Future models (2006)
Alfa Romeo 148
Successor to the 147, will appear towards the end of the year. Expect revised JTS petrol and JTD multi-jet diesel engines, including 3.2 V6 JTS. FWD and four-wheel drive models. Styling influenced by Kamal concept.
Alfa Romeo 159
Right-hand drive 159s on sale in February, though LHD models on sale on the Continent from summer 2005 (and we've already driven them - see link below). Engines including the Holden 3.2 V6 and 150/200bhp JTD diesels. Hot GTA models, Sportwagon estates and Crosswagon Q4 four-wheel drives to follow, the latter in RHD for the first time.
Alfa Romeo Brera
LHD versions on sale at the end of 2005, RHD to arrive spring 2006. This coupe will effectively replace both the GTV and the GT; GTC Spider versions with power-folding fabric hood to follow later. Engines including 2.0 and 3.2 V6 JTS petrol units.
Alfa Romeo 8C Competizione
High-performance carbon-bodied two-seater coupe, derived from concept shown in Frankfurt 2003. Could have Ferrari-Maserati 4.2 V8 or all-new 4.3 unit (480bhp). Very limited production run, said to be 1000 for special order only.
Alfa Romeo 'Kamal'
Crossover station wagon-4x4 with V6 and V8 petrol and diesel engines, built on GM-Fiat Premium (large car) platform. Influenced by Kamal concept car, prefigures all-new 167 range due 2007.
Alfa Romeo TZ3
Road-going version of GT car; just 25 will be made in order to homologate the racer, and marketed as 911 rivals. To feature Ferrari 6.0 V12 (650bhp), mid-mounted; styling similar to Sportiva Evoluta concept.
Audi Q3
Audi's rival to the BMW X3 and Freelander, a compact SUV on the A3's underpinnings and sister model to a similar Volkswagen 4x4. Higher ground clearance and more off-road ability than Quattro versions of A3 Sportback. Late 2006.
Audi S3
To use the 3.2 V6, boosted to over 300bhp, apparently. Four-wheel drive, of course, though the Haldex system as in the Golf R32 rather than Quattro layout.
Audi S6
To debut at the Geneva Motor Show, complete with 440bhp 5.5-litre V10. 550 bhp RS6 models and Avant estates to follow a year later.
Audi S8
The large saloon with the Lamborghini Gallardo's V10 engine: on sale mid-year.
Audi TT
Audi isn't going to mess with a winning formula, but expect general updates, more powerful engines and refreshed interiors. Shooting Brake concept (Tokyo 2005) gives a few clues, though an actual estate-style variant isn't likely in near future, if at all.
Audi allroad
Despite launch of the Q models, the original allroad will continue. The revised model on latest A6 Avant platform is based on concept shown in Detroit, 2005. Due on sale mid-year.
Audi Q7
Production version of Pikes Peak concept, to go on sale mid-2006. A spacious seven-seater to challenge Range Rover, with air suspension and 500bhp version of bi-turbo 4.2 V8.
Bentley Azure
Production version of the super-luxurious Arnage Drophead Coupe concept.
BMW 1-Series Coupe, Cabriolet, Touring, Compact
The 1-Series range expands: coupe and cabriolet versions are expected to arrive first, perhaps at Geneva Motor Show, followed by small Touring estates and perhaps even a three-door hatch.
BMW M6 Convertible
Drop-top version of coupe launched a year earlier, with the 5.0 V10.
BMW X5
Second-generation X5 is bigger and more versatile; seven-seat option. New suspension, new V8 petrol engines plus powerful diesels. Due at end of 2006.
BMW Z4 Coupe
Hard-topped Z to take on the Porsche Cayman, plus 343bhp M Roadster with the M3's straight-six, both to be launched at Detroit Motor Show in January. Minor updates to continuing Z4 Roadster include tweaked headlights, a freshening-up of the cabin, new bumpers and iDrive.
Cadillac BLS
To be built alongside Saab 9-3 in Trollhatten, sharing same underpinnings and engine line-up. Cadillac's made-for-Europe 3-Series/C-Class/A4 rival.
