As we come to the end of one of the strangest years we’ve ever lived through, looking back almost feels like a bad thing to do. But in amongst all the terrible headlines and tragic news stories, as well as the uplifting stories that kept us all going, you probably missed that car companies were still trying to do their best to be normal. And so, they released their new makes and models this year, either to fulfil existing schedules or to try and get ahead of the new year where things will hopefully get back to normal.

Most of the big car companies focused on launching their expanded electric car ranges, with one or two of the sportier badges showing off a new model. Here are the top 10 cars released in 2020, beginning with the return of an underrated classic.

Ford Puma ST

It feels surprising that it’s taken so long for Ford to make a big push into the crossover SUV market. Maybe because they have dominated the small and medium family car market for so long with the Focus and Fiesta. This year saw the Ford Puma return to the market. Whereas before it was a slightly sporty coupe, it has grown into an SUV, available as a sporty traditional engine vehicle or in hybrid versions. 

It retains the sportier curves that distinguishes it from the more cookie cutter Fiesta and Focus. The big grill on the front makes it look like it wants to devour the road ahead. It’s one of the most fun crossover SUVs to drive and has plenty of practicality to match, with big boot space and comfortable motorway journeys. One to take a look at if you’re thinking of upgrading in 2020.

Jaguar E-Pace

Jaguar are determined to make an impact on the electric car market, and so the E-Pace was launched in 2020 to make a dent in the electric SUV market. You can go for a hybrid or PHEV version of their popular family model. The E in ‘E-pace’ doesn’t stand for electric, so this sudden burst into green driving is a clear response to the growing awareness of environmental impact and the need to have an option that reduces our carbon footprint. It’s one of the classier SUVs on the market, and the electric option means you can feel a bit better at driving such a beast of a vehicle.

Audi e-tron

The best thing you can say about the Audi e-tron is that it feels like a normal Audi. A few years ago, the idea of driving an electric car that was indistinguishable from a petrol or diesel engine was laughable. But Audi have really cracked it with the e-tron.

But it’s not just the smart engine that makes this car an excellent choice. The interior design is top quality, with a lot of thought put into seemingly every aspect. Add to that the different driving modes you can switch between for maximum efficiency, and you have a car that’s a real bold step into our electric future.

Audi A3 Sportback 40 TFSIe

While not quite as impressive as the e-tron, the Audi A3 Sportback PHEV model launched in 2020 is an affordable alternative that retains that green technology appeal. It looks just like the regular A3, and you won’t notice much difference in the drive apart from the lack of engine noise at low speeds.

With a battery model ranging from 25-35 miles, it’s perfect for city driving or shot trips from town to town. Another reason why you should start thinking about going green.

Mercedes-Benz EQC

The advert with The Weeknd is not the only impressive thing about this car. Another electric, this car manages to combine the traditional Mercedes-Benz look with a hint at the futuristic electric changes beneath the bonnet. The EQC is the SUV model in Mercedes’s new range, it stands shoulder to shoulder with the recent e-tron and I-pace updates that make it a stylish option for those who want a big car with a small footprint.

Volkswagen Golf R

The fastest ever Golf is how this model has been described, the Volkswagen Golf R is the 8^th version of this classic car beloved by petrolheads and boy racers. Finally they have a car with the power to go with their own hype.

Away from the top speed of 168mph, you have four different driving modes to tailor your ride to what you want from the car that day. There will be times when you want to put your foot down and zoom along motorways (Sport), or want to cruise along with your family or loved ones in a more comfortable setting (Comfort). So you can have both beauty and the beast.

Volvo XC40 Recharge 75

Yes, it’s another electric version of a successful SUV. The Volvo XC40 Recharge 75 puts a plug-in hybrid engine inside one of the most beautiful SUVs you can buy. It will turn a lot of heads, both when you’re driving and also when you pull in to the charge station to give it some more juice.

Nissan GT-R Nismo

Some fun options to end the year, if you have a few hundred thousand to spare on a new car. The Nissan GT-R Nismo had an update in 2020, making it even faster and better than ever. For a 2+2 coupe with four-wheel drive, it can compete with any supercar on the market.

Porsche 911 GT3 RS MR

The Porsche 911 is one of the dreams of many petrolheads. And this new model released in 2020 is going to get many pulses racing. Why? The ‘MR’. It stands for Manthey Racing, one of the most successful Porsche racing teams of all time. This has everything you want from the Porsche 911, and then gives it tweaks and upgrades that make it a racecar you can drive. One to book in on a track day as soon as you get it.

McLaren Elva

Available at a snip at $1.7 million, the McLaren Elva is the ‘lightest’ McLaren yet. But if you are after owning one of the most coveted supercars on the market, act fast – only 399 have been made!