The most hotly anticipated cars of 2013

At the turn of the year, it’s traditional for experts to roll out list after list that look back on the preceding 12 months and what it brought us.

This happens in almost every industry, from music and gaming, to sport and films. However, in the motoring industry, it appears far more common to find features that look ahead to what awaits us in the near future.

We’re an optimistic bunch in this game. Either that, or extremely excitable, and we just can’t wait to get a glimpse of the new cars ready to take our roads by storm.

So, unable to curb our enthusiasm any longer, here are the cars we’re most looking forward to seeing in 2013.

Volkswagen Golf GTI

Officially unveiled at last year’s Paris Auto Show as a ‘design study concept’, the new generation of the iconic range has been given a release date of early 2013 in Europe, and summer 2013 in the UK.

Blending traditional features such as GTI tartan seats and the golf ball gearknob with new additions should ensure this car is as popular in 2013 as it ever was.

What’s new? In addition to a new, lightweight MQB chassis, the GTI will also be fitted with an adaptable variable ratio steering system that aims to reduce steering input required by the driver. What’s more, the 2.0-litre turbocharged direct-injection engine is more powerful than the current model.

Expected price: Starting at approximately £22,000.

BMW 4-Series Coupé

The car manufacturer has attracted some publicity of late after announcing it is altering its naming policy to create a new series of models – the 4-Series – that will encompass its coupés. As a result, the 3-Series coupé will be replaced by the 4-Series coupé upon its release.

Confusing? Perhaps, but what’s really getting people talking is the fact the new model is set to hit the road in the UK in late 2013, and it looks fantastic.

What’s new? A sleeker and sportier version of the 3-Series, the car is slightly longer, lower and wider, and is expected to house a 3.0-litre turbo six-cylinder engine for added muscle.

Expected price: Starting at £28,000

Jaguar F-type

The successor to the firm’s legendary E-type sports car was unveiled last year, and despite having big boots to fill, it looks like it might just be up to the job – the least we would expect if it’s to live up to the hype.

We’re told the slick, two-seater roadster is a continuation of a Jaguar’s 75-year sporting bloodline, and focuses on performance, agility and driver involvement.

A release date is yet to be confirmed, but it is expected to be due for release this year.

What’s new? Three models will be available – the F-type and F-Type S, which boast the new 3.0-litreV6 supercharged petrol engine, and the F-Type V8 S, which houses a 5.0-litre V8 supercharged petrol engine. Plus all the other mod cons you’d expect in a state-of-the-art sports car that can reach 60mph in around five seconds.

Expected price: Ranging from between £55,000 and £100,000, depending on the model.

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