Top 10 New Models That Defined 2024
This past year has been rich in new vehicle debuts and launches—electrified or not. And it goes without saying that many of them have particularly caught the attention of our team here at The Car Guide.
Some are brand new models, while others have been redesigned in order to put up a better fight in their respective segments. We’ve been able to get our hands on quite a few names on the list below, but we’re still waiting for the others.
Without further ado, here are 10 new models that defined 2024:
Tesla Cybertruck
In case you’ve been living on Mars for the past 12 months, you know that 2024 marked the launch of the Tesla Cybertruck in Canada. Scorned by some and zealously admired by others, the wedge-shaped electric pickup certainly didn't go unnoticed. For a variety of reasons, it doesn't seem to be up to the task of overcoming the rough conditions of the Great White North, but it does incorporate the very best from Tesla’s leading arsenal. You can read our Tesla Cybertruck review here.
Chevrolet Equinox EV
Chevrolet's Equinox EV hit the market mid-year, and since its launch has been an astounding success in Canada, particularly Quebec. The automaker seems to have ironed out most of the kinks in its Ultium electric platform (a name that GM will be dropping, by the way). The Equinox EV combines versatility and efficiency in a stylish package. It is available in several models and configurations offering up to 513 km of range at a very attractive price. You can read our Equinox EV review here.
Dodge Charger/Charger Daytona
The return of the Dodge Charger on a new platform was certainly one of the highlights of 2024. The STLA Large platform can accommodate not only electric motors, but also hybrid and ICE systems. This car should give Stellantis a much-needed boost after a difficult year on all fronts. We recently tested the new, battery-powered Charger and came away quite impressed. You can read our Dodge Charger Daytona review here.
Honda Civic Hybrid
The return of the Honda Civic Hybrid may seem insignificant for some, but it's of the utmost importance to the Japanese automaker. Thanks to its electrified powertrain, this car manages to produce 200 hp and 232 lb-ft of torque—an extra 60 hp compared to the similarly powered Elantra Hybrid and Corolla Hybrid—and is surprisingly frugal, too. In fact, it burns just 0.2 L/100 km more than the most fuel-efficient Corolla. You can read our Honda Civic Hybrid review here or here.
Polestar 3 and Polestar 4
Swedish automaker Polestar is busy forging its own identity as a manufacturer of electric vehicles. It's certainly been a trying year for the brand, which is struggling to make a profit in a context of ever-increasing technological and geopolitical challenges. History has taught us that the profitability of an electric brand often depends on utility vehicles. Cue the Polestar 3 and Polestar 4 crossovers. The former is more luxurious and more technologically advanced while offering up to 506 km of range and 517 hp. The latter is more compact and devoid of a rear window, managing up to 482 km of range. You can read our Polestar 3 review here and our Polestar 4 review here.
Kia EV3
Based on the E-GMP platform shared by Kia and Hyundai, the EV3 is an eagerly awaited small electric crossover. While details specific to our market have not been finalized yet, you should know that the EV3 combines all the benefits (and drawbacks) of the E-GMP platform in a compact, affordable package. It has the potential to be a game changer. You can read our Kia EV3 review here.
Toyota 4Runner
Toyota's product cycles can be very, very long, and the venerable 4Runner was certainly in need of a change. Based on the TGNA-F platform already used by the Land Cruiser, Tundra, Sequoia and Tacoma, the 2025 4Runner is improved in every respect. It offers a choice of two powertrain options (including a hybrid), as well as a variety of models that continue the adventurous tradition of this intrepid SUV. However, with a price tag that can go as high as nearly $90,000, it's definitely not for everyone. More details here.
Mercedes-Benz G 580
The crown jewel of the Mercedes-Benz SUV lineup finally received the electric treatment this year. Named G 580 with EQ Technology (not EQG, as we expected), it integrates a 116kWh battery into pretty much the same sturdy chassis as other G-Class models. This battery powers four electric motors developing 579 hp and 859 lb-ft of torque. In particular, the G 580 can spin 360 degrees using the reverse thrust of its motors. You can read our Mercedes-Benz G 580 review here.
Rivian R2/R3/R3X
Although Rivian's new R2, R3 and R3X electric utility vehicles are not yet officially on the road, their debut was one of the highlights of 2024. The American startup, which also introduced refreshed and improved R1S and R1T models, said the trio would offer range in excess of 500 km in addition to RWD and AWD configurations, the latter featuring two or three motors. More details here.
Scout Terra/Traveler
International Harvester originally sold the Scout from 1961 to 1980. Volkswagen AG acquired the brand in 2020 and later gave birth to Scout Motors, with plans to launch a fully electric SUV and pickup called Traveler and Terra, respectively. Using an 800V electric system, the two new EVs are said to provide an estimated 350 miles (563 km) of range. Output is not specified yet, but the dual motors reportedly generate a combined 1,000 lb-ft of torque. Meanwhile, the platform is projected to deliver more than 10,000 lbs of towing on the Terra, over 7,000 lbs of towing on the Traveler and nearly 2,000 lbs of payload on both models. Production is slated for 2027. More details here.