The 22 cars to get excited about in 2022

Finally. After the most tumultuous and challenging two years in living memory, the world is slowly but surely returning to some semblance of normality.

Factories have restarted, car production is up, stocks are rising and – most importantly – a host of exciting cars heading to Australia in 2022, to usher in a new era of motoring for consumers tired of waiting for life to resume since the beginning of this decade.

While electrification will play a bigger part than ever before thanks to a wave of interesting EVs heading our way, a large number of established favourites have been or are about to be redesigned, improved and/or updated, as car manufacturers go all-out to satisfy the pent-up demand for vehicles across the globe.

These include the final-ever locally designed and engineered mass-market ute, the hybridisation of a much-loved small SUV, a head-turning retro restyle of a sports car legend and the rebirth of a slew of motoring icons. The pandemic may have halted the pipeline for a while, but now the industry is back with a vengeance.

So, whether you’re in the market for a fresh set of wheels right now, or planning to make a move sometime in the near future, here’s our coverage of the most appealing, intriguing, provocative and straight-up compelling newcomers scheduled for the coming year.

01 - Range Rover

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: D300, D350, P400, P530, P510e
Expected Price Range: from $216,000 – $420,000

The 2022 Range Rover, new from the wheels up, is the most luxurious and technologically advanced Rangie in history.

Codenamed L460, the fifth-gen Range Rover is built on Jaguar Land Rover’s (JLR) all-new aluminium-intensive MLA-Flex architecture where torsional stiffness is up 50 percent over the outgoing Rangie, and structural-borne noise is down 24 percent. The L460 is also 52mm longer overall, rolls on a 75mm longer wheelbase, and has an 11mm lower roofline.

In Australia, Rangies will start from $215,900 and offer five powertrains: three mild hybrids (MHEV), a plug-in hybrid (PHEV) 3.0-litre turbocharged straight-six in either petrol or diesel form, and a BMW-sourced 4.4-litre twin-turbo V8 that delivers 390kW/750Nm and can scoot the big Rangie to 100km/h in 4.6seconds.

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The V8-powered models will be badged P530. P400 marks a petrol Ingenium MHEV with 294kW/550Nm. The D300 and D350 badges mean diesel Ingenium MHEVs with 220kW/650Nm and 257kW/700Nm, respectively. All engines drive an eight-speed automatic transmission with a two-speed transfer case.

An intriguing option will be the P510e, which features a 294kW petrol six combined with a 105kW e-motor mounted between engine and transmission. Its lithium-ion battery has a useable 31.8kWh capacity and offers between 80-100km of electric driving, limited to 140km/h. Rated at 375kW/700Nm, the P510e claims a 5.6-second 0-100km/h sprint and a real-world driving range of about 640km. And with 50kW DC rapid charging capability, the battery can be topped up to 80 percent charge in under an hour.

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The powertrain line-up will also gain the first ever all-electric Rangie in 2024. Dual motor all-wheel drive and outputs above 375kW/700Nm seem logical, along with a 500km-plus driving range from a 100kWh battery pack.

Combustion engine models use a new all-wheel drive system that drives the rear wheels between 35km/h and 160km/h to cut mechanical drag by 30 percent and improve fuel efficiency. All-wheel drive is activated from a standstill, when ambient temperatures drop below 3 degrees Celsius and, of course, when driving off-road.

Off-road prowess is boosted by the Terrain Response 2 drive-mode system. There is also a new air suspension with height-adjustable Bilstein twin-valve active dampers. Land Rover’s first 48V active anti-roll system debuts, which can decouple for off-road work and use actuators to push down the wheels to better follow terrain. Ground clearance can reach 295mm, aiding a 900mm wade depth.

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All variants score all-wheel steering that steers the rear wheels in the opposite direction to the fronts below 50km/h for agility and in sync above 50km/h for stability. A new five-link rear axle has been designed to not only allow 7.3 degrees of steering angle but also accommodate an electric motor.

JLR claims the new Rangie is the most aerodynamic in history, with a Cd of 0.30, a 12 percent improvement over the outgoing model. Meanwhile, top-spec wheels will now be 23-inchers but with no weight penalty over the current 22-inch wheels.

Inside, a digital instrument cluster has been engineered as a semi-floating glass panel; while a gently convexed 13.1-inch touchscreen floats above the centre of the dash.

