Here at CWS 4×4 we are always eager to know exactly what the world of 4x4s will have to offer in the near future. As one of the country’s leading suppliers of 4×4 parts we always like to keep our ear to the ground with regards to the next big thing in the 4×4 market.
With 4×4 sales growing seemingly exponentially, and ever more niche 4×4 vehicles being created, the next few years are sure to be exciting. By taking customer feedback and buying habits on board, car manufacturers are creating vehicles that are more complex and capable every day. With increases being made in both on and off-road performance the trend toward buying a 4×4 certainly doesn’t look to end anytime soon. In this blog we have picked three of the vehicles that we are most excited about in the next few years;
Bentley SUV
There are certain Marques that seem to shine above all the rest, whether it’s for their luxury, quality, capability or the way they seem to do everything with ease. One of the most effortlessly capable and cool car manufacturers out there is undoubtedly Bentley. Started in 1919 and famous for their incredible impact on the track and the road Bentley are one of the most recognisable manufacturers in the world. Bentley’s illustrious history very nearly became a thing of the past until VAG stepped in and bought the famous bastion of British quality in 1998, ever since then they have gone from strength to strength.
With the demand for luxury cars and 4x4s on the increase in markets such as China and Russia it was only a matter of time until Bentley broke into the market. 2 years since they first teased fans with the promise of a Bentley SUV it finally seems that Bentley have set a release date. The recent release of the teaser video below and promises that 2016 is the year in which the first cars will be delivered has got 4×4 fans very excited.
There are many sceptics out there that say that a Bentley SUV misses the point but with engine choices including a twin-turbo W12 powering all four wheels it is certainly sure to be a formidable vehicle on or off-road. With a price tag quoted very cagily at ‘Over £140,000’ though you are not exactly likely to see them on every street in the land. In spite of this rarity we are still excited at the opportunity to catch a glimpse of this incredible vehicle, although with those engine options it may be a very quick glance.
New Audi Q7
When the first Audi Q7 hit the market in 2005 there were plenty of people that didn’t really buy into the idea of a seven seat 4×4 that provided the ability to go off-road in sumptuous comfort. Top Gear magazine once described the car as “A bad idea, brilliantly executed’ and whatever you think of the vehicle it has proven to be incredibly popular. The variety of engine and trim options mean that there is a Q7 to fit most people’s budget whether you want a 3 litre Diesel V6 or the flagship 6 litre Diesel V12 the Q7 has an option for you.
With Audi spotted testing a new version of the Q7 the internet is rife with speculation over what the new Q7 will look and drive like. The only real promise from Audi is that the vehicle will be significantly lighter than the previous model; they have apparently shaved over 300kg from the overall weight. This drastic weight loss will mean better performance in all areas and far improved fuel economy making this leviathan an even more appealing option, and though it certainly won’t be cheap you will definitely get change from £140,000.
Land Rover Discovery Sport
Far from being a sporty version of Land Rover’s formidable Discovery, this is actually going to replace the smaller Freelander which is currently Land Rover’s smallest model (and one of the best small 4x4s you can buy, in our opinion). The Discovery Sport promises to keep the Freelander’s mix of off and on-road abilities whilst providing a far more luxurious, premium feel in the same vein as the incredibly popular Evoque. With Land Rover remaining very tight-lipped about the specifications or pricing of the vehicle we can only speculate on the rumours that it will be powered by a modified Flux capacitor.
One thing that is for sure is that the new model will be lighter and have significantly better emissions and efficiency than the outgoing car. With several engine options including a rumoured petrol-electric hybrid and a small diesel this really does look to become the default option for those that want a small SUV.
So if you are a dedicated lover of all things four wheel drive then fear not as the future really is bright for 4x4s. Whether you are lucky enough to be signing on the dotted line at your local Bentley dealership or simply want to know what will be available on the second hand market in future then you can rest easy in the knowledge that 4x4s definitely have a future. If you are one of the lucky ones that has bagged yourself a bargain 4×4 and need that special part then don’t hesitate to contact us on 01458 834930 and our friendly staff will be happy to help you locate it.