2006 is looming fast and with it the rush for 'O6 plates. Michael McAleer outlines what lies ahead
There's a lot of new motoring metal coming our way in the coming months. Before you make your decisions, here's the highlights of what's coming from each marque on the market.
ALFA ROMEO
Alfa Romeo is placing a lot of hope on its new 159 to bring it back into the fold. The message is clear: no longer is Alfa happy to slug it out with the Ford Mondeo or VW's Passat - its sights are set on the BMW 3-Series.
The new Alfa embraces the principle that bigger is better - the new 159 is noticeably larger than its predecessor in every respect.
The engine line-up features three petrol and three diesel versions. Of most importance to Irish motorists is the dropping of the smaller 1.6-litre petrol unit - quite simply, the car is too big for it, though there are plans to add the 1,742cc petrol unit from the upcoming Fiat Croma to the 159 line-up next spring.
For now, the petrol engine range starts with a 1.9-litre JTS four-cylinder petrol unit, offering 148bhp. Next up is another four-cylinder, the 2.2-litre JTS with 182bhp. Topping the list is the 256bhp 3.2-litre V6. In the diesel range, there are two versions of the 1.9-litre JTDm on offer - 118bhp and 148 bhp - and a very impressive 2.4-litre JTDm outputting 197bhp.
Success or failure in the 159's fight for premium status will be decided by quality and reliability. This will determine whether it can win back disgruntled 156 owners.
Prices will start around €35,000 when it arrives here next month.
Also out in time for the new year sales is the new Brera. It's a new sporting coupé that's eye-catching and relatively racy. However, the fact they've taken the front design straight from the new 159 is a bit lazy and it's arrival does beggar questions as to where it leaves the recently introduced GT in the mix. (See a first drive report on page 2)
Finally, near the end of next year, Alfa will enter the SUV market for the first time with the Kamal. Details are still sketchy on this but reports suggest it will be big enough to challenge the likes of the BMW X5.
AUDI
The big news from the premium German brand in 2006 will undoubtedly be the arrival of its first SUV, the Q7, in the summer. While the timing could have been better, given the growing backlash against such vehicles, the continuing growth in SUV sales suggests there will be a healthy market for it.
It has a very imposing presence and is definitely at the larger end of the market, coming in either five or seven-seat format. First here will be the 233bhp diesel 3-litre with tiptronic transmission and Quattro four-wheel-drive.
The 4.2-litre petrol version will also be available at launch. These will be followed in 2008 by Audi's first hybrid-powered version. A smaller Q5 version - taking on the BMW X3 - will follow in due course.
Other Audi introductions for 2006 include high performance S8 and S6 models due in late Spring and a new Allroad scheduled for June. The Allroad takes on the now trademark big-mouth grille and will also lose the black exterior cladding. Prices for all these have yet to be confirmed.
Finally, the expected launch of a new TT at the end of next year is attracting a lot of attention, particularly after the rather strange 'shooting brake' concept shown at the Tokyo Motor Show last month.
BMW
While the Bavarians have been really busy of late, launching the new 3-Series, revised 7-Series and variants from the rest of the range, the new year sales seem to be more about getting the product on the road now rather than launching anything new.
New engine variants are on offer in several models, such as the 630i and the Z4 2-litre and these will keep the brand in the headlines for the foreseeable future, along with the expected arrival of the new 3-Series coupé sometime in 2006.
BMW is now the top-selling premium marque in Ireland and will be keen to hold onto its position in 2006.
Away from the mainstream, performance versions are set to have their first new year outings, with both M5 and M6 on sale for Christmas, though both come with long waiting lists.
An M6 convertible is due for launch next year as is the M-Powered version of the Z4, possibly known as the M4.
However, all eyes will really be on the sales performance of the new 3-Series, still regarded as the king of its class.
CADILLAC
The Americans have finally arrived in Ireland. Imported by one of Ireland's leading independent distributors, the OHM Group, the legendary US brand will enter the market with two models next year.
With eyes on the premium market in Europe, Cadillac seems to be targeting BMW as its benchmark.
