Many cars, trucks, SUVs, and minivans have gotten upgrades for the 2021 model year. There are a a variety of terms you’ll frequently see associated with a description of a vehicle for its annual changeover.
Here’s how AutomotiveMap defines them:
- New – These models are entering the market for the first time.
- Carryover – There have been no major changes from one model year to the other. It is common that the year after a new or refreshed model is introduced, it will be a carryover.
- Refreshed – Commonly occurring three to four years after the new generation of a model is introduced, a refresh usually includes new fascia, perhaps an engine lineup change or tech upgrade, and usually the addition of safety system upgrades.
- Redesign – This term signals a generation change in the model. This usually requires an architecture change and all new body panels, engine lineup, tech offerings, and the introduction of new packages, trim levels, and pricing. Redesigns typically happens every seven to nine years.
The models on this list are new or have either been redesigned or refreshed for the 2021 model year. This list will grow as more information becomes available.
2021 Honda Odyssey
Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc
The Honda Odyssey has gotten a refresh for the 2021 model year. Its fascia has been revised, as has its interior, which now includes more high-tech features and premium upholstery in higher grades. The 2021 Honda Odyssey will go on sale later this year.
2021 Audi RS 6 Avant
Photo courtesy of Audi AG
It’s the wagon that makes your heart go pitty-pat. The 2021 Audi RS 6 Avant is new for 2021 in the U.S. it has a 591-horsepower, twin-turbocharged 4.0-liter V8 under the hood and enough athleticism to make it a good time. Plus, it has all the Audi electronics in the cabin that rank as some of the best in the industry.
2021 Porsche Panamera
Porsche’s only four-door sedan, the Panamera, has been refreshed with more sporty styling front and rear. A new 2.9-liter twin-turbo V6 powers the base model, producing 325 horsepower. The GTS modle now has 473 horsepower, while the Pan amera Turbo S shreds tires with 620 horsepower – way up from the 550 horses from last year’s Turbo.
2021 Ram 1500 TRX
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
In Fiat Chrysler’s never-ending quest to Hellcat all the things, we shouldn’t be at all surprised that Ram has produced a competitor to the ever-popular Ford Raptor. The Ram 1500 TRX is a quad-cab full-size pickup with a six-inch wider track than the usual Ram 1500 – and over 13 inches of wheel travel front and rear. Most importantly, the increasingly ubiquitous 6.2-liter supercharged V8, producing 702 horsepower, is beneath the be-scooped bonnet.
2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost
The fully-redesigned 2021 Rolls-Royce Ghost has a new overarching philosophy – in the words of the company, the Ghost is “Post Opulent.” In other words, it is a bit less showy compared to the overstuffed, overtly-gilded models in the past. That doesn’t mean it’s Spartan – but the luxury is more understated. The car is longer and wider than before – allowing for all-wheel drive. A 563 horsepower turbocharged V12 effortlessly propels the big sedan to speed.
2021 Audi Q5
Photo courtesy of Audi AG
Minor detail changes to exterior and interior styling mark the refresh Audi has put upon their popular Q5 crossover. A wider Singleframe grille that brings the design more in line with the rest of the lineup is perhaps the most noticeable exterior detail, while the new MIB 3 infotainment system is standard – with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2021 BMW 330e and 330e xDrive
The new 2021 BMW 330e ad 330e xDrive are plug-in hybrid electric variants of the popular 3 Series sedan. They’re new for the 2021 model year. The 330e xDrive is the all-wheel drive model. BMW has given the car 22 miles of all-electric range and an estimated 75 MPGe rating (67 MPGe with all-wheel drive). The car goes on sale later this year.
2021 GMC Terrain AT4
Photo courtesy of GMC
GMC has committed to giving its entire lineup an AT4 trim level and at this point, the Terrain is the lone hold out. That all changes with the introduction of the new 2021 GMC Terrain AT4, a version of the SUV with blacked out features and badging. It will be available in the autumn.
2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
The 2021 Chevrolet Trailblazer isn’t the old Trailblazer. This new model is a completely different beast that’s a subcompact SUV slotting below the Equinox in Chevy’s lineup. It’s on sale now.