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As for space, adding 75mm to the wheelbase gains 44mm worth of knee room behind the front seats. A long-wheelbase model that adds another 200mm between the axles and longer rear doors can be fitted with seven seats.

Options include a split tailgate, available with leather seats. Also available is a new 1600W Meridian Signature audio system featuring 35 speakers teamed with active noise cancellation. The onboard electronics can be updated over the air like your smartphone apps.

On paper, at least, the benchmark has set a new benchmark. - Angus Mackenzie

02 - Ford T6.2 Ranger

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Due: Q3 2022
Expected Models: XL 4x2 to Raptor V6 4x4
Expected Price Range: from $30,000 – $90,000

Not only is the new Ranger 2022’s most important Ford release anywhere in the world, but also the very last mass-volume Australian-designed and engineered vehicle, ending an era that has spanned well over a century.

Underneath the smart redesign is a revised chassis that brings an increase to the wheelbase of 50mm, as well as a widening of the tracks by 50mm. Moving the rear shock absorbers further outwards widens the ute’s footprint, improving dynamics and increasing wheel articulation, while moving the wheels outwards has allowed the designers to fit a wider cargo tub that will accommodate a full-size shipping pallet.

The extra 50mm of wheelbase has been achieved by moving the front axle forward.

This provides an advantage in that it reduces the front overhang for an improved approach angle when driving off road.

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As for engines, the familiar 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine will be offered in both bi-turbo and single-turbo variants, with two tunes for the single-turbo engine. Big news, though, is a 3.0-litre V6 diesel joins the line-up, with power and torque outputs yet to be confirmed.

Transmission choices will include the 10-speed automatic, which is familiar from the current model when powered by the bi-turbo diesel.

It will also be the transmission fitted to the V6 diesel. It’s been improved with a new torque converter and closer ratios to make it more refined and durable. The MT-88 manual gearbox will be available in both five- and six-speed variants, but Ford has not confirmed what engines will come with a manual option.

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Most Rangers will retain the traditional part-time, dual-range 4x4 system, but the ute will also debut a new full-time 4x4 system that also offers 2WD mode and locked 4x4. Expect this transfer case to be reserved for the V6 in upper specification models. The V6 engine, automatic transmission and dual-range transfer case combo will make the Ranger unique in the class.

Of course, the Ranger’s also been overhauled inside too, with boosted connectivity, useability and practicality. We’re glad to finally see a truly modern dashboard, numerous fresh convenience items and a cabin that builds on its predecessors’ renowned comfort and refinement.

Lastly, there’s segment-first advanced driver-assist safety systems developed to help keep Ranger ahead of a rapidly improving pack. And all this is ahead of the substantially upgraded Raptor due by 2022’s end.

03 - Mazda CX-60

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: TBA: I4, I6, RWD & AWD
Expected Price Range: from $50,000 – $75,000

A melange of intriguing Mazda SUVs is on its way, starting with this – the striking CX-60.

To be positioned above the existing (and future) CX-5 – that’s right, Mazda’s definitely not ditching its saviour from bankruptcy – this handsome newcomer will debut the brand’s much-anticipated rear-drive architecture (with all-wheel drive availability, obviously) that’s also set for several looming Lexus models.

Star billing will be a 3.2-litre in-line six-cylinder 48-volt mild-hybrid (MH) turbo in petrol and diesel formats (BMW, look out) while four-cylinder engines – some with electrification – are also on the play list. All with eight-speed automatic transmissions, too.

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The recently facelifted CX-5 offers clues to the bold front-end’s visage, while the silhouette will be defined by a long-bonnet/cab-rearward wagon-esque proportions to accentuate the RWD layout as well as provide some breathing space between CX-5 and CX-9. The CX-30’s signature ‘light and shadow’ sculpted sides are also likely.

We also understand that the front suspension will adopt double wishbones, while the rear end will evolve an existing multi-link arrangement, further highlighting the CX-60’s technical sophistication and keen driver focus. Fortune favours the brave.

When will Australians be able to pony up for this exciting new SUV from Hiroshima? Later in the second half, after a March or April unveiling, and to be followed by a seven-seater CX-80 version sometime in 2023. Mazda is moving on up.

04 - Nissan X-Trail e-Power

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: ST-L, Ti
Expected Price Range: from $45,000 – $60,000

Now 21 years young, the X-Trail will enter its fourth generation in 2022, with a new body and interior, as well as a thorough platform update. As before, five- and seven-seater models are coming, as is a revised 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol engine.

