[2024] Schedule of new car model changes and new model additions, and predicted release dates

This time, we will summarize the car models (kei cars, compact cars, hatchbacks, SUVs, minivans) that are expected to undergo full model changes or release new models from domestic automakers between January and December 2024.

This year, there are many big-name models undergoing full model changes, including the popular Toyota Land Cruiser 250, Lexus GX, Suzuki Jimny 5-door, Mitsubishi Triton, Daihatsu Move, Honda WR-V, LEXUS GX550, Honda Accord, Toyota Crown Estate, and Subaru Forester.

In this day and age, people who are thinking about buying a car will need to make a reservation at a dealership before the release date, so if there is a car you want, I hope this will be helpful.In this day and age, people who are thinking about buying a car will need to make a reservation at a dealership before the release date, so if there is a car you want, I hope this will be helpful.

List of new models for 2024

We have compiled a list of car models that will be released in 2024, and it is clear that this is a very unusual time as many manufacturers will be adding new models.

Release Expectation	Manufacturer	Car name	Model
April 18, 2024	Toyota	Land Cruiser 250	Full model change
October 2024	Toyota	Alphard PHEV	addition
October 2024	Toyota	Vellfire PHEV	addition
2024	Toyota	Land Cruiser Mini	addition
2024	Toyota	Hilux Surf	Full model change
April 19, 2024	Lexus	GX550	Full model change
February 15, 2024	Mitsubishi	Triton	addition
2024	Mitsubishi	Pajero Mini	addition
2024	Nissan	Kicks	Full model change
August 2024	Nissan	Elgrand	Full model change
October 2024	Nissan	Days e-POWER	addition
October 2024	Nissan	Roox e-POWER	addition
March 7, 2024	Honda	Accord	Full model change
March 22, 2024	Honda	WR-V	Full model change
June 27, 2024	Honda	Freed	Full model change
April 2024	Honda	N-VAN EV	addition
June 27, 2024	Honda	Freed	Full model change
August 2024	Subaru	Forester	Full model change
August 2024	Suzuki	Fronx	addition
October 2024	Suzuki	Swift Sport	Full model change
October 2024	Suzuki	Spacia Gear	Full model change
2024	Suzuki	Jimny 5-door	addition
2024	Suzuki	Wagon R	Full model change
October 2024	Mazda	CX-80	addition
2024	Mazda	MAZDA2	Full model change
2024	Mazda	CX-3	Full model change

Toyota Land Cruiser 250 Prado full model change officially announced and released on April 18, 2024

Toyota had planned to release the Japanese model of the new Land Cruiser 250 on March 8, 2024, but this has been postponed. However, official information has been released to dealers, with the official announcement and release scheduled for April 18, 2024, and production set to begin on April 25, 2024, so we believe the car will definitely be released. However, while purchase quotas will be allocated to each dealer, the percentages and numbers vary, and delivery times are expected to be extended, just like the Land Cruiser 300.

About the exterior of the new Toyota Land Cruiser 250

The exterior design pursues high driving performance, expressing “proportions and uniqueness rooted in functional essence and dynamic capability.” This design maintains the image of a serious off-roader, while aiming for a design that allows for comfortable driving on any road. From the side, the Land Cruiser 250 is almost reminiscent of the 70-series Toyota Land Cruiser. The mirrors are also large and boxy in the old-fashioned style. The rear also features a simple design, with a full-length light bar below the large rear window that can be opened and closed separately from the new standard power tailgate.

The Land Cruiser 250’s body dimensions are 4,925mm in length, 1,980mm in width, 1,870mm in height, and a wheelbase of 2,850mm. Compared to the previous Prado, it has been extended by 100mm in length, 95mm in width, 20mm in height, and 60mm in wheelbase. The new Land Cruiser 250 has two different design faces. The base model features triple LED headlights, while the GX grade features a round headlight design.

Toyota to release new Alphard and Vellfire models with partial improvements and PHEV models in October 2024

Toyota held a new car launch event at 1:30 PM on September 6, 2023, where it unveiled its top-of-the-line showpiece, the Century . The company also unveiled the Vellfire PHEV and FCEV  Crown Sedan . As previously announced, a PHEV (plug-in hybrid) model will be added to the new Alphard and Vellfire models when they undergo partial improvements, with the launch scheduled for October 2024.