2021 Subaru Crosstrek
Photo courtesy of Subaru of America, Inc.
The Subaru Crosstrek has been a popular choice among those looking for a crossover with legitimate all-weather chops – but the two-liter boxer four has often been described as underpowered at 152hp. For 2021, a 2.5-liter engine is now available, bumping the power figure to 182 horsepower. As always, all-wheel drive is standard across the board.
2021 Toyota RAV4 Prime
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.
For Toyota, Prime isn’t a grade of steak – it’s the term they use for a plug-in hybrid. For 2021, they’ve added the Prime label to their popular RAV4 crossover – with 42 miles of all-electric range, many commuters can make their daily drives without using a drop of gas. Overall, the RAV4 Prime (available only with all-wheel drive) has 600 bladder-busting miles of range. It’s not slow, either – total system power output is 302 horsepower.
2021 Audi RS 5
The Audi RS 5 has been refreshed with more aggressive looks than their lesser A5 and S5 siblings. A flatter grille, wider wheelarches, and new standard LED headlights distinguish the updated RS 5 and RS 5 Sportback. The new 10.1-inch infotainment screen now comes with standard Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
2021 Kia Sorento
Photo courtesy of Kia Motors
The Kia Sorento has gotten an upscale redesign for the 2021 model year. Its body is a blend of the Seltos and Telluride while its interior delivers some of the best design and appointments Kia offers. Pricing is expected to remain similar to the 2020 model when it goes on sale later this year.
2021 Ford Bronco Sport
Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company
The Bronco Sport is the second of Ford’s two pronged attack on the offroad SUV segment. The Bronco Sport shares butch styling cues with the standard Bronco, but is based on the Escape crossover. It won’t be the hardcore offroad tool that the Bronco is, but with a pair of turbocharged engines, a terrain management system, and on some trims optional skidplates, it should acquit itself better than most softroaders.
2021 Volkswagen Golf GTI
Photo courtesy of Volkswagen AG
The eight-generation Golf GTI was unveiled earlier this year. The completely redesigned model features a number of variants with modern fuel sources, evolved hot hatch design, and the latest roster of VW technology. Inevitably it will still be fun to drive.
2021 Chevrolet Tahoe
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
The redesigned 2021 Chevrolet Tahoe is more rugged or more stylish than the Chevy Silverado, depending on which trim level you get. Like the Suburban, it has fantastic passenger space, improved driving dynamics, and is expected to go on sale this summer.
2021 Ford F-150
The F-150 has been Ford’s best selling vehicle for generations, so getting a redesign right is critical. Styling isn’t greatly changed from the previous model, but underneath it’s full of improvements to make driving and working easier. Notably, out of six possible engine options, the F-150 now offers a hybrid Ecoboost model to add fuel economy and power. Another interesting option is a variety of onboard generators for powering tools and other electrical devices.
2021 Cadillac Escalade
Photo courtesy of Cadillac
The Suburban, Tahoe, and Yukon were all announced as being upgraded for the 2021 model year so it was inevitable that the 2021 Cadillac Escalade would follow suite. It seems that the Escalade truly takes luxury up a notch with this new model, which is designed to compete squarely with the Lincoln Navigator. The Escalade will arrive in dealer showrooms in late 2020.
2021 Chrysler Pacifica Pinnacle
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
Chrysler launched a significantly refreshed 2021 Pacifica at the Chicago Auto Show this year. The model has a new face, updated tech, available all-wheel drive, and a new top-tier trim – Pinnacle.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S Class
Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
The flagship luxury sedan from Mercedes-Benz, the S-Class, has been fully revamped with new styling inside and out. It’s longer and wider than before, with additional elbow room front and rear. Interestingly, rear-wheel steering will be available to drastically reduce the turning circle to under 36 feet. Up to five interactive touchscreens are available on the interior to control everything going on in and around the big sedan.
2021 BMW M5
BMW’s M5 super sedan has seen some styling tweaks, but the essence of the hot family hauler remains – that 600 horsepower twin-turbo V8 is a beast that turns this into a rocketship. The grille has been slightly enlarged, with a touch of chrome highlighting those twin kidneys. A couple of new paint colors are available as well.