Chery (range)
Distribution deals have been signed to bring low-cost Chinese-built cars to Europe. Chery is working with Pininfarina on the design and development of six vehicles (on three platforms): small and medium hatches, a large saloon, compact and full-sized MPVs and a 4x4. The entry-level car will have a target price of less than £4,000.
Chevrolet Aveo
The new generation of Daewoo/Chevrolet Aveo/Kalos, designed for worldwide sale this time. Aveo name likely for European/UK-bound cars. All versions to be made in Korea.
Chevrolet S3X
The Daewoo-developed large 4x4, to go on sale now as a Chevrolet. A full seven-seater, it will feature Daewoo's first self-made diesel engine and share underpinnings with sister models including all-new Vauxhall/Opel Frontera and other GM models.
Chrysler 300C SRT-8 and diesel
Euro-friendly 300C diesel - the new Mercedes-Benz 3.0 V6 - comes early in the year, along with hot SRT-8 6.1-litre V8 petrol engine, as well as Touring estates.
Chrysler PT Cruiser Cabriolet
Right-hand drive versions of the drop-top PTC, following successful sale of LHD models. On sale springtime.
Chrysler Sebring/Dodge Stratus
Mid-size family ranges, again co-developed with Mitsubishi, even though it has now pulled out of this D-sector programme. Dodge will be sportier than earlier Stratus and has been engineered specifically for Europe. Chrysler version more comfort-oriented, will probably remain LHD only as before.
Chrysler Firepower
Chrysler has canned the incredible ME 4-12 supercar concept, but this one's more likely: a GT-style Chrysler version of the Dodge Viper.
Chrysler 4x4
The first Chrysler (as opposed to Jeep) branded 4x4; a high-spec luxury model based on the Dodge Durango. Unlikely to come to UK, but a possibility.
Citroen C4 C+C
Coupe-cabriolet version of the C4 with metal folding roof is Citroen's answer to the Peugeot 307 CC, upcoming Focus and Astra CCs, etc.
Citroen C4 Picasso
Larger and in two versions - a five-seater or in long-wheelbase form with a seven-seat layout. Styling similar to C4, size similar to Peugeot 307 SW. Some styling influenced by C-SportLounge concept seen at Frankfurt.
Citroen C6
Let's face it, it's not a modern-day DS, but Citroen is having another punt at the executive/luxury family car sector. Production begins in the back end of 2005, RHD sales to start early 2006.
Connaught Type-D
The British hybrid sports coupe: to feature a V10 petrol engine and electric motor, but cost from just £35,000.
Daihatsu Terios
All-new Terios is based on the new Sirion/Toyota Yaris platform, though it's going to be nearer the Toyota RAV-4 in size - expect more of a lifestyle-crossover sort of feel and for it to look very much like D-Compact concept seen in Frankfurt. Due February/March. The BE-GO concept (Tokyo 2005) also gives a few pointers.
Dodge 4x4s
Officials emphasise that they don't want the newly-re-launched Dodge brand to cannibalise Chrysler/Jeep sales in Europe, but a Dodge version of new Cherokee will appear, derived from Nitro concept (Geneva 2005). Entry-level fun 4x4 sharing its platform with the Smart Formore also rumoured, though Formore programme has been axed.
Dodge Caliber
All new C-sector (small family-sized) range of Euro-friendly hatchbacks and estates; developed from Caliber concept (Geneva 2005, updated for Frankfurt) and earlier Avenger concept. Co-development with Mitsubishi (new Lancer range) before DC-Mitsubishi partnership broke down. Platform will also spawn saloon to replace Chrysler Neon, a compact MPV and a Jeep/Dodge-branded 4x4 like Compass concept.
Dodge Charger Coupe
Chrysler has already brought back the famous Dodge Charger - as a saloon, albeit a sporty fastback. Word is, though, that a two-door more reminiscent of the original model will be revealed at January's Detroit Show - and an all-new Challenger (a smaller, more compact model on the same underpinnings) will make its debut as part of the Mk2 Charger line-up in 2009.
