These will be the most exciting new car models in 2024
Among other things, the smallest Alfa and the largest Dacia are coming, the Renault 5 is being revived, the Swift is getting a successor, and the Mercedes G-Class is being purified with electric power. We've gathered the year's 24 most important new releases, from cheap small cars to outrageously expensive super sports cars.
1. ALFA ROMEO MILANO (Source: Carscoops)
Since the retirement of the MiTo in 2019, Alfa Romeo has been without a subcompact car, but that is about to change. In April, the world premiere of the Milano, a small SUV, will take place, marking the brand's first purely electric vehicle. Like the Jeep Avenger, it will be built on Stellantis' e-CMP platform, and the two models will share the production site in Tychy, Poland. The Alfa is expected to have the same 54 kWh battery as the Jeep, which should offer around 400 km of range, though it is anticipated that its electric motor might be more potent.
Later, an all-wheel-drive version will be introduced, featuring a second electric motor at the rear axle a first for the e-CMP based models. Unlike the Avenger, the Milano's all-wheel drive is designed to enhance performance and drivability rather than off-road capability. The leaked images show the Milano being available with purely electric and mild-hybrid powertrains by summer 2024. Approximately 4.1 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, this newcomer will compete with the Volvo EX30 and the Smart #1 in the small premium electric SUV market. Alfa expects this new model to account for 40% of its global sales.
2. AUDI A6/Q6 E-TRON (Source: AUDI AG)
After years of development, Audi has been sparse on new presentations, but in 2024, the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer plans to unveil 12 new models. Among them, the most important will be the electric A6/Q6 family arriving in the summer, based on the PPE platform developed jointly with Porsche (the same platform will be used for the new Macan). Compared to the Q4 e-tron's MEB, the new platform allows for faster 270 kW charging and offers around 700 km of range thanks to a 100 kWh battery and 800-volt architecture. The A6 will have different versions, including a five-door coupe (Sportback), a wagon (Avant), an all-terrain wagon (Allroad), and a sports wagon (RS6). There will also be a standard SUV version and a coupe-like SUV (Sportback) for the Q6.
Each model will feature a similar interior, potentially with up to three screens: an integrated curved dashboard touch screen, an HUD employing augmented reality, and optionally for the front passenger, a dedicated monitor. The base models will be rear-wheel driven, offering 272 horsepower, while the other versions will have all-wheel drive with two motors. Quattro models might have between 408, 517, or 626 horsepower, with the latter expected to be the performance of the RS models. Following the PPE platform and also arriving in 2024 will be the successors to the A4 and A6 with internal combustion engines, which will come to market as A5 and A7 since the sedan body style will no longer be offered. They will only be available as five-door coupes (Sportback) or wagons (Avant).
More Audi novelties for 2024 include facelifts for the A3, E-tron GT, Q4 e-tron, Q7/Q8.
3. BMW M5/M5 TOURING (Source: BMW)
For Christmas, BMW offered a sneak peek of the 2025 model year M5 Touring in a festive mood with images and a video. In contrast to the standard black-and-white, the super wagon is decorated with a festive red-gold camouflage featuring tiny "M" logos, revealing the car's shapes, including the horizontal kidney grilles and the air inlets on the front bumper. It wasn't possible to conceal the quad exhaust or capture the arching roof spoiler that flares out at the sides.
As the video approaches its end, the message "The Ultimate, Electrified M Power" appears, confirming that the new M5 will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain. While the main rival, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 also debuting next year as a sedan and wagon will come with a six-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, the plug-in hybrid M5 will retain its V8, supplemented with an electric motor, raising the system's power output to over 700 horsepower. In the large XM SUV, this powertrain currently offers 748 horsepower and 1000 Nm of torque, making it interesting to see whether BMW will restrain the M5 to maintain the flagship's power superiority.
Additional BMW novelties for 2024: 1-Series facelift, 3-Series facelift, 4-Series facelift, new X2 and X3.
