At this time of year our minds start to wander in the direction of a new car. Michael McAleer, Motoring Editor, takes us through the best sellers of 2006, some of his favourites and a preview of what we can expect in 2007
CITY CARS
TOP SELLERS IN 2006
1. TOYOTA AYGO
2. FIAT PANDA
3. KIA PICANTO
4. PEUGEOT 107
5. HYUNDAI A TO Z
Sales in the city car segment haven't been as good in years, with 2006 sales up nearly 75 per cent on the same period last year. That said, this market remains relatively small in relation to overall car sales, with 3,068 units sold in this segment up to the end of October this year (from a total of 176,156 cars sold during the same period).
Most of the growth here is due to the arrival of three new models to the sector. Toyota's Aygo, Peugeot's 107 and Citroen's C1 all made it onto the market in the middle of last year and the popularity of the Aygo in particular has pushed up city car sales.
While all these models are competitively priced, any changes in Vehicle Registration Tax (VRT) that rewards low emissions is sure to make them even more attractive considering their small engine capacity.
OUR FAVOURITES
There are several models in this category worth consideration but our favourites would be the Fiat Panda for its ride, handling and spaciousness, the Toyota Aygo for its reliability and resale value, and the Kia Picanto and Peugeot 107 for their looks and all-round appeal.
It's hard to choose an overall favourite but the recently introduced VW Fox would have to rank among the top three in terms of driving fun, spaciousness and build quality. Its only drawback is its price; in such a cost-conscious segment it's just too expensive when compared to the competition.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Fiat Panda, Toyota Aygo, Kia Picanto.
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Fiat 500: While the Panda has mainstream appeal, for a discerning niche the return of the legendary 500 late next year may be worth the wait. Modelled on the famous small car that lined the streets of Italy in the 1960s, Fiat is hoping to create the sort of cult following that is serving the likes of Mini so well. Development has been done in conjunction with Ford and the platform will serve the new Ford Ka when it's launched at the end of next year or beginning of 2008.
SUPERMINIS
TOP SELLERS IN 2006
1. Toyota Yaris
2. Ford Fiesta
3. Nissan Micra
4. Renault Clio
5. VW Polo
The Supermini market continues to grow steadily in Ireland with the arrival of a new Yaris and Clio this year pushing up sales. Further growth was recorded by the arrival of the new Fiat Grande Punto, though it will be next year before we really see its full sales potential. The supermini segment is likely to finish the year with sales of 33,000, up from 28,400 last year and 2007 promises increased growth with several new arrivals.
There is an industry trend to build bigger and bulkier superminis and this was evident from the newcomers that came our way this year. The new Punto, Opel Corsa and Peugeot 207 are all significantly larger than their predecessors. The bad news for Peugeot is that while the 206 has been a phenomenal success even into the latter days, the new model is unlikely to replicate its success given that its smallest engine offering is a 1.4-litre unit. That's the price of bulking up and it's likely to impact on sales in this sector next year.
OUR FAVOURITES
There's plenty to choose from in this segment and it depends on the sort of motoring one does, but our favourite here remains the Suzuki Swift, a car that offers nimble handling, practicality and youthful sporting looks. It's the perfect small car for a newly-licensed motorist.
For resale value, the Yaris remains a rock solid buy and the Clio offers easy driving and comfort at good value prices. Our vote this year for European Car of the Year went to the new Opel Corsa and it's truly a world apart from its predecessor. A decent punchy performance is matched with really strong interior comfort and quality trim.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Opel Corsa, Suzuki Swift, Toyota Yaris, Mini
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Skoda Fabia: As revealed in Motors several weeks ago, the Czech brand is ready to introduce its new Fabia in early spring. Taking styling cues from the new Roomster it will come with a variety of engine variants.
FAMILY HATCHBACKS
TOP SELLERS IN 2006
1. Ford Focus
2. Toyota Corolla
3. VW Golf
4. Opel Astra
5. Nissan Almera
It's the biggest market segment in Ireland with over 57,000 new cars registered this year, representing over 32 per cent of the entire new car market in Ireland.
