2013 was has been an absolutely stellar year for new car launches with car makers vying to outdo each other on performance, design and technology. In no particular order, here are our 6 candidates for the best new car of 2013.
1. Bentley Flying Spur
Whether you think of it as an all-wheel drive, 200mph boardroom or a supercar with room for three friends, the new generation Flying Spur takes a proven Bentley formula and makes it better in every respect, from refinement to in-car technology. More details on the new Bentley Flying Spur.
2. Maserati Quattroporte
Understated elegance is often seen as a ‘British’ quality but the Quattroporte is as beautifully crafted as a bespoke Milanese suit, with a choice of 3.0 V6 petrol, 3.8 V8 petrol and – for the first time – a 3.0 V6 diesel option. Suave, sophisticated and very Italian. More details on the Maserati Quattroporte.
3. Aston Martin Vanquish Volante
From the all-carbon fibre bodywork to the new AM11 Gen4 6.0 V12 engine, this is the car that Aston Martin created to lead the company into its second century. And now it’s also available with a three-layer fabric roof that takes just 14 seconds to fold. Result – a drop-top that’s drop-dead gorgeous. More details on the Aston Martin Vanquish Volante.
4. Ferrari 458 Speciale
Just when you think that the mid-engined Ferrari can’t get any more exclusive, performance-focused or rewarding to drive, Maranello comes up with another ace. A comprehensive package of engine, suspension and aerodynamic improvements make this the lightest, fastest and most extreme 458 yet. More details on the Ferrari 458.
5. Lamborghini Aventador Roadster
Not so much wind in the hair motoring, more a hurricane. A 6.5 litre V12 and ISR 7-speed transmission catapults Lamborghini’s most extreme convertible from a standstill to 62mph in just 3 seconds. And even the detachable roof is a high-technology showcase in high pressure RTM with forged composite reinforcements. More details on the Aventador Roadster.
6. Rolls-Royce Wraith
The imperious Wraith recreates the spirit of aristocratic grand touring for the 21st century. Rolls-Royce refuse to describe any of their models as ‘sporty’ but the two-door, 624bhp V12 Wraith is the fastest, most dynamic and engaging Rolls-Royce to date. We like to think that the ghost of the Hon. Charles Rolls, a keen and competitive motorist, is nodding in approval. More details on the Rolls-Royce Wraith.