Starting with the CTS, this 5-Series rival is powered by a choice of 2.8-litre or 3.6-litre V6 petrol engines.
Prices have not yet been confirmed but it is due to be launched in January and if it is going to take on the likes of the 5-Series, then expect prices in the region of €65,000 to €70,000.
Next up will be the BLS, aimed at 3-Series owners. Launched in April, the range of engines available in the BLS will include two diesel engines - a 1.9-litre turbo four-cylinder available initially and a 2.8 turbo V-6 to be offered later.
Two turbocharged petrol engines will also be offered: a 2-litre, four-cylinder engine and a 2.8-litre V-6.
CHEVROLET
It has to go down as one of the greatest marketing efforts in years. While the rebranding of the Daewoo models from the Korean to the US moniker was often little more than replacing the badges, it has certainly found favour with Irish buyers and new year sales are set to reinforce its success, particularly with the new Matiz, launched a few months ago.
CHRYSLER
The big news here is the arrival in January of the long-awaited 300C. The car that turned the fortunes of the US brand around in its home market, the unmistakable luxury saloon and estate comes with either a whopping 5.7-litre Hemi petrol engine or the European-minded 3-litre V6 CRD diesel. Prices will start around €60,000.
CITROËN
Initially all attention will focus on the new C1 supermini, Citroën's first venture into the entry-level segment, it's powered by a new 1-litre petrol engine. Prices start at €11,550 for the three-door version and €11,840 for the five-door.
Later in the year we'll see the arrival of the latest attempt by a French manufacturer to crack the German-dominated luxury market. Renault tried and failed with the Vel Satis, Peugeot has failed to make its mark with the 607, but Citroën is bravely going forth with the new C6. Due to arrive here in the spring and priced in the region of €60,000, it takes its design cues from the beautiful Lignage concept car of 1999.
Some suggest it's a successor to the XM but it's a vast improvement in terms of fit and finish and in looks it's a world apart from what's on offer from others, particularly its curved roof that cuts off at the back.
It has the graceful lines you'd expect from French design and don't be surprised to see it sweeping in to EU meetings with French ministers in the back very soon. Based on the same platform as the Peugeot 407, it's nonetheless much larger than its mainstream cousin. Several engines will be on offer but of particular note should be the 2.7-litre V6 twin-turbo diesel.
DAIHATSU
There's been quite a bit of activity from the oldest Japanese car company of late, with the launch of the new Sirion.
Next up will be an all-new Terios range. The mini-SUV will be modelled on the RAV 4 from parent company Toyota and will go on sale in March. Prices are not available yet, but the current model sells for between €18,000 and €20,000.
Two new cars from the Italian marque for the new year. The first, the Fiat Croma is an advanced station wagon. Designed by Giorgetto Giugiaro it revives the Croma name and follows in its predecessors footsteps in offering interior space, and advanced diesel technology.
Two petrol (136 bhp 1.8 16v and 147 bhp 2.2 16v) and three turbodiesels (120 or 150 bhp 1.9 MultiJet and a new 200 bhp 2.4 MultiJet) engines power the Fiat Croma, with a range of transmissions on offer. Diesels come with six-speed gearboxes.
The most important car for the future of Fiat is the new Fiat Punto, or to give it its full title the Punto Grande.
Initial reports were disappointed with the drive, offering the same features as the current model. However, the design, led by Gertone and Giugiaro, is really eyecatching. The Grande Punto comes with two petrol engines, a 656 bhp 1.2- litre and an all-new 77 bhp 1.4-litre.
Finally, Fiat will introduce its new Sedici model later in 2006. A compact 4x4 hatchback, available in three- and five-door formats, it's the result of a joint-venture with Suzuki.
FORD
The big news was meant to be a new Mondeo in 2006 but that looks increasingly like late 2007 at this stage. Next year's buyers will have a new Galaxy, the Focus ST and the likely arrival of a coupé-cabriolet version of the Focus to keep them interested.
