is now the time to buy or should you hold out a bit for some fresh new metal? We round up every important new car landing in showrooms this year

Last year was a whirlwind, with important releases in every model category from the Toyota GR Supra to the Vauxhall Corsa and the Mercedes-AMG A45 - to name but a few. But if 2019 was good, 2020 promises to be even better.

Some of 2020's biggest debuts have already had the covers pulled off them, but there are still plenty of big releases to be drooled over this year. 

Here's your one-stop shop for keeping up to date with what's coming when in the car industry in 2020. 

Please note: Due to the global shutdowns caused by the coronavirus pandemic, all dates are approximate and subject to change.

*July*

-Aston Martin DBX-

Aston Martin’s most important car launch for a decade, the DBX is the firm’s first SUV and has a lot resting on its shoulders. It has been a turbulent time since the company floated on the stock market in 2018 and CEO Andy Palmer believes the DBX will be pivotal in reassuring investors and analysts alike and propel Aston Martin into the next phase of its so-called ‘second-century plan’. The DBX should become the brand’s best-selling model, with a target of 10,000 sales per year by 2021. The five-seat 4x4, powered by an AMG-sourced 542bhp 4.0-litre turbo V8, will cost £158,000 before options. Other powertrains, including a plug-in hybrid, are expected further down the line.

*New Aston Martin DBX: 542bhp SUV charged with reviving firm*

-Aston Martin Vantage Roadster-

Aston Martin is going after the Porsche 911 Cabriolet with a drop-top version of the Vantage. The slightly heavier model will pack the same AMG-derived 503bhp V8 as its coupé sibling, with that car’s low front grille and ‘ducktail’ rear spoiler also carried over. The Vantage Volante is set to hit dealerships in spring and prices are expected to start from around £130,500.

*Aston Martin preparing Vantage Roadster for 2020 reveal*

-Audi S3-

Audi’s next S3 hot hatchback is set to produce more than 300bhp from an uprated version of the VW Group’s EA888 2.0-litre turbo. There will be changes inside too, with the Volkswagen Golf R rival expected to feature a significant technology upgrade. As with its TTS sports car sibling - with which it shares an engine - it will gain a petrol particulate filter and is likely to be offered exclusively with a seven-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox.

*2020 Audi S3: hot saloon variant spotted ahead of A3's reveal*

-Citroën C5 Aircross PHEV-

A significant car for the French brand: it’s Citroën’s first ever plug-in hybrid, and part of a much broader electrification offensive for the PSA Group. Sharing its petrol-electric powertrain with the plug-in Vauxhall Grandland X and Peugeot 3008 (albeit in a lower-powered form than top models), it makes 222bhp, promises an all-electric range of 31 miles and emits just 39g/km of CO2 officially. UK pricing starts from £35,340.

*Citroën C5 Aircross review*

Ferrari 812 GTS

Hold on to your hats: the 780bhp drop-top 812 is the world’s most powerful production convertible and Ferrari’s first V12-powered drop-top in 50 years. Despite an increase in weight, the GTS is said to just about match the phenomenal performance figures of its fixed-head sibling, with the retractable hard-top opening all the way in 14 seconds.

*New Ferrari 812 GTS is most powerful production convertible*

Hyundai i20

*
*

The latest version of the Korean firm’s Ford Fiesta rival is expected to feature a refreshed design that takes cues from the larger i30, along with upgraded interior technology taken from larger models in the range. While the regular i20 will likely continue with a range of small and efficient engines, Hyundai’s N division is also working on a high-performance i20 N hot hatch, which has been spied undergoing development work at the Nürburgring. 

*New Hyundai i20 N hot hatch tests at the Nürburgring*

-Jaguar F-Pace facelift-

Perceived quality and technology upgrades will be the focus of the F-Pace’s 2020 redesign. The SUV is set to benefit from systems first seen in the I-Pace and new mild hybrid engines will be introduced, but don’t expect any radical styling changes. While disguised prototypes clearly show the design influence of the updated F-Type - with slimmer headlights and brakelights - we can see that the BMW X5 rival retains key characteristics such as its rising beltline and rakish roofline.

*Jaguar F-Pace 300 Sport 2019 UK review*

-Lamborghini Huracán Evo RWD Spyder-

The latest member of the Huracán Evo range – which get power and chassis boosts over the old entry-level Lambo – is a soft-top convertible whose naturally aspirated 5.2-litre V10 sends 602bhp to its rear wheels alone. Need we say more?

*New Lamborghini Huracán Evo RWD Spyder revealed*

-Lamborghini Sián FKP 37-

The fastest-accelerating Lamborghini yet is also the firm’s first hybrid – and the magical V12 survives as part of it. Officially named FKP 37 in honour of late Volkswagen Group boss Ferdinand Piëch, the limited-run hypercar packs 774bhp from an uprated version of the firm’s 12-pot goliath, plus a low-output 48V electric motor for a total of 808bhp.