Dodge Nitro
Officials emphasise that they don't want the newly relaunched Dodge brand to cannibalise Chrysler/Jeep sales in Europe, but a Dodge version of new Cherokee will appear, called Nitro. Entry-level fun 4x4, sharing its platform with the Smart Formore also rumoured, though Formore programme has been axed; Caliber-derived SUV more likely.
Ferrari 600 Imola 'Testarossa'
Replacement for 575 Maranello, roomier and with improved luggage space, with the ItalDesign GG50 concept giving an indication of styling. To feature modified version of Enzo/612 Scaglietti's 6.0-litre V12, reviving Testarossa name and giving 550bhp-plus. Spyder soft-top to follow in 2007/2008.
Fiat Doblo
To be a bit prettier than the current model... on the new Punto platform and with a slightly larger boot. Will keep current car's van-like shape and utilitarian appeal.
Fiat Idea
Mini-MPV on new Punto/Corsa platform, sister model to Opel/Vauxhall Meriva.
Fiat Punto
The Grande Punto (to distinguish it from continuing versions of the old-generation model, which remains on sale); larger and more refined, shares platform with new Vauxhall/Opel Corsa. RHD sales start early in the year. Hot Sporting and Abarth versions to follow later, with 1.4 turbo and 220bhp 1.6 engines respectively; diesel Abarth also likely.
Fiat Sedici
The compact 4x4, co-developed with Suzuki (SX4) on the Swift supermini platform. Larger than the Panda SUV still on its way, but smaller than upcoming Stilo SUV/crossover. Will be unveiled at Bologna Motor Show (December 2005) with production versions launched in Geneva.
Fiat 4x4
A large, rugged utility-biased 4x4 built on the Iveco Daily van platform.
Fisker Tramonto and Latigo
For the super-wealthy and those in search of exclusivity only, hand-made, bespoke-design models developed by ex-Aston Martin designer Henrik Fisker, based on Merc SL55 AMG and BMW 650Ci.
Ford D-MAX
As previewed by SAV concept car (Geneva 2005), on sale early 2006. To be built on new Mondeo platform, shared with new Freelander and Volvo XC50, so expect four-wheel drive crossover-style versions. A five-seater with seven-seat option, it'll sit in the Ford range between the Mondeo and the all-out MPV Galaxy; will have strong family resemblance to C-MAX.
Ford Escape/Lincoln Aviator
We're unlikely to see these in the UK as such, but they're the first of a new set of compact 4x4s on the Mazda6 platform, with more of a crossover feel than their predecessors. The current Escape hybrid will continue for a while. We will, however, get their Mazda counterpart, the CX-7 (see below).
Ford Focus coupe-cabriolet
Production version of Vignale concept, with metal folding roof and new-look grille (to feature on other upcoming new Fords).
Ford Focus RS
Word is that this project has been canned - Ford doesn't think it can make it profitable - but we're still holding out for it, and there are still prototypes running around. It could be launched alongside the new WRC car in 2006 and share many styling features. If it happens, it'll have the same five-cylinder 2.5-litre engine as in the Focus ST and Volvo S40/V50 T5 (220 bhp) but tuned for well over 250 bhp and fitted in combination with the Volvo AWD system.
Ford Galaxy
To go on sale shortly after sportier, more car-like S-MAX; to have seven seats as standard, a roomier, higher-roofed cabin and more load space, although the two models will share the same underpinnings.
Ford Shelby GR-1
Top-end Californian-designed super-coupe with 605bhp 6.4 V10 - likely to replace the GT when that car reaches the end of its limited production run.
Ford S-MAX
As previewed by SAV concept car (Geneva 2005), on sale early 2006. To be built on new Mondeo platform, shared with new Freelander and Volvo XC50, so expect four-wheel drive crossover-style versions. A five-seater with seven-seat option, it'll sit in the Ford range between the Mondeo and the all-out MPV Galaxy; will have strong family resemblance to C-MAX.
Honda Civic
Next-gen Civic will be lower-slung and sportier to drive and look less like an MPV. Five-door on sale January 2006, three-door, Type-R and hybrid versions to follow later in the year.
Honda Legend
Luxury Legend saloon to be reintroduced to UK. The new one is a lightweight, four-wheel drive and technically complex. Powerful 300bhp V6 and kit including Night Vision system.
