Check out this 2013 Shelby GT500 Cobra!
It looks like 2013 will be a decent year for the auto industry -- in fact, we're already getting a preview. Thanks to the long-standing industry practice of introducing new model year cars midway through the previous calendar year, plenty of "upcoming" cars have been roaming the streets since the summer of 2012. It can be tricky to make such predictions, since numerous unpredictable factors can interfere with the release date of anew car (some can be delayed, while others can be completely killed off) but, at this point, we think this list is pretty safe.
Top-10 lists like this are always a little tricky -- like car shopping, some decisions are all business while others tend to get a bit personal. Facelifts of popular existing models are usually a safe bet because they're a known quantity, even when the automaker's worked in some interesting new features. And as far as all-new cars go? It's another fair bet that, if a new car has enjoyed a good amount of hype, or fills a particular void in a brand's lineup, it'll be rewarded with a fair amount of initial interest.
But, as it goes for all cars, whether they can actually compete in the market remains to be seen.
2013 Subaru XV Crosstrek
Courtesy of Subaru of America
News of a new AWD wagon-esque/crossover-type vehicle from Subaru isn't exactly earth-shattering. That's what Subaru does best (well, that and rally cars). Getting excited about a new Subaru, though, means getting excited for new potential, even if you hardly ever use it. And the rest of the time (which is to say, most of the time) is a reasonably comfortable and pretty reliable ride, a comfy but not cushy five-door hatch with a decent amount of cargo space.
So what's the big deal about the Subaru Crosstrek? It is, essentially, a lifted Impreza Sport (and in fact, in other countries, the Crosstrek is just called the Impreza XV). The slightly goofy-looking wheel gap is the main visual differentiator between the former and the latter, but it serves a noble purpose -- if you ever go off-roading, it provides crucial ground clearance. Plastic trim panels protect the paint's most vulnerable areas from rocks and gravel. The suspension reportedly feels firmer than the base Impreza. In other words, roam with confidence, Subaru says.
EPA fuel economy estimates rate the Crosstrek as the most efficient AWD crossover available, but reviewers say that efficiency comes at a price. Although the body is attractive and comfortable, and Subaru's capabilities in the areas of sportiness and utility aren't to be underestimated, the engine and transmission are the Crosstrek's weak link. The CVT automatic transmission matches to the engine in an unpleasantly noisy way and saps the drivetrain of precious horsepower (the engine comes in at a scant 148-horsepower) [source: Neil]. The manual transmission option might provide a more satisfying driving experience, but it causes the EPA's fuel ratings to drop from 25/33 to 23/30.
Other than that, the Crosstrek is vacation ready. Go ahead, make fun of the roof rack. Joke that the Crosstrek looks naked without a surfboard or canoe. It doesn't matter -- even a Crosstrek that's temporarily de-accessorized is probably a Crosstrek that's had some good times.
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