10 Noteworthy Cars Coming Soon

10 Noteworthy Cars Coming Soon

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We have our eyes on this promising group of new and redesigned models coming later this year.

Although these vehicles may be tempting, we traditionally recommend holding off purchases for a year or so after the launch of a redesigned or brand-new model. Even historically reliable vehicles can have initial teething problems during a redesign. Plus, waiting will give us time to purchase and test the vehicles, ensuring you're making an informed decision.

The added benefit of knowing what new models are coming is that they signal when discounts will grow for the outgoing models, as incentives are often used to make room for the all-new cars.

The cars are presented in alphabetical order. When possible, we provided the month when the vehicle will go on sale.

Learn more about these vehicles by clicking the links to larger previews.

Acura RDX

Even though the outgoing model was roomy, the redesigned RDX promises increased passenger and cargo accommodations. Power comes from a 2.0-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a 10-speed automatic. Unfortunately, the new RDX comes with Acura’s convoluted push-button gear shifter. Both front- and all-wheel drive will be available. A huge 10.2-inch infotainment display sits atop the dash, accessible via a touchpad between the seats. We like the fact that forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard equipment.

Available: Spring 2018
See our complete Acura RDX preview.

Chevrolet Silverado

The Silverado, the second-best-selling vehicle in America, went on a diet with its 2019 redesign. Chevy estimates that a V8 crew-cab version is about 450 pounds lighter. But the new truck didn’t get smaller to achieve that. The bed has grown wider and the backseat is bigger in the crew-cab versions. The two new V8 engines use an advanced cylinder deactivation system to help optimize fuel economy. A new diesel engine will be available, and a new 10-speed automatic will be offered with some of the engines. GM will announce the availability of safety features closer to the Silverado’s on-sale date.

Available: Fall 2018
See our complete Chevrolet Silverado preview.

Ford Ranger

After an eight-year hiatus, the Ranger compact pickup truck is back. All versions get a 2.3-liter, turbocharged four-cylinder engine mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. Adventure seekers will like the available FX4 off-road package with protective skid plates and four adjustable traction modes. Extended- and crew-cab configurations will be available. Ford’s optional Sync 3 infotainment system includes Android Auto and Apple CarPlay compatibility. Automatic emergency braking is standard; available safety systems include lane-keeping assist, lane-departure warning, and a blind-spot warning system that can monitor the length of a towed trailer.

Available: Early 2019
See our complete Ford Ranger preview.

Honda Insight

With the third-generation Insight, Honda isn’t forcing buyers to make trade-offs in the name of fuel efficiency. The Insight is projected to return more than 50 mpg combined from the 1.5-liter four-cylinder engine, which works in conjunction with an electric drive system. The battery pack is below the rear seats, allowing for more cabin and cargo room. An available 8-inch touch screen handles entertainment and navigation duties. Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard.

Available: Late 2018
See our complete Honda Insight preview.

Hyundai Veloster

The second-generation Veloster is a three-door hatchback like its predecessor; backseat riders must climb in through a quirky, small door on the passenger side. But the new Veloster is larger and comes with a 147-hp four-cylinder engine mated to either a six-speed manual or an automatic transmission. Two more powerful turbocharged engines are available. We applaud Hyundai for making forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking standard.

Available: Spring 2018
See our complete Hyundai Veloster preview.

Kia Forte

The current Forte is one of CR’s top-rated compact cars, so Kia has a lot riding on the redesigned one. It uses a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, which Kia estimates will return 35 mpg combined, thanks in part to a new continuously variable transmission. Kia made the car 3.2 inches longer and a bit taller and wider, which should add headroom and legroom to an already spacious vehicle. Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard on the top trim but aren't available on the base LX.

Available: Fall 2018
See our complete Kia Forte preview.

Ram 1500

The name of the game in the pickup truck wars is to offer more but use less fuel. To do this, the 2019 Ram will employ a mild-hybrid electrical system on the 3.6-liter V6 as standard and optional on the 5.7-liter V8 engines. Both are matched to an eight-speed automatic transmission. Though the last Ram was roomy, the new one has a cab that’s 4 inches longer, delivering more legroom. Up front, the optional 12-inch Uconnect touch screen dominates the dash. Available safety equipment includes forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking.

Available: Spring/Summer 2018
See our complete Ram 1500 preview.

Toyota Avalon

Toyota went evolutionary, not revolutionary, with the new Avalon. The big front-wheel-drive sedan still gives buyers the choice of conventional and hybrid powertrains. A new 3.5-liter V6 with an eight-speed automatic is standard; a 2.5-liter hybrid with two electric motors and a continuously variable transmission is also available. The Avalon will feature smartwatch and Amazon Alexa connectivity, allowing users to unlock doors and start the engine remotely using Apple and Android devices. Forward-collision warning and automatic emergency braking are standard.

Available: Late Spring 2018
See our complete Toyota Avalon preview.

Volkswagen Arteon

Volkswagen's Arteon brings the sleek four-door-coupe styling trend of luxury cars at a more affordable price. The sole engine is a 276-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder paired with an eight-speed automatic transmission. Front-wheel drive will be standard, with all-wheel drive optional. Popping the rear hatch gives access to nearly 20 cubic feet of cargo room with the seats raised.

Available: Fall 2018
See our complete Volkswagen Arteon preview.

Volkswagen Jetta

A roomier cabin with richer materials is a big highlight of the redesigned Jetta sedan. Though the current model is roomier than most compact sedans, the new car has a longer wheelbase, which contributes to even more rear passenger space. Higher-quality materials and a sleek touch-screen infotainment system give the interior a near-luxury look. Power comes from a 147-hp, 1.4-liter turbo four-cylinder engine that drives the front wheels. All versions get an eight-speed automatic transmission, though a six-speed manual is available on the base Jetta. Safety features such as forward-collision warning, automatic emergency braking, and blind-spot warning are optional.

Available: Spring 2018
See our complete Volkswagen Jetta preview.

Editor's Note: This article also appeared in the April 2018 issue of Consumer Reports magazine.



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