Hummer
Oversized, overpriced and over here - GM is to officially market its Hummer brand in Europe from 2005, UK sales and right-hand drive versions in 2006. Range to include all-new "baby Hummer" H3, a Discovery-sized 4x4 based on the Chevrolet Colorado.
Hyundai Accent and Kia Rio hybrids
Brought forward in response to growing US demand for such vehicles, these fuel-efficient petrol-electric compact models may not come to Europe and the UK, at least for a while longer. Hybrid versions of the Getz supermini are also already being tested in Korea.
Hyundai Coupe
End of the year: Coupe/Tiburon/Tuscani on the latest Elantra platform.
Hyundai Elantra
The latest (Kia Rio-based) Accent may not come to the UK this time round, as buyers prefer the Getz supermini, but we're likely to be offered an all-new Elantra, upsized and specced-up. Hatchbacks pitched at the Golf-class C-sector; saloons and estates positioned as family cars, though not as big as Mondeo, Passat etc. On sale third quarter 2006.
Hyundai Entourage
Replacement for Trajet, a twin to the new-generation Kia Sedona (see below). Portico concept (Chicago 2005) may give some clues to styling. Due late 2006.
Hyundai Matrix
Compact MPV to replace current model, to be based on version of latest Accent/Kia Rio platform. HED-1 concept (Geneva 2005) could give some clues.
Motorshow: Hyundai HED-1
Hyundai Santa Fe
All-new Santa Fe on sale mid-year, sharing its platform with next-gen Kia Sorento. Larger than current model, to differentiate it further from Tucson/Sportage.
Jaguar XK
Coupe on sale early 2006; production version of the Advanced Lightweight Concept (ALC) shown in Detroit and Geneva. Built on a lightweight aluminium structure derived from the XJ saloon, but otherwise a very evolutionary, rather than revolutionary, new XK. Convertible to follow.
Jeep Commander
Long-wheelbase version of latest Grand Cherokee (not on next-gen platform as originally thought), with seven-seat cabin and engines including the 5.7-litre HEMI V8. To be launched at the Geneva Motor Show (March).
Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT-8
With the 6.1 V8 and suitably butched-up styling: the Yank answer to a Mercedes-AMG M-Class, perhaps.
Jeep Compass Rallye and Patriot (MK49 and MK74)
Two soft-roading Jeeps based on the Dodge Caliber platform, codenamed MK49 and MK74. Compass Rallye (MK49) is a high-riding station wagon/crossover; Patriot (MK74) a taller SUV in the vein of Toyota RAV4, Honda CR-V etc. Patriot and Compass Rallye concepts in Frankfurt give plenty of clues - these names probable for production.
Jeep Wrangler four-door
Self-explanatory... expect much-upgraded cabin, a few more creature comforts and improved refinement. Heavily-revised two-door versions to follow.
Kia roadster
Successor to earlier Elan; two-seater derived from KCV III concept and based on new Rio/Hyundai Accent platform. To appear at end of year, sales not expected till spring 2007.
Kia Sedona
Sister model to the Hyundai Entourage: expect it to be big in size, low in price and more refined than current Sedona, as well as having more adventurous design and interior layout. Multi-S concept gives some clues.
Kia Carens
Sister model to the Hyundai Matrix replacement (see above), on the new Rio/Accent platform.
Kia Magentis
Still looks conservative, but a bit more modern than before. Shares many components with Hyundai Sonata.
Kia supermini
Production version of the Sport concept shown in Paris. Mainstream models will have more in common with Hyundai's Getz, which shares the same platform and basic underpinnings. Launch in Geneva expected.
Land Rover Freelander
Set for unveiling at the British Motor Show. Like the next Mondeo (2007), it'll be built on a lengthened version of the current Focus/S40/V50/Mazda 3 platform, which it will also share with the upcoming Volvo XC50 and perhaps even a Jaguar 4x4/crossover vehicle. Expect Volvo in-line five- and six-cylinder engines. LR2 badge for US market; hybrid version expected at a later date. Seven-seater option said to have been canned, though, and only five-door versions will figure.
