As the car industry meets the challenges of new environmental standards, there is a noticeable trend towards electric and hybrid drive systems. Most of these new systems are linked to environmentally cleaner petrol engines.

Diesel engine use is on the decline, despite huge advances in efficiency and cleanliness. The damage done by the Volkswagen Group dieselgate scandal lingers on and has affected car choices across Europe.

The announcement during 2018 from Toyota that petrol and hybrid engines only will be available in its car range signals the future for many Irish car drivers. While the new reality may be that diesel is on the decline, it still offers more value for longer distance drivers and rural commuters in terms of economy. That aspect of diesel car use is often forgotten in the national discussion on car use and CO2 emission control.

Here we take a look at the new cars coming for 2019 and you’ll notice the range of hybrid drives on the way. Rural drivers need more diesel hybrid drive options and these can signal a better future.

Alfa Romeo

Alfa Romeo launched its first SUV, the Stelvio, on the Irish market and more recently the Italian brand has Stelvio Quadrifoglio version of the SUV which is powered by a 2.9-litre V6 Bi-Turbo petrol engine and combined with the Q4 all-wheel-drive system. The Stelvio Quadrifoglio is claimed to be the fastest SUV on the market. At a more practical level, the Guilietta range has been upgraded with the arrival of a new Special B-Tech range, which brings some specification extras to the range. Alfa Romeo is offering some savings deals for customers placing new orders from 15 November until 31 December 2018 (cars must be registered by 31 January 2019).

Audi

Audi has announced that the new generation Q3 mid-range SUV is on the way, with new styling, more interior and greater comfort.

Audi will have a host of new models for 2019, including the new all-electric e-tron, the new A1, the refreshed A6, a new Q3 and a new bigger SUV in the shape of a revamped Q8.

The second generation compact A1 retains its overall look from the past in a design style that’s very evolutionary. The car retains its wide track and short overhangs on the new Audi A1 Sportback.

Audi claims the new model is longer and has an extra 65 litres of luggage space at 1,090 litres with the rear seats folded down. All new-generation A1s come with a fully integrated digital 10.25in display and a multifunction steering wheel.

Audi’s new A6 integrates many of the features of the latest A8 model. It has advanced mild hybrid drive systems and a more comfortable suspension as well as a new all-digital MMI touch response interface. This hybrid system claims to reduce fuel consumption by up to 0.7 litres/100km. Entry prices start from €51,650

Audi’s new e-tron, an electric SUV designed with efficiency in mind, will be available to order from January 2019, with the first deliveries scheduled to take place in the spring of 2019. Prices for the e-tron, including a four-year service plan, start from an on-the-road cost of €101,750 and it comes with a range of 400km on a full charge.

Audi’s second generation Q3 mid-range SUV model has received a significant upgrade, with new styling and claims of improved versatility and space for enhanced comfort. It features a fully digital operating and display system, an extensive range of infotainment solutions and driver assistance technology. It will be available across Ireland from late 2018.

Audi claims its new top-end Q8 SUV combines the elegance of a four-door luxury coupé with the convenient versatility of a large SUV. The car is powered by a fuel-efficient 3.0 TDI with a mild hybrid system. It comes with the permanent Quattro all-wheel-drive and a ground clearance of up to 254mm. Prices are not yet available.

BMW

BMW’s fourth-generation X5 will be available for 2019 along with a new 3 Series and a larger 8 Series later in the year. The new BMW X5 claims an even greater blend of premium luxury performance and comfort with entry prices significantly higher, starting from €94,325.

There is a choice of TwinPower and M Performance petrol and diesel engines, which can be matched to a new eight-speed Steptronic gearbox and the latest version of xDrive. The new entry level BMW X5 xDrive30d is powered by a straight-six 265bhp diesel engine and is slightly longer, wider and higher than its predecessor.

BMW will have a new 3 Series for early 2019 with engine improvements and hybrid drive options.

The seventh generation of the BMW 3 Series gets a new design for 2019. The car comes with new control and technology features. It’s longer and lighter than before and entry prices will start from €43,770. BMW Group Ireland has announced a price reduction across its BMW and Mini brands. The average price reduction is 5.1%, according to the company.