The first up will be the ST. Powered by a 2.5-litre 225bhp turbocharged five-litre offering a top speed of 241km/h (almost 150mph) with a 0 to 100km/h time of just 6.8 seconds, it's set to be a real rival to the VW Golf Gti and all reports are singing its praises. The ST makes its Irish debut in January in three and five-door forms with prices of €35,385 and €35,985. The new Galaxy, is not due in Ireland until later next year. Unsurprisingly, given current trends, the new model is much bigger than the current one. Finally, the Focus CC, with a hard-metal folding roof, will likely make it to market here later in 2006. No details of prices as yet.
HONDA
The new Civic has sent pulses racing since it was first unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show.
Here in January it features a completely new look both inside and out, from its glass-effect nose and triangular tailpipes through to its revamped and rather futuristic interior.
Engines range from a 1.4-litre 83bhp petrol to a new 1.8-litre 140bhp petrol version and a 2.2-litre 140bhp diesel. There is also likely to be a hybrid power option. Prices will be up on the current range, probably starting around €19,500.
JAGUAR
The star for the British brand will undoubtedly be the new XK. Taking its cue from a concept shown at Detroit earlier this year, it hints at the styling of earlier sports Jaguars, most notably the E-Type. The XK is powered by a 4.2-litre V8 offering 300bhp. Here in March, prices have yet to be confirmed.
Other additions to the big cat's range include a new 2.2 diesel for the X-Type range and the long-awaited arrival of a diesel version of the flagship XJ range.
Powered by a 2.7-litre V6 diesel its priced at approximately €89,000.
KIA
A new Magentis will go on sale early next year, aimed at the value-for-money buyers. The look is rather traditional saloon, but it's much bigger in all respects than the current model.
Otherwise the Korean marque will have a new Sedona and Carens, both out at the latter part of 2006.
LAND ROVER
While all attention will fall upon sales in the new year of the new Range Rover Sport, with prices starting at €70,200, 2006 may just see the arrival of a new Freelander before the year is out. No confirmation as yet, but as reported in Motors last week, Land Rover is putting the finishing touches to the new model.
LEXUS
The premium Japanese marque has just launched the next generation of its IS range, and though we have only tested it on track, it has seriously closed the gap on the BMW 3-Series.
Looks alone give it an edge on several competitors and it's significantly more spacious than its predecessor. The 2.5-litre petrol version is on sale from November 17th, with prices starting at €44,950, but the big news is the introduction of the first diesel engine to the marque, in the form of the IS220d. Due on sale from January 2nd, prices for the diesel version start at €43,790.
Later in the year we'll see the introduction of the latest hybrid model from the Toyota camp in the form of the Lexus GS450h.
Finally, before the end of next year, we'll see the introduction of the new LS. Completing the new look for the range, it will feature a hybrid version, the LS600.
MAZDA
Two new models from Mazda feature in the starting line-up for 2006. First up is the Mazda5, already on sale here. The six-seater people carrier competes against the likes of the Opel Zafira and manages an equally impressive flexible seating system with some neat tricks. Only the 1.8-litre is on offer in Ireland for now, priced at €21,070.
The MX5 has long been regarded as one of the most fun affordable roadsters around and by all accounts the new model keeps that reputation intact. Two engines are on offer in Europe: a 2-litre 160bhp and a 1.8-litre 126bhp. The outgoing 1.6-litre version is being discontinued. The new model will arrive in markets for sale next month with prices starting just under €40,000.
MERCEDES
Mercedes showrooms are set to feature several new models for 2006.
Topping it all is the new S-Class, due in January and featuring a host of new gadgets and features. Prices are set to rise by between 5 and 10 per cent and orders are already being taken for January deliveries.
Other replacements include the new M-Class. The most relevant for Ireland is the 3-litre common-rail diesel, on sale at a shade under €70,000.
Of the new models, the big seller will be the all-new B-Class.
The B offers a stepping stone for Mercedes' buyers who have outgrown the A but cannot afford the leap straight to the C-Class. Starting at €27,995 for the entry-level 1.5-litre petrol, it's substantially more than the €22,650 Mercedes asks for the similarly powered entry A-Class.
