Hottest New Cars for 2016

2016 is shaping up to be one of the best years in recent memory for anyone in the market for a brand new car. Practical SUVs, gorgeous sedans, and ultra-quick sports cars are just the tip of the iceberg for 2016, with brand new designs joining long-awaited refreshes to create a fun and dynamic line-up of options at almost every price point.

We've combed through the best of what's out there to give you a taste of what's waiting for you at your local showrooms. Check out our picks for the hottest new cars for 2016, and see what you think of our editors' choices.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz S-Class Cabriolet is an open-topped four-seater based on the excellent S-Class sedan. That car is the company’s flagship and a technological powerhouse. This cabriolet enjoys many of those features, along with a few tricks of its own. Like Airscarf, where vents in the front seats direct warm air to their occupants’ necks, pyrotechnic roll bars, and a special climate control system with automatic control of each vent. That’s how much detail this car goes into. The S550 has air suspension as standard and uses a 449-hp turbocharged V8 connected to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The Mercedes-AMG S63 4Matic Cabriolet is endowed with 577 hp which it sends to all four wheels.

What changed? It’s an all-new model.

When is it available? Summer 2016.

How much? To be announced.

The 2017 Mercedes-AMG C63 Coupe has the glorious distinction of being the fastest C-Class. It does this by developing 469 hp and 479 lb-ft of torque from a 4.0-liter turbocharged V8. In the grand scheme of things, this would rival the BMW M4 (which has 425 hp). But here’s the twist: there’s an over-and-above S version with 503 hp and 516 lb-ft. It costs another $10,000, give or take a few hundred, but some people just have to have the absolute best and hit 60 mph from a standstill in 3.8 seconds instead of 3.9. Both versions use a seven-speed automatic transmission that sends all the muscle to the rear wheels.

What changed? It’s an all-new model.

When is it available? Summer 2016.

How much? To be announced, but Mercedes-Benz says from “low $70,000s” to “low $80,000s.”

If the 2017 Fiat 124 Spider looks vaguely familiar, that’s because it’s based on the current Mazda MX-5 Miata roadster. It’s principally the front and rear ends that have their own designs, created in Turin. But it’s also good to know that under the skin is an excellent set of bones. This car launches with a 160-hp, 1.4-liter turbocharged engine. However, excitable rumor-mongering types anticipate a range-topping Abarth version that could have the same turbocharged 1.75-liter engine found in the glorious Alfa Romeo 4C. And the MX-5/124 Spider chassis can easily deal with that unit’s 240 hp. This model and the Mazda are expected to be built in the same Japanese facility.

What changed? This is an all-new car for Fiat, reviving a badge not seen for decades.

When is it available? Mid-2016.

How much? Nothing official yet. Somewhere around $26,000, perhaps.

Leave it to the motorsport-obsessed engineers at Jaguar to build a stylish SUV that also happens to be fun to drive right off the bat. The 2017 Jaguar F-PACE (which comes out early in 2016) leans heavily on its XE sport sedan platform-mate to provide an engaging experience behind the wheel that matches its muscular looks and available supercharged V-6 performance. The 340 horsepower version of the car isn't the only F-Pace on the menu, however, as there's also a turbodiesel edition coming that promises substantial fuel efficiency to go with its luxurious practicality.

What changed? The 2017 Jaguar F-Pace is all-new.

When is it available? Second quarter of 2016.

How much? The Jaguar F-Pace starts at an MSRP of $40,990.

Ready to take a walk on the wild side? The 2016 Lamborghini Huracan LP 580-2 loses a few horsepower compared to the AWD model, but gains the dynamic fury of rear-wheel drive (as denoted by the '2' appended to its name). Sporting a retuned version of the 5.2-liter V-10 found in its all-wheel drive predecessor, the Huracan LP 580-2 is aimed at those brave enough to harness its fury without the traction wizardry promised by the car's electronic nannies. With a top speed of 198-mph and 580 horsepower on tap, this is one Lamborghini that should have traditional sports car fans smiling.

What changed? Lighter than before, with rear-wheel drive in place of all-wheel drive and slightly less horsepower, the Huracan remains incredibly quick.

When is it available? You can buy one now.

How much? Be ready to shell out $199,800, which makes the 580-2 the most affordable Lamborghini.