Toyota’s new Vellfire undergoes partial upgrades. A two-row, four-seater top-of-the-line model may be added. It will be released around October 2024.

Toyota will make some improvements to the new 40-series Alphard and Vellfire, releasing them around August 2024. Toyota Auto Body, the manufacturer of the Alphard, Vellfire, and other models, unveiled the VELLFIRE Spacious Lounge CONCEPT at the JAPAN MOBILITY SHOW 2023 , which will be held mainly at Tokyo Big Sight from October 26 to November 5, 2023, for the first time in the world.

Toyota’s new TJ Cruiser, the successor to the FJ Cruiser, will adopt TNGA and be released in 2024.

Toyota will release the Land Cruiser Mini, a new cross-country SUV model, around September 2024. Following the new Land Cruiser 300 , the new Land Cruiser series will see the release of the 250, 70 and Mini models between autumn 2023 and 2024.

Lexus new GX550 full model change released in March 2024

Lexus will be completely redesigning the GX and releasing the new GX550 Japanese model in March 2024. The company filed a trademark application for ” GX550 ” with the Japanese Patent Office on September 1, 2021 (trademark application number 2021-108677). There is a high possibility that the car will be introduced in Japan at this time.

Mitsubishi Triton full model change to be released on February 15, 2024

Mitsubishi Thailand unveiled the new Triton pickup truck for the first time in the world on July 26, 2023 (local time). The company also announced that the new Triton will be introduced in the Japanese market on February 15, 2024.

Mitsubishi Pajero Mini revival with new 4-door, featuring Dynamic Shield for the first time, to be released in 2024

Mitsubishi will fully redesign its new light SUV, the Pajero Mini, and release it in 2024.

Nissan Kicks undergoes full model change, adopting the latest e-POWER and CMF platform, to be released in 2024

Nissan will be fully redesigning its Kicks crossover SUV, releasing the third generation around 2024. The current model has actually been on sale overseas since 2016, so it has already been seven years, making this a full redesign after eight years.

Will the new Toyota Hilux Surf be reintroduced to Japan? 6th-generation full model change to be released around 2024

Toyota will be fully redesigning the new Hilux Surf, releasing it as the sixth generation around 2024. The Hilux Surf was originally sold in North America under the name 4Runner, and was sold in Japan until August 2009. The model has continued overseas ever since, with the current fifth-generation model being sold since 2009, making this a full redesign after 15 years.

Toyota’s new Hiace will be fully redesigned with a semi-bonnet design for the first time in 20 years, the H300 series, and will be released in August 2024.

Toyota will be fully redesigning the new Hiace and releasing it in August 2024. This time, it will be transformed into a global strategic commercial vehicle model with a semi-bonnet. The mass-produced model will likely make its world debut at the 46th Tokyo Motor Show 2019, scheduled to be held from October 23 to November 4, 2019 .

Nissan Elgrand E53 e-POWER with ProPilot to be released in August 2024

Nissan will fully redesign the new Elgrand in August 2024. The new Elgrand E53 model will also include an e-POWER model (hybrid).  The third-generation E52 model went on sale on August 18, 2010, marking 13 years since its release.

Honda’s new Accord, a fully redesigned Japanese model, will be released on March 7, 2024.

Honda will be fully redesigning the new Accord and releasing the Japanese model in 2024. The 11th-generation US model will be unveiled on November 10, 2022 (local time), with sales starting in 2023. The Japanese model went on sale on February 21, 2020, meaning it will be released later than the US model.

Honda’s new “WR-V” sporty SUV, Japan model, to be released around April 2024

Honda will release the new compact SUV “WR-V” in Japan around April 2024. The company filed a trademark application for “WR-V” with the Japan Patent Office on January 21, 2016 (trademark application 2016-5947). A similar model was unveiled in Jakarta, Indonesia on November 2, 2022 (local time).

Honda’s new “Freed” fully redesigned model will be released on June 27, 2024

Honda will fully redesign the new Freed, which is expected to be announced on May 9, 2024, and released on June 27, 2024. Reservations will open in late May, so those considering purchasing one should start making preparations.

Honda’s latest exterior design will be changed to resemble the current Stepwagon.

The exterior keeps the same concept, but the front face has been changed, and it is clear that the design is similar to the current Step WGN . The overall length and height have been increased, further expanding the interior space and improving usability. Looking at the spy shots, we can see that the shape of the rear window for the third row has changed and become larger. In other words, there is no doubt that the overall length has increased. The 5-number size has been maintained.

