2017 has been quite the stunner of a year for the car industry. From the new Nissan Micra, to the brand new Aston Martin V8 Vantage, the world has been graced with some frankly awe inspiring and faith-restoring models this year to impress even the most stubborn of car enthusiasts. While there are too many notable cars to list in any great detail, we’ve decided to pick out just five of the cars worth noting from this year, so sit back, relax, and have a read. You never know – one of these worthy models could be your next car!
Aston Martin V8 Vantage
According to Matt Becker, Aston Martin’s vehicle dynamics expert, the v8 Vantage will have the best handling of an Aston Martin in, well, ever. The small, light model will be powered by Aston’s usual AMG-sourced 4.0 litre, twin-turbo V8 engine, tuned to 450bhp. With the lightweight design of the car, the engine can give 0-62mh in as little as four seconds, giving it the competitive edge against the Porsche 911 or Audi R8. This read-wheel driven car is being released in December, and could be sold with both automatic, and manual drive options!
Abarth 500X
SUVs and high-performance cars didn’t always go hand in hand, but with the Abarth 500X, they most definitely do. This model is Abarth’s answer to tempting buyers away from the typical sporty models and back towards an SUV style. With larger breaks, gunmetal alloy wheels and the mesh grilles, there is plenty of attitude with this model, and with a 1.4 litre turbocharged petrol engine that offers around 200bhp, it isn’t far from competing with some of the industry’s top high-performance cars – all with a fairly affordable price tag of just £25,000.
Audi Q5
Another SUV to make it onto our list, the new Audi Q5 for 2017 is an all-new take on a classic model. This stylish, yet comfortable vehicle is perfect for families, offering plenty of space and is impressively quiet to run. You can choose between a 190hp diesel or 252hp petrol engine, giving versatility to match your wants and needs. The virtual cockpit digital driver’s display unfortunately doesn’t come as standard with the model, but for those with an extra £800 laying around, it’s well worth the price to make your comfortable ride feel like you’re five years in the future..
Peugeot 3008
Yet another SUV – are you seeing the pattern here? – The Peugeot 3008 is a worthy winner of a place on this list. This model looks and feels as special as you’d expect. The up-market cabin looks great, and with the console angled towards the driver to accompany the small steering wheel and high-up dashboard dials, the whole driving experience is unlike any other. The standard-fit 8-inch infotainment system and 12.3-inch digital driver’s display is available in every model, making this comfortable drive all the more high-tech without needing to shell out for the privilege.
Honda Civic Type R
In short, the Honda Civic Type R could be a family car, but with muscle. The wings and ducts all over the car give this car a look not unlike something from another planet, but in all the right ways – and it isn’t even all for show. The 320hp, 2.0 litre engine can go from 0-62mph in 5.8 seconds, and then keep going until its top speed of 169mph. While other models may be faster, the Honda still holds its own. There is sensational grip for the Honda Civic – we told you those spoilers and ducts weren’t just for show! – making it easy to handle, with a reliable, relentless braking system and adjustable suspension so you can easily move from town to track.