The eternal battle for top spot between Ford and Toyota continues apace and the models are likely to swap positions with the introduction of a Corolla replacement next year.
Of the rest, the Honda Civic has done well despite a poor selection of engines for the Irish market. The recent introduction of a saloon model should further boost sales though it's unlikely to challenge the top five models, even with the Irish Car of the Year title under its belt.
OUR FAVOURITES
Amongst the 30 or so models on sale in this segment, several stand out for particular attention. The top three on the list are all worth consideration by anyone buying, and the Ford Focus certainly lives up to its reputation as an agile drive. The Corolla takes the lead in terms of resale values and reliability, while the VW Golf retains much of the cachet that sees it a top choice for the fashion conscious conservatives. In GTI format it's the hot hatch to beat.
Then there's the Seat Leon, arguably the best looking hatchback on the market at present, though the stunning exterior styling belies a rather dull and lacklustre interior.
We recently spent a few days in a Mazda3 and it reminded us of the reasons we found it such a strong contender when it first came out. We are perhaps guilty of being distracted by the host of newcomers and the 3 may lose out on occasion because of it but it still warrants a look by anyone in this market.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Ford Focus, Toyota Corolla, VW Golf, Seat Leon, Mazda3
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
New Alfa 149 is due to be introduced at the end of next year, replacing the 147. Far more sporting in design, it is likely to feature a choice of 1.4-litre and 1.6-litre turbocharged petrol engines, following on from the recent introduction of a 170bhp turbocharged petrol engine in the VW Golf range.
Fiat Bravo: Replacing the lacklustre Stilo, the new Bravo is certain to win fans for its styling. A new turbo 1.4-litre petrol engine will win over driving fans as well. It's another make-or-break car from the Italian marque.
Kia C'eed: Worth waiting for, this new Kia comes with dramatically improved looks and a tempting seven-year warranty. It's due here in time for the January rush.
Hyundai Arnejs: Similar to the C'eed this new Korean will replace the dated Accent model range with a far more sporting design that should finally put the Koreans in the running to take on the Europeans in the hatchback market.
Nissan Tiida: Replacing the Almera in the hatchback market, the Tiida bears little resemblance to the outgoing car and lines up with the soft-road Qashqai and current Note models in an effort to win favour with loyal Almera owners. A saloon version of the Tiida is also expected to be on offer here.
Toyota Auris: A vital car for Toyota's continued success, the Auris replaces the Corolla hatchback, although the Corolla name lives on in saloon format. For such a conservative firm it's big news when they drop such an established name, but in styling terms the new car is not far off the current model on the outside. The interior, however, has been significantly revamped. The new car is due here in time for summer.
Volvo C30: It's been some time since Volvo offered a sporting hatchback and this four-seater has been received with critical acclaim during its initial press previews. Based on the current S40 platform and sharing its front nose, the distinctive rear styling should win it conquests from the likes of the Audi A3 and BMW 1-Series, though prices are quite high.
FAMILY SALOON
TOP SELLERS IN 2006
1. Toyota Avensis
2. VW Passat
3. Skoda Octavia
4. Ford Mondeo
5. Nissan Primera
The traditional family saloon is losing out to a host of new derivatives and niche models, from small people carriers to crossovers.
Nevertheless it still manages a very respectable 18 per cent share of the overall car market with sales expected to top 33,000 this year.
The two big players of late, the Avensis and Passat, control nearly 50 per cent of those sales with the Skoda taking another 12 per cent. That means the other 20 or so models must fight over single figure percentages.
While everyone expected the Avensis and Passat to dominate the market, the big surprise in recent times has been the poor performance of the Peugeot 407, which doesn't seem to have caught the public's imagination.
Unlike it's predecessor the 406, this generation of French saloon is only managing to capture a 6 per cent share of the market.
One strong performer in the last two years is the Prius. It might only have managed 300 sales so far this year but supply to the Irish market is limited given the enormous demand in the US.
OUR FAVOURITES
The Ford Mondeo is always among our favourites due to its handling, though it is getting a little long in the tooth and due for replacement next year.