Citroën

Citroën will launch its flagship SUV, the new C5 Aircross, in January to build on the success of the C3 Aircross during 2018. The new-generation SUV features an all-new personalisation offering with 30 exterior colour combinations.

Citroen has a new C5 Aircross SUV for 2019 with claims of impressive comfort levels.

The car is claimed to be the most comfortable model in its segment, thanks to the Citroën Advanced Comfort programme, Progressive Hydraulic Cushions suspension and Advanced Comfort seats. It also claims unrivalled modularity with three individual sliding, folding and reclining rear seats, and best-in-class boot space.

There is also a new Berlingo van on the way, along with a passenger version that will be attractively priced. The Berlingo will be available with the latest-generation engines including the proven BlueHDi 1.5 diesel engine and the PureTech 1.2 petrol engine as well as a new EAT8 automatic gearbox option.

Dacia

Dacia’s Duster has given more than 10,000 Irish drivers access to a value SUV. The new second-generation Dacia Duster is here for 2019, with claims of more refinement across every aspect of Ireland’s best-priced SUV. Prices start from below €18,000.

The dashboard has been revised, with a higher-positioned, driver-focused MediaNav multimedia touchscreen display. The seats have been completely redesigned. Dacia claims that cabin noise has been halved and thicker glass is used for the front windows to help with noise reduction. There is a new electric power steering system for easier parking.

Dacia has refreshed the Sandero and Logan models with engine improvements to meet the new WLTP (Worldwide harmonised Light duty vehicle Test Procedure) standards.

DS

The PSA Group DS brand has lots of news for 2019, including the introduction of a new DS7 Crossback model, which claims to be a rival for the BMW X3 and Audi Q5. A new smaller D3 Crossback SUV is also due in 2019.

Fiat

Fiat has upgraded its 500X which is an SUV version of the Fiat 500.

Fiat has refreshed its 500X crossover with new LED daytime running lights, LED headlights and rear lights. There is a choice of two body styles, Urban look and Cross look.

On the inside, the dash has been updated with more technology. This new-generation 500X is available with new three- and four-cylinder turbo petrol engines. The new Fiat 500X comes with traffic sign recognition; intelligent speed assist and lane assist driving assist systems as standard on all versions. Entry prices start from €21,795.

Ford

Ford has a lot of new car offers for 2019, including Active or SUV crossover versions of the Fiesta and Focus models. The new Fiesta Active is smaller than the EcoSport and based on the latest Fiesta design.

The new Fiesta Active has additional cladding, unique alloy wheels, and roof rails. Starting prices are from €21,900.

Ford has an Active version of the Fiesta for 2019, which is a compact SUV based on the new Fiesta model.

The new Focus has barely hit the ground for 2018 when a crossover version is on the way. This new Focus also claims to provide more space inside for passengers and luggage. The wheelbase has been lengthened to allow what Ford claims is class-leading knee clearance for rear seat passengers. It is claimed to have rough-road capability with the use of a new Slippery and Trail Selectable Drive Modes. Engine options include Ford’s 1.0-litre EcoBoost and 1.5-litre EcoBoost petrol engines while the 1.5-litre EcoBlue and 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engines will also be available combined with six-speed manual or eight-speed automatic transmissions.

Ford will offer a hybrid drive for the estate version of the Mondeo in spring 2019.

Ford will be extending the Mondeo Hybrid option to a new estate car in 2019. The Mondeo Hybrid four-door with 2.0-litre petrol engine, electric motor and generator, and 1.4 kWh battery will be joined by the Mondeo Hybrid Wagon in March 2019.

Ford has some updates to the Ford S-MAX and Galaxy models, which are now available with Ford’s 2.0-litre EcoBlue diesel engine and with a new eight-speed automatic transmission controlled using a stylish and ergonomic Rotary Gear Shift Dial.

Honda

Honda will be offering its first ever hybrid CR-V version in 2019 from February with prices starting from €38,000. There will be a seven-seat option for the first time in a CR-V.

Honda's new CR-V will be available with a hybrid drive for the first time in 2019.

The CR-V hybrid will be powered by a 2.0 litre petrol engine combined with a powerful electric motor and lithium ion battery pack. This latest CR-V comes with a longer wheelbase with claims of significantly more spacious interior without increasing exterior length.