Lexus IS Coupe, Cabriolet
Lexus wants the IS to really take on the 3-Series, so will offer a full range of bodystyles; besides saloon and wagon launched 2005, coupe and cabriolet will join the range mid-2006. The latter will probably have a soft hood rather than a metal folding roof. IS hybrids (saloon/wagon) are also expected.
Lexus LS-Series
Autumn debut for new high-tech LS. Expect LWB models and roomier cabins, plus 4WD versions and possibly a diesel engine to follow later. LF-Sh concept (Tokyo 2005) suggests that a hybrid version will feature, too; this may go on sale earlier in some markets, badged LS600h.
Lexus SC430
Replacement for existing range on latest GS saloon platform, so 4WD versions a possibility. Expect power upgrade, two proper rear seats and attention to suspension.
Lexus GS450h
Hybrid version of the new GS-series, with 3.5-litre V6 and electric motor combining to give a good 300bhp.
Lexus LS600h
The hybrid big 'un, with 5.0-litre V8 and electric motor giving 500bhp-plus
to be seen alongside GS450h at Tokyo Motor Show in October 2005, sales starting early 2006 in some markets. Not yet confirmed for UK.
Lotus Elite/Excel/Europa
Reviving an old name - reports differ as to which one - for a new mid-engined 2+2, Lotus is expected to reveal this new coupe at Geneva Motor Show. It'll fit in the range between the Elise/Exige and upcoming Esprit (2007).
Mazda CX-7
Production version of the MXCrossport concept, sister model to Lincoln Aviator; confirmed for autumn 2006. A high-riding family station wagon with four-wheel drive, probably first of a series of CX crossovers.
Mazda CX-9
Large crossover-style MPV to replace the current, obviously named MPV. Bigger than the CX-7, it's aimed at US market, although European sales possible. US launch scheduled for autumn 2006 as well.
Maybach 53
The "baby" Maybach, sharing its platform with the next S-Class will rival the Bentley Continental saloon. Rumours also persist of four-seat convertible version to rival Rolls-Royce Corniche.
Maserati 5000 GT + Spyder
Based on version of Quattroporte platform; new 5.0 V8 (470bhp), 4.2 V8 (400bhp) likely to continue.
Mercedes-Benz CL-Class
Luxury coupe version of the W221-series S-Class launched a year before. Expect longer wheelbase, ever-more opulent cabin and more powerful engines, including 600bhp AMG 6.3 and the Maybach 6.5 V12.
Mercedes-Benz R-Class (GST)/G-Class
R- and GL- on same platform as latest M-Class, also shared with next-generation Jeeps Grand Cherokee and Commander (sister model to R-Class crossover). The three M-Bs will be built alongside each other in Tuscaloosa, Alabama, but will have very different characteristics. R - a production version of the Grand Sport Tourer concept - is biased more towards a luxury on-road experience as a crossover vehicle than the off-roading M; the GL will be positioned as a true Range Rover rival.
Mercedes-Benz SL Lightweight
A super-quick SL with a different flavour to the SL 65AMG: a stripped-out, lightweight no-compromises roadster to rival the F430 Spider and the like, to have either the AMG 6.3 V8 or the 600 bhp-plus 6.0 V12.
Mini Cooper S John Cooper Works GP Tuning Kit
The "lightweight" Cooper S, developed and built by JCW: 40kg stripped out, engine tweaked for 218bhp, plus unique interior, special alloys and aggressive body kit. On sale mid- to late 2006.
Mitsubishi Colt Cabriolet
2+2 cabriolet to rival Mini, Micra C+C, Peugeot 206 CC and so on, with metal folding roof, 1.5 Turbo engine. Unveiled in Geneva (2005), production to start early 2006.
Mitsubishi i
Four-seater, four-door version of Smart ForTwo developed before breakdown in Mitsubishi-DaimlerChrysler relationship. This tiny city car has already been launched in Japan, but was originally unveiled in Germany... European sales could be announced at Geneva Motor Show
Mitsubishi Lancer
All-new small family range for Golf class, shared development with Chrysler (Dodge, production version of Caliber). Expect hot Evo versions but also mainstream hatches, saloons, estates and a compact MPV. Concept at 2005 Frankfurt Motor Show hints at styling and dynamic image.