The Avensis has never been a favourite of ours but it sells well and as with the rest of the Toyota range, it seems to be reliable.
As mentioned, we continue to be surprised at the lack of interest in the good-looking 407. In 1.6 HDI guise, it's a good all-round purchase.
Arguably the best value is to be had from the Skoda Octavia, which offers plenty of space, an ample boot and better pricing than its VW competitors.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Toyota Avensis, Skoda Octavia, Ford Mondeo, Peugeot 407
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Ford Mondeo: The much hyped replacement for the current model is the lynchpin for Ford's new design language and has already broken cover in concept form and more recently in the Bond movie Casino Royale. It's based on the same platform as the S-Max and Galaxy models. For a large portion of the family market, this car may well be worth waiting for.
Mitsubishi Lancer: The current Lancer was never meant to come to Europe and served as something of a stopgap until this new version arrived.
The new model has been built on Mitsubishi's new global platform and will be far more fun to drive than the current model. A diesel version will also be on offer.
Expect a high performance Evo X version in 2008.
COMPACT EXECUTIVES
1. BMW 3-Series
2. Audi A4
3. Volvo S40
4. Mercedes C-Class
5. Saab 9-3
This market has grown steadily over recent years and now hits the heady sales figures of 10,500, a symbol or Ireland's growing affluence.
While it may be some time before the 3-Series beats the likes of Avensis in sales, it's steadily making its mark and already this year outsold the Mondeo - though they are at very different stages of their lifecycles.
There may be some who fear the BMW is becoming too mass market, but the simple fact is that it remains the benchmark in this class.
Outside the top five, Lexus has done particularly well with its new IS range, despite a rather limited engine range - either a 2.2-litre diesel or 2.5-litre petrol. When you consider that the A4, for example, comes with a choice of six petrol variants and five diesel versions, their sales success is all the more impressive.
OUR FAVOURITES
Yet again we have to agree with the market on this one. The 3-Series is the one to beat. Not everyone is won over by its styling but it's the driver's choice. Ironically at the top of this market, in the performance stakes, the RS4 is king despite the reputation of the M3.
Volvo has done well with the S40, but we still have reservations about its size, in particular the room in the back row of seats.
Other models we'd like consider before making any decision to buy include the new Alfa Romeo 159 and the Honda Accord. Alfa knew from the outset that it needed to significantly improve the quality and finish to win back disgruntled owners of the previous 156. So far so good. It's a lovely drive and if it holds up to the pressures of everyday Irish life it will restore the sparkle that attracts so many red-blooded motorists to the brand.
Honda's Accord has done quite well since its move upmarket with the current model. It was a brave move to take on the premium sector and it's a nice smooth drive.
Finally, the Lexus IS is perhaps the best-looking car of the bunch, even if we're not enamoured by the gearboxes in either the petrol or diesel versions.
Be sure to test drive: BMW 3-Series, Audi A4, Lexus IS, Alfa Romeo 159
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Chrysler Sebring: The US brand will be hoping to repeat the success of its 300C in the compact segment when this model arrives in 2007.
Based on the global GS platform, shared with Dodge and Mitsubishi, it comes with a choice of 2.4-litre, 2.7-litre and 3.5-litre petrol engines and a 2-litre common-rail diesel engine built by Volkswagen.
Mercedes C-Class: While it got a facelift some years ago, the C-Class has trailed behind the rest of the pack in terms of performance and design.
The new C-Class is set to dramatically change perceptions and give the 3-Series a run for its money.
It's due to take to the Irish market in the first half of next year.
EXECUTIVE
1. BMW 5-Series
2. Mercedes E-Class
3. Audi A6
4. Saab 9-5
5. Lexus GS
Here again, BMW tops the pile and rightly so, although its success may be impacting on residual values if forecourt tittle-tattle is anything to go by.
The new Mercedes E-Class promises to be much improved on its predecessor in terms of reliability and could well catch the 5-Series next year.
As it is there are only 200 cars between the two sales figures.
Again, Lexus has performed well, but it's Volvo which will be hoping to restore its position in the top five with the arrival of the new S80.
