If you’ve tried to purchase a car in the last year, there’s a good chance you’ve come across two issues; the first being that if you can secure a care, you are paying much more than normal and the second being whether you can secure a car at all.

There’s no doubt there’s been a shortage of cars this year, but 2022 is looking to be a great year for car buyers with several models delayed from 2021 finally hitting our shores, including updated models of some of our favourite cars, and new car brands vying for a share of the market.

So, what do we have to look forward to in 2022? The new-generation Honda HRV and Lexus LX, Kia’s first electric vehicle and what looks to challenge for an affordable electric car in the EA1 from BYD.

The Bests on the List

There’s always going to be a few cars that top the list of the most sought after and most popular and in 2022 it includes some well-known faces.

Cupra Formentor 2022

Due to hit Australia in June, the Formentor combines Volkswagen’s tech and design as a small SUV that takes its style from a hatch. The Cupra Formentor is expected to take some of the share from the hatch market, with buyers looking to upgrade without going too large in their sights.

The Cupra Formentor is one of the suitable crossover cars hitting the market next year. With a 2.0 litre turbo-petrol engine and up to 228kW to all wheels, this car has what it needs to compete with other crossovers on the market.

Cupra Formentor 2022

Ford Ranger 2022

One of the most popular utes in the country, the Ford Ranger is getting a makeover for its 2022 release. This next-gen Ranger has been built tougher than ever before with the aim of being the most versatile and capable Ranger than ever before. It’s expected the new model will provide buyers with a choice of single or twin-turbo four-cylinder diesels and a choice of 3.0-litre V6 turbo diesel or 2.7-litre V6 turbo petrol.

Fitted with a range of off-road parts including LED spotlights, antenna, roof racks and tow bar, the next-gen Ford Ranger is one for those looking to head off-road a bit more in 2022.

Ford Ranger 2022 (Modified)

Kia Ev6 2022

Kia is growing in popularity across the country, and the EV6 electronic car could be one of the most affordable mid-size electric SUV’s on the market. On a single battery charge, the Ev6 has been rated at over 500km which makes it the perfect option for city driving. Even better is the ultra-fast charging of less than 4.5 minutes for 100km.

Some exciting developments in the EV6 is the augmented reality head-up display which introduces a virtual display on the windshield, giving you the key information to get your destination safely. The car also utilised sustainable materials with seats made from recycled PET’s, high quality vegan leather or suede with the overall interior consisting of recycled materials.

Kia Ev6 2022

Toyota Corolla Cross 2022

Adding to their SUV range, Toyota is expected to release the Corolla Cross in the second half of 2022, joining the Yaris Cross, Kluger, Prado and more. While exact details are yet to be released, the Cross is looking likely to be powered by a similar 2.0-litre four-cylinder petrol engine that can be found in the Corolla hatch and sedan, along with a 1.8-litre petrol-electric hybrid powertrain.

With generous interior space and boot space, the Corolla Cross could overtake some of the other more popular Toyota SUV’s on the market.

Toyota Corolla Cross 2022

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid 2022

Hyundai goes from strength to strength across many markets, with the Santa Fe Hybrid expected to give the Toyota Kluger a run for its money. The first in the hybrid range for Hyundai, the Santa Fe will run off a 1.6-litre four-cylinder turbo engine with an electric motor.

With low fuel consumption and the convenience of not needing to plug the Santa Fe in, price is going to be the biggest test against the relatively affordable options in the Toyota range.

Hyundai Santa Fe Hybrid 2022

Mercedes – AMG GT 63 S E Performance 2022

With emissions regulations growing tighter across Europe, European car makers have been producing hybrid performance vehicles, with the new Mercedes-AMG GT 63 S E Performance one of the most powerful to hit the market so far.

Near identical to the petrol version, the AMG has been built for power rather than driving distance and can accelerate from 0-100km/h in 2.9 seconds. It’s wise to keep in mind that charging the AMG will be slower than normal.

Mercedes – AMG GT 63 S E Performance 2022 model in red

Pic: Mercedes – AMG GT 63 S E Performance 2022 model in red

Porsche 911 GTS 2022

A new Porsche being released will always be big news, but the new 911 is certainly making waves. Available in two-wheel-drive Coupe and Cabriolet or all-wheel-drive Coupe, Cabriolet and Targa forms, the 911 GTS is on the radar of many sports car fans.