The 2016 Alfa Romeo Giulia Quadrafoglio is aimed squarely at shaking up the established sport sedan order, what with its turbocharged 2.9-liter V-6 churning out over 500 horsepower and 440 lb-ft of torque. This Italian interloper also plans to steal your soul by way of its stunning sheet metal, giving it an edge in a segment where aggression often overpowers aesthetics in the design process. For those who love the looks of the Giulia but don't necessarily want to the heart-stopping horsepower, Alfa Romeo will also eventually build a more modest four-cylinder turbo model producing in the neighborhood of 275 ponies.

What changed? The Alfa Romeo Giulia is all-new

When is it available? Alfa Romeo is playing coy with the Giulia's release date, but late 2016 / early 2017 seems likely.

How much? The Giulia will start at $40,000, with the Quadrafoglio jumping to $70,000.

You won't see the Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport on the road - it's meant to terrorize the track as part of Porsche's official racing program - but it's still one of the hottest cars on the show floor at the L.A. Auto Show. Featuring a 385 horsepower version of Porsche's 3.8-liter flat-six, a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission, a full FIA-approved roll cage, and substantial weight reduction compared to the street model, the Cayman GT4 Clubsport is perfect for weekend warriors and seasoned professionals alike.

What changed? The Porsche Cayman GT4 Clubsport is a full-fledged race platform based on the GT4 street car.

When is it available? You can buy one right now.

How much? Depending on how you configure it, the GT4 Clubsport retails in the neighborhood of $150,000.

The 2016 BMW 330e packs new technology into a well-known and well-loved package. The 3 Series in general is one the great sports sedans. But time moves on and emission regulations become ever more stringent. The 330e addresses these issues. It’s a plug-in hybrid, which means an electric motor and, in this case, a turbocharged four-cylinder engine. BMW still manages to retain the ideal 50/50 weight distribution for neutral and enjoyable handling — because it’s a BMW. And not even luggage space is affected by the extra hardware. The system makes a total of 252 hp and 310 lb-ft of torque, has a range of 22 miles in electric-only mode, and can stretch to maximum range of around 370 miles.

What changed? The inclusion of plug-in hybrid hardware.

When is it available? Spring 2016.

How much? From $44,695 (including $995 destination charges).

A topless SUV? You better believe it's an eye-catcher. The 2017 Land Rover Range Rover Evoque convertible combines turbocharged four-cylinder power with legitimate off-road capability, wrapped up in an open package that is unique to the industry. Although not the first topless Range Rover - that honor falls to some of the brand's original, hardcore models - it's the only one to feature an easy-to-use folding cloth roof instead of a removable roof panel. What better way to see and be seen the next time your cruising down Rodeo Drive?

What changed? The Range Rover Evoque convertible is brand new for 2017.

When is it available? Mid-way through 2016.

How much? The Evoque convertible starts at an MSRP of $50,475.

More than just a sticker package and some carbon fiber, the 2016 BMW M4 GTS steps up the Bavarian automaker's game in the world of high-end performance coupes. Featuring the same 3.0-liter turbocharged six-cylinder engine as the standard M4, the GTS turns up the boost and makes a host of go-fast changes to the drivetrain to squeeze out 493 horsepower, a substantial improvement over stock. Also along for the ride are an adjustable suspension system, a dual-clutch transmission, and available ceramic brakes. The BMW M4 GTS can hit 60-mph in a stunningly quick 3.8 seconds, but you'll have to move equally fast to snag one - only 700 will be built, with almost half of those destined for American shores.

What changed? The BMW M4 GTS adds speed and race-oriented style to the M4 coupe.

When is it available? Spring of 2016

How much? The M4 GTS features an MSRP of $133,205.

The 2017 Chrysler Pacifica opens a new chapter for the brand that invented
the minivan, delivering not just a fresh look inside and out, but also a raft
of new technological features, infotainment options, and the first-ever
hybrid drivetrain to be offered in its segment. A 287 horsepower V-6 is
standard (along with a nine-speed automatic transmission), but eco-minded
families can order a version of the van that includes an electric motor that
provides 30 miles of battery-only driving as well as a fuel mileage rating
of 80 MPGe. In addition to its Stow 'n Go fold-flat seats, there's a new
Stow 'n Vac built-in vacuum cleaner that helps keep the minivan clean, as
well as an available suite of apps and games accessible by second-row
passengers via LCD touchscreens built into the front seatbacks.

What changed? The Chrysler Pacifica is a new model for 2017.

When is it available? Spring of 2016.

How much? Chrysler has yet to publish pricing for the Pacifica.

