South Africa
Your A-Z of all the new cars expected to launch in SA during 2021
The tumult of Covid-19 continues to brew in the background as we go about finding semblances of normality in our daily lives. With trepidation and optimism, we hold a collective hope that 2021 will bring better things.
Although the automotive industry will not revert to pre-pandemic levels of activity overnight, there are developments to look forward to, like an onslaught of new metal.
We virtually asked all the players in the sphere about what could be expected from their respective stables. Some had more to say than others.
Abarth
The 595 Scorpioneoro is yet another feisty rendition of the beloved Fiat Nuovo Cinquecento. Production is limited to 2,000 units. The vehicle packs a 121kW/230Nm punch from its 1.4-litre T-Jet engine. Joining the limited run model is the 595 Monster Energy Yamaha Edition (above), replete with a giant Monster emblem on its hood.
Alfa Romeo
The Giulia and Stelvio – which more people ought to consider – will both be treated to facelifts.
Aston Martin
The charming British sports car manufacturer will release the roofless Volante version of its Vantage launched abroad last year.
Audi
Power is high on the agenda for the Ingolstadt-based brand this year as it unleashes a slew of new RS-badged offerings. These includes the updated RS4 Avant, RS5 (coupé and Sportback); RSQ8 (and SQ8); RS6 Avant and RSQ3. It gets even better because the enhanced R8 is also anticipated, in addition to the S8. There are also plans for the more down-to-earth members of the family. Expect revisions for the Q2 and Q5, plus the all-new A3 and S3. A Sportback version of the Q5 is also on the cards.
Bentley No significant local plans confirmed yet.
BMW
You might have seen images of the latest M3 and M4 on SA shores being trucked to dealerships. The duo will be launched officially in the first quarter. In the same period, the enhanced 5-Series and M5 join the range. The 128ti is poised to arrive too, as well as the convertible 4-Series. Lastly, the electric iX3 will set a greener agenda for BMW in the last quarter.
Citroën
The plucky C3 is destined for a facelift.
Datsun
No plans for the Japanese peddler of not-so-safe compacts.
Ferrari
Add some glamour to your life with the refreshed Portofino M, which stands for “modificata” and has no kinship to a certain German brand. Its 3.9-litre V8 gains more power and promises meaner acoustics.
Fiat
Updates are on the cards for the long-standing 500, including the 500X. The underrated Tipo (hatchback and sedan) will be refreshed for 2021.
Ford
Local custodians of the blue oval brand said they have decided against communicating details of forthcoming new models ahead of launch.
GWM
The firm said it would be releasing three new platform sport-utility vehicles this year. No detail was mentioned as to which models would be wearing the GWM moniker and which would go under the guise of the more upmarket Haval title.
Haval See above.
Honda
New products are on the horizon, confirmed the company, opting to keep mum on the specifics.
