Australia’s car market is revving up for a bumper year of new releases. From the electric revolution to souped-up muscle cars, the 2024 lineup promises something for every kind of driver. Whether you’re an SUV enthusiast, an electric vehicle (EV) pioneer, or just someone who loves the roar of a V8, there’s a set of wheels in the pipeline that’ll get your motor running.
Polestar 4: The EV Revolution Continues First up, let’s talk about the Polestar 4. Now, if you thought EVs were all about being eco-friendly and boring, think again. Polestar is the electric car brand that’s turning heads for all the right reasons. Following the success of the Polestar 2, the 4 is expected to make an even bigger splash when it lands in Australia later this year.
This sleek SUV isn’t just about looks (although, let’s be honest, it’s drop-dead gorgeous). It’s packing some serious tech under the hood. With an estimated range of around 600 km on a single charge, this is one EV that won’t leave you stranded in the Outback. Plus, the dual-motor setup means you’ll get the kind of acceleration that’ll have you glued to your seat—0 to 100 km/h in under 4 seconds, anyone?
But it’s not all about speed. Polestar is also taking sustainability seriously, with the 4 featuring recycled materials throughout its interior and a carbon-neutral production process that makes you feel just a little bit better about your carbon footprint.
For those who are tech-obsessed, the Polestar 4 doesn’t disappoint. It’s got an array of screens that make the cockpit feel more like the Starship Enterprise than your average SUV. And with over-the-air software updates, your Polestar will only get better with age.
Jeep Avenger: Going Electric with a Bite Next on our list is the Jeep Avenger, the brand’s first fully electric vehicle. Now, you might think Jeep and EVs don’t exactly go hand in hand. After all, this is the brand that built its reputation on rugged, go-anywhere, gas-guzzling machines. But times are changing, and the Avenger is Jeep’s answer to the future of off-roading.
Set to arrive in Australia in the latter half of 2024, the Avenger is a compact SUV designed for urban adventurers. It’s got a single electric motor churning out 115kW and 260Nm of torque, with a 54kWh battery that delivers a respectable 400 km range. While it might not be a rock-crawling beast like its petrol-powered siblings, it does feature several off-road driving modes to tackle the occasional dirt trail.
What’s cool about the Avenger is that it brings Jeep’s rugged design language into the EV era without losing the brand’s signature style. The bold, boxy look is still there, along with the seven-slot grille, but with a futuristic twist that makes it stand out from the crowd of other electric crossovers.
Audi Q4 e-tron: Luxury Meets Sustainability Audi’s Q4 e-tron is the brand’s most affordable electric SUV yet, and it’s set to make a big impact Down Under. Scheduled for a mid-2024 release, this luxury SUV is all about blending high-end features with eco-friendly credentials.
The Q4 e-tron is built on Volkswagen’s MEB platform, which is shared with the likes of the ID.4. But don’t think that means it’s just another run-of-the-mill EV. Audi has given the Q4 e-tron its signature touch, with a refined interior, cutting-edge tech, and a driving range that puts many competitors to shame—up to 546 km, to be exact.
What really sets the Q4 e-tron apart is its versatility. It comes in three different variants—45 e-tron, 55 e-tron, and 55 e-tron Quattro—offering a choice between more budget-friendly and performance-focused options. Whether you’re looking for something to ferry the kids around town or a stylish ride for your daily commute, the Q4 e-tron has got you covered.
And let’s not forget the interior. Audi has packed this SUV with all the luxury you’d expect, including a digital cockpit, augmented reality heads-up display, and a Bang & Olufsen sound system that’ll make your favourite tunes sound better than ever.
Toyota Prado: A New Generation of Toughness For those who prefer their cars to be more about muscle than kilowatts, the new-generation Toyota Prado is likely to be a big hit. The Prado has long been a favourite in Australia for its rugged off-road capabilities and bulletproof reliability. The 2024 model promises to build on that legacy with some serious upgrades.
One of the biggest changes is the introduction of a hybrid powertrain option, which pairs a 2.5-litre petrol engine with electric motors. This setup not only improves fuel efficiency but also boosts the Prado’s off-road prowess, thanks to the instant torque provided by the electric motors.
The exterior design of the new Prado is also a nod to its heritage, with a more angular, retro-inspired look that harks back to the original models. But don’t let the old-school styling fool you—this is a thoroughly modern SUV with all the latest tech, including a massive infotainment screen, adaptive cruise control, and Toyota’s suite of advanced driver assistance systems.
If you’re planning a big road trip or just want something that can handle whatever the Aussie outback throws at it, the new Prado should be at the top of your list.
Lexus GX: Luxury Off-Roading If the Prado is the workhorse, then the Lexus GX is the show pony that can still get down and dirty. Slated for a mid-2024 release, the GX is a more premium alternative to the Prado, offering all the off-road capability you’d expect from a Toyota but with the kind of luxury only Lexus can deliver.
Under the bonnet, the GX packs a 3.5-litre twin-turbo V6, mated to a 10-speed automatic transmission. It’s a setup that promises smooth power delivery whether you’re cruising on the highway or tackling a tricky trail. And while the hybrid option isn’t confirmed for Australia yet, we’re keeping our fingers crossed that it’ll make its way here eventually.
Inside, the GX is all about comfort and craftsmanship. Think plush leather seats, wood trim, and a sound system that’s better than most home theatres. Plus, with seating for up to seven, it’s the perfect choice for families who want a bit of adventure without sacrificing luxury.
Volkswagen ID.4: The People's Electric Car Volkswagen is taking a big step into the electric future with the ID.4, an all-electric SUV that’s designed to bring EVs to the masses. Set to launch in Australia in late 2024, the ID.4 is all about making electric driving accessible without compromising on style or practicality.
The ID.4 comes with a choice of battery sizes, but even the entry-level model offers a solid range of around 400 km. It’s not the fastest EV on the block, but with a focus on comfort and usability, it’s perfect for everyday driving. Plus, with Volkswagen’s reputation for build quality, you know this is an EV that’s built to last.
What really sets the ID.4 apart is its spacious interior, which offers more room than you’d expect from an SUV of this size. The minimalist design, combined with high-tech features like a 12-inch touchscreen and voice-controlled infotainment system, makes the cabin feel like a glimpse into the future.
If you’re thinking about making the switch to electric, the ID.4 is definitely worth a test drive.
Wrapping It Up 2024 is shaping up to be a year of exciting developments in the Australian car market. Whether you’re after the latest in EV technology, luxury off-roaders, or just want something that’s as stylish as it is sustainable, there’s plenty to look forward to. Keep an eye on these launches—they might just be the next big thing on Aussie roads.
Bibliography 1. Chasing Cars. "New car calendar 2024: Every new model coming out this year!" Retrieved from https://www.chasingcars.com.au
2. GoAuto. "August 2024 New Car Diary." Retrieved from https://www.goauto.com.au
3. CarsGuide. "Best Cars 2024 Australia - 10 New Vehicles Arriving Soon." Retrieved from https://www.carsguide.com.au
4. CarExpert. "2024 Ford Mustang: Australian deliveries begin after delays." Retrieved from https://www.carexpert.com.au
.png){kind=icon}
.png){kind=icon}