The lineup includes the standard model ” Freed AIR” and the active style “CROSSTAR.” In particular, the “CROSSTAR” is said to be more outdoor and crossover-oriented than the previous model.

The front pillars have a different cross-sectional structure than before, and are designed to transfer the load to the body in the event of a collision. The front A-pillars are so thin that they feel a little unnatural, but they certainly do not obstruct visibility when turning right or left. The “center tank layout” based on Honda’s unique M・M philosophy has been retained from the previous model.

Honda to release new N-VAN-based light commercial electric vehicle in April 2024

Honda will release a new light commercial EV (electric vehicle) based on the N-VAN light van in April 2024. For four-wheel vehicles, Honda plans to offer 30 types of EVs globally by 2030.

Nissan’s first minicar equipped with “e-POWER” Nissan’s new “Dayz e-POWER” partially improved model to be released in October 2024

Nissan will release the new Dayz e-POWER, the first e-POWER equipped minicar, in October 2024. This will be the first e-POWER model in a minicar, and will combine the second-generation e-POWER with a 660cc minicar engine.

Nissan’s first minicar equipped with “e-POWER” – New “Roox e-POWER” to be released in November 2024

Nissan will launch the new Roox equipped with e-POWER in November 2024.

Toyota’s new Crown Estate is finally back! Released in late June 2024

Toyota plans to release the new Crown Estate, a new body type, in late June 2024. Initially, it was said to be for the end of 2023, but was later postponed to spring 2024, and has been postponed several times, but it now appears that the release date is finally almost confirmed. Information is expected to be available from dealers around the end of March, and the official specifications will likely be known soon.

Rather than the traditional sedan style, it adopts a crossover SUV style. To be honest, I felt that it has a cool and sophisticated design. The hammerhead shape gives it a powerful look, and the front section uses a U-shaped daytime running light, which is a trend. The “Crown” emblem continues to be used. The rear uses “LED rear combination lamps,” which are thin and sharp, extending horizontally . The 21-inch aluminum wheels were particularly impressive. It gives the impression of incorporating the latest trends. The body measures 4,930mm in length, 1,880mm in width, 1,620mm in height, and has a wheelbase of 2,850mm, giving it a classic SUV style. The platform is a “newly developed platform” based on “TNGA.”

Daihatsu’s new “Move” full model change to be released around July 2024

Daihatsu is planning to fully redesign its new tall mini wagon, the Move, and release it around October 2024. The car was originally scheduled to be announced on May 10, 2023, and released on July 3, 2023, but the release was postponed after irregularities were discovered in Daihatsu Motor’s certification procedures. Currently, simple pamphlets and other materials are being distributed at dealerships, and many people are eagerly awaiting its release.

The new Move features a completely redesigned exterior and interior, based on the same concept. Surprisingly, for the first time, the previous Move Custom has been abandoned , and its elements have been incorporated to enhance the design. Also, for the first time, power sliding doors have been introduced. Similarly, as with the full model change of the new Tanto and Tanto Custom, the new platform , DNGA (Daihatsu New Global Architecture), is adopted. This reduces vehicle weight, improves vertical bending rigidity by 30%, and increases the upper body’s high-tensile strength ratio by 10%. The new suspension also enhances ride comfort. Engine improvements include the introduction of Japan’s first “multiple spark” system, improving combustion efficiency . This results in both weight reduction and improved fuel economy. Additionally, the new DCVT (Dual mode CVT) employs the world’s first “power split technology,” and new features include an electric parking brake and auto brake hold .

Suzuki’s new “FRONX” compact crossover SUV to be released in August 2024

Suzuki will launch the new compact crossover SUV “FRONX” in Japan in August 2024.

The FRONX is built on Suzuki’s latest Heartect platform, measuring 3,995mm long, 1,765mm wide, 1,550mm high, and has a wheelbase of 2,520mm. The wheelbase is 5mm longer than the Baleno, and it is 20mm wider and 50mm taller overall. Its footprint is roughly the same as the Suzuki Brezza.

The front end resembles the Grand Vitara, with split headlights, a chrome-inserted grille, and an aluminum-style skid plate. It also features 17-inch aluminum wheels, pronounced fenders, a rear shoulder, and a sporty profile. At the rear, a roof spoiler covers the sloping rear glass, bucking the coupe-SUV trend. It also features LED taillights and a large aluminum-style skid plate.

