Cars to look out for in 2019

Every year, we witness new models making their appearance, with manufacturers hoping they’ll have unveiled the next big thing. From being compact and economically friendly, to the wow factor, brands are always looking for ways to retain existing customers. There are many ways that companies release their motors and here we take a look at the new models and makes that are set to take off in 2019.

Ford Focus Active

When it comes to popular cars in the UK, Ford do extremely well. In 2018, it was the Fiesta which drivers of the UK liked the most, according to research. However, not far behind was the Ford Focus. Perhaps this is why the American giants have decided to introduce the Focus Active. This 4x4-inspired model is also available in an estate model and joins the likes of the Ka+ and Fiesta which already have the Active range. It’s a taller ride, measuring in at an extra 30mm, and has toughened up the regular Focus with sturdier bumpers and grilles. It has also been packed full of the latest technology, including collision avoidance and autonomous emergency braking.

Est price: £24,000+

Expected due date: Early 2019

Toyota Corolla

Drivers in the UK can revel in the return of the biggest-selling model name to have ever graced the world. Toyota are bringing the Corolla model back to their brand, but with a much more fashionable design. This fresh style is set to go up against the Ford Focus and Hyundai i30 to reign supreme in the petrol-hybrid market. There will not be a diesel version of this model this time around too.

Est price: £21,000+

Expected due date: Early 2019

Ferrari 488 Pista Spider

If you can afford a bit of extreme luxury in your life, Italian manufacturer Ferrari has just the model for you. The wow-factor really is on show in this convertible, which can go from 0-62mph in a staggering 2.9 seconds. If you want to feel the wind through your hair, the folding hard-top can automatically be stowed in just 30 seconds and, with performance figures identical to the V8, the 488 Pista Spider really is a majestic sight.

Est price: £275,000+

Expected due date: Early 2019

Skoda Vision X

First unveiled at the Geneva Motor Show in 2018, this concept was also viewable at the Paris Motor Show in October. It’s due to land this summer and is the latest compact SUV offering from the Czech manufacturer. The Vision X is set to offer more space than the outgoing Yeti, while its appearance is expected to be sharper than both the Karoq and Kodiaq.

Est price: £14,000+

Expected due date: Summer 2019

Volkswagen Golf Mk8

The second most popular car in the UK last year is to get another upgrade. There were over 64,000 Golfs sold last year and the Mk8 is expected to keep VW’s main player at the forefront of car buyers’ attentions. Set to be longer and wider than the previous design, the Golf Mk8 is also welcoming sleeker LED headlights and a low bonnet line. Described by VW’s boss, Herbert Dies, as ‘the versatile car’, this redesign should ensure its popularity remains.

Est price: £18,000+

Expected due date: Summer 2019

Renault Twingo

The Twingo was quick to sweep up awards following its release. In 2014 and 2015, it was named the city car of the year in the Top Gear Magazine Awards and Car of the Year Awards respectively. Now, it’s time for the diminutive model to be tweaked. Expect fresh bumpers and fog lights to make an appearance, while the infotainment system inside the car is also expected to be upgraded. With changes set to be small, the relatively cheap car can remain reasonably priced.

Est price: £10,000+

Expected due date: Summer 2019

Skoda Octavia

This popular saloon option has been in Skoda’s arsenal since 1959. It’s rather surprising that the Skoda Octavia has been chosen for a facelift mind, considering it was last updated in 2017 and won the What Car? family car of the year award last year. However, the family car is set to allow a plug-in hybrid option, with extensive upgrades in quality anticipated to make it a better option to the likes of the VW Passat. While it will undergo many big changes, the rear hatch and saloon-inspired shape is here to stay.

Est price: £18,000+

Expected due date: Autumn 2019

Lexus LC F

Crowned Coupé of the year in 2018 at the New Car Awards, this high-performance model is a beefed-up version of the car. With a huge 4.0-litre twin-turbo engine to boost its performance, this upgrade is also set to welcome a drop top to the collection.

Est price: £90,000+

Expected due date: Late 2019

Honda CR-V hybrid

There are extremely high hopes for this model by Honda. It’s expected to rival the Nissan Qashqai and Kia Sportage in the tough family crossover market. With an economy level of 51.4 mpg for this four-wheel-drive, the sleek design is sure to deliver on the hopes of its maker.

Est price: £29,000+

Expected due date: Late 2019

MINI EV

Currently, the MINI range has the Countryman as a plug-in hybrid. However, step forward the all-electric MINI hatch. Based heavily on the EV concept that was displayed at the Frankfurt Motor Show in 2017, the model is expected to have a distinctive blanked-off radiator grille and little vane spoilers in front of the wheels.

Est price: £25,000+

Expected due date: Late 2019

The models listed above are, of course, just a small handful in a large selection of new vehicles. Keep an eye out to see if your favourite car is set to have a makeover, or indeed if your go-to manufacturer will be releasing a brand-new model.

James is an Outreach Executive at Mediaworks Online Marketing and covers a number of clients across a wide range of business sectors, helping them to grow their online portfolios through engaging content.