Love cars? Here at magazine.co.uk HQ we're speeding into 2017 with eyes on the open road ahead of us and some of the sweetest releases to come. Here are 7 cars of 2017 to watch out (and save up) for:
1. Mazda MX-5 RF, as chosen by Car magazine
Image - Car magazine
Tell me about it.
The Mazda MX-5RF isn't all about looks (although that body is enough to catch anyone's eye). With an automatic gearbox, cruise control, heated seats, keyless entry, Bose sound system and rear parking sensors, it's a cushty update on the last MX-5. Speedwise, it's a nifty mover - hitting 0-60 in 7.4 seconds with a top speed of 130mph.
What's new?
RF stands for retractable fastback - so you can go from hardtop to convertible in a flash.
When can I get it?
The Mazda MX-5RF is available in six versions and in dealerships from May.
2. Lexus LC 500, as chosen by What Car? magazine
Image - What Car
Tell me about it.
Yes, the Lexus LC 500 has a beasty 5.0L V8 petrol engine - but we love the perfectly designed Takumi interior just as much. Described as a driver 'cockpit', this is ergonomic perfection at its finest. Featuring a world first direct automatic gearbox to keep it running a sweet spot 4500-5000 RPM, it hits 0 - 60 mph in under 4.5 seconds. Not bad for a beast.
What's new?
There's a hybrid version that doesn't compromise on speed - the LC 500h has a 3.5L V6 hybrid engine that hits 0-60 in under 5 seconds.
When can I get it?
You can get a quote this Spring, but deliveries won't hit dealerships until Summer.
3. Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio, as chosen by Autocar magazine
Image - Autocar
Tell me about it.
The Alfa Romeo Stelvio Quadrifoglio is - unsurprisingly - a sporty little number. Named after the Stelvio Pass, a mountain road in Northern Italy made up of 48 hairpin bends, it's a car with form, function and performance in mind. Underneath the Italian leather stitched interior, it's not just a pretty face; this is the first SUV from the driving enthusiast's favourite - making it one of 2017's most hotly anticipated cars.
What's new?
A segment braking system delivering an almost instant response, as well as the Alfa DNA Drive Mode Selector system for personalised performance. All you need to do is choose between a 2.0L Turbocharged I4 or 2.9L Bi-Turbo V6 engine. Decisions, decisions.
When can I get it?
Sign up for updates here.
4. Ford GT, as chosen by Top Gear magazine
Image - Top Gear
Tell me about it.
One for the supercar fans, the Ford GT has sculpted rear wings, a buttress channeling airflow and a lowered centre of gravity - making it an aerodynamic dream. Designed for ultimate down-force and speed, the Ford GT boasts a 647 horsepower 3.5L twin turbo V6 engine and long suspension arms to mirror track-style performance. In short, it's a machine.
What's new?
Demand will be high for this one - the Ford GT was the Le Mans 2016 winner. Riding on the back of that success, we're expecting great things.
When can I get it?
The application window is now closed, but you can sign up for updates.
5. Maserati Alfieri, as chosen by Auto Express magazine
Image - Auto Express
Tell me about it.
Built to mark the centenary of Maserati, the Maserati Alfieri is named to commemorate one of the founding Maserati brothers. A stunning coupe with a 410 horsepower 3.0L twin-turbo V6 engine (with the option to upgrade), this is tipped to give the muscly German-built GT cars a serious run for their money. With perfect lines and a sleek design, the Alfieri remind us what the Italians do best.
What's new?
The original concept boasted a V8, but new laws on fuel economy and driving down emissions meant swapping out to a V6. A fully electric version is announced to drop in 2020. Who says GT cars can't be green?
When can I get it?
Bad news - it's been pushed back to 2019 at the earliest. You can find out more here.
6. Honda Civic Type R, as chosen by Car magazine
Image - Car magazine
Tell me about it.
The latest incarnation of the Honda Civic couldn't be struck from the list. Meet the Honda Civic Type R, a front wheel drive with a six speed gear box and an impressive 306bhp 2.0L turbocharged four-cylinder engine. Honda have taken their sweet time (5 long years) to make a 'racecar for the road'; it reaches 0-62mph in just 5.7 seconds, with a maximum speed of 168mph. If you're looking for a white-knuckle ride, this is it.
What's new?
This monster machine was tested around the Nürburgring to ensure its the fastest front wheel drive of its kind.
When can I get it?
Now!
7. Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster, as chosen by Top Gear magazine
Image - Top Gear
Tell me about it.
A dynamic car from the German specialists in speed, meet the Mercedes-AMG GT Roadster. Featuring a performance exhaust, a wide bodywork and wider wheels, the AMG GT Roadster was built for the race track.Pushing a top speed of 188mph and reaching 62mph from standstill in just four seconds flat, you'll definitely feel the bite of this eight-cylinder engine through your bones.
What's new?
There's a coupe version with vertical louvres behind the grille to boost cooling or reduce drag. It's also ever-so-slightly faster, hitting 62mph in 3.7sec and 196mph at full throttle.
When can I get it?
It's on sale now, starting at starting at £110,145. Better get saving.
To finish this epic round up, we've compiled the ultimate playlist to accompany the sweet sound of your revving engine and the squeal of tyres on tarmac. Pedal to the mettle - here's the ultimate petrolhead playlist you need next time you're hitting the road:
Pin the image above for future driving soundtrack inspiration (or just have a listen to our pre-made Spotify playlist below):
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