As a result, it is unlikely many will opt to jump straight into the B-Class as their first Mercedes car. The B-Class is the smaller sibling in the new sports tourer family from Mercedes that will include a grand sports tourer, the R-Class, in March 2006.
Finally, a new G-Wagon is on the way. Information on this has still to be released but reports suggest it will finally be made in right-hand-drive.
MINI
The cheeky little Mini can seem to do no wrong and sales just keep increasing. The big question for 2006 is: when will we see the next generation? Late 2006 might be a good bet.
MITSUBISHI
While the Japanese marque is busy sorting its finances out back at home, engineers are preparing for a completely new Lancer, due for arrival in 2007. For now fans can enjoy the ninth generation of the mighty Evo range, priced at €51,495.
NISSAN
Nissan's Micra has got a new look and beefed up engines for 2006. And it gets a pretty little coupé-cabriolet version, the C+C. The changes in the standard Micra are significant. The 1-litre entry-level engine is no more. Now a 1.2-litre 80bhp engine is the first in the range.
But the real highlight for the Micra range is the new C+C variant, on sale in the second week of November. The entry-level C+C, in Tekna spec, has a 1.4-litre engine of 88bhp output, and includes 15" alloys, aircon, front foglights and black trim as standard. The Tekna+, which will be here in May, has a 110hp 1.6-litre engine which will also appear in a special version of the hatchback and will power the upcoming Note small MPV.
The 1.4 Tekna will cost €23,995 and the 1.6 Tekna+ will be €26,995. As for the Note, it will come with 1.4-litre 85bhp and 1.6-litre 110bhp petrol engines and a new 1.5-litre diesel engine.
OPEL
2006 will see the introduction of the Astra Twintop in early summer, a metal roofed coupe cabriolet with engines starting with the 1.6-litre petrol model.
The main model change, however, will be the new Opel Corsa, due near the end of the year and taking the new family look from the Astra range. Early reports suggest it will also feature a much-improved interior from the current, rather staid look.
For the January sales, the new Zafira will probably be the main attraction with prices starting at €25,745 for the 1.6-litre entry level Life version.
PEUGEOT
The stylish new 407 Coupé, revised 307 and two all-new models, the 1007 with sliding doors and the new 107 supermini, will be the star attractions at Peugeot dealerships this January.
The 407 Coupé has been designed as a genuine four-seater grand tourer, accommodating four passengers and their luggage. We will see it in Ireland in mid-January and prices start at €41,500 for the 160bhp 2.2-litre SE petrol version, rising to €57,100 for the 205bhp 2.7 V6 HDi diesel which comes with a Porsche Tiptronic sequential control gearbox. The in-between option is a 3-litre V6 211bhp petrol, available with both this automatic or a six-speed manual gearbox.
As for the 107 supermini, we're still waiting on prices, but it's unlikely to start very far off €11,550.
PORSCHE
It's the world's most profitable car company and it can't seem to put a foot wrong these days. The imminent takeover of VW shows the real might of the supercar brand, but in the model range, the highlight in the coming months will be the arrival of the new Cayman S, a gorgeous mid-engined model positioned snugly between the Boxster and 911.
The Cayman is powered by a 3.4-litre engine (a reworked version of the Boxster S 3.2-litre unit) offering 295bhp and available with 6-speed manual transmission or Porsche's 5-speed Tiptronic system. Those who like to drive will opt for manual. The only bad news about the Cayman is the price: €96,850. Start saving.
RENAULT
The new Clio III (road tested on page 20) will be the highlight come January. Later in the year we can expect a new Twingo. After that, the next big news will probably be in 2007, when it's expected to confirm production of its first SUV, based on the Egeus concept. It will challenge the likes of the RAV4 and upcoming Nisssan Qashqai (set to replace the Almera in 2007).
SAAB
The Swedish marque will be trying to allure new buyers with two new models in the New Year car sales rush. First is the new 9-3 SportsEstate with prices starting at €35,995.
The flagship 9-5 has also received a facelift, with a new front, rear and a new suspension system. For all the good news from the Swedes, with only two models on offer, Saab still desperately needs to expand its range.
