Cars we’re most excited for in 2024 

2023 was a frenetic year for new car releases, with bold and bizarre motor show concepts and road-ready models alike. But what’s in store for 2024? Here’s our favourite new arrivals coming soon. 

Looking to bag the hottest new release of the year? These are the cars that are sure to get heads turning and curtains twitching on every drive. From reimagined icons to intriguing start-ups, it’s set to be a thrilling 12 months of motors.

Alfa Romeo Milano

Destined to join the ranks of Stelvio and Tonale, Alfa’s latest SUV will slot into the B-segment and function as a spiritual successor to the now departed Mito supermini.  

Promising four-wheel drive and a tidy, engaging handling balance, the new Milano should be the enthusiast’s choice in the segment. And, while exact powertrain specs are unconfirmed, we do know an all-electric model is in the pipeline (presumably targeted at Volvo’s EX30), as well as a mild hybrid variant.  

If you’re as excited as we are to see what Alfa’s baby off-roader looks like with the wraps off, stay tuned for a full reveal in April.

Smart #3 

Smart’s unusually titled #3 will make its debut as the brand’s second all-electric SUV in April 2024. Boasting coupe-inspired styling at a more practical ride height, the marque’s latest addition is a radical departure from Smarts of yesteryear.  

With the likes of Polestar’s 2 and Cupra’s Born in its crosshairs, the #3 will need to be a true dynamic player. Thankfully, though, early road tests confirm it’s no slouch in that department. While performance is equally strong at 5.8 seconds to 60 mph for the base model, dropping to just 3.7 seconds in the spicy Brabus edition.  

First orders for the European market will be taken in the early months of 2024, and we think the #3 could be a fantastic, if slightly left-field alternative to the established crop of EVs.

Range Rover Electric

A fully electric, full-sized Rangie… Need we say more? Although we’ve become somewhat desensitised recently to former ICE staples receiving electric propulsion, in the case of the venerable Range Rover, it’s still huge news.  

As the first of its kind the new EV ‘Rover will no doubt face resistance from some die-hard fans of the breed – although they don’t need to worry as the ICE versions will remain for now. But for those looking to embrace the future, an 800V architecture is set to facilitate rapid charging alongside the usual electric hallmarks of fast, smooth, and serene travel.  

And it’ll still do all the proper Land Rover off-roady stuff too: max wading depth is a claimed 850 mm, while test mules are currently being subjected to the most extreme weather and temperature testing imaginable.  

Want one? The waiting list is now open, although it’s probably best not to hang around.

BMW M5 Touring 

After BMW’s M3 Touring proved a runaway success last year, the Bavarian brand is back with more news guaranteed to thrill fast wagon fans: the M5 Touring returns.  

Understandably, M division is playing its cards close to its chest with this one. But we do know the M5 will house a hybridised powertrain – likely one borrowed from the ferocious XM SUV – and feature ‘…precisely tuned chassis technology refined with innovative systems to facilitate driving dynamics and agility at a level unique in this vehicle class.’ Count us in. 

Those eager to get their hands on the ultimate family supercar will have to wait until July 2024 for the saloon and November for the estate, although there’s no word on pricing just yet.  

Which 2024 release are you most hyped for? Let us know your favourite upcoming models. 

Hero image credit: BMW