OUR FAVOURITES
Top billing again goes to the BMW, but if budgets can stretch then the Lexus GS is worth a look, both for styling and comfort.
It doesn't match the handling quality of the BMW - a constant issue with Lexus across its range - but it looks great and the hybrid 450h is lightening quick. Forget the marketing spin, it's a performance version.
Two outside choices for those seeking real head-turning appeal over outright performance are the Chrysler 300C and the new Citroën C6.
Both are stunning in their looks and comfortable inside, though they are likely to suffer more than the rest when it comes time to resell.
They are best to buy only with the company's money.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
BMW 5-Series, Lexus GS, Mercedes E-Class, Citroën C8 or Chrysler 300C
LUXURY
1. Mercedes S-Class
2. BMW 7-Series
3. Jaguar XJ
4. Audi A8
5. Lexus LS
In this market the S-Class is undisputed king and the new version launched at the end of last year set new standards for the segment. With the Taoiseach and President now using S-Class, it's sure to continue as the car of choice for Ireland's corporate leaders.
Of the rest, the Jaguar XJ has done well on the back of the introduction of a diesel variant to the range and those behind the British brand should be proud of their efforts, particularly in pipping Audi's A8 for third spot.
OUR FAVOURITES
The S-Class will always be hard to beat and its strong residual values compared to the other German brands means it's always going to be the one to overtake.
The revamped 7-Series is worth a look as is the Jaguar XJ, while the Audi's range of diesel engines make it a serious contender for those seeking an oil-burning engine.
Arguably the greatest threat to the S-Class lead will come from the new Lexus LS which is awash with new technology and luxury.
It's definitely worth a look even if there is only one engine version - a 4.6-litre petrol with new eight-speed automatic gearbox - on offer for the time being.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Mercedes S-Class, BMW 7-Series, new Lexus LS.
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Lexus LS460/LS600h: The former is a 4.6-litre luxury model that features a host of technical innovations.
The styling has been dramatically improved, putting the new car in line with the rest of the family.
A hybrid LS600h will arrive later in the year. No diesel offering will limit sales, but for those prepared to opt for petrol, it's a definite test drive.
Mainstream sport coupés and roadsters
1. Hyundai Coupé
2. Mercedes CLK
3. Mercedes CLS
4. Opel Tigra
5. Alfa Romeo GT
This market is difficult to judge with the wide and varied price brackets within it. The Hyundai Coupé seems to have seen off the challenge of the more feminine Opel Tigra, despite the Opel's fancy folding roof. The Hyundai remains a star performer for Irish drivers, but it's Mercedes that dominates the premium end.
The Alfa has done well, beating the Mercedes SLK to fifth spot by the end of October, though it's too close to call for how this will finish at the end of year. Newcomers that will make their mark next year include the new Audi TT and the addition of a hard-topped coupé to the BMW Z4 range.
OUR FAVOURITES
At the mainstream end of the market, the new Mazda MX-5 is hard to top in terms of true roadster pedigree. A new folding metal roof will only add to its appeal. It's really well priced and though it's cramped inside with little in the way of bootspace, it's great fun to drive.
Another Mazda that puts a smile on our face is the RX-8 while the new TT range is sure to win favour with image conscious sports enthusiasts.
At the upper end of the market the battle between the BMW 6-Series and Mercedes CLS is a tough one to call, but for sheer presence and greater flexibility the Mercedes wins out.
Finally for true sports car fans, the Porsche Cayman is more expensive than many rivals but is an enthralling drive with gorgeous looks and an intoxicating engine note. At the top end, its cousin the 911 remains king of all it surveys.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Mazda MX-5, Audi TT, Mercedes CLS, Porsche 911
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Alfa Spider: based on the Brera platform, the two-seater Spider features an automated fabric roof.
Audi A5: Due for launch in the second half of 2007, this is a new coupé based on the A4 platform. Targeting the likes of the BMW 6-Series and Mercedes CLS it will be unveiled at next autumn's Frankfurt motor show.
