In 2024, a remarkable array of automobiles has made its debut, each one captivating in its own right.
Regrettably, a significant number of these vehicles will likely not find their way to the Australian market, leaving local enthusiasts to envy motorists in other regions enjoying the latest innovations and designs.
In light of this, we reached out to the CarExpert team to highlight the models unveiled in 2024 that they wish could grace our shores: the Ford Capri, BYD Seal 06, Toyota 4Runner, and Lancia Ypsilon.
To illustrate the wealth of options, here are just a few of the new vehicles available across the globe: Abarth 600e, BYD Seal 06 PHEV, Citroën C3 Aircross, Citroën C3, Ford Capri, Ford Puma update, Infiniti QX80, Lancia Ypsilon, Mazda CX-50 Hybrid, Nissan Murano, Nissan Kicks, Renault Symbioz, Rivian R2, Rivian R3, Toyota 4Runner, and Volkswagen ID.7 Tourer.
We invite you to share your preferred choice in the comments section below!
Marton Pettendy: Fiat Grande Panda
I lament the absence of the new Fiat Grande Panda in Australia, despite the slim chances of it making its way here anytime soon. The previous iteration enjoyed immense popularity in Europe, where the boxy yet practical city car remains a common fixture on the roads.
Alas, its introduction to the Australian market was short-lived, culminating in its discontinuation in 2015 after only two years of slow sales. The disconnect between local consumer trends and their European counterparts remains enduring, as evidenced by the recent surge in adventure motorcycle popularity.
However, the fourth-generation Panda has undergone a significant transformation. Now presented in an SUV format that resonates well with Australian tastes, it boasts an appealing design and will be offered in Europe with both mild-hybrid petrol and fully electric variants.
If Stellantis could introduce this enticing small SUV to Australia at a reasonable price point, it could revitalize interest in a struggling Italian brand that, barring the Fiat Professional Ducato van, soon will only offer the Fiat/Abarth 500e, projected to attract a mere 500 buyers down under this year.
Paul Maric: Infiniti QX80
The Infiniti QX80 is another model I would love to see make a return to Australia.
Though Infiniti has exited the Australian market, there’s potential for a revitalization as a premium alternative to the Patrol. However, with the Patrol’s launch feeling like a distant prospect, one wonders if we’ll be traveling in flying cars by then!
James Wong: Ford Escape update
Observing the current state of Ford’s lineup in Australia is truly disheartening. While the Ranger and Everest are commendable options in their respective segments, they simply do not resonate with what I envision for personal ownership.
Call me unexciting, but it seems ill-advised for Ford to withdraw from the most competitive and highest-volume vehicle segment in Australia, especially considering they have a capable product available.
The latest iteration of the Escape/Kuga, although unassuming, offered a pleasant alternative against the growing roster of RAV4s, CX-5s, Outlanders, and Sportages.
Notably, Australia never had the opportunity to experience the Escape Hybrid, which boasted an impressive range of 1,000 kilometers per fill—an attractive proposition for those eyeing hybrid offerings like the RAV4 and Sportage.
Yet again, Ford’s European models were overlooked and undervalued in Australia, and it’s truly regrettable that they are no longer available here.
Jack Quick: Mahindra Thar Roxx
As an owner of the current Suzuki Jimny, I’m astounded that there isn’t a price-comparable rival available in Australia.
The closest competitor, the Jeep Wrangler, boasts a hefty price tag of around $90k for the Rubicon variant—equating to almost three Jimnys for the same cost.
Although Mahindra has persistently attempted to introduce the Thar body-on-frame off-roader to Australia, legal hurdles linked to Jeep have impeded this.
Were it to arrive, it would undoubtedly foster a cult following, thanks to its acclaimed off-road capabilities comparable to the Jimny. The five-door Thar Roxx would also add practicality, much like the Jimny XL, while offering more powerful engine options, including a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol and a 2.2-litre turbo-diesel.
William Stopford: Cadillac CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing
While I have a keen interest in the Cadillac Lyriq and look forward to experiencing its Australian adaptation, my true desire lies with the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing.