The Buick Cascada sails into the 2016 model year with almost no direct competitors on the mid-size convertible landscape. In fact, aside from the tight confines of topless muscle machines like the Ford Mustang and the Chevrolet Camaro, there aren't any four-passenger open air cars that can match what the Buick Cascada has to offer at an affordable price. Outfitted with a 1.6-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine that's good for 200 horsepower, the Cascada also offers a respectable level of standard equipment along with access to advanced safety features, and a comfortable ride well-suited to its cruising status.

What changed? 2016 Buick Cascada is a brand new model.

When is it available? Spring of 2016.

How much? The Cascada starts at an MSRP of $33,065.

The 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class debuts one of the most high tech cockpits ever to have left the factory in Stuttgart. Not only does the E-Class offer a wide range of infotainment, driving, and safety technologies - including the novel 'Pre-Safe Sound' feature that protects passengers from potential hearing loss in an accident - but it also comes with a standard 241 horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine that works together with a nine-speed automatic transmission. Turbodiesel and six-cylinder versions of the E-Class are sure to follow.

What changed? 2017 Mercedes-Benz E-Class has been completely redesigned.

When is it available? Summer of 2016.

How much? Pricing has yet to be announced for the E-Class.

The 2017 Mercedes-AMG SLC43 is the hottest edition of the automaker's newly re-named compact roadster. Featuring a 3.0-liter twin-turbo six-cylinder engine that pushes out 362 horsepower and 384 lb-ft of torque, along with a standard nine-speed automatic transmission, the Mercedes-AMG SLC43 can leap to 60-mph in a very quick 4.6 seconds on its way to a top speed of 155-mph. Also along for the ride is gently massaged exterior styling plus a few upgrades made to the roadster's cabin. The SLC43 might represent a step back from the V-8 found under the hood of the SLK55 that preceded it, but with the pedal down it's very unlikely anyone will notice a difference in performance between the two.

What changed? The 2017 Mercedes-AMG SLC43 gains a new name, a mild refresh on the outside, and packs a brand new engine under the hood.

When is it available? Spring of 2016

How much? There has been no pricing announcement yet for the SLC43.

The 2017 Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet packs an incredible performance punch, and it manages to do so while wrapped in perhaps the most comfortable full-size convertible package available on the luxury market. With 621 horsepower and 738 lb-ft of torque available from its twin-turbo 12-cylinder engine, the Mercedes-AMG S65 cabriolet needs all the help that its standard all-wheel drive system can give it in order to stay on the straight and narrow at full throttle. The fantastic road presence of the all-new S-Class convertible also contribute to the S65's unbeatable premium prestige.

What changed? The 2017 Mercedes-AMG S65 Cabriolet is an all-new model based on the S65 coupe.

When is it available? Spring of 2016

How much? Still waiting for pricing on the S65 Cabriolet.

The 2017 Lincoln Continental is the production version of the well-received Continental concept, and while it might not demonstrate the same 'wow' factor, it's an interesting move for Lincoln in its search for luxury relevance. The new Lincoln Continental makes two turbocharged V-6 engines available - a 2.7-liter and a 3.0-liter - with the latter good for 400 horsepower and 400 lb-ft of torque. All-wheel drive can be had with the sedan, and the brand reaches for new heights in cabin refinement with the Continental's plush interior.

What changed? The Lincoln Continental revives a years-gone name plate with a brand new design.

When is it available? The fall of 2016.

How much? There is no pricing information available for the Continental.

The production version of the 2017 Chevrolet Bolt is every bit as exciting as the concept version we saw at least year's Detroit auto show. With government incentives dropping the compact hatchback's price to the $30k range, the Chevrolet Bolt seems poised to deliver electric driving to the masses. It also doesn't hurt that the Bolt offers 200 miles of range on a single charge, making it a real-world option for the vast majority of commuters. On the charging side, Chevrolet claims 2 hours at 240 volts gives you 50 miles of driving, with a nine hour empty-to-full time.

What changed? The Chevrolet Bolt is a brand new option for the 2017 model year.

When is it available? The EV will go on sale later in 2016.

How much? Exact pricing remains elusive, but Chevrolet says you'll pay roughly $30k for the Bolt after factoring in government incentives for electric vehicles.

The 2016 BMW M2 offers M power in the smallest possible package. The 2 Series coupe provides the bones for this entry point into the fabled BMW M line-up, which includes a 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine that produces just a bit more than 360 horsepower along with 369 lb-ft of torque. Unlike other sporty luxury options the BMW M2 allows you to shift its six-speed transmission yourself using a clutch pedal, with the choice of a seven-speed dual-clutch automated manual gearbox should you opt for pure speed instead.

What changed? The BMW M2 adds M flavor to the already-fun 2 Series coupe line-up.