*Lamborghini Sián FKP 37: 808bhp hybrid honours late VW boss*

-Lexus LC Convertible-

The drop-top variant of Lexus’ BMW 8 Series rival has long been in development and will finally arrive this year in production form. A V6-powered hybrid version will arrive down the line, but for now we’ll make do with the LC500’s howling naturally aspirated 5.0-litre V8 - one of the last production engines of its kind - which should sound even better with the roof down.

*Lexus LC500 Convertible will go on sale next year*

-Mercedes-AMG GLE 63 S and GLE 63 S Coupé-

Affalterbach's high-performance versions of the new, second-generation GLE and its swoopier sibling pair the signature AMG twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre petrol V8 with a 48V mild hybrid system for 603bhp in S specification, which will be UK buyers' only option. This goes along with a nine-speed automatic gearbox, fully variable full-wheel drive, active air suspension, active roll stabilisation and seven driving modes.

*New Mercedes-AMG GLE 63: V8 super-SUV gains hybrid tech *

-Pininfarina Battista-

The first offering from Automobili Pininfarina is a 1900bhp ‘halo’ model for a line-up that will stretch from electric hypercars to upmarket performance-themed SUVs. Much of the technology has been developed by the increasingly influential Rimac, and fine-tuned with input from Formula E racer Nick Heidfeld. It’s said to be the most powerful Italian road car yet, with its makers claiming a 0-62mph time of less than two seconds and a top speed of 217mph.

*Pininfarina Battista: 1900bhp EV hits the road in new images*

Polestar 2

Given the strong reputation of Polestar owner Volvo, the new performance brand’s first mainstream model, the 2, has good potential. The Tesla Model 3 rival is a five-door fastback with 402bhp, 487lb ft, a 0-62mph time of less than five seconds and a range of 311 miles. It sits on Volvo’s CMA platform, also used by the XC40 SUV, and will have a distinct Volvo flavour inside as well as bespoke technology. The 2 will be launched initially in top-spec First Edition form and sold online only.

*New Polestar 2: 402bhp EV to cost £49,900*

-Porsche 911 Turbo and 911 Turbo S-

The new 911 Turbo will be a faster and pricier variant of Porsche’s flagship sports car. It’s likely to be powered by a 3.8-litre flat six with roughly 600bhp and be capable of more than 200mph, with styling changes including a redesigned rear end, new wheel designs and a quad-exit exhaust system.

*Porsche 911 review*

-Seat Ateca facelift-

The hugely popular SUV that transformed Seat’s fortunes is set to get its own transformation with a mid-life facelift, which will see the model brought into line with the newer Tarraco and soon-to-launch Leon with mild styling tweaks, greater levels of interior equipment and technology upgrades. More significantly, the addition of a hybrid powertrain would help Seat reach its electrification goals. It is likely to use the same 1.5-litre plug-in hybrid as the upcoming Leon, while other engines could receive the same 48V mild hybrid systems seen on other VW Group models.

*New Seat Ateca facelift set to introduce hybrid variants*

-Skoda Octavia and Octavia Estate-

The estate version of Skoda’s best seller has long been a popular choice for this seeking an affordable family car with vast amounts of interior space, and the new, Mk4 version will share all the upgrades with the hatchback variant. For the estate, that means both refreshed styling and an increase in size, adding 30 litres to the already substantial boot. A range of powertrains will be offered including, for the first time, a 201bhp plug-in hybrid. That said, the rear-mounted battery in that model does significantly reduce that lovely luggage space.

*2020 Skoda Octavia ups the ante with plug-in hybrid and more tech*

Uniti One

Never heard of Uniti? The Swedish EV start-up has big ambitions to sell the One, not just to private customers but also to businesses as a fleet mobility solution. Priced from just £15k, it has three seats in a McLaren F1-style layout, will do 75mph flat out and weighs just 600kg. Top models have a range of up to 186 miles. It’s also engineered in Norfolk, where it will initially be built. The engineering brief, according to the boss of Uniti, was to “build a safe car that’s lightweight. UK engineers are the best in the world at that”.

*Uniti One electric car available to order online from £15,100*

-Volkswagen Golf GTE-

When it was revealed alongside the standard Golf, the GTE was the most powerful variant of the eighth-generation car. It will again combine a 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine with an electric motor and 13kWh battery that will allow for up to 43 miles of zero-emissions driving. It will be able to reach 87mph without any assistance from the petrol engine, and while performance and economy figures have yet to be confirmed, a total power output of 242bhp puts it close to the petrol-only Golf GTI.

*New Volkswagen Golf GTI gains power boost and more tech*

-Volkswagen ID 3-

This, Volkswagen claims, is its most important car since the original Golf. The first to be built on the electric MEB platform, it spearheads a huge EV push that will see almost every major vehicle category feature an electric Volkswagen. Our first test, in a prototype, suggests it’s a credible EV contender – and a truly good hatchback regardless of powertrain. It’s priced from £27,500 (after the £3500 government grant) - about the same as smaller rivals, showing how the brand’s enormous economies of scale seem to have given it the edge over other car makers.

