Fiat hits back with its Seicento (600), which replaces the Cinquecento. It is marginally bigger, roomier, apparently nicer to drive, and more solid UK sales begin in June. Volkswagen also ventures into sub-Polo territory in 1998, when it launches its Lupo baby car. It is based on the existing Seat Arosa but, given that VW owns Seat, moral copyright for the concept belongs to Volkswagen. The Lupo looks more interesting than the rather dull little Seat, but should drive in a similar (and very satisfactory) way Low running costs should be one of its strengths. The Lupo is due here in September.A month later, a much more famous VW image reappears in Britain: the Beetle. Aimed primarily at the US market, where VW has been having a torrid time, the new Beetle looks like a 1990s iteration of the real thing. Daewoo, fast making a reputation for selling unimaginative cars in an imaginative way, launches its most interesting model - a Fiat Cinquecento rival - in mid-1998. The German company has supplied engines and other main mechanicals and, early next year, is likely to be confirmed as new owner of the Flying Lady, adding it to its growing British motoring portfolio, which now includes Rover and Land Rover.The new Rolls gets BMW V12 power. It will be quieter, faster, more frugal and much lighter on its feet than the old Silver Dawn/Silver Spur, and probably even pricier Sales start in late 1998. Order one, and you should not expect much change from pounds 125,000 Also in late 1998, the Bentley versions come along They will be powered by turbocharged BMW V8 motors. Unlike current Bentleys, the new models will look noticeably different from their Rolls cousins.From the sublime to the sub-mini: 1998 will see a string of interesting new tots. Coupe and compact hatchback versions come in a year or so.BMW also has a big hand in the most important British newcomer of 1998 - the new-generation Rolls-Royce. But photos of the new car make clear that it is from the same old mould. Never mind: the new car, as with most BMWs, is bound to drive brilliantly It is launched at the Geneva Show in March UK sales start in September, with 318i and 328i derivatives A 323i follows soon after. Top- level ride and handling are said to be priorities as Ford, once known for sensible-shoes motoring, tries flair.BMWs have never been short of driving flair, although the styling is often unimaginative. The new 3-series, successor to the Yuppies' favourite, looks like a slightly upscaled version of the current 5-series.