But don’t worry, because something actually fresh and different is also on its way, courtesy of Nissan’s novel e-Power system. Set to rein-in the runaway-success Toyota RAV4 hybrid, it uses a small four-cylinder turbo-petrol engine to charge the battery that powers the electric motors that drive the front or all four wheels. No plugging-in required.

An EV with a range extender then, and affordable to boot. A smash hit in Japan, e-Power is likely to take off here too.

05 - Toyota Corolla Cross

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Due: Q3 2022
Expected Models: Ascent, SX, ZR
Expected Price Range: from $30,000 – $45,000

The significance of the Corolla Cross cannot be underestimated. Consider this: an attractive and practical Toyota crossover wagon that’s almost as large as the runaway bestselling RAV4, yet aligned with the smaller C-HR pricewise, offering hybrid availability. Think Subaru Outback, scaled down. It’s every rival’s worst nightmare.

Sourced from Japan, the Corolla Cross will offer 1.8-litre four-cylinder engine choices in naturally aspirated and petrol-electric series-parallel hybrid formats, with the latter also available with a twin-motor electric AWD set-up complete with a double-wishbone rear suspension arrangement.

This is the crossover to potentially bury compact hatchbacks and medium-sized sedans alike once and for all, as higher-riding models continue their ascension. As the 2020s wear on, could Corolla Cross become Australia’s favourite family car? Don’t bet against it.

06 - Ford T6.2 Everest

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: Ambiente 4x2 to Titanium V6 4x4
Expected Price Range: from $55,000 – $80,000

In its current form, Australia’s only locally developed SUV has exceeded all expectations… except for sales.

Showered with superlatives on its 2015 release, the T6-based Everest could out-point and out-comfort every other body-on-frame rival on the market, setting a standard that has yet to be eclipsed. At least, this side of a 300 Series LandCruiser.

Yet, while moderately successful, customer orders never matched the critical adulation, and we reckon much of that has to do with the jacked-up wagon’s homely looks and tippy-toed proportions.

Thankfully, both will be addressed come later in 2022 with the T6.2 gen Everest.

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Updated styling bringing a squarer, more aggressive appearance, a redesigned interior, increased safety and exciting new tech, all promise to enhance the ownership experience, and should finally give the Toyota Prado competitor the showroom clout the original couldn’t quite manage.

Note, too, that a 3.0-litre V6 diesel option to the smooth 2.0-litre twin-turbo four will finally give the terrific coil-sprung chassis the muscle it’s long been missing.

From the base Ambiente 4x2 to Titanium 4x4, today’s Everest has lived in the shadows too long for an inexpensive SUV that punches way above its price point. The redesign’s new clothes, classier cabin and V6 brawn ought to finally put things right.

07 - Subaru WRX

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Due: Q1 2022
Expected Models: Sedan, Sportwagon
Expected Price Range: from $45,000 – $55,000

Levorg is dead. Long live the WRX Sportswagon.

That’s right. With a nod to Holden’s great VF Commodore load lugger, the next-gen WRX arrives soon, complete with a second body shape that Subaru reckons is ‘the first time in an exhilarating, heart racing Sportswagon’. Maybe, if you forget about the first two Impreza WRX five-door wagons…

But we diverge. Leveraging much from the striking 2017 Viziv Performance Concept, the 2022 WRX sedan is a sharper-looking device, with standout detailing like blistered wheelarches, cool lighting elements and an aggressive stance that pays lip service to the 1993 original. We can’t wait for what the even-racier STi serves up next year.

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Both WRXs switch to Subaru’s new – and larger – 2.4-litre horizontally-opposed four-cylinder boxer turbo engine, channelling torque variably to all four wheels via a six-speed manual or completely overhauled CVT auto. Better still, the body is beefier, the updated Subaru Global Platform far more rigid than the previous, 1989 Liberty-based architecture and the suspension completely redesigned. All for the driver, as the brand used to say.

And why not? With competition as fierce as the Hyundai i30 N, Ford Focus ST, VW Golf GTI and Honda Civic Type R, all stops are out to make the WRX a modern legend again.

