We love concept cars too. But let’s kick the year off with vehicles that we can actually drive off the dealer lot in the not-so-distant future. Sure, automaker design philosophies and future cars are terrific. But know what else is impressive? Hauling your kids in a new-age minivan, shuffling the soccer team to practice in a practical SUV, and hitting the track in a car you can own this year.
1 – Kia Stinger
So when a concept like the Kia GT4 unveiled at the 2014 Detroit Auto Show becomes a reality in the form of a fastback sports sedan, we’re happy campers. We’re not certain exactly when the all-new 2018 Kia Stinger will be available, but it’s on the way. (Update: it’s now here, see our Stinger reviews and news here.)
2 – 2018 Nissan Roque Sport \ Qashqai
Nissan sees the value in the compact crossover, bringing its second-generation Qashqai to North America this spring. The vehicle will be renamed the 2018 Nissan Rogue Sport in the US, while retaining the Qashqai nameplate in Canada. Smaller than the Rogue, the Rogue Sport / Qashqai caters to couples or singles who can live without the extra cargo space.
3 – 2018 Chevy Traverse
Perhaps the most significant step-up in terms of design goes to the 2018 Chevrolet Traverse, which will hit dealerships in the Fall of 2017. The new Traverse looks nothing like the outgoing model (in all the right ways); staying inline with the other new SUVs in the GM lineup.
4 – 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50
Mercedes-Benz and AMG celebrate their 50th anniversary of collaboration with the release of a new 2018 Mercedes-AMG GT C Coupe Edition 50, expanding the AMG GT family to seven strong models. Edition 50 will initially be offered as a special edition, with 50 models being released; thereafter, full production will commence for the rest of us.
5 – 2018 Lexus LS
Like the Chevy Traverse, the all-new 2018 Lexus LS is also a significant departure from the outgoing model in terms of design. The new LS is sleek and futuristic, replacing the old V8 with a new V6, and will be available soon.
6 – Honda Odyssey
Finally, the under-rated minivan: Honda unveils the all-new 2018 Odyssey available as soon as Spring 2017. More connectivity, improved styling, and above all, less crying children. Though we can’t promise that.
