Kentish Express Ashford & District
The top new cars on a 21 plate
March 1 marks the bi-annual number plate change and there are all manner of new cars are vying for space on your shopping list. Here are some of the best cars to wear the new 21-plate…
1
ABARTH 595 SCORPIONEORO
Abarth appears to bring out a ‘new’ version of its popular hatch every six months, adding a new trim level and an elaborate nameplate. The Scorpioneoro is its latest, bringing plenty of gold-coloured accents across the car as well as new sport seats. It’s powered by the same 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine as always but boasts a new chrome twin-exit exhaust for a sportier sound.
2
AUDI E-TRON GT
Audi has made waves with its new e-tron GT, bringing a new four-door electric saloon to sit atop its e-tron range of
EVs. With huge performance, yet retaining a focus on comfort, the e-tron GT looks to be a suitable flagship for the firm’s electrification plans. There’s also a new RS version, which brings added performance to the already rather potent package.
3
BMW M3
There’s nothing quite like the arrival of a new M3, and it’s fair to say this new version has already got people talking – mostly about its prominent new ‘face’. But design discussions aside, this latest M3 looks set to be one of the most accomplished incarnations of the famous sports car to date. A sleeker twodoor M4 will also be available, sharpening the car’s already cutting look.
4
CUPRA FORMENTOR
The new Formentor represents Cupra’s first standalone model since it parted company with Seat. Previously, Cupras had essentially been go-faster versions of the Spanish firm’s cars, but the Formentor is the first it’s been able to design from the get-go. It’s available with a range of powertrains, including petrol and plug-in hybrid. A high-performance fivecylinder model is coming soon.
5
FORD S-MAX HYBRID
Ford’s been on an electrification offensive for a while now, in the process of making much of its line-up as efficient as possible. That’s why the Blue Oval has now ditched diesel entirely from its Fiesta line-up, and why a new hybrid version of its popular S-Max MPV has been introduced. Although the diesel-powered S-Max remains, this new hybrid version promises improved efficiency as well as lower emissions.
6
HYUNDAI KONA
The Hyundai Kona has proved to be a hit for the South Korean manufacturer, thanks to its quirky looks and impressive level of standard equipment. The fully electric version boasts one of the best ranges on the market too, which only helps to boost this car’s appeal. A revised version has been introduced for 2021, with prices starting from just over £21,000.
7
KIA SORENTO
Kia’s latest Sorento is certainly a striking looking thing. Available in a range of specifications, it’s also available as a plug-in hybrid, combining a 1.6-litre petrol engine with an electric motor and batteries. Much like the rest of the firm’s range, the Sorento has a key focus on value, with all specifications bringing an impressive level of standard equipment.
8
MAZDA CX-5
Mazda’s CX-5 has sat atop the firm’s range of SUVs for a while now, which is why it’s been treated to a muchneeded update. As well as the introduction of a new petrol engine, the CX-5 benefits from an upgraded infotainment setup with a larger screen than before. A new limited-edition Kuro Edition specification has also been added, with just 155 examples benefitting from the high-value equipment line.
9
MERCEDES-BENZ EQA
Mercedes is another manufacturer dead set on an electrified future, which is why it’s just introduced the EQA. Arriving as a more compact version of the firm’s EQC, the EQA boasts up to 263 miles of electric range from a single charge. With prices starting from £40,495 – inclusive of the Government’s plug-in car grant – the EQA arrives with a competitive price which undercuts many rivals.
10
SKODA OCTAVIA VRS
The Octavia vRS is often seen as the ideal everyday performance car, which is why
Skoda’s ensured it brings a good balance of pace and practicality with its latest model. Based on the latest Octavia, the vRS arrives with a well-sized boot and a roomy cabin too. There’s also the option of petrol, diesel and plug-in powertrains.
11
TOYOTA HILUX
Toyota’s Hilux has been given a comprehensive update, with a new 2.8-litre turbocharged diesel engine introduced to sit alongside a smaller 2.4-litre unit. The truck’s suspension has also been given a revamp, to help produce a better ride. A new infotainment system is available as well, while all trucks boast a completely revitalised exterior design with a new front grille and redesigned rear lights.
12
TOYOTA RAV4 PLUG-IN HYBRID
Toyota has been focusing on refreshing its regular cars too. As well as its new Yaris, there’s a plug-in hybrid version of its latest RAV4, boosting the striking SUV’s efficiency levels. With a large battery on board, this RAV4 can return a claimed electric only range of up to 46 miles while delivering up to 282.4mpg.
13
VOLKSWAGEN ID.4
Volkswagen’s looking to capitalise on the success of its electric ID.3 with the introduction of the larger ID.4. Bringing the same standout looks but with a slightly increased level of practicality, the ID.4 will initially be available in high-specification 1st Edition trim – though ‘regular’ versions will be introduced down the line. Thanks to a 77kWh battery, the ID.4 should be capable of returning up to 310 miles from a single charge.