5 Head-Turning New Cars From Munich’s IAA Mobility Show

IAA Mobility 2023 went down last week in Munich and basically kicked off a new auto show season on the global stage. Once again, the event focused on European models yet managed to resonate all the way to our shores.

Here are five vehicle debuts that turned heads and will change the face of a few dealers in North America later in the decade:

1. 2024 Tesla Model 3

The best-selling EV in Quebec—and one of the most popular cars, period—is finally getting a refresh. The most significant changes to the exterior are up front, with a sharper bumper and headlights. In the rear, the taillights have a different look, as well. New 18-inch Photon wheels and 19-inch Nova wheels are available.

Inside, the first thing that catches the attention is the ambient lighting strip running across the dashboard and extending into the revised door panels. The centre touchscreen is now slightly larger at 15.4 inches integrates gear selection. Tesla also says it has improved materials and noise levels.

Details for the North American market should be released pretty soon, including official range estimates. Stay tuned.

2. Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA

This Model 3 fighter was introduced in Munich as a new compact electric car concept that foreshadows a range of zero-emission models based on the upcoming Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA).

With a next-generation electric drive system said to deliver more than 750 km of range (WLTP test cycle), a whole new approach to styling (including a nod to the distinctive shark nose from the 50s and 60s), plus an interior full of high-tech displays and gadgets, customers have reason to be excited.

3. BMW Neue Klasse Vision

The IAA Mobility venue was just minutes away from BMW’s headquarters, so the automaker wasn’t going to miss the opportunity to make a big statement. The Neue Klasse Vision concept hints at future EVs achieving unprecedented efficiency.

With ultra-high-density batteries, stellar charging speeds and a technologically advanced cabin that makes elegant use of sustainable materials, BMW is envisioning a new era of mobility that we can’t wait to step into.

4. Volkswagen ID. GTI Concept

The Volkswagen brand plans to launch 11 new electric models by 2027. Not all of them will come to North America, mind you, but we’ll get a zero-emission successor to the sporty Golf GTI. At IAA Mobility 2023, Volkswagen gave a preview in the form of the ID. GTI Concept.

The electric Golf GTI will ride on the company’s existing MEB platform, which underpins the ID.4 crossover and more. Unfortunately, Volkswagen didn’t provide technical details about the motor and battery, let alone performance and range figures. That being said, we’re definitely intrigued by the new “GTI Experience Control” on the centre console, allowing drivers to adjust the powertrain, steering, sound experience and even the simulated shift points in the style of one of the historical GTI models.

5. Audi Q6 and SQ6 e-tron

Let’s stay within the Volkswagen AG family, because the upcoming Audi Q6 e-tron and SQ6 e-tron made a delightful impression in Munich with their all-white exterior. More importantly, their high-tech interior was also revealed for the first time without any camo.

The so-called “Digital Stage” consists of two bright displays including an 11.9-inch virtual cockpit in front of the steering wheel and a 14.5-inch infotainment touchscreen on the right. All around are recycled materials arranged in a tasteful layout. These two electric crossovers are slated to arrive in Canada as 2025 models.