*Volkswagen ID 3 2020 review*

-August-

-Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrifoglio and Stelvio Quadrifoglio facelifts-

Alfa Romeo's brilliant pair of Quadrifoglio performance models, the Giulia saloon and Stelvio SUV, both of which are powered by a twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6, have received a going-over, adding a number of design, safety and technology upgrades. Montréal Green paint, too...

*Alfa Romeo Giulia and Stelvio Quadrifoglio updated for 2020*

-Honda Civic Type R-

Honda has refreshed the Civic. This will mean tweaks to the Type R hot hatch, including exterior revisions and a boost in technology and perceived quality inside. But the biggest news is that there will be faster, more hardcore Nürburgring-focused special – inspired by the Type R that set a new front-wheel-drive lap record on the track – to rival the Renault Mégane RS Trophy.

*Honda Civic Type R review*

-Jaguar XF facelift-

Expect changes as significant as the XE’s recent mid-life refresh, with cabin upgrades, expanded technology, an evolved exterior appearance and engines that are more efficient, as Jaguar gears up for a renewed attack on the German heavyweights. Early indications suggest the XF will gain a centre console set-up based on that of the I-Pace.

*Jaguar XF Sportbrake review*

-Jeep Renegade PHEV-

Jeep’s first plug-in hybrid has a 1.3-litre petrol engine, an electric motor and the promise of 31 miles of electric range. The company expects the electrified SUV to "sell in volume" and will price it aggressively to help its chances against more established rivals such as the Peugeot 3008 and Renault Captur PHEVs.

*Jeep Renegade plug-in hybrid: technical details revealed*

-Kia Sorento-

The fourth-generation Sorento is taking Kia's large SUV upmarket once again, with an imposing look and an appealing interior. The Korean firm also says this is the most high-tech car it has yet produced. 

*2020 Kia Sorento: European details for new SUV confirmed*

-Land Rover Discovery Sport PHEV and Range Rover Evoque PHEV-

The petrol-electric plug-in hybrid versions of the recently updated Discovery Sport and new, second-generation Evoque match a turbocharged three-cylinder 1.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor on the rear axle and a 15kWh battery pack. This gives them 296bhp, four-wheel drive and ultra-low company car tax ratings, plus the ability to drive on electricity alone.

Land Rover launches Discovery Sport and Evoque plug-in hybrids

-Lotus Evija-

Claimed to be the “most powerful production car in the world”, the fully electric Evija is a spectacular statement of Lotus’s intent under new owner Geely. It’s unlike any car the Norfolk company has produced before, but the firm promises it will have Lotus-style handling alongside blistering acceleration and a top speed that starts with a two.

*New Lotus Evija electric hypercar makes dynamic video debut*

-Mercedes-AMG GT Black Series-

AMG’s fastest series production model yet is also the swansong for its GT flagship before the model makes the switch to an electrified four-wheel-drive powertrain in 2021. The Black Series will weigh roughly the same as the limited-run GT R Pro, but tweaks to the twin-turbo 4.0-litre V8 will boost power to nearly 700bhp, with aero and chassis modifications enhancing all-round driveability.

*Mercedes-AMG GT Convertible and Black Series confirmed*

-Mercedes-Maybach GLS-

The German car firm’s luxury brand has reworked the GLS large SUV into an ultra-luxury model designed to compete with the Bentley Bentayga. Featuring bespoke styling elements and standard 22in wheels, the GLS is powered by a turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 mated to a 48V electrical system, making it a mild hybrid. There’s a major focus on interior luxury, including nappa leather upholstery and – in four-seat guise – even the option of an in-car fridge.

*Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 arrives to rival Bentley Bentayga*

-Volkswagen Touareg R-

The latest addition to Volkswagen’s rapidly expanding R performance range is its first plug-in hybrid. The SUV uses a plug-in hybrid drivetrain to deliver 456bhp and can travel for up to 30 miles in electric-only mode. Performance figures have yet to be confirmed, but expect the 0-62mph sprint to take around 5.0sec.

*Volkswagen Touareg R is 456bhp hot hybrid*

*September*

-Audi A3 Saloon-

Booted version of the new A3 will rival the BMW 2 Series Gran Coupé and Mercedes-Benz A-Class saloon with subtly evolved styling and a range of petrol, diesel and plug-in powertrains. Audi also promises sharper handling yet also greater ride comfort, along with a tech-heavy interior. Pricing is expected to start at around the £26,000 mark.

*New Audi A3 saloon gets mild hybrid and coupé looks*

Audi E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback

Audi has revealed its first electric S performance models, in the form of a large SUV and its coupé-styled sibling. The E-tron S duo use three electric motors to produce 496bhp.

*New Audi E-tron S and E-tron S Sportback arrive as hot electric SUVs*

-BMW 4 Series-

Prepare for a grilling: the all-new, second-generation BMW 4 Series is on its way, set to feature that 'controversial' front end seen on the concept car late last year. Once again, the 3 Series-related machine will be available in two-door, four-seat coupé, convertible and four-door Gran Coupé forms.