4. BYD SEAL U (Source: BYD)
The Chinese automaker, soon to construct a factory in Hungary, will expand its European range in the first quarter of 2024 with the Song Plus Championship Edition, already introduced in China, which will be sold under the name Seal U for simplicity. Although the Seal U has the same design and platform as the Seal sedan, its interior and technology differ. It will be available with a choice of two "Blade" lithium iron phosphate batteries (71.8 and 87 kWh) and a 221 horsepower electric motor. On particular markets, a more powerful, over 300 horsepower, plug-in hybrid version will also be available, offering nearly 100 km of electric range (it's not yet known if Hungary will be included in these markets). It is reassuring that the Seal U received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP in December.
Additional BYD novelties for 2024: Seagull, the affordable electric small car, and Tang, the seven-seater, 4.9-meter long electric SUV.
5. CITROËN Ë-C3 (Source: Citroën)
Citroën's new model targets those who want an affordable electric car: in Europe, the base price will be 23,300 euros, approximating 9 million forints. Additionally, in 2025, a smaller battery version offering a 200 km range will arrive, starting at 19,990 euros (approx 7.6 million forints). This boxy, tall subcompact was designed in France and will be manufactured in Stellantis' Slovakian plant in Trnava. With the driving position raised by 100 mm and the roof by 96 mm compared to the old C3, the body feels much more spacious despite only being 19 mm longer (401 mm) and 6 mm wider (1760 mm). All versions come standard with a suspension ensuring a comfortable ride, featuring progressive hydraulic cushioning.
The ë-C3's 113 horsepower electric motor can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 11 seconds, with a top speed of just 135 km/h. The 44 kWh LFP battery enables a WLTP range of 320 km. Later on, petrol variants will be available under the C3 name, though it is unlikely that diesel engines will return. Buyers can choose from two different infotainment systems, with the more expensive option including a 10.25-inch touchscreen tilted towards the driver in the center of the dashboard and smartphone mirroring. The more affordable version comes with only a dock to rely on the driver's phone for the vehicle's system. The ë-C3 is expected to hit dealerships in the second quarter of 2024, with just two trim levels available (You and Max).
6. CUPRA TERRAMAR (Source: Cupra)
Although introduced in 2022 during a grand event, the production of this compact SUV won't begin until 2024 and will be manufactured at Audi's Gyor plant in Hungary. At 4.5 meters long, the Terramar is a special model as the last from the Spain-based brand belonging to Seat to have internal combustion engines fitted, albeit in a hybridized form. Built on Audi Q3's technology, the SUV differentiates itself from its sibling with a sportier design and driving experience. The lineup will include a mild-hybrid but also plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the latter promising a nearly 100 km electric-only range.
7. DACIA BIGSTER (Source: Dacia)
The Duster III, unveiled in November 2023, did not need to grow significantly for its model change, as the nearly 30 centimeters longer (4.6 meters) Bigster arrives in the second half of 2024, offering more space for both passengers and cargo. The Bigster will still utilize the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-B platform. Though it will change little by production, the design language remains in line with the Duster's. Distinctive elements include Y-shaped headlights, squared and widened wheel arches, and rough, unpainted protective elements made from recycled plastic.
The engine lineup is likely to match that of the new Duster, meaning the entry-level could be the 100 horsepower, LPG-capable one-liter three-cylinder. For those desiring more power, two options will be available: a new 130 horsepower 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo with a 48-volt mild hybrid system or the already known 1.6-liter 140 horsepower self-charging hybrid regularly seen in the Jogger and other Renault models, being the sole four-cylinder, non-turbo, automatic option. However, only the 1.2-liter engine will be available with the now five-mode all-wheel drive, which comes with a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and a specially geared six-speed manual transmission.
8. FIAT PANDA (Source: Fiat)
It is confirmed that a Fiat will present a new small car on July 11, 2024, the brand's 125th anniversary, which rumors suggest will be the long-awaited new Panda. The Centroventi concept car introduced the fourth-generation model back in 2019, showcasing an electric powertrain with swappable batteries and a clever interior. It's likely only the electric powertrain and a flexible interior will remain, but the CMP platform will allow for cheaper, internal combustion engined versions as well. Reportedly, the new Panda will be significantly larger than its predecessors (expected to be about 4 meters long), but its design philosophy won't change much, meaning a focus not on luxury but on pragmatism and good value for money. If well-priced and with an appealing design, it could be a worthy challenger to the Dacia Sandero.
Additional Fiat novelties for 2024: 600e, Topolino.
