2023 is upon us and the motoring world seems to be returning to normality in a post-C19 era. This means that the automotive industry is shaping up for a bumper year. There are dozens of new models scheduled for introduction during the course of 2023. Here are the top 5 new models coming to SA in 2023 that we are keen to drive.

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Our list is alphabetical, and by no means exhaustive. If you have any others you’d like to suggest, please let us know on our Facebook page or drop us a message below.

BMW M2

BMW SA will introduce a raft of new and revised models during the course of this year. These will include the X1, iX1, 7 Series and the controversial XM. However, if we had to chose just one that we are keen to slide behind the wheel, it’s the BMW M2. The second-gen small performance coupe will go on sale locally from the second quarter of this year. Good news for enthusiast drivers is that the car will be available with a six-speed manual transmission. Read more info at this link or by clicking the image.
Top 5 New Models Coming To SA in 2023

Lamborghini Urus Performante

The Lamborghini urus cannot be accused of being slow. But, a company with a small portfolio relies on creating various versions of its existing line up. Hence we have the Urus Performante. The super SUV now has 490 kW and 850 N.m from its twin-turbocharged 4,0-litre V8 petrol engine. This results in a zero to 100 km/h time of just 3,3 seconds. The top speed is a supercar-rivalling 306 km/h. The large machine also loses a few kg to make it more dynamic, a claim it has already proven, as you can read here.
Another Lambo coming to SA in 2023 is the high-riding Huracan Sterrato. We really hope that Lamborghini SA has a local ride and drive event for this… on an off-road/rally course.

Lamborghini Urus Performante

Lotus Emira

Lotus, as a brand, has flourished under Chinese ownership. The ageing range of small sportscars has been completely replaced. The Emira is a new mid-engined, rear-wheel drive coupe to come from the UK-based firm. It is also the very last internal combustion engine (ICE)-powered car from the automaker before it switches over completely to battery power. We spotted one of these locally at the very end of 2022, as you can see on our Facebook page. Read more about the Lotus Emira at this link.

Lotus Emira rear

Mercedes-AMG C63 E Performance

Mercedes-Benz will introduce several new or facelifted cars to the SA market this year. A large number of these will wear the AMG and EQ badges. A few highlights include the C43, GLC, SL43, EQE, EQS SUV and GLB35. The most notable of these for petrolheads will be the C63 E Performance.
Many are not impressed by the fact that AMG has foregone the C63’s signature V8 for an inline four with a massive hybrid component. One columnist on our website even wonders if eight cylinders are necessary, as you can read here. Either way, we are really keen to get our hands on a C63 to find out how the new car goes. Click here or the pic below to learn more.

Mercedes-AMG C63S E Performance

Volkswagen Mk8 Golf R 

We are fans of hot hatches here at Double Apex. Small, powerful cars that are capable of providing practicality and pace are a staple of the South African motoring landscape. VW has provided local petrolheads with many options over the years, and the Mk8 Golf R is the latest. The apex Golf has a twin in the shape of the Tiguan, which is also due for local introduction this year. More info at this link.

Golf R and Tiguan R

Bonus Track

Porsche 911 Dakar

The Porsche 911 Dakar is a novel take on the evergreen coupe from Stuttgart. The high-riding 911 harks back to victories by the brand in the famous Dakar Rally, as you can see here. The 911 Dakar is a limited-edition derivative so it is pretty unlikely that there will be a national ride and drive event. Although, of there is we hope it takes place in a suitable arena.

Porsche 911 Dakar rear