BMW 3-Series coupé convertible/M3: A folding metal roof will feature on this new variant of the 3-Series convertible. It will be powered by BMW's fantastic 3-litre turbocharged engine which will hopefully help overcome the extra weight from the folding metal and its various motors. A new M3 is also pencilled in for the end of next year or early 2009, aiming to retake the performance crown from the Audi RS4.
BMW 1-Series convertible: While sales remain sluggish for the diminutive Bavarian, BMW will be hoping that a folding fabric roof may boost its performance on the forecourts next year.
COMPACT SUVS
1. Hyundai Santa Fe
2. Hyundai Tucson
3. Suzuki Grand Vitara
4. Nissan X-Trail
5. Toyota Rav 4
The market for small SUVs - or soft-roaders as they are often called - is one of the most competitive in terms of new arrivals and growing sales. Now accounting for 6 per cent of all vehicles sold, it's dominated by Hyundai, which has control of over 30 per cent of all sales with two models. Several of the top sellers are either new or updated versions, giving a fresh look to the segment. Next year will likely see the Rav 4 rise up the ranks along with the new Freelander and a new CR-V.
OUR FAVOURITES
The new Santa Fe is a worthy leader in the segment, but the Rav 4 should also be tested. The upcoming Land Rover Freelander is a must drive for anyone contemplating actually using these vehicles off-road and it's certain to take sales at the upper end of the market from the likes of the BMW X3.
One newcomer that has surprised us with its ability is the upcoming Mitsubishi Outlander
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Hyundai Santa Fe, Toyota Rav 4, Land Rover Freelander 2, New Mitsubishi Outlander (here in February)
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Honda CR-V: Arriving at the end of next month, the new soft-roader has updated styling and a new 2-litre 148bhp engine.
Mitsubishi Outlander/Peugeot 4007/Citroen C-Crosser: These three 'soft-roaders' have been developed together with the French marques seeking out Mitsubishi's off-road expertise. The Outlander is first to market, arriving in February, to be followed by the two French entrants.
Dodge Nitro: Following on from the introduction of the Caliber, Dodge is introducing its Nitro 4x4 early this year. Already on sale in some markets, here it will be powered by a 2.8-litre common-rail diesel unit.
Jeep Compass and Patriot: Two models from a brand that previously had a very limited offering, these two are aimed at putting the Jeep brand firmly into the mid-range market. While they will ultimately be destined for the school-run, expect decent off-road ability from both.
Nissan Qashqai: Part of the trio of models set to replace the outgoing Almera, the Qashqai is Nissan's offering for the soft-roader set. Aimed at coming in below the current X-Trail - which in turn will increase in size in the next generation - it's styling points to the smart-looking Murano.
Opel Antara: The long-awaited replacement for the Frontera, it shares its basis with the Chevrolet Captiva. A five-seater and it will feature a range of engines, including a 2-litre diesel unit.
Volkswagen Tiguan: As revealed in Motors last August, VW has opted for a high-set Golf with design features similar to the larger Touareg to earn its share of the burgeoning soft-roader market.
LARGE SUVs
1. Range Rover
2. Mitsubishi Pajero
3. Mercedes ML
4. BMW X5
5. VW Touareg
This segment could be divided into two classes, the large luxury SUV that rivals the likes of the Mercedes S-Class in terms of opulence and the true workhorses. To do that the Range Rover is clearly king of the luxury set, though it's no slouch when it comes to mud-plugging. In the working world, Mitsubishi continue to retain the throne, despite heavy competition from the Land Rover Discovery and the Toyota Land Cruiser.
OUR FAVOURITES
The Range Rover has pedigree and class behind it, even if previous versions were prone to problems. The new X5 is less competent in its off-road capabilities, but it's only challenged by the Range Rover Sport in terms of on-road ability.
For working off-roaders, there's really only one SUV we'd aspire to own: the Toyota Land Cruiser. It's reputation in the desert sands and conflict zones around the world lead us to believe that when it really matters you want to be in a Land Cruiser.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Range Rover Sport, BMW X5, Toyota Land Cruiser
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
BMW X5: As reported in Motors two weeks ago, the new X5 will arrive here in spring with improved on-road performance and the option of a third-row of seats.