Mitsubishi Eclipse
Affordable coupe based on new Lancer platform; not confirmed for Europe. Dodge sister model likely.
Nissan Sport Compact
A sporty Mexican-built three-door for the US market following the Azeal and Sport Concept show cars; European sales now looking unlikely, though we could get a Euro-friendly version of the closely-related Japanese-market Tiida. Saloon versions called Versa (US only) to follow in early 2007.
Nissan Tone
On sale early 2006 - and built in Sunderland - the five-door Tone shares its platform and powertrains with Renault Modus mini-MPV. First model in the new Almera-replacement family.
Perodua Myvi
Malaysian-built version of Toyota Yaris/Daihatsu Sirion, with same 1.0 and 1.3-litre petrol engines. Expected to undercut both in price.
Peugeot 407 Coupe
On sale in UK in January, offered with 2.2 and 3.0 V6 petrol engines or the 2.7 V6 diesel.
Proton SRM
Replacement for the Satria, to be built on the same underpinnings as the Gen-2 small family model. GTi model to follow.
Proton sports car
A mid-engined sports car has been promised, no doubt developed with more than a little help from Lotus, now owned by the Malaysian company.
Renaultsport Clio 190
High-performance version of MK3 Clio, developing around 190bhp from its naturally-aspirated 2.0-litre engine. Production version expected for launch in Geneva (spring 2006). No Clio V6 in the Mk3 range, however.
Saab 9-6X
The first 'proper' Saab 4x4, sister model to the Subaru Tribeca. To be launched in Detroit in January, on sale in the US in May and in Europe in the autumn.
Seat Altea FR
Hot version of the family-oriented but sporty compact MPV; to come with new VW Group 170bhp diesel engine.
Seat Leon Cupra
Hottest version of the latest Leon hatch, with 2.0-litre, 240bhp turbocharged petrol engine. On sale in the summer; diesel version will follow.
Skoda Roomster
Compact MPV midway between the likes of the Modus and the Scenic in size, to go into production late 2006. Based on Roomster concept (Frankfurt 2003) but may not keep that name, or the quirky doors.
Smart Crosstown
Debatable, but Crosstown concept (Frankfurt 2005) suggests that DC is planning to make a Mk2 Fortwo. Very slightly larger, but basic idea remains the same.
Smart Formore
This has almost certainly been axed, but programme could be reinstated yet: the mini-SUV, to feature full-time 4WD and raised suspension and the Forfour/Mitsubishi Colt 1.5 petrol and diesel engines; Mitsubishi sister model (Shogun Pinin replacement) still likely, and perhaps a Dodge.
Spyker 4x4
Luxury off-roader from the Dutch sports car firm, to rival the Range Rover, Porsche Cayenne, Audi Q7 and so on. To feature a Karmann-built body and, like Spyker's sports cars, a Audi V8. To be unveiled at Geneva Motor Show in spring 2006.
Ssangyong Kyron
Large replacement for Musso, on sale early in the year with Mercedes-sourced 2.7 diesel engine.
SsangYong small SUV
A sporty compact 4x4 similar to the XCT prototype unveiled at the Seoul Motor Show, part of a product offensive from the rejuvenated Korean brand (now under Chinese ownership). Expect XMT pick-up version to follow.
Subaru Tribeca
Seven-seater 4x4-MPV crossover built on stretched version of Legacy platform; sister model to now-axed Saab 9-6X. On sale towards end of 2006.
Suzuki Forenza
Suzuki's D-sector family car, a crossover-style station wagon sharing its underpinnings with the Chevrolet (Daewoo) Nubira. Already on sale in the US. Alternatively, European buyers could get a Suzuki-badged version of the Fiat Croma crossover, on a similar theme.
Suzuki Swift Sport
Hot 1.6-litre version of Swift supermini to back up entry in JWRC; drop-top version with same engine to follow in 2007.
Suzuki SX4
Swift supermini-based off-roader, co-developed with Fiat (Seidici), a Giugiaro-styled compact 4x4-crossover to sit in range between Jimny and Vitara (see below). More of a four-wheel drive, high-riding station wagon than an all-out off-roader.