Honda plans to launch a new fully electric car by the end of 2019, called the Urban EV, another first for the Japanese brand in Ireland.

Hyundai

Hyundai’s Tucson continues as a strong seller and the smaller Kona was the big success this year. Hyundai will be offering an all electric version of the Kona for 2019 with entry prices from €35,995 and a range claimed of 480km.

The Hyundai Tucson has been upgraded for 2019 with new offers, while the new Santa Fe launched in 2018 will lead the Hyundai SUV offers.

Jaguar

Jaguar has taken electric drive to a new level with the I-Pace SUV that combines luxury drive with electric car technology. The I-Pace is as impressive as any other SUV in the Jaguar range and has been the standout model for 2018 and into 2019.

Jeep

Jeep in Ireland has upgraded the specification details for its Renegade model range, which will feature refreshed and restyled interiors as well as enhanced specification. The new-generation Renegade will be available with three- and four-cylinder petrol engines, which Jeep, now part of the Fiat Group, claims will deliver increased efficiency and performance. The Wrangler models also get an update, while retaining all the authentic styling cues of the iconic 4x4. Jeep has also upgraded the Compass and Cherokee models for 2019.

The new Wrangler for 2019 is available with two new engines, a 2.2-litre MultiJet II turbo-diesel or a 2.0-litre turbo petrol engine. All Wrangler engine options come with the new eight-speed automatic transmission and feature Stop-Start (ESS) technology.

Kia

Kia launched the new Ceed this autumn and the new Sportage is on the roads for 191 registrations. The next new models in the Kia range include the new Proceed, which will be a five-door car and available with a 1.4 litre petrol engine.

Kia’s new all-electric e-Niro will be available later in 2019, while the new generation Kia Soul is expected to be in Ireland before the end of 2019.

The new Ceed has a fresh design with a host of new features and a starting price of €22,695. The upgraded Kia Sportage comes with updates both inside and out along with new safety and infotainment technologies. For 2019, the Sportage look has been modernised with a redesigned front bumper with new fog lamp housings, and new gloss black or bright chrome inserts leading from the fog lamps into the lower air intake. Entry prices start at €29,495. Kia retains its seven-year, 100,000km warranty on the new Ceed models.

Land Rover

Land Rover has a new Range Rover Evoque for 2019. Petrol and diesel versions are available along with a mild hybrid drive to help with fuel economy. A plug-in hybrid version will be available later in 2019.

There is still no news of a Land Rover Defender replacement; expect an iconic design in an off-road vehicle that retains the legendary 4x4 ability.

Land Rover has a new Range Rover Evoque for 2019, with fresh styling and improved comfort.

Lexus

Lexus will have the new UX200h crossover SUV early in 2019, with prices starting from €39,500 to compete with the likes of the BMW X1, Jaguar E-Pace and the Volvo XC40. Lexus will be adding the ES 300h to the range in early January, while sports car fans of the luxury Japanese brand will have a new smaller RC300h available in early 2019. All Lexus cars and SUVs are hybrid drives.

Mazda

Mazda will have a new seventh-generation Mazda3 on the Irish market from April 2019. It will be available in both four- and five-door hatchback versions. The engine lineup includes a 2.0 litre SKYACTIV-X petrol engine and a new 1.8 litre SKYACTIV-D diesel engine. The new engines are claimed to be more efficient and have lower CO2 levels.

Mazda just announced a new version of the Mazad3 for 2019.

The latest generation of the new Mazda6 Saloon and Tourer also makes the lineup for 2019. Starting prices are from €31,945 and fuel economy figures are as low as 223km/litre (4.4l/100km).

The CX-5 gets a minor facelift for 2019 and higher specification options while the smaller CX-3 version has already been given the benefit of the new cleaner 1.8 litre diesel engine. The MX-5 sports car will be available in a new limited edition version for its 30th anniversary.

Mercedes Benz

Mercedes-Benz launched the A-Class earlier this year and will have a saloon version of the car for 2019. There will be upgrades to the B-Class also in early 2019, while the popular C-Class gets a significant facelift across the entire range with starting prices now from €37,710.

Mercedes-Benz has upgraded the popular C-class for 2019 with minor styling changes.

