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THE BEST 7 CARS TO GET ON A 21 PLATE

Time appears to march on quicker than ever at the moment, which is why we’re already hurtling towards March and the bi-annual number plate change. It marks the introduction of the new 21-plate – and all manner of new cars are vying for space on your shopping list. There are a lot of new cars to choose from however, so we’ve picked out some of the very best to get with the new number 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 and new sport seats. It’s powered by the same 1.4-litre turbocharged petrol engine as always but boasts a chrome twinexit 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 two-door M4 will also be available, sharpening the car’s already cutting look.

4. BENTLEY FLYING SPUR V8

Bentley’s latest Flying Spur arrived last year, but a version powered by the firm’s high-performance V8 engine was only recently introduced. Replacing the W12 fitted to the standard Flying Spur, the V8 takes a good deal of weight from this big Bentley and transforms it into a slightly more driver-focused affair. That said, it doesn’t miss out on comfort. With well-judged suspension and a beautifully crafted interior, this is a car that will still monster long trips.

5. CUPRA FORMENTOR

The new Formentor represents Cupra’s first standalone model since it parted company with Seat. Previously, Cupra’s models 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 too, including both petrol and plug-in hybrid. A high-performance five-cylinder model is also on the cards.

6. FORD S-MAX HYBRID

Ford’s been on an electrification offensive of late, in the process of making much of its line-up as efficient as possible. That’s why Ford ditched diesel entirely from its Fiesta line-up, and why a new hybrid version of its popular S-Max MPV has been introduced. Though the diesel-powered S-Max remains, this new Hybrid version promises improved efficiency as well as lower emissions.

7. HYUNDAI KONA

The Hyundai Kona has proved to be a hit for the South Korean firm, 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.