When is it available? April of 2016.

How much? The BMW M2's MSRP has been set at $51,700.

The 2016 BMW X4 M40i adds even more performance potential to the brand's sportiest-looking crossover. The sloped-roof styling of the X4 is paired with a 355 horsepower, 3.0-liter turbocharged inline six-cylinder engine, which works together with all-wheel drive and a seven-speed automatic to scoot the SUV to 60-mph in less than five seconds. You also get upgraded suspension components and more than a few exterior call-outs to the X4 M40i's athleticism when you order the improved edition of the people mover.

What changed? The BMW X4 M40i is a new addition to the X4 family.

When is it available? February of 2016.

How much? You'll pay $57,800 to park the X4 M40i in your driveway.

The 2017 Volvo S90 aims to continue the Swedish automaker's recent luxury segment success by repurposing the XC90 SUV's drivetrains in full-size sedan form. The Volvo S90 will offer a 2.0-liter, four-cylinder motor that can be had in supercharged, turbocharged, and hybrid trim, with output levels ranging from 240 horsepower to over 400 horsepower. An eight-speed automatic transmission and the choice between all-wheel and front-wheel drive are also in the cards, and inside the S90 you'll find the same well-appointed cabin as you would in the award-winning XC90 as well as an exceptionally long list of safety features.

What changed? The 2017 Volvo S90 is all-new.

When is it available? Later in 2016.

How much? Pricing has yet to be released for the S90.

The 2017 Porsche 911 Turbo continues to dominate the high end sports car scene after its most recent update, which includes a revised 3.8-liter twin-turbo V-6 engine that is capable of producing 540 horsepower and 523 lb-ft of torque. If that's not enough, then the 911 Turbo S boosts those numbers to 580 horses and 553 lb-ft of twist, with both editions of the car also coming with a seven-speed dual-clutch automated transmission and standard all-wheel drive. 60-mph arrives in a scant 2.9 seconds for the base Porsche 911 Turbo.

What changed? In addition to its more potent performance, the Porsche 911 Turbo gains important updates to its infotainment system, standard Sport Chrono, and improved connectivity.

When is it available? April of 2016.

How much? Pricing has yet to be released for the S90.

The 2017 Infiniti Q60 sees the Japanese premium brand taking another stab at the personal luxury market with a sleek-looking two-door coupe. More appealing than the Infiniti Q60's visual charms, however, is the promise of its top-tier 3.0-liter twin-turbo V-6 that offers up a hefty 400 horsepower. Also available in 300 horsepower trim (and with a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder as the base model), the Q60 features available all-wheel drive, a standard seven-speed automatic transmission, and Infiniti's latest technology features.

What changed? The Q60 has been completely redesigned for 2017.

When is it available? Summer of 2016.

How much? Pricing is still unpublished for the Infiniti Q60.

The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE picks up where the previous-generation 1LE left off: providing Camaro fans with a track-ready options package installed right at the factory. The Chevrolet Camaro 1LE features an aggressive aero kit, upgraded brakes, a more focused suspension system, and better cooling for the car's various mechanical systems. The biggest change for 2017? You can now order the 1LE package with either the 335 horsepower, 3.6-liter V-6 or 455 horsepower, 6.2-liter V-8 versions of the Camaro, as long as you stick with the six-speed manual transmission for each.

What changed? The 2017 Chevrolet Camaro 1LE adds bigger stabilizer bars, a stiffer suspension, a limited-slip differential, stickier tires, and Brembo brakes for V-6 models, while the V-8 model gains an electronic limited-slip differential, a magnetically-adaptive suspension system, six-piston front Brembo brakes, and the same tires.

When is it available? Late 2016.

How much? The 1LE package should cost roughly the same as it did for the 2015 Camaro, putting it in the neighborhood of $3,500

The 2016 Nissan Armada follows the path set almost five years ago by its luxury counterpart, the Infiniti QX80, and swaps out its pickup-based platform for a more modern chassis borrowed from the Nissan Patrol. The Patrol isn't offered in the U.S., but Americans can enjoy its smoother ride and more car-like handling in the form of the completely-redesigned Armada, which retains its three rows of seating and strong towing capacity but also adds a higher level of premium features as compared to the previous model. A new 5.6-liter V-8 engine replaces the old lump, bringing with it 390 horses and 401 lb-ft of twist, managed by a seven-speed automatic transmission (and offered with optional four-wheel drive.

What changed? The 2017 Nissan Armada features fresh looks and a new platform, engine, and interior as part of its total redesign.

When is it available? Later in 2016.