Mercedes-Benz will have an upgraded GLE for early 2019 which will then be available as a seven-seat SUV. There will be a new V-Class based on the Vito van along with the expected arrival of a new all-electric EQC, a new crossover, before the end of 2019.

Mini

The big news from Mini for 2019 will be the arrival of an all-electric version. The concept has been on trial for a number of years and BMW, which owns Mini, has opted for a system similar to that used in the BMW i3 electric car, with a range-extending petrol engine.

Mitsubishi

Mitsubishi landed its new Outlander PHEV, a plug-in hybrid, just in time for the 191 market. This SUV is 20% cheaper than before, with entry prices starting from €39,900. It is available in three versions – Intense, Instyle and S-Edition. Mitsubishi claims it has a 45km range and the SUV retains an A1 taxation class. Diesel versions of the Outlander will continue to be available.

Mitsubishi will have a new version of the ASX later in the year and the popular Mitsubishi L200 pickup has been totally revised and will be available later in the year.

Nissan

Nissan will have a new engine option for the popular Qashqai with a new 1.3-litre petrol engine replacing the existing 1.2 litre and 1.6 litre petrol engine options. The new engine will be available in 140bhp and 160bhp outputs and claims to deliver reduced fuel consumption and lower CO2 emissions. The new engine has been developed in collaboration with Daimler. The engine is available linked to a new seven-speed Dual Clutch Transmission (DCT).

Nissan will also be offering a larger battery option for the best-selling electric car, the Leaf, to give an extended driving range. The Juke SUV gets a makeover during the year to enhance its already funky looks.

Opel

Opel will have a host of new cars for 2019, starting with the launch of a new-generation Corsa, which is expected to be available in an all-electric version by the end of 2019. Opel plans to have a new all-electric new five-seat Corsa and the Grandland X PHEV by late 2019.

Opel’s Grandland-X will be available in a plug-in hybrid version by the end of 2019.

Opel will launch a successor to the Vivaro as LCV and passenger car variants. The new fifth-generation Opel Combo goes on sale in 2019, including the passenger version, significantly renewing the Opel light van range.

Peugeot

Peugeot will start the year with the launch of the new 508. This new model has a sleeker design and features the latest-generation Peugeot i-Cockpit interior. Peugeot claims the new car delivers a quantum leap in quality.

Peugeot’s new 508 car comes with style, space and efficiency improvements and it will be available in Ireland in 2019.

Peugeot claims that the new car is 70kg lighter than the outgoing generation. The two new petrol options will be available along with four diesel engine choices. A plug-in hybrid petrol version will be available towards the end of 2019. A new eight-speed EAT8 automatic transmission, with electric gear lever and one touch control, is an option.

Dealer demonstrator models are already in Ireland, ahead of a late spring launch. The new 508 will retail from €32,400, for the Active 1.5 BlueHDi 130bhp model. A five year extended warranty will come as standard.

The new Peugeot Partner van is due in early 2019 and so too is the new Rifter, a cost-effective smaller MPV.

Renault

Renault has some engine changes for the Kadjar SUV and the Scenic MPV for 2019. There will be a new 1.3 litre petrol engine option as well as an upgraded 1.5 litre turbo-diesel engine for the Kadjar and a 1.7 litre turbo-diesel engine for the Scenic. The Renault Koleos, the larger SUV in the range, gets some updates for 2019 and expect to see Clio and Captur models before the end of 2019.

Seat

The new SEAT Terraco SUV is now the biggest in the range and will be available in Ireland in February 2019.

Seat will have a new Terraco SUV in February, giving it a third SUV in the Spanish brand range, alongside the Arona and Ateca. The Terraco, which will be manufactured by Volkswagen in Germany, will be available in five- and seven-seat versions. The new Terraco will be available with two petrol engine and two diesel engine options. The most powerful 2.0 litre, 190bhp version will be offered mated to a seven-speed DSG gearbox and 4Drive total traction system.

SEAT will have new Cupra sports versions of some cars in 2019, starting with a sports version of the Ateca SUV.

