Get ready, South Africa, because 2024 is going to be an exhilarating year for the automotive industry! We are about to witness the arrival of some truly thrilling new cars that will leave you breathless. So, tell me, which of these upcoming releases are you most excited about? Let’s dive in and explore the incredible lineup!

Now, let’s take a moment to reflect on the rollercoaster ride that was 2023. It was a year of recovery for the automotive sector in South Africa, as we battled through a multitude of challenges. From supply issues and production setbacks to chip and parts shortages, and even delivery delays, car manufacturers faced an uphill battle. But fear not, my friends, for 2024 promises to be a much smoother journey for the industry.

In fact, brace yourselves for the arrival of new car brands in South Africa, along with a wide range of updated and brand-new models hitting the market. We’re talking about everything from budget-friendly cars to compact SUVs and crossovers, perfect for those seeking versatility. And let’s not forget about the family cars, executive SUVs, premium SUVs, sports cars, supercars, bakkies, and even electric cars!

The arrival timings for these new cars are tentative. We all know that the global supply chain can be a bit unpredictable, so delays may occur. But hey, that just adds to the anticipation, right?

Starting strong with our newest arrival…

Chery – Tiggo 7 Pro e+ PHEV

Let’s dive into the juicy details, shall we? The Tiggo 7 Pro e+ PHEV is a beast that combines a 1.5 turbopetrol engine with not one, but two electric motors. This powerhouse delivers a mind-boggling total system output of 180 kW and a jaw-dropping 510 Nm of torque. And hold your breath, because this bad boy can go pure electric for a whopping 75 kilometers! That’s right, you can cruise around town without a care in the world, leaving nothing but envy in your wake.

But wait, there’s more! The larger Tiggo 8 Pro e+ is also expected to feature the same mind-blowing powertrain. Chery is not holding back, my friends. They are unleashing a storm of innovation and excitement that will leave you begging for more.

GWM – Shanhai Cannon Double Cab

Introducing the magnificent GWM Shanhai Cannon double-cab bakkie, a true titan in the realm of pickups. This beastly beauty is here to conquer the roads of South Africa, offering a larger and more luxurious experience than its rival, the P-Series. Brace yourselves, folks, because this bad boy is coming our way!

Let’s talk power. While the Shanhai Cannon boasts a range of three engines in its homeland of China, we’re crossing our fingers for GWM to grace us with their brand-new turbocharged 3.0-litre petrol V6 engine. With a staggering 260 kW and 500 Nm of torque, this powerhouse is ready to take on the mighty Ford Ranger Raptor. Buckle up, folks, because this is going to be one wild ride!

Rumour has it that this hybrid marvel might just be the Shanhai Cannon itself, equipped with a 2.0-litre turbocharged petrol hybrid engine. With 180 kW and 380 Nm of torque at its disposal, this electrifying addition is sure to turn heads and leave jaws dropping.

Hyundai- Santa Fe

The all-new 5th generation Santa Fe is like a breath of fresh air compared to its predecessor. Not only does it sport a radical new look, but it’s also grown in size. It’s like the Santa Fe hit the gym and bulked up by 45 mm in length, with its wheelbase expanding by a whopping 50 mm to a generous 2,815 mm. Talk about making a grand entrance!

This 7-seater Santa Fe doesn’t just offer extra space for your crew, it also boasts a larger load area of 725 litres. That’s a whopping 91 litres more than before! So, whether you’re hauling groceries or packing for a family road trip, this Santa Fe has got you covered.

Let’s talk about the heart and soul of this beast. While engine options for South Africa are still up in the air, there are some exciting possibilities on the horizon. Picture this: a naturally-aspirated 2.5-litre petrol engine with a mighty 143 kW and 246 Nm of torque. That’s some serious power right there. But wait, there’s more! How about a 2.5-litre turbopetrol engine with a mind-blowing 207 kW and 422 Nm, paired with an 8-speed dual-clutch transmission?

Talk about a match made in automotive heaven!

But hold on to your seats, because there’s one more option that might just blow your mind. Imagine a turbocharged 1.6-litre petrol hybrid powertrain, delivering a respectable 132 kW and 265 Nm, all while being paired with a smooth 6-speed automatic transmission. Now that’s what we call a hybrid done right.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. What about that 1.6-litre turbopetrol PHEV derivative that’s making waves in European markets? Well, my friend, that remains to be seen.

Renault – Duster

Great news, folks! The Renault Duster, a true triumph for the French carmaker, is gearing up for a brand-new model! But hold on to your hats, because there’s a twist. Brace yourselves, for the beloved 1.5-litre turbodiesel engine has bid us adieu, making way for a dynamic duo of electrified engines.

First up, we have a feisty 1.6-litre 4-cylinder naturally-aspirated petrol engine, flexing its muscles with a cool 70 kW. But wait, there’s more! This powerhouse is joined by not one, but two electric motors (37 kW and a starter generator). And that’s not all, my friends. This bad boy comes equipped with an electric automatic gearbox and a 1.2 kWh battery, allowing it to embrace its electric side and cruise through city streets in all-electric mode a whopping 80% of the time. Talk about eco-friendly elegance!

But hold your horses, because we’re not done yet. Our next contender is a fresh-faced 1.2-litre turbocharged petrol 3-cylinder, boasting a mighty 96 kW. This beauty runs on the Miller cycle and has a secret weapon up its sleeve – a 48V mild hybrid electric motor. This trusty sidekick lends a helping hand to the combustion engine during those exhilarating moments of acceleration. And guess what? You can choose between a 4×2 or a 4×4 configuration, with a slick 6-speed gearbox to keep you in control.

Now, I know what you’re thinking. When can we get our hands on this automotive marvel? Well, my friends, mark your calendars for the second half of 2024, because that’s when the new Duster will be making its grand entrance in South Africa. Get ready to experience a whole new level of automotive excellence!

So, buckle up and prepare for a thrilling ride in 2024 with all these new rides!

Source Credit: Cars.co.za, AutoTrader, CarMag, MotorPress