The Most Exciting New Cars Coming in 2026: What to Expect From Next Year’s Launches

The automotive world is already gearing up for a huge year in 2026, with manufacturers preparing to release some of the most advanced, efficient and high-tech models we’ve seen so far. Whether you’re interested in fully electric innovation, performance upgrades, or next-gen SUVs, 2026 is shaping up to be a standout year for new vehicles.

For anyone considering their next lease, here’s an early look at the new cars arriving in 2026 — and why they matter.

BMW Neue Klasse 3 Series (All-Electric)

BMW’s long-awaited Neue Klasse platform finally comes to life with the first fully electric 3 Series replacement. Expect:

• over 350–400 miles of range

• ultra-fast charging

• BMW’s most advanced cabin and user interface yet

• upgraded driving dynamics to compete with Tesla Model 3 and Polestar 4

This model is expected to become BMW’s global EV flagship — and easily one of the most in-demand business lease cars of 2026.

Audi A6 e-tron / A7 e-tron (Final Production Version)

Audi’s sleek e-tron concept finally goes on sale in 2026 as the production A6 e-tron and fastback A7 e-tron. Highlights include:

• Dual-motor quattro setups

• 350–435 miles of electric range

• A completely redesigned digital cabin

• Next-level lighting technology (Audi’s trademark)

This is expected to be one of the strongest premium EV contenders of the year.

Mercedes EQC SUV – All-New Generation

Mercedes is replacing the current EQC with a brand-new, ground-up EV SUV offering:

• up to 410 miles range

• a more efficient electric motor system

• the latest MBUX interface

• smoother, more refined long-distance comfort

Mercedes is putting huge investment into making this the class leader for families, executives and company cars.

Volkswagen ID.2 GTI – Affordable Electric Hot Hatch

One of the most anticipated budget EVs, the ID.2 GTI brings hot-hatch excitement into the electric era.

Expected specs:

• Around 220hp

• Classic GTI styling cues

• Sub-£30,000 price point (making leases very attractive)

• Lightweight feel and sharp handling

This will be the car many people call the “Electric Polo GTI”.

Tesla Model 2 / Tesla Compact (Rumoured)

Not officially confirmed, but heavily leaked and expected for 2026.

The Tesla “Model 2” is rumoured to offer:

• £22,000–£25,000 starting price

• compact-hatchback design

• 250–300-mile range

• Tesla’s next-gen self-driving hardware

If Tesla launches it, this will disrupt the budget EV market overnight.

Range Rover Evoque – Full Model Refresh

The Evoque is getting an all-new model for 2026, bringing:

• a new hybrid range

• updated luxury interiors

• a more modern design

• improved refinement for motorway driving

This will be one of the hottest premium SUV leases of the year.

Hyundai Ioniq 7 – Large Family SUV

Hyundai continues to push boundaries with the futuristic Ioniq 7, a large three-row EV SUV.

Expected features:

• 300–350 miles of range

• lounge-style interior

• Rapid 350kW charging

• Ultra-modern styling

Think of it as the “electric Santa Fe” — but far sleeker.

MG EXE181 – Electric Performance Flagship

MG is stepping into super-EV territory in 2026 with the EXE181, inspired by its 1950s record-setters.

Expect:

• hyper-streamlined shape

• 0–60mph in approx. 2 seconds

• advanced battery cooling tech

This won’t be a mass-market model, but it shows how serious MG is about its performance future.

Ford Puma EV – Full Release Version

Ford’s popular Puma enters the EV market properly in 2026.

Expected features include:

• 250–300 miles range

• similar size/shape to the current Puma

• Ford’s SYNC 4 infotainment

• warm hatch-style handling

This will rival the MG4, ID.3 and Peugeot e-2008.

Toyota bZ3X – Next-Gen Electric SUV

Toyota has been slower to roll out EVs, but 2026 is a big turning point. The bZ3X will be:

• family-focused

• reliable

• efficient

• offering around 320 miles of range

Toyota’s reputation alone will make this one of the safest long-term EV leasing choices.

What This Means for Drivers Considering a Lease

2026 will be a standout year because:

• EV technology becomes cheaper and more accessible

• Premium brands like BMW, Audi and Mercedes release major new models

• Affordable electric hatches finally arrive

• Larger SUVs get electric options

• High-performance EVs start to diversify beyond Tesla

If you’re planning a lease in late 2025 or early 2026, these models give you more choice than ever — especially for business users and salary sacrifice drivers.