Skoda

Skoda has upgrade offers for the Kodiaq SUV in shape of an RS with sporty styling. The Rapid range bows out to be replaced by the new Scala model later in the year. For 2019, Skoda Ireland is providing customers with SIM cards to enable them to access the online connect solutions offered by the brand. Skoda Connect enables drivers to be always online and enjoy greater freedom and safety through a range of assistance systems.

SsangYong

SsangYong will have a revised version of the Korando with reports of an electric version on the way.

Subaru

Subaru revamped Outback Lineartronic will be the new model in the range for 191, with entry prices starting at €46,995. It claims a significant upgrade in technology and trim.

This new car comes with a new front view camera, which has been positioned below the marque’s six-star badge to monitor a 180° area in front of the car that would normally be in the driver’s blind spot.

Suzuki

Suzuki is replacing its small SUV, the Jimny, with a new model for 2019. The new model has a more robust look and retains the ladder chassis and part-time four-wheel-drive system with a low-range transfer gearbox. There is a new three-link rigid axle suspension for greater comfort.

The new Jimny will get the benefits of the latest Suzuki Power Boost petrol engines. On the inside, the dash layout is refreshed with a clear off-road feel to it.

Suzuki has refreshed the design of the Jimny 4x4 for 2019, with an enhanced look and the benefit of new engines.

For 2019, Suzuki has upgraded its Vitara model. The new Vitara will be available with both 1.0-litre and 1.4-litre Boosterjet turbo-charged petrol engines as introduced in the S-Cross model range last year to replace the 1.6-litre petrol engine.

Tesla

Tesla is making an impact and the all-electric American car company expects to have the much-awaited and more affordable Model 3 available in right hand drive for the Irish and UK markets by the end of 2019.

Toyota

There are lots of new cars at Toyota for 2019, headed by the re-introduction of the Camry to the Irish market in April 2019, after a 14-year absence. The Camry is rated as the world’s best-selling saloon car and the new-generation models will be available as self-charging hybrid with a newly developed 2.5-litre hybrid electric system.

Toyota will re-introduce the Camry to the Irish market in 2019 with a new 2.5 litre hybrid drive system.

Toyota has confirmed that the new Corolla Hybrid will hit Irish shores in February 2019, as the fourth model in the 2019 Toyota self-charging hybrid range. This first ever Corolla hybrid will be powered by a 1.8 hybrid petrol engine. It will also be available with a 1.6 petrol engine.

The new 2019 Corolla will be available as a hatchback, estate and this saloon model with a new hybrid drive option.

The new generation RAV4 hybrid version with a bigger 2.5 litre petrol engine will hit the market in early 2019, with prices starting from €35,900. Toyota now has a lineup of eight hybrid models with no diesel engine versions in the range apart from the Land Cruiser and Hilux models.

Volkswagen

Volkswagen’s new small SUV, the T-Cross, is expected to be available in Ireland in April 2019. The new T-Cross will be available with a choice of four turbocharged engines, three petrol versions and one diesel. Pricing has yet to be confirmed.

Volkswagen will be launching the new T-Cross small SUV during 2019; no prices are announced as yet.

Later in the year expect to see a face-lifted version of the popular Passat with improvements in the area of digital infotainment systems and minor styling changes.

We will get a glimpse into the Volkswagen future as Volkswagen’s first fully-electric SUV, the ID. CROZZ will be launched on the market towards the end of 2019.

Volvo

Volvo’s new S60 will arrive in April 2019. It is the first Volvo car to be sold without a diesel engine offer. In 2017, Volvo was the first global car maker to announce its strategy that from 2019 all new models will be electrified.

Electrified versions of the new S60 called Polestar Engineered developed by Volvo Cars’ electric performance arm, Polestar will be available. Polestar Engineered is available exclusively on the T8 Twin Engine plug-in hybrid and is a complete offer that upgrades the car wheels, brakes, suspension and engine control unit, boosting the S60 T8 combined output to 415hp.

Volvo will have the new V60 Cross Country on the Irish market later in 2019.

Volvo’s first three-cylinder petrol engine will be available in the XC40 SUV during 2019. Expect to see some facelift changes to the large Volvo XC90 during 2019 to enhance its performance and plug-in hybrid engine systems will be available for the S60, V60 and V90 during 2019. A new Cross Country version of the V60 will also be launched in 2019.