Twin-under-the-skin with Toyota’s bZ4X and the first fully electric Subaru for Oz, the Solterra is also the most expensive model in the Subaru range. The AWD EV is powered by dual electric motors for a combined 160kW/337Nm output and 414km range. Two well-equipped variants are available.

Available to view since late last year, deliveries of the updated Tesla Model 3 are now due. The line-up features significant tweaks to the interior and exterior aimed at keeping it within striking distance of an ever-growing range of competitors. Upgraded suspension is part of the latest overhaul.

Subaru’s BRZ is updated for 2024 to include a new top of the range tS model with handling and braking improvements along with styling and interior tweaks and more features. It is the same under the bonnet, however, with a familiar 2.4-litre four-cylinder petrol and 174kW/250Nm output.

Another possibility this month, the Qashqai e-Power uses Nissan’s clever petrol-electric hybrid powertrain with a three-cylinder ICE engine functioning solely as a generator. Total outputs are 140kW/330Nm to achieve a claimed 1058km range. It is available only in high spec Ti grade.

A possible arrive this month, and initially with six petrol-powered 1.5 or 2.0-litre variants, the new Countryman is bigger and available in front or all-wheel drive. New features include LED headlights and 18 to 20-inch alloy wheels, tech upgrades across the board, and vegan friendly cabin materials

Brutally powerful 2.0-litre four pot AWD hybrid sedan offers 500kW/1020Nm for a 3.4 second 0-100km/h sprint. High tech optimised handling and drive is aided by active rear-axle steering and selectable Drift Mode, and fully variable AMG Performance 4Matic+.

A mild massage for the long-serving CX-5 sees the line-up comprise Maxx, Maxx Sport, Touring, GT SP and Akera variants. Power remains from 2.0-litre and 2.5-litre petrol or 2.5-litre turbo petrol units in front- or all-wheel drive. Some new colours, features and technology is now available

Mazda’s tweaked CX-30 SUV has an efficiency boost with available hybrid powertrain. Advanced safety technology, interior and exterior styling enhancements, improved drive feel, and more customisation opportunities mark the new model that also scores additional equipment.

Scheduled for January, the eDeliver7 BEV boasts a claimed 300km-plus range in 77kWh form and 380km with the 88kWh battery. All variants run a front drive 150kW/330Nm electric motor. Short wheelbase low-roof, mid-wheelbase low-roof and mid-wheelbase mid-roof bodies available.

The updated Sorento boasts a new look inside and out, and new comfort and convenience features, updated technology, and revised safety kit. The line-up continues to offer the choice of four powertrains, including turbo petrol and diesel, hybrid (HEV), and plug-in hybrid (PHEV) formats.

Readily available economical i30 Sedan Hybrid is drive-away priced to target the Toyota Corolla. Features a 1.6-litre petrol-electric hybrid driveline driving the front wheels via a six-speed dual-clutch transmission, it is good for 104kW/147Nm and claimed average of 3.9 litres per 100km.

A maybe for this month is the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N. Eager punters are lining up for the 448kW/770Nm dual-motor BEV with Nurburgring validation. It scores a full array of go-fast bits including rear eLSD, drift mode, boost mode, special tyres, reinforced chassis, 400mm brakes, and race-car style interior.

More powerful turbocharged Omoda arrives as a step-up on the existing 1.5-litre model. With 137kW/275Nm and front- and all-wheel drive available, the model will sit atop the EX variant. It further features a seven-speed dual-clutch transmission and multi-link rear suspension.