This article is co-written by Robin Mørensson and Christian Koed
As the founder of this magazine, 2024 will forever hold a special place in my memory. Despite my extensive experience in the industry, this tumultuous year has offered fascinating experiences, with truly remarkable cars that have the potential to revolutionize their respective segments.
I am eagerly anticipating 2025, with its new emissions regulations, as it will be the first year Norway sells only electric vehicles. The industry is in upheaval: Stellantis faces a post-Tavares era, Volkswagen endures its worst economic and identity crisis ever, and a new Japanese giant is expected to emerge from the union of Honda, Nissan, and Mitsubishi. Add to that the arrival of new brands and models, and the future looks thrilling.
In the meantime, here are the cars me and my colleague and friend Christian appreciated most in 2024.
1. Renault 5 E-Tech
I know many readers might disagree, but the Renault 5 E-Tech is finally everything I’d expect from an electric car designed for the European market. In a region where the average daily mileage is under 60 km, where cities and roads are small and narrow, and where sustainability and design matter immensely, this car hits all the marks.
It offers nostalgia, driving pleasure, cutting-edge technology (including Google integration, customization options, Vehicle-to-Load functionality, and solid charging times), and is 100% made in France.
2. MG3 Hybrid+
The MG3 was one of the most talked-about new releases of 2024. When we featured it on our channel, it garnered much attention for its incredible price-to-performance ratio.
It’s a true market disruptor, positioned as the most powerful and affordable full hybrid in its segment, boasting 195 hp and an efficient, robust system inherited from the new HS.
3. Suzuki Jimny Van
How can you not love the Jimny? 2024 marked the last year I could test this vehicle, as this generation is being withdrawn from the European market in 2025. It doesn’t matter that it’s uncomfortable and noisy—this is a pure off-roader in the old-fashioned sense.
Affordable (even though it was only sold as a commercial vehicle) and dedicated entirely to adventure and fun. Will we see a full-hybrid or even electric version in the future? Very likely, and I hope it retains all its beloved characteristics!
4. Lotus Emeya
I know the purists will criticize me, but the truth is that Lotus’s new identity is working. The Eletre is convincing, and the Emeya astonishes with its performance, comfort, and power—even in the S version (the R reaches a staggering 918 hp).
It’s also impressive for its real-world range, both on highways and in cold weather. Don’t believe me? Check out how it performed on our Monaco-to-Rome test drive!
5. Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
I couldn’t leave out this electric beast, the only EV that has managed to win everyone over. Powerful, agile, and stunning, it’s the only electric car capable of authentically replicating the sound of a combustion engine, even simulating gear changes in all scenarios.
While range takes a hit, its driving dynamics and 800-volt system more than make up for it.
Christian’s Vision
2024 has been a remarkable year for the automotive world, especially in the realm of electric vehicles, where we’ve seen several strong new releases. I’ve had the pleasure of experiencing many exciting moments this year: from test drives in Jutland with new models from MG to a trip to Milan for a closer look at the Lynk & Co 02 – the brand’s first electric car. Later, I also joined a press tour in Stockholm to test both this and the new Lynk & Co 01 PHEV.
The most unfortunate experience of the year came during a test drive when I managed to get the new Kia EV3 stuck in rough terrain. In an attempt to rescue it, I fetched the powerful Ford Mustang Dark Horse – only to get that stuck in the mud as well. The entire ordeal ended with a four-hour wait for a tractor to pull us out. The situation became so absurd that we had to call the police to explain why there were two brand-new cars in a field, just to ensure it didn’t look like a theft. It’s an experience I won’t be keen to repeat!
What I’m looking forward to in 2025
The upcoming year promises several exciting new cars that I’m eager to test. Among the highlights are Suzuki’s first electric car, the eVitara, and its sister model, the Toyota Urban Cruiser – two small, compact EVs that mark Suzuki’s debut in this category.
I’m also looking forward to trying the Xpeng P7+, experiencing Renault’s continued retro styling with the new Renault 4 E-Tech, and testing the Ford Ranger as a PHEV. Finally, Mitsubishi is making a strong return to Europe with a new Outlander PHEV SUV.
My Top 5 Cars of 2024
1. Polestar 2
Although not a completely new model, this was my first time testing the facelifted version of the Polestar 2. I took it on a long trip to Stockholm and, the following week, had the pleasure of driving the fun Performance version on a quick trip to Gothenburg to see the new Volvo EX90 and the updated Volvo XC90.
The Polestar 2 impressed me with its realistic range and outstanding driving dynamics, outperforming many of its competitors.
2. Ford Explorer EV
When I first saw the Explorer last year, I was skeptical, assuming it was just another VW ID.4-like model. However, Ford surprised me by retaining their signature excellent driving dynamics.
The result is an EV that drives significantly better than the Volkswagen ID.4, on which it’s based.
3. Renault Clio
Renault kicked off 2024 with a facelift for their popular Clio, reminding me of just how much I enjoy driving this little car. With the Fiesta now off the market, the Clio is one of the most fun cars in its class – economical, comfortable, and surprisingly spacious.
It even handled a long test drive to Sweden with ease, offering a level of comfort that exceeded my expectations.
4. Kia EV3
The Kia EV3 was perhaps the most surprising car for me this year. It offers fantastic value for money, with exceptional comfort and a practical range. Unfortunately, I learned the hard way that it’s not the best off-roader when I got it stuck in the mud.
That said, it didn’t disappoint at all. The only reason it’s not my number one is because I fell in love with something as impractical as a car with a V8 engine.
5. Ford Mustang Dark Horse
As a car enthusiast, I have to give the top spot to the roaring Ford Mustang Dark Horse with its 5.0-liter V8 engine.
It’s expensive and far from fuel-efficient, but the sound is absolutely unmatched. On top of that, it’s surprisingly easy and comfortable to drive, making it the car I’ll remember most from 2024.