Since the retirement of the MiTo in 2019, Alfa Romeo has been without a subcompact car, but that is about to change. In April, the world premiere of the Milano, a small SUV, will take place, marking the brand's first purely electric vehicle. Like the Jeep Avenger, it will be built on Stellantis' e-CMP platform, and the two models will share the production site in Tychy, Poland. The Alfa is expected to have the same 54 kWh battery as the Jeep, which should offer around 400 km of range, though it is anticipated that its electric motor might be more potent.
Later, an all-wheel-drive version will be introduced, featuring a second electric motor at the rear axle a first for the e-CMP based models. Unlike the Avenger, the Milano's all-wheel drive is designed to enhance performance and drivability rather than off-road capability. The leaked images show the Milano being available with purely electric and mild-hybrid powertrains by summer 2024. Approximately 4.1 meters long and 1.8 meters wide, this newcomer will compete with the Volvo EX30 and the Smart #1 in the small premium electric SUV market. Alfa expects this new model to account for 40% of its global sales.
2. AUDI A6/Q6 E-TRON (Source: AUDI AG)
After years of development, Audi has been sparse on new presentations, but in 2024, the Ingolstadt-based manufacturer plans to unveil 12 new models. Among them, the most important will be the electric A6/Q6 family arriving in the summer, based on the PPE platform developed jointly with Porsche (the same platform will be used for the new Macan). Compared to the Q4 e-tron's MEB, the new platform allows for faster 270 kW charging and offers around 700 km of range thanks to a 100 kWh battery and 800-volt architecture. The A6 will have different versions, including a five-door coupe (Sportback), a wagon (Avant), an all-terrain wagon (Allroad), and a sports wagon (RS6). There will also be a standard SUV version and a coupe-like SUV (Sportback) for the Q6.
Each model will feature a similar interior, potentially with up to three screens: an integrated curved dashboard touch screen, an HUD employing augmented reality, and optionally for the front passenger, a dedicated monitor. The base models will be rear-wheel driven, offering 272 horsepower, while the other versions will have all-wheel drive with two motors. Quattro models might have between 408, 517, or 626 horsepower, with the latter expected to be the performance of the RS models. Following the PPE platform and also arriving in 2024 will be the successors to the A4 and A6 with internal combustion engines, which will come to market as A5 and A7 since the sedan body style will no longer be offered. They will only be available as five-door coupes (Sportback) or wagons (Avant).
More Audi novelties for 2024 include facelifts for the A3, E-tron GT, Q4 e-tron, Q7/Q8.
3. BMW M5/M5 TOURING (Source: BMW)
For Christmas, BMW offered a sneak peek of the 2025 model year M5 Touring in a festive mood with images and a video. In contrast to the standard black-and-white, the super wagon is decorated with a festive red-gold camouflage featuring tiny "M" logos, revealing the car's shapes, including the horizontal kidney grilles and the air inlets on the front bumper. It wasn't possible to conceal the quad exhaust or capture the arching roof spoiler that flares out at the sides.
As the video approaches its end, the message "The Ultimate, Electrified M Power" appears, confirming that the new M5 will be equipped with a hybrid powertrain. While the main rival, the Mercedes-AMG E 63 also debuting next year as a sedan and wagon will come with a six-cylinder plug-in hybrid powertrain, the plug-in hybrid M5 will retain its V8, supplemented with an electric motor, raising the system's power output to over 700 horsepower. In the large XM SUV, this powertrain currently offers 748 horsepower and 1000 Nm of torque, making it interesting to see whether BMW will restrain the M5 to maintain the flagship's power superiority.
Additional BMW novelties for 2024: 1-Series facelift, 3-Series facelift, 4-Series facelift, new X2 and X3.
4. BYD SEAL U (Source: BYD)
The Chinese automaker, soon to construct a factory in Hungary, will expand its European range in the first quarter of 2024 with the Song Plus Championship Edition, already introduced in China, which will be sold under the name Seal U for simplicity. Although the Seal U has the same design and platform as the Seal sedan, its interior and technology differ. It will be available with a choice of two "Blade" lithium iron phosphate batteries (71.8 and 87 kWh) and a 221 horsepower electric motor. On particular markets, a more powerful, over 300 horsepower, plug-in hybrid version will also be available, offering nearly 100 km of electric range (it's not yet known if Hungary will be included in these markets). It is reassuring that the Seal U received a five-star rating from Euro NCAP in December.