The 4 GTS Coupe accelerates from 0-100km/h in 3.3 seconds with a 3.0-litre twin-turbo flat-six engine, updated multimedia system, 20/21-inch alloy wheels and an adaptive suspension. Porsche have focused on weight reduction in the new models, with an optional lightweight package in the Coupe model reducing overall vehicle rate by over 25kg.

Porsche 911 GTS 2022

Nissan Z 2022

It’s been a little while since a Nissan sports car has landed, but the new Z model is coming to replacing the 370Z. The new model contains a twin-turbo V6 engine, rear-wheel drive, and either a six-speed manual or nine-speed automatic transmission.

The new Z models also sees an upgrade in in-car technology as well as auto emergency breaking with pedestrian detection, and a customizable 12.3” digital meter display with all vital information at a glance. This new model still has plenty of vintage Z touches for the original 240Z fans.

Nissan Z 2022

Tesla Model S Plaid 2022

One for the Tesla fans, the Model S Plaid has been facelifted while keeping the same basic shape and appeal of a five-door sedan. Externally, not a lot has changed – some changes to the bumpers, wheels and trim. Internally is a different story.

In car gaming on par with the latest consoles with wireless compatibility allowing you to game from any seat, Bluetooth, wireless and USB-C charging for every passenger and fold flat seats to carry larger cargo amongst the features. The long-range engine allows you to go 652km on a charge, and from 0-100km/h in 1.9 seconds. The Tesla Model S plaid is just one of the fastest, safest and luxury cars in the sedan range hitting our shores next year.

Tesla Model S plaid

Mercedes-Maybach S680 2022

We’ll say it upfront – with the price tag on the Mercedes Maybach S680 it truly is a luxury car, but what a beautiful car. The S680 has been based on the current seventh-generation S-Class sedan but is longer and provides a roomy backseat.

With a nine-speed automatic transmission, 4Matic all-wheel-drive, 12.8-inch central touch screen for front-seat passengers, dual 11.6-inch entertainment screens of rear-seat passengers, surround sound system with active noise cancelling and massaging seats. To top it all off, we hear silver-plated champagne flutes beverage refrigeration are an optional package.

Mercedes-Maybach S680 2022

Lexus LX 2022

The Lexus LX 600 is another new-generation model to hit Australian shores in 2022. It is the first major update in 14 years and is the fourth generation of Lexus’ flagship SUV. With new styling and an interior with more focus on luxury and tech, the new powertrain improves both power and fuel economy. New tech includes dual infotainment screens, and a Human Machine Interface detecting sight, touch and voice for navigation, media and vehicle settings.

The new-generation LX has a twin-turbocharged 2.3-lire V6 engine and a 10-speed automatic transmission makes it a great option for both highway cruising and 4WDing.

Lexus Lx 2022

Nissan Pathfinder 2022

A popular car across the country, the new Nissan Pathfinder is expected to arrive at dealerships in 2022. One of the biggest changes is the removal of the CVT, replacing it with a nine-speed torque-convertor automatic, while still retaining the V6 engine.

Internally, you’ll find a 12.3-inch multimedia touchscreen, autonomous emergency breaking and adaptive cruise control. In an exciting development, it looks as though the Australian version will have a customizable cabin that allows for an eight-seat configuration or for a second-row captain’s chairs with removable centre console. More specs are to be confirmed closer to launch

Nissan Pathfinder 2022 model in red

Skoda Fabia 2022

Due in the second quarter of 2022, the new Skoda Fabia features an additional 50 litres of boot space, meaning it can fit more in the boot than the slightly larger Corolla and Mazda3. There’s been a few more safety features added to the new model.

It’s also expected that the new-generation Fabia will include a more powerful engine, lower and firmer suspension, bucket seats, black wheels and a few extra styling tweaks. More information is expected to come out early in the new year.

Skoda Fabia 2022

Volkswagen Polo 2022

The new-generation Polo is the eighth in the range and this one sees some new styling including revised head and tail-light design and new bumpers. There’s also been some changes to the steering wheel, the dash and the multimedia screen.

On the interior, black, grey, red and chrome are the main colours and it comes with a 351-litre luggage capacity. Already popular in the European market, it is sure to please the Volkswagen fans here in Australia and likely to pick up some more.