2021 Jaguar F-Pace
Photo courtesy of Jaguar
Gentle tweaks to lighting front and rear, along with a revised grille mark the subtle exterior changes to the Jaguar F-Pace. The interior sees significant upgrades, however, with a 11.4-inch curved glass touch screen that is three times brighter than the old screen, paired with an available 12.3-inch driver’s info screen in place of traditional gauges. Soft touch materials go further across the car to enhance the luxury feel throughout.
2021 Kia K5
Remember the Kia Optima – the popular midsized sedan? It’s gone – replaced by the new Kia K5. With bold styling and a ton of interior upgrades, the K5 (already in dealerships) has a pair of engine options – and all-wheel drive will be available late this year.
2021 Kia Stinger
Kia’s halo sports liftback, the Stinger, has seen exterior changes to make the carryover model a bit more aggressive. The new grille is flanked by headlamps with a checkerboard pattern. The 3.3-liter twin-turbo V6 gets more power – up to 367 horsepower. Further, it has a new variable exhaust selector, to make it louder or quieter depending on the driver’s preference.
2021 Lexus IS
Photo courtesy of Lexus
While the crossover craze seems unabated, there are still those who want a premium sports sedan. The Lexus IS has been redesigned with a more aggressive, athletic stance. It looks quite similar to the outgoing model, but is longer and wider – with a larger grille. It’s lighter and more rigidly built than the previous model, which should do wonders for handling and economy.
2021 Ram ProMaster
Photo courtesy of FCA US LLC
The refreshed 2021 Ram ProMaster was unveiled at the 2020 Work Truck Show in March. It now comes with a segment-exclusive available rearview camera mirror. Crosswinds Assist comes standard now, and a wide variety of safety features, traditionally reserved for cars and SUVs, are available. The truck will be available later this summer.
2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E
The 2021 Ford Mustang Mach-E is brand new. The all-electric crossover is said to have power and performance that rivals a Tesla. The model is on sale now and deliveries are expected to start near the end of the year.
2021 Audi RS 7
Photo courtesy of Audi AG
It’s a fastback that’s fast. Now the redesigned RS 7 takes sport a step further, sharing just four body parts with the Audi A7, making it more than just a trim level. It has six drive modes, typical Audi athleticism, and 591 horsepower. The 2021 Audi RS 7 will go on sale later this year.
2021 Mazda CX-9
Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations
Mazda has tweaked their largest three-row crossover a bit for 2021, with minor detail changes to the styling inside and out. Notably, a larger 10.25-inch touchscreen replaces the older seven or nine incher across the lineup – coming with Android Auto and Apple CarPlay as standard. New interior trim patterns make the seats and dashboard look even more upscale than before.
2021 Hyundai Elantra and Elantra Hybrid
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai completely redesigned the Elantra for the 2021 model year, giving it sleek, Sonata-like looks, more aggressive performance, and a hybrid variant with impressive fuel economy figures. The 2021 Hyundai Elantra will arrive on dealership lots later this year.
2021 Kia Seltos
Photo courtesy of Kia Motors
Kia introduced the new Seltos earlier this year, quickly brining it to market to compete directly with the Hyundai Kona and Chevrolet Trailblazer. It’s a funky little crossover that fits well into its segment.
2021 Chevrolet Suburban
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
The redesigned 2021 Chevrolet Suburban is fresh and fierce, wearing Silverado-like fascia (but better) and and interior that competes with what you’ll find in other large SUVs, like the Ford Expedition. It has class-leading interior space and better driving dynamics than the last-gen model.
2021 Acura TLX
Acura has redesigned their midsized TLX sports sedan for 2021, with the standard model now in dealerships. With more dramatic styling, the TLX has Honda’s traditional double-wishbone front suspension and a more powerful two-liter turbocharged four cylinder engine paired with a ten-speed automatic. Coming in early 2021 is the hot TLX Type S, with a turbocharged V6 and all-wheel drive.