How much? Official pricing has yet to be released for the Nissan Armada.

The 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro adds a stouter off-road dimension to the already-capable mid-size pickup. The large 'TOYOTA' lettering on the vehicle's revised grille matches its fender flares and unique 16-inch rims in identifying the Tacoma TRD Pro as something special, and inside you'll find TRD Pro badges throughout the cabin. Assisting progress out on the trail are Fox internal bypass shock absorbers, skid plates, a one-inch suspension lift, an electronic locking rear differential, and Kevlar-armored tires designed to prevent punctures. Motivation is derived from a 278 horsepower, 3.5-liter V-6 that can be paired with either a six-speed manual or a six-speed automatic transmission (and of course four-wheel drive).

What changed? The 2017 Toyota Tacoma TRD Pro brings substantial off-road capability to the mid-size pickup.

When is it available? Fall in 2016.

How much? Still waiting on pricing from Toyota for the Tacoma TRD Pro.

The 2017 Kia Niro is the first dedicated hybrid to be built by the Korean brand, and it rides on its own unique platform that has been designed from the ground-up to maximize fuel efficiency. The Kia Niro's gasoline/electric drivetrain consists of a 1.6-liter, four-cylinder engine paired with a single electric motor that together produce 146 horsepower and 195 lb-ft of torque. An unusual six-speed dual-clutch automated manual transmission sends power to the front wheels of the compact crossover, which offers substantial cargo space compared to direct competitors like the class-leading Toyota Prius. Fuel efficiency for the Niro is expected to hit 50-mpg in combined driving.

What changed? The 2017 Kia Niro is an all-new model.

When is it available? A launch date has yet to be announced.

How much? Official pricing for the Niro has not been published.

The 2017 Ram Power Wagon stands as a heavy-duty alternative to hardcore off-road rigs like the F-150 Raptor. Based on a three-quarter ton chassis, the 2017 Ram Power Wagon adopts the more in-your-face front grille that's working its way across the entire Ram truck line-up, and it loses all of its chrome as compared to last year's model. A 6.4-liter, 410 horsepower Hemi V-8 churns out 429 lb-ft of torque between the Power Wagon's front fenders, and the vehicle's low-range four-wheel drive system, 33-inch all-terrain tires, and substantial suspension lift make short work of any obstacle that might cross its path. The vehicle also comes with a 10,300 pound towing capacity and a Warn winch that will lug 12,000 pounds.

What changed? The 2017 Ram Power Wagon tones down the previous year's chrome and ups the exterior menace with its blacked-out theme.

When is it available? Ram has yet to tell us when the new Power Wagon goes on sale.

How much? We're still waiting for Power Wagon pricing.

The 2017 BMW M760i xDrive is the first time we've seen the 'M' badge officially stuck on the trunk of the automaker's full-size sedan. While not a full-fledged M car, the M760i xDrive gains a power boost from a twin-turbo V-12 that generates 600 horses and 590 lb-ft of torque—the only 12-cylinder engine available in the 7 Series family. 60-mph arrives in less than four seconds with the pedal floored in the M760i xDrive, which makes use of standard all-wheel drive, and its 6.6-liter mill is mated to an eight-speed automatic transmission.

What changed? The 2017 BMW M760i xDrive is the new flagship sedan for the brand.

When is it available? Early 2017.

How much? No price yet for the new 7 Series from BMW.

There's more than one way to drive a 7 Series quickly, and in New York BMW had two versions of its full-size flagship on display. The 2017 BMW ALPINA B7 xDrive keeps the all-wheel drive and eight-speed autobox found in the standard 750i, but adds more boost for the twin-turbos attached to its 4.4-liter mill. The net effect is 600 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque from the V-8 engine, ratcheting up performance in a straight line to go along with the car's more aggressive suspension settings.

What changed? The B7 is the latest hot rod 7 Series from Alpina.

When is it available? First quarter 2017.

How much? Alpina pricing has yet to be discussed.

John Cooper Works is the title that MINI affords to the hottest versions of its cars, and the new 2017 convertible edition of the MINI Cooper is the latest to receive the high performance treatment. With 228 horsepower on tap from a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the MINI John Cooper Works convertible is the quickest open-air version of the subcompact available, and it also features a tuned suspension system and bigger brakes to go with its extra horsepower. Transmission choices include a six-speed manual and a six-speed automatic.

What changed? The 2017 MINI John Cooper Works convertible is the ragtop edition of the John Cooper Works hardtop.

When is it available? This coming April.

How much? The JCW convertible features an MSRP of $36,450.