VW Polo 2022

BYD Yuan Plus 2022

With BYD backed by Warrant Buffet, the BYD Yuan Plus offers those looking for an electric vehicle plenty in the way of design and budget – in fact, this could be one of the country’s economic electric cars on the market.

The car looks good – it has some more of the traditional elements found in a Chinese SUV including the sloping bonnet and dropping roofline, LED “dragon crystal” headlamps, and a full-width taillamp. Internally you’ll notice the curved shape of the dashboard and door panels while the guitar like strings on the door are an interesting touch. There’s a large 15.6-inch floating touchscreen infotainment system which will be larger than Australian drivers are used to.

A compact SUV, the BYD Yuan Plus may make it’s way here with a different name, but it is likely to be popular for those making a foray into the electric vehicle market.

BYD Yuan Plus 2022

Polestar 2 2022

The Polestar 2 is a long-awaited arrival in Australia and looks to be happening early in 2022. This one is a 100% electric vehicle with a range of up to 540km – its not a bad choice for both commuting or heading away for the weekend. With forged alloy wheels and frameless mirrors, it’s the panoramic roof as part of the Plus Pack which is going to delight Australian drivers. The tinted laminated glass roof allows the sun to shine through while keeping the road noise out.

Internally, you’ll find safety assistance drivers aids, high performance audio and Google built in. The car can also tow up to 1500kg which means those weekends away are on the cards, even with an EV.

Polester 2 2022 model

Nissan Qashqai 2022

The third generation Qashqai is on its way to Australia and while it’s been redesigned inside and out, it still has that same great compactness of a hatch with the ability of an SUV. This version of the Qashqai is a little more modern than previous versions, with white ambient lighting throughout the car and a new heads-up display.

There are four options available with the new Qashqai, all with a new 1.3L 4-cylinder petrol engine. The basic ST model comes with everything to love about the Qashqai including blind spot warning, intelligent cruise control and rear emergency breaking. The TI is the higher end of the range and includes a panoramic glass roof, massage and memory front seats and intelligent park assist.

Nissan Qashqai 2022

Honda H-RV 2022

The third generation HR-V is expected to overtake the CR-V mid-size SUV to become one of Honda’s sellers. The big thing pushing the popularity of the new HR-V is the self-charging hybrid powertrain while a petrol version is also expected. Within the UK, there are three styles available, all with Honda Sensing (the advanced driver safety systems including adaptive cruise control and forward collision warning).

Inside there’s an infotainment touchscreen with satellite navigation, inbuilt Wi-Fi hotspot and Honda Connect services.

Honda H-RV 2022

Mazda BT-50 2022

Fans of the BT-50 will be excited to see modifications to equipment and safety specifications. While the engine is a bit smaller, the more user-friendly lane assist system. Despite the smaller engine there is still a 3.0-tonne towing capacity and the three body styles come as a six-speed automatic.

The BT-50 base model will still have a 7-inch touchscreen infotainment system, Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, reversing camera, driver assist and more.

Mazda BT-50 2022

Isuzu D-Max 2022

One of the most popular utes in Australia, the D-Max is back with a new generation that’s been overhauled with more standard equipment, and extra safety. With six new models in the range, the D-Max will offer buyers a wide range of body styles, powertrain options and tray-configurations.

Models will contain various features including heated front seats and auto dimming rear view mirror in the X-Terrian, keyless entry and Walk Away Door Lock in the LS-U Crew Cab and Space Cab utes.

Isuzu D-Max 2022

Mazda CX-5 2022

The CX-5 is the second best-selling SUV on the market, so it is expected to be a popular model when released into the Australian market. The new model offers variant-specific styling packages giving buyers choice. The new generation model offers new tail-light and wheel designs, as well as new interior and safety features.

With no updates on changes internally for the CX-5, the images from the European models provide an insight that the base remains the same.

Mazda CX-5 2022

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 2022

The seven-seater Allspace is getting its facelift with a redesigned front fascia, capacitive steering-wheel, climate control and the MIB3 multimedia system with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. Upgrades mirror that of those done in the five-seater Tiguan which was released earlier in the year.

Interior dimensions remain largely the same as the previous model with an unchanged 700-litres of luggage space. Buyers will also find touch panels and sliders have overtaken dials and buttons for the air conditioner and multimedia, while the drive-assistance system has been updated.

Volkswagen Tiguan Allspace 2022

We didn’t want to rank or serial these upcoming vehicles rather left that decision to reader.