*First drive: 2020 BMW 4 Series prototype*

-BMW X2 facelift-

After three years on sale, BMW is updating its, erm, SAC – that's sports activity coupé, or 'sloped-roof crossover' to you and me. The facelift will introduce styling tweaks and technology upgrades, plus a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid powertrain is set to feature.

*BMW X2 facelift to bring styling tweaks and tech upgrades*

-Cupra Leon and Leon eHybrid-

Newly independent performance brand Cupra has revealed its version of the new Seat Leon – with the option of a plug-in hybrid powertrain. The so-called eHybrid combines a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine with an electric motor and a 13.1kWh battery, giving it a 37-mile electric-only range. The regular petrol version, available as a hatchback or an estate, comes with 242bhp or 298bhp.

*Cupra Leon eHybrid plug-in hot hatch launched with 242bhp*

-Jaguar E-Pace facelift-

An early refresh for Jaguar’s smallest SUV, which only arrived in 2018. Expanded safety and driver assistance systems will be the main focus, while the BMW X2 rival will receive a streamlined selection of engines and sharper styling based on the new XE and F-Type. The E-Pace’s interior layout and technology, however, are both still fresh, so we don’t expect to see any radical changes inside.

*Jaguar E-Pace to follow XF and F-Pace with 2020 overhaul*

-Mercedes-AMG GT 73 4-Door Coupé-

Two years after the brilliant, conventional GT 63, will come the plug-in hybrid GT 73. This will use the same twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8 engine but match it with an electric motor on the front axle, resulting in four-wheel drive and a 0-62mph time below 3.0sec. Oh, plus super-low official CO2 emissions, and thus BIK tax, thanks to a 31-mile electric-only range. Madness.

*Mercedes-AMG GT 73 plug-in hybrid teased in new video*

-Mercedes-Benz E-Class facelift-

The 2020 E-Class is set to receive an exterior overhaul to bring it in line with the newer models in Mercedes’ range, including the A-Class and the recently introduced CLS. Saloon, coupé, estate and cabriolet models will all be offered, with interior upgrades likely to include the latest MBUX infotainment hardware. Voice control, touchpad-style steering wheel controls and an overhauled interface are expected. The engine line-up is unlikely to see a major shake-up, but more models will use Mercedes’ EQ Boost mild hybrid system to increase efficiency. The plug-in hybrid E350e will also make a return, alongside several hot AMG variants.

*New 2020 Mercedes E-Class estate facelift spotted testing*

-Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV-

Mitsubishi secured a win with the Outlander as one of the first plug-in hybrid SUVs to market. But the product is dated now, which is why 2020 will bring a ground-up redesign, as spyshots have already shown. As well as a redesigned exterior and overhauled cabin, we can expect a major upgrade to its plug-in hybrid system focused on improving efficiency and all-electric range.

*Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV review*

-Porsche 718 GT4 RS-

Spotted just a day after Porsche’s boss of sports cars hinted that it was in development, the 718 GT4 RS is a feistier take on the acclaimed GT4. Powertrain mods are unconfirmed, but bodywork additions hint at some serious track potential. Porsche has never produced a GT4 RS before, claiming in the past that one would be too close to its 911 GT models in terms of price and performance, but the new 4.0-litre flat six found in the GT4 will need to see use in more models to justify its development costs. 

*Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 review*

-Skoda Octavia iV-

The new version of Skoda’s best seller will gain a plug-in hybrid option for the first time, in both hatchback and estate forms. Both will be powered by a 1.4-litre petrol engine and a 101bhp electric motor, which will deliver a combined 201bhp through a six-speed DSG gearbox. Electric-only range is expected to be around 34 miles, and the saloon version should be capable of 0-62mph in 7.9sec. They will share the same exterior design as the standard Octavia, which has been updated to match Skoda's other non-SUV models, the Scala and Superb.

*First drive: 2020 Skoda Octavia prototype*

-Skoda Octavia vRS iV-

The hot version of the all-new Skoda Octavia will be initially sold as a plug-in hybrid, badged the vRS iV. Like the new Cupra Leon eHybrid, this uses a 1.4-litre turbo petrol engine and an electric motor, giving it a 0-62mph time of 7.3sec and a top speed of 152mph. Petrol-only versions will follow shortly afterwards.

New Skoda Octavia vRS gains 242bhp PHEV option for 2020

-Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid-

With 298bhp, the hot plug-in RAV4 will be the company’s quickest alternatively fuelled car yet, managing 0-62mph in 6.2sec while still delivering what Toyota calls “best in class” fuel economy and emissions. The fifth-generation RAV4 will be capable of 37 miles of electric-only running in PHEV form, which uses the same 2.5-litre petrol engine as the regular hybrid and has four-wheel drive as standard. It will also benefit from Toyota’s most up-to-date driver assistance systems and get interior technology upgrades including a colour head-up display.

