Every year, as technology advances, cars get more impressive. The driving experience improves, the safety features are boosted, emissions reduce and performance increases. From the latest hybrids to new EVs to a classic camper, here are five of our most anticipated vehicles for 2024 – plus one particularly exciting ute that’s due to arrive in 2025.
Nissan Ariya
Nissan is phasing out its pioneering electric vehicle, the Leaf. But don’t worry, a new EV is ready to plug into its spot: the Ariya, a fully electric crossover SUV. Stylish from every angle, the Ariya is spacious, practical and economical. It’s brilliantly adjustable, from the centre console, to the seats, to the steering wheel.
The Ariya is available with up to 450km in range, or upgrade for up to 610km; choose from two-wheel or all-wheel drive.
CO2 emissions: 0
Engine: Electric vehicle (EV)
Power: The 63kWh battery option puts out 160kw; 87kWh battery option puts out 178kw
Omoda 5
The Chery brand is back in the New Zealand market with the rather dashing Omoda 5. Another compact SUV, the Omoda 5 has eye-catchingly intricate design features and some fabulous colour combos when you choose to add the red stripe. This will turn heads on Kiwi roads, especially the EV option which has an unusual angular front end.
Available in petrol 1.5L or 1.6L options, or as an EV which will have a range of up to 450km.
CO2 emissions: 0 for the EV; data for the petrol model not yet available
Engine: Turbo petrol or EV
Power: The petrol 1.6L AWD puts out 147kW; the EV version has a 61kWh battery that puts out 165kW
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
Following in the footsteps of the classic VW Kombi, the ID. Buzz is an all-electric van that can seat up to seven people. It’s surprisingly zippy, with augmented reality technology and retro two-tone styling.
The ID. Buzz has a range of around 520km, which would get you all the way from Auckland to Hawkes Bay on a single charge. Also, bidirectional charging means it can act as a battery when you’re travelling, which is ideal for holiday road trips.
CO2 emissions: 0
Engine: EV
Power: The 77kWh battery puts out 150kW
Volvo EX90
If you’re looking for the ultimate luxury family car, the Volvo EX90 might be exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a seven-seater, powerful and has a range of up to 600km. As you might expect from a Volvo, the EX90 has outstanding safety features, described as an ‘invisible shield’ of state-of-the-art safety sensors. Apparently it will take action if it detects the driver is distracted or distressed. This includes a camera focused on the driver's eyes to monitor signs of tiredness/droopy eyes and if detected, vibrations are triggered in the steering wheel/driver's seat.
The EX90 has a powerful infotainment system, and it’s another model with bidirectional charging so you can plug in the kettle for a cuppa on the way to your destination.
CO2 emissions: 0
Engine: EV
Power: The 111kWh battery puts out 380kW
2024 Toyota C-HR
Toyota excels in hybrid technology and the 2024 C-HR showcases its expertise with an eye-catching modern design. This striking compact SUV gives you excellent performance and safety, with low carbon emissions, and because it's not a 'plug-in' hybrid (instead the smaller battery is charged via the petrol engine) you never need to worry about recharging your vehicle. The C-HR is fuel efficient, with Toyota estimating your annual fuel cost will be $1,880 assuming you drive 14,000km.
Available in standard and GR Sport editions, with eight colour options, and will be priced from $41,290.
CO2 emissions: 97g/km
Engine: Hybrid petrol-electric
Power: Total system output of 90kWh
PLUS....Ford Ranger Plug-in Hybrid
The Ranger has been New Zealand’s top selling new car for nine years running. We love its versatility, its capacity, its power and its classic good looks. The Ranger Plug-In Hybrid gives you all that, plus lower emissions and power pack versatility – is this the best Ranger ever? As a mobile generator, the Ranger allows you to plug in work tools or camping appliances even when you’re far from the grid. It also provides a braked towing capacity of up to 3,500kg. You’ll likely need to wait until 2025 to take delivery of a Ranger PHEV, but it might be worth registering your interest in 2024 because this is bound to be a Kiwi favourite.
CO2 emissions: Data not yet available
Engine: Hybrid petrol-electric
Power: Data not yet available