2021 is shaping up to be a big year for new car arrivals in Australia. Whether they’re all-new models or upgrades of current classics, the list of incoming vehicles is impressive and offers something for everyone.
We’ve selected eight highly-anticipated models set to arrive on Aussie soil throughout the year, and highlighted just exactly why they’re causing a stir already. Read on and get excited for the year ahead!
Source: Jeep
Jeep Grand Cherokee
Expected first quarter, 2021
Perhaps no vehicle is as eagerly awaited as the new Jeep Grand Cherokee, the popular model’s first overhaul in ten years. Details remain scant but the large new SUV is expected to be available for the first time as a seven-seater, equipped with state-of-the art in-cabin technology, and advances in driving dynamics, safety and efficiency.
Source: Hyundai
Hyundai Tucson
Expected first half, 2021
The fourth generation of Hyundai’s most popular SUV, the new mid-size Tucson is sure to excite Aussie drivers with bold styling, cutting-edge tech and eventually a plug-in hybrid powertrain.
Owners will be able to unlock and start the vehicle using their smartphones and even operate the Tucson remotely (albeit very slowly), without anyone in the driver’s seat – ideal for tight parking purposes.
Source: Volkswagen
Volkswagen Golf GTI
Expected early 2021
The one that started it all…For decades, the Volkswagen Golf GTI has won over drivers all around the world with its dynamic engine, sharp handling and all-round versatility.
Now the original hot hatch returns for the eighth time with added tech, capability and sporty flourishes throughout. The interior flaunts most of the enhancements, with a 10-inch infotainment system with touchscreen and a restyled dash.
Source: Subaru
Subaru Outback
Confirmed March 2021
Arguably the vehicle that kickstarted our love of the crossover, the wagon-turned SUV Subaru Outback has been enhanced in 2021 with an updated turbocharged engine, upgraded towing capacity and the latest generation of the brand’s EyeSight safety suite. But perhaps most exciting of all is its flexible new backbone – the Subaru Global Platform architecture – which gives it more height and stability to tackle even bigger adventures off-road.
Source: Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz S-Class
Expected March 2021
Hailed as the safest, most advanced Benz ever, the seventh-generation limousine boasts exceptional levels of luxury, world-first frontal airbags for rear-seat occupants and the enhanced head-up display powered by augmented reality. Projecting an image onto the windscreen equivalent to the size of a 77-inch display, the system helps the driver maintain a safe distance from the car in front and keeps them on course with lane-assist prompts.
Source: BMW
BMW iX3
Expected second half, 2021
BMW’s first fully electric SUV is equipped with the fifth generation eDrive powertrain. With an impressive driving range of 460km, the iX3 can be charged up to 80% in just over half an hour.
Perhaps its most impressive aspect is the advanced energy-recuperation system, which pairs with the navigation and automatically adjusts regenerative braking levels. On a freeway, for example, the vehicle will coast when pressure on the accelerator pedal is eased. In city traffic, the system will instead engage strong recuperative braking to rapidly slow the vehicle down.
Source: Audi
Audi S3 Sportback
Expected second half, 2021
The new-generation high-tech hot hatch is Audi’s most powerful yet, with a far more aggressive body kit to match.
With increased power and torque, the new S3 is capable of sprinting from a standstill to 100km/h in 4.8 seconds. Inside, the feeling of a high-performance supercar is enhanced with newly developed sports seats, a sports steering wheel and unique upholstery and trim options. And the new model still maintains its practical hatchback roots, with its roomy interior and folding rear seats that allow for extra cargo space.
Source: Volkswagen
Volkswagen Amarok W580
Expected April 2021
The 2021 Volkswagen Amarok W580 has joined the growing list of premium sports utes, but unlike many of its competitors, this latest model has been designed with a focus on on-road performance, flaunting a unique suspension, eye-catching 20-inch Clayton alloys and premium styling updates inside and out.
Initially built in limited numbers (the first 30 vehicles sold out in Australia in minutes), the VW Amarok W580 will become a permanent addition to the Volkswagen Australia line-up from April 2021.