Porsche Cayenne: Images are already out of the new luxury SUV and anyone expecting dramatic changes to its distinctive look will be disappointed. It's due to go on sale in the spring.
SMALL MPVS
1. Nissan Note
2. Opel Meriva
3. Honda Jazz
4. Ford Fusion
5. Mercedes A Class
It's not surprising to see the Note doing so well in this market, though sales of nearly double its nearest rival seem to suggest it's taking the market by storm. This is another segment that's recording a lot of consumer interest in recent years and new models are coming on stream to meet the demand.
OUR FAVOURITES
The Note is one of the best small high-roofed five-seaters to drive, challenged in this regard only by the Honda Jazz. However while the Note is entertaining for the driver, the Honda has far more flexibility for the rest of those on board.
Perhaps the best compromise is the new Roomster, which combines saloon car driving characteristics with flexible seating arrangements and plenty of user-friendly features inside.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Nissan Note, Skoda Roomster, Honda Jazz.
MID-SIZE MPVs
1. Opel Zafira
2. Renault Scenic
3. Toyota Corolla Verso
4. Ford Focus C-Max
5. VW Golf Plus
The battle for top spot between the Renault and the Zafira has been going for several years now and their positions depend largely on the lifecycle phases of their respective offerings.
The big surprise is the success of the five-seater models like the C-Max and Golf Plus, neither of which offers the same flexibility in seating arrangements as the Zafira, Corolla Verso or Grand Scenic.
Other models to do well this year include the Mazda5 and Citroën Picasso, the latter due to be joined next year by a new seven-seat version, the C4 Picasso.
OUR FAVOURITES
The Zafira is hard to argue against in this class because of the flexible seating. We're also particularly fond of the Toyota Corolla Verso, even if boot space is restricted when all seven-seats are in use. The C-Max is one of the better models to drive, but five seats makes it slightly impractical for the school run. Perhaps a better buy is the Mazda5 which is also on a Ford platform but has seven seats and sliding doors.
One tip before you buy: consider an estate version as an alternative to a high-roofed five-seater.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Opel Zafira, Renault Grand Scenic, Toyota Corolla Verso, Mazda5
NEWCOMERS IN 2007
Citroën C4 Picasso: Arriving in January this new seven-seater Citroen people carrier is a significant improvement in both styling and luxury compared to the current five-seater model. The old version will continue to be produced, but for larger families this is the one to opt for. Taking its cue from the C4 hatchback, its loaded with new gadgets, many of which are useful to the motorist.
LARGE MPVs
1. Hyundai Trajet
2. Ford Galaxy
3. Seat Alhambra
4. Ssangyong Rodius
5. Ford S-Max
The Trajet continues to win out here largely because of the copious internal space and the ultra-competitive price. In sixth place is Kia's Sedona, a sister brand of Hyundai and also worth a look for those seeking value and space. A new version went on the market last month.
While Ford continues to do well in this sector, the remarkable sales of the S-Max after just a few months on the market - along with its victory in the European Car of the Year competition - should see it climb the sales table next year.
The big surprise for us is the popularity of the Rodius. Either Irish buyers in this market are oblivious to styling or they are completely dictated in their purchasing decisions by price and size.
Certainly it offers a living room on wheels but it's unlikely to win many fans when it comes time to resell. It's a car that proves a simple fact: for some MPV owners, A to B motoring is alive and well.
OUR FAVOURITES
The S-Max is a must to test for those seeking a bit of driver enjoyment while fulfilling their family duties. Admittedly it remains more of a 5+2 rather than a full seven-seater, but for that the Galaxy serves the market well. Prices are not as competitive as Korean rivals and when money really matters the Trajet is hard to ignore.
At the upper end of the market, the Renault Espace still mixes practicality and panache, while the Chrysler Voyager is one of the best looking people carriers on the market, even if the interior fails to live up to the exterior and performance is not on a par with European rivals.
BE SURE TO TEST DRIVE
Ford S-Max and Galaxy, Renault Espace, Seat Alhambra