08 - Mercedes-AMG EQS53 4Matic+

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: Base and AMG Dynamic Plus
Expected Price Range: from $300,000 – $350,000

If the Tesla Model S/Porsche Taycan/Audi e-tron GT aren’t quite salubrious enough for you, Mercedes-AMG’s astonishing EQS53 4Matic+ might just fit the bill nicely.

Due by the second quarter of 2022, the first in-house electric vehicle from Affalterbach’s performance arm ushers in a new era of high-speed luxury in Australia, with a pair of motors (one per axle for all-wheel drive) offering two states of tune: 484kW/950Nm or 560kW/1020Nm in the AMG Dynamic Plus.

The result means the EQS53 can manage 100km/h from a standstill in as little as 3.4sec compared to the more sedate EQS580’s 4.3sec. On the flipside, with the same 107.8kWh battery pack, the stated 580km maximum range falls somewhat short of the latter’s incredible claimed 770km.

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A subtle yet distinctive body kit, aero wheels and other accoutrements differentiate the AMG from its more mundane EQS siblings, though all boast Mercedes’ expansive Hyperscreen dash, along with S-Class levels of comfort, space and luxury.

Sonically, the EQS53 has all bases covered too. To quote Mercedes-AMG, “special loudspeakers, shakers and a sound generator to create a special sound experience in two versions – authentic or performance.” Will this dismantle any sound barriers V8 diehards may throw at this exquisite and frankly otherworldly EV limousine?

Finally, the scaled-down EQE that’s also on the MEA2 architecture follows on later in 2022.

09 - Nissan Z

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Due: Mid-2022
Expected Models: Z, Z Proto (launch edition)
Expected Price Range: from $65,000 – $75,000

A fresh Fairlady Z is always thrilling, even when it’s really just a clever update of a 20-year-old machine.

Kudos to Nissan’s designers, then, for transforming the outgoing 370Z with such panache, fusing styling themes of the 1969 Datsun 240Z original (circular headlights, rectangular grille, fastback glasshouse) with iconic details like the 1990s 300ZX tail-light motif and muscular stance of the 350Z from 2002 to 2008. Post-modern pastiches rarely work out this well.

Carrying over is Nissan’s ageing FM platform, meaning a 2550mm wheelbase and front mid-engine/rear-drive configuration, as well as the 2009 370Z’s basic body and interior structures, although the sheetmetal and (retro-inspired) dash are largely fresh.

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So is the VR30DDTT 3.0-litre twin-turbo V6, ousting the beefy old 3.7-litre V6. Pumping out 285kW and 475Nm, it’s connected to a six-speed manual (with downshift rev matching as per the preceding model) or new nine-speed auto with launch-control. Zero to 100km/h will be sub-five seconds.

A switch to electric steering, uprated dampers, revised double wishbone front/multi-link rear suspension geometry, a stiffer body and a mechanical limited-slip diff also promise more precise handling.

As the name so blatantly broadcasts, this visceral yet sophisticated two-seater sports car will be the final pure-combustion Z – and likely the ultimate. Let’s see if it can live up to the hype.

10 - Honda Civic Type R

Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: Type R
Expected Price Range: from $55,000

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The 2010s were a fairytale for fans of small performance cars: Ford Fiesta ST, Peugeot 308 GTi, Hyundai i30 N and – definitely most thrilling of all – the Honda Civic Type R.

Have no doubt. From razor-sharp handling and obsessive body control to the sonic-boom thrust, the Honda was a masterclass of driven engineering genius that succeeded in delivering one of the most exhilarating chapters in hot-hatch history.

Not since the 1999 Integra Type R – dubbed the world’s best-handling FWD at the time – had Honda hit such heights. We described it as the sort of hatch Porsche’s GT division would build… but only if you could stomach the gargoyle styling.

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And therein lies the next Type R’s promise. Toning down the visual melodrama while building on the exciting themes has us panting in anticipation, especially if the old raw, mechanical connection is replicated.

We’re hopeful. A revised 2.0-litre four-pot turbo screamer is rumoured to let rip around 245kW (up from 228kW) and some 400Nm, through to a trick torque-quelling dual-axis strut front end via a superb six-speed manual shifter. Yep, no dual-clutch transmission or all-wheel drive to pollute the purity. Bliss.

A frilled-neck lizard in full fright mode no more, the next Type R instalment continues the narrative of the last, but in a prettier package. Sign us up.

