The 2020 Geneva motor show is fast approaching, so with a vast array of new and heavily updated models on the cusp of being shown to the public, we’ve listed the most exciting new models to look out for at Europe’s most influential motor show.
Potentially some of the most exciting new cars this year will be hot hatchbacks, as the entire Volkswagen Group readies a suite of new models including the next Golf GTI and Golf R, Skoda’s Octavia vRS, a next-generation Cupra Leon R and Audi S3 – some of which will be shown off at Geneva. Honda’s (subtly) updated Civic Type R will also be on show, so too Toyota’s exciting new GR Yaris.
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It’s not all hot hatchbacks though, with Porsche due to reveal the new 911 Turbo, and from Italy the new Ferrari Roma will be on show to the public for the first time. However, Lamborghini will be conspicuously absent in 2020.
For the full rundown of what to expect at the show, keep scrolling below, and click here for our look back at the 2019 show...
Geneva motor show 2020: A to Z of manufacturers
Audi
Audi is about to reveal an all-new version of its second-highest-selling model at this year’s Geneva show, the A3. So far, it follows its fellow platform mates, the Golf Mk8 and Skoda Octavia, in terms of its revitalisation. As you might suspect, the overall design and packaging will be more of an evolution than revolution compared to the current model, but expect big changes inside as well as more extensive mild and plug-in hybrid versions.
Ferrari
Ferrari will concentrate on bringing its bumper year of new models to market, having still yet to roll out the F8, F8 Spider, SF90 Stradale and Roma to global markets. What Geneva will have on display for the first time is the Roma, a new entry-level 2+2 front-engined V8 sports car that takes Ferrari’s new design language inside and out to a new level of modernity and sleekness
Honda
Honda’s (very) subtle update to our favourite hot hatch will be shown in Europe for the first time, with a mildly updated suspension aimed at expanding the Type R’s already wide remit between comfort and track modes. Updated brakes, some fresh interior details including a suave Alcantara steering wheel and tiny exterior updates complete the package, which will hopefully preserve the Type R’s spot right at the top of our hot hatch appreciation list.
Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has a big 2020 coming up, but Geneva is unlikely to be the place we’ll see the year’s big reveals that centre around the all-new S-class. Instead, Geneva will show off the new second-generation GLA that has until now only been revealed online. The mid-sized Mercedes E-class has been in final calibration testing too, so we suspect it also might make an appearance to give the new S-class some room to breathe later in the year.
Porsche
This year will be an exciting one for Porsche as it expands the 911 range with the new flagship Turbo. We’ve already been in the passenger seat and can confirm its rabid turn of speed and new wide-body style is classic 911 Turbo, but it might now be able to challenge traditional GTs such as the Bentley Continental GT and Aston Martin DB11 too. We’ll also see the exciting new 4-litre 718 Cayman and Boxster GTS – a new mid-level model combining GTS aesthetics with the GT4 powertrain.
SEAT
The all-new Leon will appear independently before Geneva, but will headline SEAT’s stand with its fresh design, interior and tech. Like the Audi A3 above, it’s based on a heavily updated version of the underpinnings of the previous model – this is no bad thing of course. Cupra models will arrive soon after, in both plug-in hybrid and full-fat petrol form, and both five-door hatch and estate body styles.
Skoda
The new Skoda Octavia has already broken cover, so the big reveal for Geneva 2020 will likely be the first of its hot vRS variants. Like before, it’ll likely comprise various high-performance variants of Volkswagen petrol and plug-in hybrid powertrains, combined with subtly aggressive styling and lots of space.
Toyota
Toyota is a brand that has been doing more and more to pique our interest after years of dull products, and there is perhaps no more exciting statement than the new GR Yaris. Although we’ve already examined in detail its rather spectacular specification, it still doesn’t take away from what will surely be one of 2020’s most exciting new cars.
Volkswagen
The new Golf is now ready to gain the three little letters on the tailgate that (usually) signal a Golf as being something rather more than just a dull, if polished hatchback. The GTI has yet to be confirmed for the Geneva motor show, but the timing is ripe for it to kick off the Golf’s performance variants. An R and plug-in hybrid GTE will follow later in 2020, but for now we’re just looking forward to seeing the tartan.
