BMW X4
We look at ten new cars coming to Ireland soon writes Geraldine Herbert
BMW X4
The X4 sits between the X3 and the X5 in the BMW SUV line up but is probably best thought of as a smaller X6. Arriving here at the end of this month it will be priced from €57,720. Given the success of the other X models, the X4 will no doubt prove popular but with now five SUV’s in the one range is this simply a niche too far?
Citroen C4 Cactus
With concept car styling the Cactus is a fun and zany alternative to the traditional compact hatchback and blends form and function with Gallic charm. Slightly shorter than a conventional hatchback but has the raised ride height of a crossover the Cactus brings something genuinely different to the family car market with innovative and functional airbumps, split headlights and a funky interior. We would expect the Cactus to start around 20K when it arrives here in September.
Ford Mondeo
Long overdue at this stage the all new Mondeo will arrive here in November. Featuring a new 2.0 litre EcoBoost petrol and 2.0 litre TDCi diesel there are no price details as yet for this car but it is likely to be priced similarly to the outgoing model so we would expect prices to be in the region of €23,950.
The Jeep offers a fresh interpretation of the “Go anywhere, do anything” attitude of the legendary American brand.
Jeep Cherokee
The new fifth-generation Jeep Cherokee arrives here in the Autumn. Powering the Cherokee are three engines, a 2.0-litre Multijet II turbo diesel with a choice of 140 or 170 bhp and the 3.2-litre V-6 Pentastar petrol engine. Two and four wheel drive versions are available. Three trims are also offered, Limited, Longitude and Trailhawk. Prices for the new model are as yet unconfirmed but UK pricing would suggest that it will significantly undercut rivals such as the Audi Q5 and BMW X3 but will be well equipped for the price.
Lexus NX
Launching in October the new NX 300h is powered by a 2.5-litre petrol engine with an electric motor to give a total power output of 192bhp. Outside the exterior is chiselled, muscular and very masculine. In a market where the compact SUV is the ultimate fashion accessories Lexus showrooms are not likely to resonate to the sound of high heels just yet with this car. Inside the distinctive and premium feel continues and the sporty car style cabin features a chunky racy sports steering wheel and contrasting black and red stitching. Prices are likely to be just under €45,000.
Mercedes-Benz AMG GT
The Mercedes AMG GT comes as the replacement of the Gullwing SLS AMG and will be a rival to Porsche’s 911 and the Audi R8. At the Detroit Auto Show earlier this year Mercedes-Benz’s chief designer described it as “ the most beautiful car we’ve ever designed” It will be here toward the end of the year and will come with a choice of 463bhp or 490bhp.
Opel ADAM ROCKS
This urban mini-crossover goes on sale in September and will be the first car to get Opel’s punchy new 1.0-litre three-cyclinder petrol engine. It is slightly taller than the Adam but remains front-wheel drive only. Prices will be revealed closer to the launch date.
SEAT Leon X-Perience
The new Leon X-Perience is a beefy 4WD version of the Leon Sports Tourer that comes with permanent four-wheel drive and all-road suspension with extra ground clearance.. Think of it as SEAT’s take on the Audi All road and you get the idea. It will debut at the Paris Motor Show in October and is expected here early in 2015.
Skoda Octavia Scout
Skoda Octavia Scout
The Octavia Scout arrives here next month with prices starting from just under €30,000 for the 2.0TDI 150bhp. This rugged version of the Octavia comes with all-wheel drive technology and 33 millimetres more ground clearance compared to the standard Octavia.
Suzuki Celerio
Suzuki’s new city car the Celerio is due here in October. The Celerio promises a new engine, unmatched space and comfort, a raft of exciting new features and a class-leading low CO2 emissions of 85 g/km. Prices are as yet unconfirmed but standard equipment on the new 5 seat city car includes Air conditioning, 6 Airbags, Bluetooth, driver seat height adjustor and remote central locking.
Geraldine Herbert
9th July, 2014