2021 Jaguar F-Type
Photo courtesy of Jaguar Land Rover
The Jaguar F-Type was already good. It just got better. The 2021 F-Type sports a fresh exterior, refreshed interior, and new engine options with heightened performance. The 2021 Jaguar F-Type will go on sale in 2021. Pricing will be announced closer to the car’s on-sale date.
2021 Hyundai Sonata N Line
Photo courtesy of Hyundai Motor America
Hyundai’s Sonata has proven to be a strong contender in the midsize sedan market, and with the hotter N Line trim, it should win some sports sedan fans. At least 275hp will be on tap, powering the front wheels via an eight-speed dual-clutch transmission. Tightened suspension, larger brakes, and sporty styling cues inside and out will further distinguish the Sonata N Line.
2021 Genesis GV80
The new 2021 Genesis GV80 is a fresh, luxurious take on the modern SUV for buyers looking for value and high-quality appointments. Genesis will offer the GV80 in 10 different grades with pricing to be in a league similar to other luxury models.
2021 Lexus LC Convertible
Photo courtesy of Lexus
The we-can’t-believe-they-built-it Lexus LC 500 coupe has been one of the most stunning cars to hit showrooms in recent years – and now, they’ve chopped the top. All the better, we say – no need to let a silly roof get in the way of hearing the marvelous five-liter twincam V8 at full chat. The chassis has been rethought to maintain rigidity despite the lack of solid roof, and the transmission has been reprogrammed to make it shift a bit smoother.
2021 Jeep Wrangler 4xe
While the Jeep Wrangler has long been the off-road enthusiast’s choice, it’s never been a particularly fuel-efficient vehicle. No longer – the new Wrangler 4xe is a plug-in hybrid that still works like any other Wrangler off-road, but gives up to 25 miles of pure electric driving. Plus, that electric motor gives the Jeep even more power to handle the toughest terrain – the total system generates 375 horsepower.
2021 Chevrolet Colorado
Chevrolet’s venerable Colorado mid-sized pickup has been freshened with three new fascia styling options that, depending on the trim, will better resemble the full-sized Silverado or Silverado HD. Some shuffling of trim levels raised the base price of the least-expensive model – as there is no longer a base trim package. The drivetrain options have not changed.
2021 Volkswagen Atlas
Volkswagen has refreshed the Atlas for the 2021 model year with new tech, a fresh face, and upgraded interior features. VW will sell nine different grades of the model, which will start at about the same price as the 2020 model.
2021 Audi A3
Coming soon to Audi showrooms is the newly-redesigned A3 compact sedan. With striking new styling that resembles the rest of Audi’s sedan lineup, the A3 will be powered by Audi’s familiar two-liter four cylinder, producing 184 horsepower in the front-wheel drive model, and 228hp in the quattro all-wheel drive edition.
2021 Mercedes-Benz GLA
Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz’s entry-level SUV is the GLA, redesigned for the 2021 model year. It’s taller and wider than before, with more room inside and out. Available in front or all-wheel drive, the GLA is powered by a 221-horsepower turbocharged four-cylinder. A new MBUX infotainment system is standard – with a full-color heads-up display and augmented-reality navigation system.
2021 Porsche Cayenne GTS
Photo courtesy of Porsche AG
Never be late to soccer practice again – the new Porsche Cayenne GTS is powered by a twin-turbo four-liter V8 pumping out 453 horses to all four wheels. It gets from zero to 60 in 4.5 seconds – be sure the child seat is properly strapped down. The GTS package is available in both the standard Cayenne SUV bodystyle, as well as the Cayenne Coupe – the body with a more sloped rear hatch.
2021 GMC Yukon
Photo courtesy of GMC
GMC unveiled the top-to-bottom redesigned 2021 GMC Yukon earlier this year in Vail, Colorado AutomotiveMap was there and saw the Yukon Denali and Yukon AT4 models up close. This is the first model year where GMC has sold an AT4 variant of the model. The new Yukon is expected to go on sale later this year.
2021 Chevrolet Silverado Realtree Edition
Photo courtesy of Chevrolet
Chevrolet is bringing back the Silverado Realtree Edition for the 2021 model year. The special edition is based on the 2021 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Custom Trail Boss and comes with a lift, on- and off-road tires, a Realtree graphics package, and more. It’s slated to go on sale this summer.
