The new cars we’re most excited about for 2024

South African motorists have been spoilt this past year with dozens of amazing new cars from bakkies to hot hatches, family SUVs, and new-energy vehicles, and the great news is that 2024 appears to be just as action-packed as the year that preceded it.

There are many new cars that have been confirmed for a local release in the next 12 months, and while we’d love to get behind the wheel of each and every one, there are a few models that we’re particularly excited for.

Lots to look forward to

Starting with South Africa’s beloved bakkie segment, there are a few notable double cabs scheduled to debut in 2024, one of the first being the next-generation Mitsubishi Triton.

Not only will the Triton be an interesting example of Mitsubishi’s new light-commercial architecture, but it should also give us a sense of what to expect when the new Nissan Navara is revealed, as the two will be built on the same platform.

There are also the new hybrid and battery-electric versions of the JAC T9 flagship, paving the way for more electrified bakkies, the facelifted Isuzu D-Max, and two new entries in the Ford Ranger stable with the Platinum and Tremor.

For SUVs, we have intriguing options coming from China, starting with Jaecoo which will make its debut in South Africa next year with the luxury J7 and J8.

Omoda will also be launching its C9 flagship crossover, and Chery is planning to introduce plug-in hybrid versions of its Tiggo 7 and 8 Pro near the end of the year.

One model that was supposed to launch this year but was delayed due to supply issues is the GWM Tank 300, which will be the brand’s foray into the serious 4×4 SUV space in South Africa.

VW has a busy line-up with the new T-Cross, Tiguan, and Touareg, too, and Ford is bringing back the Territory to fill the gap in the market between the Puma and the Everest.

Mini is also gearing up for a busy year, as it has announced several new models in both its Cooper hatchback and Countryman crossover series, including two electric models, in addition to the flagship Countryman John Cooper Works hot crossover.

Speaking of hot performers, BMW will be launching the XM Label Red – an even more powerful version of its super SUV which is set to be the company’s most powerful M car to date.

All of this is to say that there’s clearly a lot of exciting stuff coming our way in 2024 which should make for a great time for South Africa’s petrolheads.