*Toyota RAV4 Plug-in Hybrid launched with 298bhp powertain*

-Toyota Yaris-

Fresh from turning automotive vanilla, the Auris, into the dynamically engaging and interesting Corolla, Toyota aims to do a similar trick with the new Yaris, which is lower, wider and a touch shorter than before, making it the only supermini less than four metres in length. It has switched to a new platform, promising improved dynamics, and has a new interior that looks like a huge improvement over the drab Yaris it replaces. Unlike other Toyotas, 1.0-litre and 1.5-litre petrols will be offered alongside a 1.5-litre petrol-electric hybrid.

*New 2020 Toyota Yaris revealed with ground-up redesign*

-Volkswagen Arteon-

Volkswagen is introducing a petrol-electric plug-in hybrid version of the Arteon, its supremely spacious, Passat-based five-door fastback, this year – as well as a 316bhp R performance variant and a shooting brake bodystlye.

*Volkswagen Arteon gets Shooting Brake and 316bhp R variants*

-Volkswagen Golf GTD-

While other manufacturers are cutting back or abandoning diesel production altogether in 2020, Volkswagen is persisting with a performance variant of the eighth-generation Golf that will drink from the black pump. It shares a chassis with the Golf GTI and mirrors it in terms of looks but uses a 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine and mild-hybrid technology.

*New Volkswagen Golf GTI gains power boost and more tech*

-Volkswagen Golf GTI-

The GTI will arrive with 242bhp in standard form, with a GTI Clubsport promising 287bhp from the EA888 2.0-litre petrol engine. Styling is likely to be subtle but will still set the GTI apart from the regular Golf with dual-exit exhaust pipes, red brake calipers, larger air intakes and a more aggressive bodykit.

*New Volkswagen Golf GTI gains power boost and more tech*

-Volkswagen Golf R-

The most powerful Golf variant is expected to again use a heavily modified version of VW’s venerable EA888 2.0-litre petrol motor, paired with four-wheel drive. It should be offered in two performance levels, with an entry-level R due to pack at least 300bhp to rival the likes of BMW’s M135i and the Mercedes-AMG A35. A range-topping Golf R Plus could then have that output boosted to 350bhp - less than the 400bhp previously rumoured that would have seen it go head to head with Mercedes-AMG’s A45.

*New VW Golf GTI is one of four hot Golfs launching in 2020*

-Volkswagen Tiguan facelift-

Volkswagen is working on a major facelift for its Evoque-rivalling SUV, with an R performance model and a GTE sporting plug-in hybrid set to be introduced. Meanwhile, we expect regular versions of the Tiguan to gain technology and efficency upgrades.

*Volkswagen Tiguan R prototype previews SUV's facelift*

*October*

-Audi A3 e-tron-

Audi will look to further expand its electrified line-up with a successor to the plug-in hybrid A3. While little is known about its powertrain, or whether it will retain the original PHEV’s front-driven layout, it is understood to borrow battery technology from the brand’s E-tron SUV to allow for increased electric range. The A3 E-tron will receive the same interior technology, which Audi claims will make it the most advanced hatchback in the class.

*New 2020 Audi A3 to spawn seven-strong model lineup*

-Audi Q5 facelift-

Ingolstadt’s mid-sized SUV will be subtly restyled for 2020, to bring it into line with its recently refreshed Q7 and A4 stablemates. We’re expecting new bumpers and lights to be among the more noticeable styling changes, with the interior set to receive Audi’s latest touchscreen infotainment technology.

*New Audi Q5: updated SUV caught ahead of 2020 release*

-Audi RS3-

The hottest version of the all-new Audi A3 Sportback will make a 394bhp hot hatch rival to the Mercedes-AMG A45 S, thanks to continued use of Audi's turbocharged five-cylinder 2.5-litre engine.

*New 2020 Audi RS3: 394bhp hot hatch drops disguise*

-BMW 5 Series facelift-

BMW's class-leading large executive saloon and estate siblings have received a series of design, technology and mechanical updates. All versions are now mild-hybrids, boosting fuel economy, but of more interest to us is the UK introduction of the M550i performance flagship model, which has a 523bhp turbocharged 4.4-litre petrol V8 engine.

*BMW 5 Series update brings 523bhp M550i flagship to UK*

Cupra Formentor

The flagship Cupra model will be a bespoke SUV, not a sports car. The production version of the Formentor will retain most of its concept car styling, with dimensions lower, wider and longer than the Ateca on which it is based. It will arrive with 1.4-litre petrol engine mated to an electric motor and dual-clutch DSG gearbox, providing a combined power output of 242bhp and a WLTP-certified electric range of around 30 miles. A petrol-only model has yet to be confirmed and will be quickly followed by Seat-badged versions with less powerful engines.

