Car launches to watch in 2023
We take a look at some of the most exciting models already launched in January or due to come later in 2023
A new year will bring with it plenty of exciting new launches to keep an eye on. A healthy mix of cars across all segments – with a range of powertrains – is scheduled and there are sure to be more announcements as 2023 rolls on.
Here is a quick rundown of some of the latest cars launched in the new year or set to hit the market later this year. The list is far from exhaustive, and launch dates are based on estimates provided by manufacturers where possible.
Revealed at the Guangzhou auto show, the Hyper GT claims to be the most aerodynamic production EV ever. A long wheelbase and short overhangs combine with an long greenhouse that sweeps back to the rear of the car, almost touching the end of the boot lid, helping it cut through the air. Sales are expected in 2023.
Skoda Enyaq iV vRS Coupe (January)
The brand’s first fully electric model to bear the vRS moniker comes with new front and rear bumpers and gloss black surrounds for the grille, window trim and rear diffuser.
Chevrolet Corvette e-Ray
One of many electrified variants of iconic models, the e-Ray (a V8 hybrid, not yet fully electric) stuns on the outside but it is the interior which will capture the attention of drivers, with a fighter pilot-style cockpit and raised centre console. It was revealed in January but is due at the end of 2023.
Honda Civic Type R (January)
Honda’s designers aimed for an even more aggressive looking Type R fpr the sixth-generation model. New air intakes, a towering rear spoiler (in true Type R aesthetic) and a trio of exhaust pipes certainly help to achieve that.
BMW i7
Large kidney grilles up front may split opinion, but an EV soundtrack curated by Hans Zimmer is sure to impress.
Abarth 500e Scorpionissima (February 2023)
This fully electric Abarth carries a new front light signature and fluorescent paintwork, as well as synthetic engine noise.
Hyundai Kona EV (March 2023)
The futuristic new Kona EV debuts a new variant of the brand’s Seamless Horizon Lamps, razor thin lights that span the width of the car. The Pixelated Seamless Horizon Lamps are described as an “iconic design flourish.”
The team wanted to create a “true, no-nonsense work vehicle,” according to design lead Ross Compton, ”a vehicle that can be seen as a piece of machinery… dependable and something that can tackle any challenge you come across.”
Bearing a close resemblance to the 2020 Prophecy concept, the Ioniq 6 builds on the success of the Ioniq 5 and carries a much sleeker form compared to the hatchback.
This limited-run Porsche 911 is inspired by the Paris-Dakar winning model from 1984, complete with off-road gear and retro livery.
Jaguar F Type 75 (early 2023)
Created to celebrate 75 years of Jaguar sports cars in 2023, the F Type 75 is also the final iteration of the model. Jaguar says it looks “more purposeful and assertive than ever.”
Lotus Eletre (summer 2023)
The brand’s first push into SUV territory, the Eletre is a big deal for Lotus. The design team says aerodynamics played a large part in the design, but this hasn’t resulted in a shapeless figure – there are plenty of hard lines and corners on show.
BMW XM
First revealed as a concept back in 2021, the XM debuts an angular new look for BMW.
VW ID.7
Revealed in camouflaged form at CES 2023, the ID.7 bears similar design language to the existing ID models but this time as a sedan.
A sportscar for the ‘digital age’, the Cyberster does in fact leverage the brand’s heritage that saw the MGB, Midget and MG F.
The five-seat EQE SUV is the fourth EQ model built on the company’s EVA architecture. Head of exterior design, Robert Lesnik, says the rounder form language makes the car look more compact.
Hyundai Ioniq 5 N
A go-faster version of the brand’s award-winning hatchback is expected to become available since it was teased in a video alongside other N-variants.
AC Cobra
Due in Spring 2023, the AC Cobra is one of many retro revivals of late. In a middle finger to prevailing trends, the Cobra GT Roadster will be available with a V8 and a 6-speed manual or ten-speed automatic gearbox.
BMW M3 Touring (mid 2023)
The one that got away for many M-car fans, the M3 Touring will finally enter production. As design lead Marcus Syring told us, the silhouette of the current 3 and 4 Series lended itself to an estate.
Polestar 3 (late 2023)
Revealed in Copenhagen, the 3 is Polestar’s first SUV and pushes it further into luxury territory.
A popular entry for 2022’s Car Design Review 9 book, the Daytona SP3 is inspired by retro racing cars. Don’t get your hopes up – the limited run of 599 models sold out immediately.
The brand’s first foray into a higher-riding four-door four-seater. “This was a fantastic challenge for us,” says design boss Flavio Manzoni. Now repeat after me: it is not an SUV.
Rolls Royce Spectre (late 2023)
The Spectre is Rolls’ first electric vehicle, but the design team has stayed true to its roots with conventional approaches to luxury.
Czinger 21C (late 2023)
First revealed in London in 2020, the 21C is the result of a marriage of AI and 3D printing.
