10 new cars that will make 2016 a year to look forward to

As the new year unfolds itself, new models are also bound to enter the local automobile industry. These cars will shake the competition within the year – whether you're planning to buy a new ride in 2016 or you're just a certified car nut.

Take note, however, that some of the specs and features here are from globally-released models. This may not be the same as what will be released locally but it will be close enough.

Honda Civic

Claimed as the “sportiest Civic ever”, the all-new 10th generation Honda Civic will have an aggressive exterior styling and will also be lower and wider than the outgoing model. Updates inside will include the multi-information display that will depart from the current in-dash design, as well as E-brakes that will replace the traditional handbrake.

A new 1.5L turbocharged DOHC engine will also be new to the Civic. This will then be coupled to either a 6-speed manual or a continuously variable transmission (CVT).

Mazda CX-3

Aligning with Mazda’s line-up, the all-new CX-3 compact crossover will have both KODO: Soul of Motion design and SKYACTIV technology. This will further heat up the already sizzling competition within its segment.

Aside from its smart features, there's another thing we wish to see in local dealerships: the pure-white leather and off-black Lux Suede upholstery of the top-of-the-line variants of the all-new CX-3.

Hyundai Elantra

Released before 2015 ended, the all-new Hyundai Elantra will only reach showrooms in 2016. It went through a total makeover and now has a redesigned exterior that's bombarded with bold character lines and LED-lit parts such as door handles, side mirrors, tail lights, and the vertically-positioned daytime running lights.

As for its interior, its dashboard layout will be the same as the other new Hyundai models. However, top-of-the-line variants will now have a new 7-inch touchscreen unit with Harman's patented Clari-Fi technology and 8 speakers.

Toyota Fortuner

Finally, the 2nd generation all-new Toyota Fortuner is on its way to the Philippines. Set to be released by early 2016, this game changer features a bold exterior design with chrome strips and narrow head and tail lamps.

In its Thailand release, the all-new Fortuner had 3 engine options which includes the same (but updated) 2.7L dual VVT-i gasoline engine. We're rooting towards believing that these will be the same variants that will land our shores.

Nissan GT-R

The GT-R will finally be officially sold in local Nissan dealerships in 2016 instead of it being a grey import. While we’ve seen numerous examples roaming around our streets in the last few years, the biggest change will be on the price tag. Thanks to the Japan-Philippines Economic Partnership Agreement (JPEPA), it will land here tax free.

Aside from its aggressive looks, there is more inside this mean machine that boys (or girls) will surely dig. If you're not familiar with the GT-R, it's a 2-door, 2-seater sports coupe that is powered by a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 engine capable of churning out 545 hp and 628 Nm of torque.

Toyota Innova

Toyota will bring another 2nd generation model this year into their showrooms. The all-new Innova will have a beefed up front fascia with varying grille sizes. Its fierce body contour adds up to its machismo which we think car shoppers will adore.

Toyota's global showroom shows some premium updates into the Innova's interior such as the LCD touchscreen head unit, wood trims on the sides and panels, and brown leather seats. We just hope that this will land the local dealerships as well.

Subaru Levorg

A week before Christmas of 2015, Subaru launched their latest addition to their vehicle lineup – the all-new Levorg. Bringing its game to the station wagon segment, this new eye candy will have the size of the WRX (almost) but it runs on a smaller but powerful 1.6L turbo Boxer engine.

We are quite excited to get our hands on the all-new Levorg which is currently priced at P1,718,000 for the GT-S variant that runs on CVT.

Mitsubishi Montero Sport

Initially debuted in Thailand (as the Pajero Sport) last November 2015, the all-new Montero Sport has been fully revamped when it comes to exterior design. With daytime running lights, sleek head and tail lamps, and a more intricately designed front grille, this midsize SUV is sure to raise the bar in its segment.

Mitsubishi has already accepted reservations for this all-new model and deliveries will officially begin in January.

Volkswagen Tiguan

Volkswagen won't let their Euro-6 compliant compact crossover be out of trend with the introduction of the all-new Tiguan. It's now bigger, wider, and taller than the outgoing model while losing 50 kg in weight.

Redesigned from the outside, it also received high technology updates on the inside such as heads up display, active info display, and 3-zone climate control system. No reports yet as to what variants will reach the local showrooms but it's available in 4 diesel and gasoline engine types in Germany.

Subaru XV

Also revealed at the Thailand Motor Expo 2015, the Subaru XV gets a face-lift and other upgrades inside and out. And it won't be too long until this compact crossover reaches local showrooms.

There's not much of a difference outside except for the fog lights that got a little adornment. However, the interior is now designed with orange stitching giving it a sporty feel. This ultimately complements the orange-lit push start/stop button and knobs across the dashboard.