Subaru’s new Forester, the 6th generation, will be fully redesigned and released in Japan in August 2024.

The new Forester is about to undergo a full model change. The sixth-generation Japanese model is scheduled to be released around August 2024. There is one surprising point this time. In addition to the next-generation EyeSight, it will also feature the next-generation e-BOXER, which is equipped with Toyota’s hybrid system, THS (TOYOTA Hybrid System).

The latest design has been adopted, with the grille area enlarged and a line that continues to the headlights. The grille area has been enlarged and a line that continues to the headlights has been adopted. This creates an impression of advanced luxury. The rear taillights incorporate a trendy design with the Subaru logo connected to the left and right.

The body dimensions are 4,655mm in length, 1,830mm in width, 1,730mm in height, 2,670mm in wheelbase, and 220mm in ground clearance. Although the length has only changed by 30mm and the width by 15mm compared to the previous model, the changes are even more noticeable from the outside. Air outlets are located at the front and sides, reducing air resistance and contributing to improved fuel efficiency. Side guards and roof rails are also standard equipment. Additionally, 17-inch, 18-inch, and 19-inch aluminum wheels are available.

Suzuki’s new Swift Sport, the fifth generation, will be fully redesigned and released in October 2024.

Suzuki will fully redesign its new compact sports car, the Swift Sport, and release it around October 2024. Of course, the base model will be the fifth-generation Swift, which was released in December 2023.

Suzuki’s new “Spacia Gear” fully redesigned to be released in October 2024

Suzuki will be fully redesigning the Spacia Gear and releasing it in October 2024. Of course, the base model will be the new Spacia , the third-generation light height wagon that was released on November 22, 2023. It will see advancements in design, a comfortable and cozy interior, and safety features.

Mazda’s new CX-80, Japan’s top-of-the-line SUV with three rows of seats, will be released in October 2024.

Mazda will release the CX-80, the top-of-the-line premium crossover SUV for Japan, in October 2024. The CX-80  will feature the latest exterior design, as well as an unprecedented interior design. It will use a newly developed FR platform. It will be a more premium 3-row SUV than the existing CX-8. It will not only feature the latest i-ACTIVSENSE safety system, but will also feature the MAZDA CO-PILOT 1.0 . The engine will be a SKYACTIV-X 3.0L inline 6-cylinder engine + 48V M Hybrid . It is likely that the Japanese model will have several different powertrains in its lineup.

Mazda CX-3 undergoes full model change, adopts next-generation SKYACTIV-X engine, larger size, launches in 2024

Mazda will fully redesign the new CX-3 and release it in 2024.

The previous model CX-3 was based on the Demio and fully adopted SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY and the design theme “Kodo – Soul of Motion.” The China-exclusive CX-4, which is one class higher, is a coupe-type SUV that uses the CX-5 platform. In Japan, the CX-5 is in a higher class, but there is a clear difference when looking at body size. Furthermore, even on a global scale, the CX-3 is compact in size and it cannot be said that it has much sales potential. Therefore, when it underwent a full model change, it was changed from a Demio-based model to an Axela-based model and made larger. It will be based on the new Axela and will adopt many technologies.

Mazda’s new MAZDA2 will be fully redesigned and released in October 2024

Mazda will be fully redesigning the MAZDA2 and releasing it in October 2024. The exterior will retain its original concept but undergo redesigns at both the front and rear. The design theme ” KODO – Soul of Motion ” will be fully adopted, giving the car a sharper look. The headlights will have a more elongated design than the previous model. The car will also feature the next-generation vehicle structural technology ” SKYACTIV-Vehicle Architecture ,” which will deliver refined dynamic performance in all directions.

summary

We’ve provided a summary of new models being announced between January and December 2024, and they’re all more hot than ever before. Other brands besides Lexus and Toyota are also preparing hot new models for the second half of the year, so those considering a purchase will likely be struggling to decide what to get. Not only are these models not given priority or discounts within dealerships, but prices are also rising, giving the impression that the hurdles to purchasing a new car are higher than ever before. This situation is expected to continue for the next few years , but the situation may change once supply stabilizes. If you have already decided on the model you want to purchase, we encourage you to speak with your dealer representative several months before the expected release date to discuss ways to secure delivery early.