SEAT
The Spanish marque has been busy of late revamping its range and the look - apart from the Toledo - is very fetching. However, they've saved the best to last with the new Leon arguably the best-looking car in its class at present. Two petrol engines - 1.6-litre and 2-litre - are on offer along with two diesels - a 1.9-litre and 2-litre TDI. Prices start at €19,900. A new 1.4-litre petrol will be available from March 2006.
SKODA
Skoda has been doing remarkably well with its new Octavia range and two new versions are due this year with a recently introduced four-wheel-drive version and the new Octavia RS high-powered version with 200bhp due to join the range for January sales.
In terms of new models, Skoda is set to introduce its new Roomster model late in 2006, based on the rather freaky looking concept shown at recent car shows. A mid-sized MPV, it will be up against the new Nissan Note.
SUBARU
We're still waiting for the world to realise how good the Subaru range is.
Perhaps its greatest problem is in design, for apart from the Legacy, none of its cars could remotely be described as good looking.
Yet in engineering terms they are rock-solid and this year sees the introduction of two updates, an upgraded Impreza and Forrester range.
The key differences are the introduction of new 2-litre and 2.5-litre engines along with minor tweaks to the styling.
At the top end, the Sti gets the new 2.5-litre engine, which means peak power has risen from 261bhp to 276bhp. However, the move from 2-litre to 2.5-litre also means greater torque, particularly at lower revs.
The Forrester is perhaps the most underrated car in its segment, and though it gets the new corporate grille, it's still no work of art.
However, the next big launch for Subaru will be the B9 Tribeca at the end of 2006. It's a seven-seater SUV that's aimed at the owners of BMW X5s.
SUZUKI
Suzuki made the greatest leap forward in years with its new Swift, arguably the most improved car of the year and certainly one of the highlights of 2005. Next year sees the revolution continue with a new Grand Vitara being launched in the next few weeks and the arrival of the SX4 in Spring next year. A joint-venture with Fiat, it will come with 1.5-litre and 1.6-litre petrol engines and Fiat's 1.9-litre JTD diesel.
TOYOTA
It's set to be the biggest car firm in the world and it's certainly the benchmark for everything from quality and reliability through to its lead on hybrid technology.
The sad news this year was the end of the road for its sports car models like the Celica and MR2. So for now, Toyota is strictly a family car brand. With that in mind, its new models for 2006 start arriving on forecourts at the end of this month, with the new Yaris being quickly followed by the new RAV4 early next year.
The Yaris is a complete revision on the current one. It gets significantly more spacious with a roomier cabin and more refined driving position. Three engines are on offer: a 1-litre, 1.3-litre and 1.4-litre turbodiesel. Prices have yet to be confirmed but they are unlikely to differ greatly from the current range which start at just under €14,600.
VW
Four new models make up the Volkswagen story for 2006. Leading the line-up is the new Passat Variant Estate, first versions of which have already arrived here well in time for the January sales rush.
Another new model set to make its appearance on Irish roads from January onwards is the all-new Jetta.
In February, the new Volkswagen Fox - successor to the VW Lupo in the expanding supermini segment - makes its appearance. When we drove the Fox recently we were well impressed by its on-road ability and its fit and finish. The price has yet to be announced.
Initially, the Fox model range will be limited to two 1.2-litre, 3-door versions of 55 bhp and 65 bhp power output. Later, a 1.4-litre/75bhp petrol and 1.4-litre/80bhp TDi versions will be added.
Ahead of summer, the April arrival of the new sporty EOS will see Volkswagen stake its claim to a share of the expanding open-top market.
VOLVO
The Swedes are at last set to replace the ageing but popular C70. The big news here is that they've opted for a hard-topped metal retractable roof over the cloth version of old.
With a claimed coupé-to-cabriolet time of 30 seconds, the car will be available initially with a choice of two petrol engines - 170bhp 2.4-litre and 2.5-litre T5 turbo 220bhp. A 180bhp five-cylinder diesel will follow in the summer.
Due to arrive in Ireland by February, prices for the X70 will start at €52,000