11 - Nissan Qashqai

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: ST, ST+, ST-L, Ti
Expected Price Range: from $32,000 – $55,000

The sales hit of Europe’s crossover set, the British-built Qashqai enters its third iteration fitter than ever, bringing a lighter, all-new body, swish interior and cool powertrain choices that bury Nissan’s tired old 2.0-litre nail once and for all.

Most buyers will gravitate towards the 110kW/250Nm 1.3-litre four-pot turbo with CVT, but the fascinating e-Power alternative presents a 1.5-litre turbo that charges the battery, range-extender style, that powers an electric motor driving the front wheels. Outputs are 140kW/330Nm while petrol consumption drops 50 percent, and all without range anxiety or the need to plug in.

Throw in a stronger structure and quicker steering that promise sharper handling and a quieter ride, and the Qashqai could really reel in the Mazda CX-30 and co. One to watch.

12 - Cupra Leon

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: 140TSI, 180TSI PHEV, 221TSI
Expected Price Range: from $42,000 – $60,000

No, not a Ted Lasso soccer player, but VW Spanish subsidiary SEAT’s version of the Golf that we’ve coveted in Australia over four generations but never had the opportunity to experience. Until now.

Like the closely related Formentor mid-sized SUV, the Leon will include a 180kW 1.4-litre turbo plug-in hybrid powertrain with an 85kW electric motor offering warm-hatch hustle (0-100km/h in 6.7sec), or a 2.0-litre turbo tearaway with 221kW on tap as a gutsier Golf GTI alternative (5.7sec instead of 6.3sec to 100 in Euro spec).

If they’re too much, a base 140kW 2.0-litre turbo opener should also fill the Euro sporty-hatch bill nicely. All will include front-wheel drive and seven-speed dual-clutch transmissions. Hopefully we’ll also see the pretty Leon Sportstourer wagon in time, too.

13 - Honda HR-V e:HEV

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: TBA
Expected Price Range: from $45,000 – $55,000

As one of the world’s most popular small SUVs, there’s a lot riding on the third-gen HR-V.

Now sourced from Japan, the new-from-the-ground-up redesign straightens out the outgoing model’s curves, in a larger, roomer, safer and far more refined package, powered by a four-cylinder engine driving the front wheels via a CVT.

Before you reach for the No-Doz, though, you might want to consider the optional e:HEV hybrid, mating a 1.5-litre VTEC unit with a pair of front-mounted electric motors, for a respectable 96kW and 253Nm combined, making it the quickest HR-V ever sold in Australia. It’s also the most economical, averaging about 5.4L/100km.

It’s great to see some good-old Honda smarts adding some eco pizzazz to an otherwise fairly mundane class.

14 - Lexus LX

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Due: H2 2022
Expected Models: LX500d, LX600
Expected Price Range: from $140,000 – $170,000

Fancy a Toyota LandCruiser but embarrassed by its hoi-polloi appeal? Look no further than the latest LX – a 300 series in a waterproof tuxedo if there ever was one.

The fourth-gen J300 adopts all of its cousin’s on-road driving improvements, safety advancements and in-cabin refinements, while supercharging opulence levels without sacrificing the series’ renowned goat-like go-anywhere 4x4 gusto.

To that end, approach/departure/ramp-over angles match the old barge while being able to wade through 700mm of water.

Twin-turbo V6 choices will include the Lexus-exclusive (for now) 305kW/650Nm 3.5-litre petrol (LX600) alongside the LX500d’s 227kW/700Nm 3.3-litre diesel, both with a 10-speed auto.

The world’s most sophisticated ladder-frame chassis 4WD awaits.

15 - Mercedes-AMG C63

Due: H2 2022
Expected Models: S
Expected Price Range: from $160,000 – $180,000

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Before you decry the demise of the 375kW/700Nm 4.0-litre V8 in the existing, rear-drive C63S for some dippy little four-banger, remember that the furious M139 2.0-litre powerhouse developed by Mercedes-AMG elevates the A45S 4Matic+ to the apex of hot-hatch performance.

In the hottest version of the new W206 C-Class series due in the latter part of 2022, it will be mounted longitudinally and score AMG’s new E-Turbo tech, while on the rear axle an electric motor and a sizeable lithium-ion battery pack should help see the combined power output blast way past 400kW in its highest state of tune. All while also offering about 60km of EV-only driving.