2021 Toyota Highlander XSE
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.
Toyota introduced a redesigned Highlander for 2020. In 2021, the Highlander will be offered in a new XSE trim. Toyota has made the XSE a sportiest model with equipment designed to make it a more athletic drive. The 2021 Highlander will go on sale later this year.
2021 Genesis G80
Photo courtesy of Genesis Motors
Genesis has redesigned the G80 sedan to have many of the same design attributes as its big brother, the G90. The new sedan is more luxurious than many of its rivals, delivering a luxury level ride for a premium price. Genesis expects the G80 to go on sale later this year.
2021 Hyundai Santa Fe
The model year 2021 brings a totally redesigned Santa Fe to the Hyundai lineup, with bold styling cues front, rear, and inside. Three powertrains are offered for now – a base 2.5-liter, 191-horsepower four, a 2.5-liter turbo four with 277 horsepower, and a turbo 1.6-liter paired with a hybrid electric motor. A plug-in hybrid is expected soon.
2021 Porsche 911 S Turbo
Photo courtesy of Porsche AG
The 2021 Porsche 911 S Turbo is the fastest and most dynamic 911 to date. It has a host of specialty equipment under its hood, front, and rear, to make it athletic on the road and track. The previous iteration of the Porsche 911 Turbo S started at $190,700. The 2021 model is likely to be priced similarly.
2021 Mercedes-Benz E-Class
Photo courtesy of Mercedes-Benz
Mercedes-Benz has refreshed the E-Class for the 2021 model year and chosen to send both the sedan and wagon to the U.S. market. It has a revised exterior and interior, electric hybrid system, and the new Mercedes dual-screen/single planel infotainment screen setup. It will go on sale later this year.
2021 Jaguar XF
Jaguar has completely redesigned their XF midsized sedan, building much of the car out of lightweight recycled aluminum for better fuel efficiency and performance. The new styling is dominated by a handsome grille flanked with quad LED headlamps – with a signature “Double J Blade” making clear that J is for Jaguar. The upscale interior has attractive aluminum and open-pore wood accents, as well as an 11.4-inch central infotainment screen.
2021 Lexus LS
The Lexus LS has long been a pinnacle of affordable luxury sedans, and the 2021 refresh adds scads of refinement. New engine mounts go a long way to isolating any drivetrain vibrations from reaching the cabin, and active noise control has been employed to minimize the sound reaching the occupants. Subtle tweaks front and rear will further distinguish the LS, while a new adaptive high-beam headlamp system has been brought over from the RX crossover.
2021 Bentley Bentayga
Photo courtesy of Bentley Motors
Every single exterior panel of Bentley’s Bentayga has been tweaked to bring the styling more in line with the Continental GT and Flying Spur stablemates. New elliptical headlamps have a crystal design that appears to sparkle even when not lit. New powertrain options are coming – both a plug-in hybrid option, and a Bentayga Speed model with a six-liter W12 engine.
2021 BMW 4 Series
BMW has revealed a new 4-Series coupe that is longer, lower, and wider than the model it replaces. There will be no mistaking this for the older model – nor for any other car on the road – as the company’s trademark twin kidney grilles have been enlarged to almost comical proportions. The 4-Series has two engines – either a turbocharged four cylinder, or a twin-turbo six cylinder with a mild hybrid system.
2021 Ford Bronco
Photo courtesy of Ford Motor Company
The return of the Bronco nameplate has been one of the most hyped product reveals in the automotive sphere in years. Ford is targeting Jeep’s evergreen Wrangler with the two and four-door Bronco – with seven different trim packages that vary with the customer’s intended use. Two engines are available – a 270hp turbo four that can be paired with a 10-speed automatic or seven-speed manual, and a 310hp turbo V6 mated to the automatic only.
2021 Genesis G70
Genesis has refreshed their popular G70 entry-level luxury sports sedan with styling that resembles their larger G90 – especially with the signature crest-style grille dominating the fascia, flanked by striking new headlamps. The infotainment has been upgraded with a new 10.25-inch screen. Powertrain options remain much the same as before – either a turbocharged four-cylinder or a twin-turbo V6, both in either rear or all-wheel drive. Sadly, the manual transmission option has been cancelled.