Suzuki Vitara
Long overdue; European version of the Escudo, with all-new body construction as seen on Concept-X2 show car. A Freelander-sized five-seater, it follows the larger Grand Vitara on sale. To have a Fiat-badged sister model.
Toyota Camry
All-new version of America's best-selling passenger car; US-market cars to be built in Georgetown, Kentucky, and from mid-year, the range will include a petrol-electric hybrid. Unlikely to come to the UK.
Toyota RAV-4
To be launched in January. Not an all-new model sharing platform with Daihatsu Terios, but revised from current range for smoother ride and more rear legroom. 4WD system upgraded, new and revised engines; US buyers will get a petrol V6 (TBC for Europe) and hybrid versions to follow later. Seven-seater models also rumoured.
Toyota Volca
The successor to the Supra to take on 350Z and Cayman, aimed especially at US buyers, but likely for worldwide sale. Hybrid versions likely.
Toyota Yaris
Sharing its underpinnings with the Daihatsu Sirion already on sale, Euro-spec Yaris models follow the Vitz recently launched in Japan. On sale January 2006.
Vauxhall Corsa and Meriva
On sale early 2006. To share their platforms with the new Fiats Punto and Idea; similar range of petrol and Multijet diesel engines. Expect upgraded quality and roomier cabins.
Vauxhall GT
Replacement for Elise-based VX220/Opel Speedster: GT is based on GM Kappa platform, to be shared with Pontiac Solstice and other small sports cars from Chevrolet and Buick. Saab sister model ("the new Sonett") also said to be back on the agenda. Derived from Lightning concept car; expected to have supercharged 2.0 engine, giving over 200bhp.
Vauxhall Antara
Replacement for the Frontera, engineered and developed by GM Daewoo and sister model to Chevrolet S3X and Saturn Vue.
Vauxhall Astra TwinTop
On sale spring 2006; a full four-seater with three-piece metal folding roof. Engines to include 200bhp 2.0-litre turbo.
Volkswagen Fox
The Brazil-built no-frills city car, on sale in right-hand drive form February 2006. Four-wheel-drive jacked-up CrossFox to follow.
Volkswagen Eos
Production version of the Concept-C. built on new platform combining elements of Golf Mk 5 and new Passat underpinnings, which will be shared with Beduin 4x4 and new Corrado-style coupe. Metal folding roof and roomy interior.
Volkswagen Golf SUV
Codenamed Freestyle, but probably to be called CrossGolf (CrossFox also on the way). Based on Mk5 Golf platform with a version of 4MOTION four-wheel drive system, will have raised ground clearance and the Golf Plus-style body; will be positioned as a crossover-style small family car rather than all-out off-roader. Launch at Frankfurt Show in 2005 postponed, could now appear at Geneva in spring 2006. Distinct from the Beduin, a "proper" compact off-roader, which follows next year.
Volkswagen Polo GTI
With the 1.8T turbo engine, giving 150bhp, and Golf GTI-lookalike styling. On sale early in the year.
Volkswagen Jetta
Going back to its original name, Bora replacement (the four-door, booted Golf) goes on sale in the UK in February 2006.
Volvo C70
Sales start early in the year of new-generation C70, now a coupe-cabriolet with metal folding roof.
Volvo C30
Concept to be revealed at Geneva Motor Show (March), production versions late in the year. A coupe-style hatch on the S40/V50 platform, an upscale sister model to Mazda3 and Ford Focus and Volvo's answer to 1-Series/A3.
Volvo S80
New range due for Geneva launch; based on revised version of current platform shared with V70, also used for US-market Fords including the Five Hundred top-end saloon. V8 models rumoured, using Yamaha engine offered in US-market XC90. Will also spawn...
Volvo V70
New-generation range of estates, to be launched in the autumn.
Volvo XC90
Mid-term revisions for popular XC90 to differentiate it from V90 (see below). European buyers may be offered the US-only V8 next time around.
Volvo V90
Production version of VVC concept estate based on new S80 and twin to next-generation Ford Freestyle station wagon/SUV crossover (US-only). 4WD, in similar vein to Subaru Legacy Outback, Audi allroad etc.