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Yep, we’re talking about a plug-in EV hybrid supercar sedan. Plus, for the first time, all-wheel drive is also be part of the new C63’s assault against the BMW M3, Audi RS4 and Tesla Model S. As a result, the word on the street is sub-3.5sec 0-100km/h capability.

Inevitably, a subtle body kit and wider arches will complement a far-more aggressive front, as will an upgraded, screen-laden interior.

Clearly, then, EVs are the future and ever-stricter emissions requirements are killing V8s, but – as a stop-gap measure – the new C63 is shaping up to be a momentous combustion-engine hybrid swansong. Don’t order that M3 Competition just yet.

16 - Cupra Formentor

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: 140TSI, 180TSI PHEV, 224TSI VZ
Expected Price Range: from $40,000 – $70,000

By now you’ll be aware VW’s Spanish brand SEAT has a performance sub-brand called Cupra, with the racy Formentor set to be the first salvo in Australia – well, unless you also count the failed Ibiza Cupra of the late 1990s.

Based on the MQB Evo platform underpinning the latest Golf, the Formentor is the first Cupra-only design, and is essentially a VW T-Roc-sized SUV with five seats. Key rivals range from the Kia Sportage to the Mini Countryman PHEV.

Featuring struts up front and a multi-link rear end, the three-tier model line-up kicks off with a 140kW/320Nm 2.0-litre four-pot turbo with AWD, and then moves up to a performance-orientated 224kW/400Nm 2.0-litre version that’s good for 4.9sec to 100km/h and a 250km/h top speed.

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Perhaps the most fascinating Formentor for now is the 180kW/400Nm e-Hybrid, combining a 110kW/250Nm 1.4-litre turbo engine with an 85kW/330Nm electric motor. With the aid of a 12.8kWh lithium-ion battery, this front-drive plug-in hybrid EV is capable of over 50km in pure electric mode, or 7.0sec to 100km/h on the way to a 210km/h V-max.

All gearboxes are of the seven-speed dual-clutch transmission variety.

That’s quite a choice. Along with alluring styling and high equipment levels, interest in Cupra ought to be far greater this time around.

17 - Hyundai Ioniq 6

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: 2WD, AWD
Expected Price Range: from $72,000 – $85,000

Another blockbuster EV from on-form Hyundai, this time as a four-door sedan counterpart of the monumental Ioniq 5.

The aptly-named Prophecy Concept of 2020 (pictured above) clearly points to the direction that the sleek Ioniq 6’s Mercedes CLA-esque styling will take, while sharing much of progressive e-GMP electrification hardware and standard-setting tech with its in-demand hatchback sibling.

This means scalding electric performance, anxiety-quelling range and an interior presentation that will surprise and delight – though not quite to the extent of the steering-wheel-less Prophecy.

While the ranks of alternatives to the ruling Tesla Model 3 continue to swell, Hyundai’s take might be the deadliest. We’ll know more about the Ioniq 6 when the company reveals final production pics and specs around March or April, ahead of a late-2022 local launch.

18 - Volkswagen Golf R

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Due: Q1 2022
Expected Models: R
Expected Price Range: from $60,000

It took several attempts since the first R32 of 2003, but the previous R flagship finally rose above the game-changing GTI as the Golf of choice.

Now the Mk8 version steps things up with a retuned 2.0-litre four-pot turbo, pumping out a hearty 235kW/420Nm to all four wheels via a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission.

With the help of new Nurburgring-honed driving modes, 100km/h is reached in 4.7sec, while the hunkered-down chassis with adaptive dampers and a host of other driver-assist measures should brand the R deep in the keenest driver’s psyche.

Throw in a cinematic digital dashboard experience, beaut driving position and exquisite interior detailing, and it seems the holiday might be over for the Hyundai i30 N, Honda Civic Type R and Ford Focus ST.

19 - Ferrari Purosangue

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Due: Q4 2022
Expected Models: V6, V8, V8 hybrid, V12
Expected Price Range: from $600,000 – $750,000

Known internally as project F175, Ferrari’s first Sports Utility Vehicle comes a full 20 years after Porsche shocked punters with its original Cayenne.

That the Purosangue – horse-breeder talk for ‘pure blood’ – has taken this long is probably the bigger surprise nowadays, given the existence of the Lamborghini Urus, Aston Martin DBX and Maserati Levante.