2021 Volkswagen ID.4
Photo courtesy of Volkswagen AG
Volkswagen’s first electric SUV is the ID.4, built in Tennessee. The styling is unusually plain and unadorned for an EV – which might do wonders for those turned off by other electric cars that seem to visually shout with their styling. The initial offering is an 82kWh rear-wheel drive model, producing 201 horsepower and giving a 250 mile range. DC fast charging can give the ID.4 an 80 percent charge in about 38 minutes.
2021 Honda Ridgeline
Photo courtesy of American Honda Motor Co., Inc
Honda’s Ridgeline has long been referred to as the Accord of trucks – in both good and bad ways. The Ridgeline, riding on a unibody chassis versus the traditional body-on-frame construction of all other midsize trucks, has better on-road manners than most – but the styling too closely resembled a crossover. The refreshed 2021 Ridgeline answers the critics of the styling – it’s much more butch than any Ridgeline before.
2021 Hyundai Elantra N Line
Hyundai’s N Line treatment is seemingly coming to the entire lineup – the entry-level N Line model will be this Elantra, which was revealed earlier this year. The N Line trim will add sporty highlights, a stiffer suspension, and a 201 horsepower turbocharged engine to make the go match the show.
2021 Kia Rio
The subcompact Kia Rio has been refreshed with new styling that looks more like the larger K5 and Cadenza sedans. Notably, it might see a new mild-hybrid powertrain pairing a one-liter engine with a 48 volt battery – Europe is definitely getting this powertrain, but we aren’t sure whether it’s coming to the US.
2021 Maserati Ghibli Hybrid
The words “hybrid” and “Maserati” appearing in the same sentence is a bit jarring, to be certain – but every automaker will be getting on board the green train at some point. The Ghibli Hybrid uses a two-liter turbocharged four paired with a 48-volt battery to produce 330 total system horsepower. While those aren’t exotic car numbers, it’s a start.
2021 Mazda Mazda3 2.5 Turbo
Photo courtesy of Mazda North American Operations
Many enthusiasts miss the hot, turbocharged Mazdaspeed 3 of yesteryear. This is not a replacement for that – but Mazda has infused the handsome compact with more power. The 2.5-liter turbo four (producing 250 horsepower) is now available – but cannot be paired with a manual transmission.
2021 MINI Countryman
Photo courtesy of MINI
The MINI Countryman remains an incredibly popular compact-crossover version of the venerable compact hatchback, with a raised ride height, four doors, and plenty of interior space in a charming package. For 2021, the Countryman has been refreshed with new LED headlamps and a more boldly-styled grille and bumper combo. Beyond the usual gasoline powerplant options, the Cooper SE Countryman is a plug-in hybrid with 17 miles of all-electric range.
2021 Nissan Rogue
Photo courtesy of Nissan North America
The Nissan Rogue is all new for the 2021 model year, with evolutionary styling changes over a full redesign beneath. The Rogue has a nine-inch infotainment screen – the largest in the class. Further, available three-zone climate control is also exclusive to the class – driver, passenger, and rear seat occupants can each select the appropriate temperature for their needs. No matter front or rear, Rogue occupants will be coddled by Nissan’s excellent Zero Gravity seats.
2021 Toyota Venza
Photo courtesy of Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A. Inc.
The Toyota Venza nameplate has returned for 2021 – this time affixed to a midsized crossover that is mechanically similar to the RAV4 Hybrid. Yes, every Venza is a hybrid, achieving an estimated 39mpg combined. Toyota has taken the compact crossover upscale, with an available Star Gaze panoramic glass roof that can switch, with a touch of a button, from transparent glass to frosted to reduce sun glare.
2021 Volkswagen Arteon
The 2021 Volkswagen Arteon has a lightly refreshed exterior and interior design, with a long, wide hood making the entire car look longer and wider, with a new character line running front to rear to visually lower the look of the car. The interior has been upgraded, with better materials throughout and a sleeker-looking dashboard.