*New Cupra Formentor hits the road ahead of mid-2020 debut*

-DS 9 -

The French luxury brand’s flagship saloon will arrive on the PSA Group’s EMP2 platform, which also underpins the Peugeot 508. The Audi A4 rival shares many design cues with the DS 7 Crossback SUV and offers a 222bhp petrol engine and a range of petrol-electrci plug-in hybrid powertrains with up to 335bhp. These have an electric-only range of up to 31 miles.

*New DS 9 saloon takes aim at Audi A4*

-Ferrari Roma-

The car described by the firm itself as “a Ferrari for people scared of driving a Ferrari”, the front-engined two-seat Roma shares some underpinnings with the Portofino drop-top but features all-new styling, including active aerodynamics. Power comes from a revamped version of the turbocharged 3.9-litre V8 engine seen elsewhere in Ferrari’s line-up, partnered to the eight-speed dual-clutch automatic gearbox that was introduced on the SF90 Stradale. The Aston Martin Vantage and Mercedes-AMG GT rival produces 612bhp, sent to the rear wheels, and will be capable of a 0-62mph time of 3.4sec and a top speed of more than 199mph.

*Updated: More details on new V8-powered Ferrari Roma*

-Ford Mustang Mach-E-

The Ford Mustang is arguably the antithesis of a high-riding electric SUV. It’s a muscle car, best served with a rorty V8 producing plenty of noise. So why has Ford stuck that pony badge on the Mustang Mach-E, its new high-riding electric SUV? The idea, according to Ford designer Murat Gueler, is to give its new EV a dose of the Mustang’s “emotion and drama” with muscle car-like styling, but without resorting to pastiche. The hope is that it can give the Mustang Mach-E, which will cost around £60,000 in 332bhp First Edition form, the premium sheen necessary to take on the likes of the Tesla Model Y. It certainly has the specs to do so – and hotter GT and Shelby versions are on the way in a bid to win over Mustang sceptics.

*Electric Ford Mustang Mach-E is Tesla Model Y rival*

-Hyundai Tucson -

Hyundai's new Tucson SUV will get a new design, inspired by the Nexo FCEV, new technology, a range of electrified powertrains and a hot N version.

*New 2021 Hyundai Tucson seen with exterior overhaul*

Maserati MC20

Little is known so far about the MC20, which apparently heralds Maserati's "return to the world of racing" and the Italian brand's first all-new model since 2015. Test mules of the sports car have been seen based on the now-dead Alfa Romeo 4C, while the engine is "a new powertrain entirely developed and built by Maserati". 

*New Maserati MC20: 2020 sports car named*

-Mercedes-Benz CLA PHEV and CLA Shooting Brake PHEV-

Mercedes has unveiled plug-in hybrid versions of its CLA and CLA Shooting Brake, the sporty and stylish five-door fastback and estate siblings of the commendable latest A-Class. These get an impressive electric-only range of up to 49 miles; the CLA 250e coupé has official fuel economy starting from 188mpg and CO2 emissions of just 31-35g/km.

*Mercedes launches CLA and GLA plug-in hybrid variants*

-Mini Countryman facelift-

Mini’s popular SUV is also its newest model, having launched in 2017, so a mid-cycle refresh will largely focus on updated looks and more equipment over any mechanical changes. The front and rear bumpers, front grille and lights are expected to change, with the introduction of adaptive matrix-beam LED headlights and standard LED tail-lights that bring the now-familiar Union Jack to the Countryman line-up. New personalisation options and a fresh range of wheel designs will complete the refresh. An unchanged engine line-up should see a 134bhp 1.5-litre three-cylinder petrol for the Cooper, a 189bhp four-cylinder for the Cooper S and a 302bhp 2.0-litre for the newly launched John Cooper Works model.

*New Mini Countryman 2020 facelift seen in disguise*

-Ssangyong Korando EV-

The South Korean firm’s new Nissan Qashqai rival arrived in 2019 with conventional petrol and diesel powertrains but will soon gain an electric variant inspired by the recent e-SIV concept. It is expected to get only small visual changes compared with the conventionally powered car, which is now in its fourth generation. Ssangyong UK boss Nick Laird said the upcoming electric version would still be “a proper 4x4”, suggesting it will feature all-wheel drive and compete with the diesel version for towing ability.

*2019 Ssangyong Korando to lead brand's electrification plans*

-Subaru Levorg-

The second-generation Levorg will aim to turn around slow UK sales with an overhauled version of Subaru’s four-wheel-drive estate. It will be built on the Subaru Global Platform and be powered by a newly developed 1.8-litre turbocharged petrol engine. The company is also working on a performance version, dubbed STI Sport, which should feature an increased power output and more aggressive styling.

*New Subaru Levorg revealed as 'grand touring' estate*

-Volvo XC40 P8 Recharge-

The Swedish brand’s first EV takes the immensely popular XC40 and swaps the conventional powertrain for a 201bhp electric motor mounted to each axle. Combined, they deliver 402bhp and 487lb ft of torque, which helps the compact SUV achieve achieve 0-62mph in 4.9sec and a limited top speed of 112mph. A 78kWh battery should manage at least 248 miles of range and be capable of 150kW DC rapid charging. The XC40 Recharge will also be the first Volvo to use an all-new infotainment system developed by Google.