Additional BYD novelties for 2024: Seagull, the affordable electric small car, and Tang, the seven-seater, 4.9-meter long electric SUV.
5. CITROËN Ë-C3 (Source: Citroën)
Citroën's new model targets those who want an affordable electric car: in Europe, the base price will be 23,300 euros, approximating 9 million forints. Additionally, in 2025, a smaller battery version offering a 200 km range will arrive, starting at 19,990 euros (approx 7.6 million forints). This boxy, tall subcompact was designed in France and will be manufactured in Stellantis' Slovakian plant in Trnava. With the driving position raised by 100 mm and the roof by 96 mm compared to the old C3, the body feels much more spacious despite only being 19 mm longer (401 mm) and 6 mm wider (1760 mm). All versions come standard with a suspension ensuring a comfortable ride, featuring progressive hydraulic cushioning.
The ë-C3's 113 horsepower electric motor can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in 11 seconds, with a top speed of just 135 km/h. The 44 kWh LFP battery enables a WLTP range of 320 km. Later on, petrol variants will be available under the C3 name, though it is unlikely that diesel engines will return. Buyers can choose from two different infotainment systems, with the more expensive option including a 10.25-inch touchscreen tilted towards the driver in the center of the dashboard and smartphone mirroring. The more affordable version comes with only a dock to rely on the driver's phone for the vehicle's system. The ë-C3 is expected to hit dealerships in the second quarter of 2024, with just two trim levels available (You and Max).
6. CUPRA TERRAMAR (Source: Cupra)
Although introduced in 2022 during a grand event, the production of this compact SUV won't begin until 2024 and will be manufactured at Audi's Gyor plant in Hungary. At 4.5 meters long, the Terramar is a special model as the last from the Spain-based brand belonging to Seat to have internal combustion engines fitted, albeit in a hybridized form. Built on Audi Q3's technology, the SUV differentiates itself from its sibling with a sportier design and driving experience. The lineup will include a mild-hybrid but also plug-in hybrid powertrains, with the latter promising a nearly 100 km electric-only range.
7. DACIA BIGSTER (Source: Dacia)
The Duster III, unveiled in November 2023, did not need to grow significantly for its model change, as the nearly 30 centimeters longer (4.6 meters) Bigster arrives in the second half of 2024, offering more space for both passengers and cargo. The Bigster will still utilize the Renault-Nissan-Mitsubishi Alliance’s CMF-B platform. Though it will change little by production, the design language remains in line with the Duster's. Distinctive elements include Y-shaped headlights, squared and widened wheel arches, and rough, unpainted protective elements made from recycled plastic.
The engine lineup is likely to match that of the new Duster, meaning the entry-level could be the 100 horsepower, LPG-capable one-liter three-cylinder. For those desiring more power, two options will be available: a new 130 horsepower 1.2-liter three-cylinder turbo with a 48-volt mild hybrid system or the already known 1.6-liter 140 horsepower self-charging hybrid regularly seen in the Jogger and other Renault models, being the sole four-cylinder, non-turbo, automatic option. However, only the 1.2-liter engine will be available with the now five-mode all-wheel drive, which comes with a more sophisticated multi-link rear suspension and a specially geared six-speed manual transmission.
8. FIAT PANDA (Source: Fiat)
It is confirmed that a Fiat will present a new small car on July 11, 2024, the brand's 125th anniversary, which rumors suggest will be the long-awaited new Panda. The Centroventi concept car introduced the fourth-generation model back in 2019, showcasing an electric powertrain with swappable batteries and a clever interior. It's likely only the electric powertrain and a flexible interior will remain, but the CMP platform will allow for cheaper, internal combustion engined versions as well. Reportedly, the new Panda will be significantly larger than its predecessors (expected to be about 4 meters long), but its design philosophy won't change much, meaning a focus not on luxury but on pragmatism and good value for money. If well-priced and with an appealing design, it could be a worthy challenger to the Dacia Sandero.
Additional Fiat novelties for 2024: 600e, Topolino.
