We’re stepping into another exciting year, and the automotive industry looks set to offer consumers a more diverse array of choices than ever before. Many mass-market European manufacturers are releasing their iconic models with electric and hybrid variants while some performance-oriented manufacturers are once again pushing the limits of performance and innovation.
Here’s a list of some of the most anticipated models from European manufacturers this year.
Lamborghini Huracan Replacement
The upcoming Lamborghini Huracan replacement has already been spotted being tested on public roads. The new Lambo has the trademark wedge shape and seems to take styling cues from the Revuelto.
It’s predicted to be a plug-in Hybrid, like Ferrari’s SF-90. It also seems like the V10 engine is out in favor of a a V8. However, since Lamborghini hasn’t released any concrete details, it might be too early to tell. Historically, Lamborghini hasn’t created a new generation for a nameplate and has simply opted for yearly refreshes. Whenever they release new generation vehicles, they give it a new name. Soon, the Huracan will join legendary nameplates like the Murciélago and Gallardo in the annals of History.
BMW 5 Series
The 5 series is BMW’s midsize sedan and it has been renowned for its exceptional driving experience, luxurious features, and BMW’s distinctive design language since the 70s. This 2024, BMW is set to refresh its 5 Series with a new bold front fascia, sharp body lines, and a new i5 EV model.
The i5 is set to become BMW’s first four-door EV. It’ll come with two powertrain options, a rear-wheel drive eDrive40 model with 335 horsepower (hp) and a dual-motor M60 xDrive that has M5-level performance with 590 hp and all-wheel drive. The i5 series faces fierce competition in the midsize luxury electric sedan segment, with the likes of the Tesla, Porsche, Mercedes, and Genesis giving buyers a lot of options.
Porsche Macan EV
Porsche was one of the first manufacturers to create a full-fledged electric sports car with the Taycan a few years ago. It stunned reviewers as it blended electric vehicle technology with high performance. This time, Porsche is putting its EV innovations into a sporty and practical SUV.
The Porsche Macan EV seems to retain Porsche’s sporty, playful soul while being electric-powered. Overall, it seems the Macan EV will become a strong contender in the electric sports SUV segment, which is only growing in popularity.
Audi Q6 e-tron
The Audi Q6 e-tron is expected to be released sometime in spring. The Volkswagen Group is building the new Audi SUV around the same platform as the electric Porsche Macan. It’s expected to have around a 100 kilowatt hour (kWh) battery that gives it up to 400 miles of range.
Like many electric SUVs, it’ll come with new headlights and a blank front grille that give it the signature futuristic and aerodynamic look.
Volvo EX90
Swedish manufacturer Volvo is also expected to release a new all-electric SUV, the EX90. Volvo’s new flagship vehicle gets a fresh look, is crammed with new technology, and even boasts sports car-like performance numbers.
The SUV will be available in two dual-motor variants, producing either 402 hp or 496hp. However, both are going to be restricted to 112 miles per hour (mph) as part of Volvo’s safety policy. Regardless of engine choice, the EX90 comes with a 107 kWh battery that gives it 360 miles of range. Moreover, it has 250 kilowatt (kW) DC charging, which can replenish its massive battery from 10% to 80% capacity in half an hour.
MINI Countryman SE ALL4
The British automotive manufacturer known for making go-kart-like models is finally dipping its toes into all-electric powertrains. Aside from being sporty and nimble, small cars like the MINI Countryman are also known to have good fuel economy thanks to their lightweight chassis. Coincidentally, these smaller chassis make the Cooper perfect for electric drivetrains because you’ll need a smaller battery–and more importantly less charge time–to travel the same mileage. Despite its new powertrain, the manufacturer promises no compromises in its trademark MINI driving experience.
The all-electric Countryman SE ALL4 is expected to come with 313 horsepower, which allows it to go from 0 to 60 in 5.6 seconds. The new SUV will also have a unique 9.4” round OLED display with a vibrant in-house developed display interface. The vehicle even allows you to have several MINI Experience Modes which will cause interior light projections to change, setting the stage for an immersive driving experience. The new Countryman is expected to be released this fall.
Mercedes EQG
Mercedes’ G-Wagen is famous for its distinctive and timeless design, off-road capability, and desirability. Moreover, it has become a status symbol. The upcoming Mercedes EQG is the electrified G-Wagen.
Right now, it’s still too early to tell what Mercedes has in store for the EQG in terms of power or range. However, it’s expected to have four electric motors and a sophisticated independent suspension for phenomenal off-road capabilities just like its predecessor.
Volkswagen ID.Buzz
Volkswagen is bringing a Microbus successor in the form of the ID.Buzz, an all-electric van that’s heavily inspired by the iconic hippie bus. The ID.Buzz might be inspired by the look and design of a 50s pop culture icon, it does have modern and luxurious features. The ID.Buzz will have a fully independent suspension, dual power-sliding rear doors, and a massive panoramic sunroof. It’ll also feature a 91 kWh battery.
New Ferrari Hypercar
Whenever the world’s most renowned sports car brand releases a new top-of-the-line model, everyone seems to hear about it. The company’s last hypercar was the hybrid LaFerrari from 2013. Its replacement is now due.
There’s already footage of the next Ferrari hypercar prototype being tested around Fiorano, the Ferrari test track in Italy. We suspect that a lot of details about the flagship aren’t set in stone since the vehicle is still covered in camouflage and duct tape to hide its design. It’s even fitted with tail lights from the SF90. Based on the footage, the car seems to have a turbocharged engine, abandoning the V12 screamer that made prior Ferrari flagship cars legendary. Even so, Ferrari promises that the new flagship will offer technology from Formula 1 and Le Mans.
Historically, European manufacturers have been influential in the automotive world. This year, it seems that they’re once again poised to push the boundaries of performance, luxury, and technology with their new generation of vehicles.
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