*Volvo reveals XC40 Recharge as first full electric model*

*November*

-​Alpina D3 S and D3 S Touring-

German BMW specialist Alpina has added diesel to its latest-generation 3 Series offering, upgrading Munich's turbocharged 3.0-litre straight-six engine to 350bhp. There's also the usual styling makeover and chassis revisions.

Alpina reveals details of new D3 S saloon and estate

-Alpina XB7-

Alpina has also upgraded the largest BMW there is, the X7. Its seven-seat SUV, named the XB7, features a twin-turbocharged 4.4-litre petrol V8 to send 613bhp to all four wheels, allowing this 2655kg behemoth to accelerate from 0-62mph in just 4.2sec.

*New Alpina XB7 revealed with 613bhp and 180mph top speed*

-McLaren 765LT-

The latest track-focused limited-edition Longtail model from McLaren is 80kg lighter than the 720S upon which it's based and gets an extra 44bhp from its mid-mounted twin-turbocharged 4.0-litre V8. In addition to a whole host of aerodynamics-improvind addenda, this means it can lap a 'reference track' 2.5sec quicker, says McLaren.

*McLaren 765LT heads up Super Series with 754bhp*

-MG HS PHEV-

MG is aiming to build on the UK sales success of its debut electric car, the ZS EV, by introducing a petrol-electric plug-in version of its larger HS SUV. With a 1.5-litre turbocharged petrol engine providing 166bhp and an electric motor delivering 121bhp through a 10-speed automatic gearbox, the value-led PHEV will be the most powerful MG since 2003’s V8-powered MG X-Power SV. It should manage the 0-60mph sprint in around 5.8sec, while covering up to 47 miles on electric power alone.

*MG HS review*

Peugeot 508 PSE

For production, the Peugeot Sport Engineering (PSE) version of the 508 Fastback could use the 355bhp 1.6-litre plug-in hybrid powertrain announced last week in the platform-sharing DS 9. The 508 PSE concept could hit 0-62mph in 4.3sec, while an 11.8kWh battery provided it with an electric-only range of 31 miles. 

*New Peugeot 508 PSE to make production-ready debut*

-Porsche Panamera-

A subtle visual refresh for Porsche’s four-door grand tourer will aim to bring it in line with the 992-generation 911, with new tail-lights joined by an LED strip, redesigned bumpers and a reprofiled grille that will make room for additional semi-autonomous driving systems. The Panamera should also see its first mild hybrid powertrains, with the S and 4S models gaining 48V electrical architecture on top of the familiar 2.9-litre twin-turbo V6 engine. This will later be followed by a plug-in hybrid.

*Porsche Panamera 2020 facelift spotted barely disguised*

-Toyota Corolla GR-

A hot version of the impressive new Toyota Corolla family hatchback is expected to be launched later this year, potentially with a hybrid powertrain, to rival the likes of the Ford Focus ST.

*Hot Toyota Corolla 'GR' hybrid on the cars*

*December*

-Alfa Romeo GTA and Giulia GTAm-

Alfa Romeo recently revealed its most powerful production car to date – a hotter version of the scintillatingly brilliant Giulia Quadrifoglio. The Giulia GTA gets 533bhp - up from 503bhp - out of Alfa's Ferrari-derived twin-turbocharged 2.9-litre V6, thanks to calibration tweaks and an Akraprovič exhaust. It was also 100kg lighter and gets some wild styling additions. The GTAm, meanwhile, gets harnessed carbonfibre front seats and ditches its rears, while adding a massive rear wing.

*New Alfa Romeo Giulia GTA is firm's most powerful model yet*

-Aston Martin Valkyrie-

Created with input from Formula 1 design ace Adrian Newey and claimed by Aston boss Andy Palmer to be capable of lapping Silverstone “as fast as an F1 car”. Power comes from a 6.5-litre Cosworth-developed V12 engine and a Rimac-derived electric motor. Sources have suggested the Valkyrie will generate up to 4000lb (1816kg) of downforce at top speed.

*Aston Martin Valkyrie: V12 engine sound heard in new video*

-BMW iX3-

New electric model will add a zero-emissions option to BMW’s mainstream SUV line-up. Barely disguised prototypes show off a strong resemblance to the conventionally fuelled X3, with visual differences limited primarily to a blanked-off front grille and absent exhaust pipe. Previously revealed technical details indicate that a 70kWh battery pack will offer a range of nearly 250 miles - slightly more than the Audi E-tron - and permanent four-wheel drive is likely to be carried over from the 2017 iX3 concept.

*BMW iX3 electric SUV spotted in near-production guise*

-Citroën C4 and ë-C4-

The quirkiest model in Citroën’s current line-up will offer an electric variant in its next generation, as well as petrol and diesel engines. It sits on the same platform as the Corsa of PSA Group sibling Vauxhall, meaning the EV's 50kWh battery pack will send power to a 134bhp front-mounted electric motor, giving it a range of 217 miles.