But don’t worry, purists. Far from being an ungainly SUV, we’re anticipating a comparatively sleek five-door crossover coupe, low-slung with handsomely aggressive styling and – we hear – a cracking chassis that steers, handles and brakes like a thoroughbred from Maranello should.

After all, the whole world will be watching this one.

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Although early test mules wearing GTC4 Lusso body bits suggested that the latter would provide its all-wheel drive platform, the Roma 2+2 coupe released last year is the architectural basis.

Placed behind the front axle is a variation of the latter’s twin-turbo V8 and dual-clutch powertrain, while a hybrid version with up to three electric motors to provide around 735kW in total is predicted, making the also-rumoured 6.5-litre V12 questionable.

A V6 hybrid is likely at some stage too.

We’ll know more about this most controversial of Ferraris closer to the Purosangue’s unveiling in mid-2022, with Australian sales set to follow before the year’s out.

20 - Cupra Ateca

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Due: Q2 2022
Expected Models: 221TSI 4Drive
Expected Price Range: from $50,000

If the Cupra Formentor is the image-leading SUV coupe alternative for buyers who can’t quite stretch to a BMW X4, then the Ateca is aimed at drivers who prefer a fast yet family-friendly SUV, offering racy styling, space for five (including a 485L boot) and pace aplenty.

That’s thanks to a 221kW/400Nm 2.0-litre turbo-petrol four, seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and ‘4Drive’ AWD, all aiding a 0-100km/h sprint in under five seconds. Underneath is a sports-tuned iteration of the MQB A1 architecture found beneath the closely-related Skoda Karoq. Dynamic chassis control ought to provide a fine balance between comfort and agility.

The Ateca is actually the oldest of the trio of Cupra debutantes set for the first half of 2022, based on a 2016 SEAT equivalent and facelifted four years later.

21 - Mercedes-Benz SL

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Due: H2 2022
Expected Models: SL, AMG SL 63
Expected Price Range: from $240,000 – $350,000

One of the world’s longest-running nameplates will be reborn for only its seventh outing since 1954 when the sculpted, tightly drawn R232-series SL arrives in 2022.

The 2+2-seater ragtop roadster is brand-spanking new underneath, with the initial models scoring two versions of AMG’s sonorous 4.0-litre twin-turbo petrol V8/nine-speed auto combo, in 350kW/700Nm SL 55 and 430kW/800Nm SL 63 grades.

One needs 3.9sec to hit 100km/h on the way to 295km/h, the other 0.3sec less for 20km/h more. Serious speed here. You’ll be glad for Mercedes’ 4Matic+ all-wheel-drive system – an SL first. Other engines will follow later, probably with hybridised-electric six-cylinder and even four-pot plug-in spec, as the emissions noose tightens around even this titan of luxury convertible motoring’s elegant neck.

We’re mighty glad Benz persists.

22 - BMW iX

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Due: Q1 2022
Expected Models: xDrive 40, xDrive50
Expected Price Range: from $135,900 – $169,900

If you imagine our 2014 COTY-winning BMW i3 evolving from oddball four-seater hatch to an imposing five-seater SUV with suitably updated tech, then that just about sums up the iX.

Behind the divisively large kidney grilles is the Bavarian brand’s fifth-gen EV architecture, with an electric motor on each axle for all-wheel drive. The 240kW/630Nm xDrive40 is good for 100km/h in 6.1sec while the 385kW/765Nm xDrive50 manages that in 4.6sec. The 440kW M60 arrives later in 2022 should even more oomph be needed.

Quelling range anxiety are two battery sizes – the 77kWh pack with 425km or the xDrive50’s 112kWh alternative offering 630km. Desirable options include rear-wheel steering, adaptive air suspension and laser headlights.

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Roughly X5-sized, the iX’s body consists of aluminium, high-strength steel and carbonfibre-reinforced plastic, with an aluminium spaceframe bringing exceptional strength combined with lightness. Add a low centre of gravity, double wishbones up front and a five-link rear end, and despite the inevitable weight, there’s the promise of decent agility.

Yet this BMW is also outstandingly practical, thanks to electrification and a long wheelbase that help maximise packaging efficiency. Like the i3, the interior is all about futuristic minimalism, with sustainable/recyclable materials and gorgeous design detailing to help justify the high prices.

For these reasons and more, the iX could be 2022’s most desirable EV SUV.