Key New Model Launches Set for Europe in 2011
European buyers can expect a packed 2011 with launches ranging from electric city cars to supercars and major facelifts across popular segments.
European showrooms are set for a busy 2011 as manufacturers prepare a wave of new models, facelifts and alternative drivetrains. Launches start early in January and continue through December, with electric vehicles, supercars, facelifts and mainstream models all on the calendar.
January: Electric city cars and premium saloons
Citroën leads the year with the C-Zero electric city car on 2 January, quickly followed by the Peugeot iOn on 23 January. Both are rebadged versions of the Mitsubishi i-MiEV, targeting urban buyers and fleets seeking zero-emission options. Mercedes launches the new CLS on 12 January, bringing a sharper four-door coupe design and updated engines. Volkswagen’s Jetta arrives on 27 January, with the Renault Latitude executive saloon closing out the month on 31 January.
- Aston Martin One-77: limited-run supercar
- Audi R8 GT: lighter, track-focused variant
- Mini Countryman: brand’s first crossover
- Mazda 5 1.6D: new diesel engine
- Mitsubishi i-MiEV: electric city car enters more markets
Spring: Facelifts, hybrids and sports cars
February and March see a mix of updates and headline debuts. Jeep’s Patriot arrives on 2 February, with Maserati’s MC Stradale following on 6 February. Opel’s facelifted Corsa and Porsche’s Cayman R also land in February. Alfa Romeo, Nissan, Lotus and Subaru introduce facelifts or new transmissions across their ranges. March brings the new Audi A6, BMW 6 Series Cabrio, Ferrari’s 612 successor, and Ford’s next-generation Focus. Mercedes updates the SLK and C-Class, while Peugeot introduces the 508 saloon and estate.
- Peugeot 508: new D-segment entry
- Mercedes C-Class facelift: updated styling and engines
- Subaru Trezia: compact MPV enters market
- Citroën DS3 Racing: hot hatch variant
Summer: Estates, crossovers and more hybrids
New launches continue through the summer, with the Fiat crossover and Mercedes C-Class Coupe in June, and the Hyundai i40 CW estate and Porsche Panamera Hybrid also scheduled. July brings the Chevrolet Aveo, Mercedes C 63 AMG, and a facelifted Fiat Punto Evo. Peugeot’s 3008 Hybrid4, the first diesel-electric hybrid in the segment, arrives in July. Kia launches the Optima saloon and Rio supermini in August, while Audi’s A6 Avant and VW’s Tiguan facelift expand the estate and SUV options.
- Peugeot 3008 Hybrid4: diesel-electric hybrid crossover
- Audi A6 Avant: large estate
- VW Tiguan facelift: refreshed compact SUV
Autumn and winter: Supercars, EVs and volume launches
The final quarter features some of the year’s most anticipated models. Mercedes launches the SLS Roadster in September, joined by the Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder and the Skoda MINI. October sees the Audi Q3 compact SUV, BMW 6 Series Coupe, Opel Ampera plug-in hybrid and Nissan Leaf electric hatchback. Mini’s Coupe and VW’s Up city car also arrive, with the new Beetle and Opel Zafira facelift following. November brings the BMW M5, new Mercedes B-Class and M-Class, and the Lancia 300C. December rounds out the year with the Opel Astra GTC, Porsche 911 and Suzuki Swift.
- Opel Ampera: plug-in hybrid
- Nissan Leaf: all-electric hatchback
- VW Up: new city car
- BMW M5: next-generation performance saloon
Trends for buyers and dealers
Electric and hybrid models gain traction, with the Citroën C-Zero, Peugeot iOn, Mitsubishi i-MiEV, Opel Ampera and Nissan Leaf all entering the market. Supercars such as the Aston Martin One-77, Ferrari 458 Italia Spyder and Lamborghini Aventador provide halo models, while mainstream brands refresh their line-ups with facelifts and new engines. Dealers and buyers will see increased choice in every segment, from city cars to luxury SUVs.
The 2011 calendar shows manufacturers responding to demand for lower emissions, new body styles and improved efficiency, while still catering to enthusiasts and luxury buyers. For a look back at last year’s launches, seeKey New Car Launches in 2010: The Models and Timings.