*New 2020 Citroën C4 Cactus: electric ë-C4 to offer 217-mile range*

-Ford Puma ST-

It’s not hybrid or pure electric, but Ford’s next ST will rewrite the hot hatchback rulebook by bringing the raw excitement of the celebrated Fiesta ST to the small crossover class. It was always a natural fit for the return of the Puma name that once graced a low-cost but entertaining coupé. Expect a drivetrain similar in execution to the Fiesta’s, with a 197bhp 1.5-litre three-pot engine and, we hope, some of that car’s handling nous.

*New Ford Puma: sporty small SUV revealed*

-McLaren Elva-

The latest Ultimate Series McLaren is a two-seat open-top roadster with a 4.0-litre twin-turbocharged V8 engine producing more than 800bhp - and no roof, windscreen or side windows. Instead, the Elva uses an active air management system built into the bonnet that deflects air above the occupants above certain speeds. According to the company, it should reach 62mph in “under three seconds” and can manage 0-124mph in 6.7sec, making it faster than the track-focused Senna. The Elva will be limited to just 399 examples and cost from £1.4m.

*McLaren Elva revealed as 804bhp Ultimate Series roadster*

-Mercedes-Benz EQA-

Mercedes’ entry-level EQ model will eschew the hatchback stylings of the A-Class and instead mimic the popularity and practicality of the GLA crossover. This bodystyle leaves more space under the seats for battery cells without impacting on interior room, thanks to a higher roofline. Little is known about the electric powertrain it will use, other than a predicted range of around 249 miles. It should be priced to compete directly with the BMW i3, with styling that borrows heavily from the EQC electric SUV.

*Mercedes EQA: 2020 electric crossover previewed in new image*

-Mercedes-Benz EQV-

With the electric revolution in full swing, it’s unsurprising that Mercedes-Benz, king of filling niches before others, is one of the first to market with an electric luxury (albeit largely van-based) MPV. Based on the well-established V-Class, the EQV will deliver 252 miles of range and a choice of seating configurations.

*Mercedes-Benz EQV: electric MPV makes debut at Frankfurt*

-Porsche 911 GT3-

The first 992-generation Porsche to come through the brand’s Motorsport operation at Weissach, the new GT3 is set to use the same naturally aspirated 4.0-litre flat six engine as the limited-run 991-series 911 Speedster. Performance should therefore match or exceed the 503bhp Speedster, with a track-focused suspension setup, large rear wing for increased downforce and an optional manual gearbox on the cards as well.

*Next-gen Porsche 911 GT3 tipped to use 4.0-litre flat six*

-Rolls-Royce Ghost-

Last year, the new Ghost was spied at the Nürburgring being benchmarked against a BMW M5. You don’t do that if you’re only expecting the owner to sit in the back. The Ghost will take on the new Flying Spur with a 6.6-litre twin-turbo V12 and is expected to gain four-wheel drive for the first time.

*New 2020 Rolls-Royce Ghost hits the Nürburgring*

-Tesla Model S Plaid-

The dual-motor Model S Performance is already capable of 0-60mph in 2.4sec and has a top speed of 162mph, but the recent arrival of Porshce’s Taycan has seen the electric car pioneer head to the Nürburgring in an effort to best its German rival’s lap times. The Model S Plaid (named in reference to classic Mel Brooks comedy Spaceballs) will gain an extra motor, allowing for torque vectoring, and battery capacity will be increased to deliver more performance without sacrificing range. Prototype cars have been spotted with dramatic rear wings, a wider rear track, bigger wheels and lowered suspension, but it is unknown how much will make it through to production.

*Tesla ‘Plaid’ three-motor system coming to Model S 'in 2020’*

-Tesla Model X Plaid-

Any improvements Tesla makes to the Model S saloon in its goal to best the Porsche Taycan will then be carried across to what is already the fastest-accelerating seven-seater on sale. Upping the Model X motor count to three could see it shed even more time off an already meteoric 0-60mph time of 2.7sec, while battery capacity is also expected to increase.

*Tesla ‘Plaid’ three-motor system coming to Model S 'in 2020’*

-Toyota GR Yaris-

Okay, so it’s not a hybrid, but this bonkers new-age hot hatch is a statement of intent for Toyota’s exciting future. “No more boring cars,” said president Akio Toyoda in 2018. Does 257bhp from the lightest production 1.6-litre engine ever made, four-wheel drive, new double-wishbone suspension and a bespoke bodyshell count? The Yaris GRMN was the first glimmer of change at Toyota, and this is the electrifying result.

*First drive: 2020 Toyota GR Yaris prototype*

*READ MORE*

*New electric cars 2020: what's coming and when?*

*Global preview: best new cars coming in 2020 and beyond*

*New Aston Martin DBX: 542bhp SUV charged with reviving firm *

*Volvo reveals XC40 Recharge as first full electric model*