This year has already brought some exciting new models, but what’s arriving on our roads in the second half of 2022?
Here’s our round-up of new cars for 2022:
BMW i7
Accompanying the latest generation of BMW’s luxury saloon will be this all-electric version. First to arrive is the xDrive 60 model priced from £107,400, that money bagging a car’s that’s loaded with tech including the option of a 31.3-inch TV screen for rear-seat passengers that drops down from the roof. The looks may be an acquired taste but the 544hp powertrain packs a punch and the claimed range is 367-388 miles.
Alfa Romeo Tonale
This new compact crossover/SUV has been eagerly awaited, and the company promise that the sharp styling will be backed-up with keen handling. Under the bonnet is a hybrid powertrain featuring a 158bhp 1.5-litre engine and a 20bhp electric motor, while the 0.8kWh battery will allow a short distance on electric power. There’s a more powerful plug-in hybrid, too. Oh yes, and the Tonale boasts a Non-Fungible Token digital certificate – whatever that is…
Maserati Grecale
This is the all-new mid-size SUV from the Italian supercar maker, and it promises to be a cracker. The luxurious cabin is packed with kit, but enthusiasts will want to know about the engines and things start with the entry-level GT powered by a 296bhp mild-hybrid four-cylinder unit. Next up is the Modena that makes 325bhp and topping the range is the 523bhp V6 model. The Folgore EV version will follow later.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
One for fans of the iconic VW buses and vans of old, this cool EV will be available in five-seater passenger and cargo van forms. It uses the same rear-mounted electric powertrain as other ID models, and there’s lots of connectivity features along with an interior that makes use of recycled materials. Up to 2205 litres of space is on offer, too. It’s sure to be one of the most popular new vehicles this year.
Honda Civic
This will be the 11th generation of the popular Civic, although it will no longer be made in the UK. Still, Honda promise a focus on refinement, efficiency and handling agility while power comes from an e:HEV hybrid set up that features a 2.0-litre petrol engine and a pair of electric motors. Drivers will be able to choose from Eco, Normal, Sport and Individual modes to get the best from it.
Kia Niro
The first generation proved a hugely popular family car, and the new model has taken on a bolder look that’s sure to attract even more buyers. Available in hybrid, plug-in and pure electric forms, there’s a choice of 2, 3 and 4 trim levels; the hybrid 2 starts from £27,745 with the EV priced from £34,995. The latter claims 285 miles of range and all models boast plenty of standard kit.
Mazda CX-60
Mazda’s new SUV flagship arrives in the autumn and buyers will be able to choose from Exclusive-Line, Homura and Takumi trims, the latter featuring the likes of maple wood and nappa leather. It’s also the brand’s first plug-in hybrid with power coming from a 2.5-litre 4-cylinder petrol engine and a 100kW electric motor fed by a 17.8kWh battery. Aimed squarely at the premium SUV market, it should be a fine choice.
Jeep Grand Cherokee 4xe
Those after American style and supreme off-road ability will be happy to see this new model arrive in the UK. It’s also Jeep’s first plug-in hybrid, combining a turbocharged 2.0-litre petrol engine and electric motor and it’s claimed to manage up to 31 miles of pure electric running. A sophisticated four-wheel drive system means it will deliver in the rough-stuff, while the cabin is strong on comfort and equipment.
Morgan Super 3
The latest 3-wheeler looks a lot of fun, right? It’s the first Morgan with a monocoque structure and this time the motorcycle engine has been swapped for a 1.5-litre 3-cylinder unit borrowed from Ford and mated to a Mazda 5-speed gearbox. And it’s hidden away rather than being slung out front like before. Prices start from £41,995 but most buyers will want to take advantage of the numerous personalisation options.
Smart #1
Smart is now a joint venture between Mercedes-Benz and Chinese car maker, Geely, and this is their first product; as an all-electric compact SUV it’s very different from Smart’s previous offerings. An aerodynamic exterior design is combined with a stylish cabin that features a 12.8-inch infotainment screen, while power is supplied by a 66kW battery that should provide up to 273 miles of range. A 10-80% top-up should take less than 30 minutes.
Lexus RZ450e
Yes, it’s another EV with this one the first from Lexus to sit on a dedicated platform. There’s sharp looks and a luxurious interior, but what really grabs attention is the optional One Motion Grip system. Not only does this provide ‘steer-by-wire’ but the conventional steering wheel is replaced by a futuristic-looking yoke, so it will certainly provide a talking point. The dual-motor powertrain promises a 250+-mile range and 0-62mph in 5.6 seconds.
Range Rover Sport
This latest version has grown a little in size compared to the outgoing model, and alongside the extra space comes a truly premium interior that’s packed with tech. The engine range includes petrol and diesel units along with a 4.4-litre V8 packing 523bhp, and there’s also a pair of plug-in hybrids. Available in SE and Autobiography trims, there’s also a First Edition with prices for the new Sport starting from £79,125.
Mercedes-Benz EQE
Essentially the electrified equivalent of the E-Class, this is the latest EV from Mercedes and it promises to provide impressive levels of comfort and ability. There’s lots of interior space, and the lengthy options list includes the likes of rear-wheel steering and the stunning MBUX Hyperscreen dashboard display. Initially available as the EQE350+, a 90kWh battery provides up to 394 miles of range while 288bhp means 0-62mph in 6.4 seconds.
Genesis GV60
Genesis is relatively new to the UK, and this is their first EV. It shares a platform with the excellent Hyundai Ioniq 5 and Kia EV6 models and is available in single-motor rear-wheel drive form or with a motor on each axle for all-wheel drive. The former produces 226bhp and has a claimed range of 321 miles, while all versions feature 800V charging for quick battery top-ups. A luxurious interior is the icing on the cake.
If you found this article of interest, you may also enjoy…
Lotus unveils the Eletre, the world’s first electric Hyper-SUV