In fact, I’d have preferred Cadillac to have brought this to our market two decades ago, beginning with its predecessor, the first-generation CTS-V. Since then, Cadillac has crafted award-winning sports sedans praised for their style and performance.
With the CT5, introduced in 2019, the design had its share of quirks, but recent updates have given it a more refined cabin and a bolder exterior aesthetic.
Cadillac has refined its V-Series nomenclature, shifting focus towards the Blackwing series, and while the CT5-V does not exhibit the same wildness as earlier CTS-V models, it still packs a punch with its twin-turbocharged V6 engine producing 265kW and 549Nm of torque.
For those seeking high octane thrills, the CT5-V Blackwing features a supercharged 6.2-litre V8 generating an impressive 491kW and 893Nm. It remains a rear-wheel-drive machine, optionally available with a six-speed manual transmission—an increasingly rare offering among its German competitors.
Though the future of the CT5 is uncertain, with an all-electric replacement anticipated, these updated iterations of the CT5-V and CT5-V Blackwing present an enticing farewell to combustion-powered joyrides. One can only wish they would make their way to our shores.
Jordan Mulach: Ford Maverick Lobo
“Maverick Lobo, please!”
Imagine if Ford had developed a ute based on the Territory—would it have surpassed the Holden Crewman in success? The Maverick Lobo may be the closest we have to that speculation.
It’s a disappointment that the Maverick isn’t available here, as it would cater perfectly to the needs of many ute enthusiasts without inheriting some of the drawbacks present in the Ranger.
Not only does the Lobo exude toughness, but it also features refined suspension and steering, upgraded dual-piston front brakes reminiscent of the Focus ST, and an advanced torque vectoring system utilizing a twin-clutch rear drive unit.
Unfortunately, Ford’s inability to manufacture right-hand drive models seems a missed opportunity.
Max Davies: Honda Prelude
As an owner of a classic Toyota Celica, it would be remiss to overlook the Honda Prelude, a contemporary of my vehicle.
Having been fortunate enough to drive a third-generation Prelude, I’ve come to appreciate the charm embedded in these two-door Japanese sports cars—something that seems elusive in the models that have come and gone since their production dwindled in the early 2000s.
While the Mazda MX-5 has continued to thrive as a sequel of sorts, and the Subaru BRZ/Toyota 86 have emerged as modern alternatives, none quite capture the nostalgic essence that drew enthusiasts to the Prelude.
With the recent unveiling of a production-ready concept version of the Prelude, I can’t help but feel a sense of excitement over its anticipated launch, scheduled for 2025 with an expected market debut in 2026, albeit initially limited to Europe and the United States.
While Honda has not ruled out an Australian introduction, there has been no official communication regarding its availability on local shores. Given the reception of the new Integra—a significant deviation from its heritage—it’s uncertain whether the Prelude will receive the attention it deserves here.
Only time will tell, but the return of the Prelude would surely resonate with local aficionados, even if it’s a niche offering. Perhaps a potential new Celica from Toyota could even persuade Honda to consider a broader global rollout.
Josh Nevett: Chevrolet Corvette ZR1
Chevrolet has truly pushed the envelope with the C8 Corvette.
Embodying the essence of the Corvette legacy— a muscular V8, striking supercar aesthetics, and competitive pricing—the C8 elevates expectations even further.
Featuring an upscale interior across all C8 variants, the track-focused Z06 resonates with performance akin to a Ferrari, complemented by its distinctive flat-plane crank V8.
It’s disheartening, however, that we won’t have the chance to experience the latest crown jewel of the Corvette lineup—the C8 ZR1.
As a highly enhanced version of the Z06, the ZR1 boasts a twin-turbocharged 5.5-litre engine capable of churning out an astonishing 783kW (1064 hp) alongside an impressive 1123Nm of torque, far surpassing the Z06 by a staggering margin.
Couple that with a suite of advanced aerodynamic components and carbon fibre details, and you’ve got a hypercar contender poised to dominate—just not in our market… at least not yet.
We encourage you to reach out to one of CarExpert’s trusted dealers if you’re interested in any of these exciting global vehicles!
Source:www.carexpert.com.au
