The 17 Most Unexpected Car Collaborations Ever

Car companies have teamed up with some truly unexpected partners over the years, sometimes with brilliant results and other times with head-scratching outcomes.

I remember seeing a special-edition luxury SUV that was co-branded with a high-end fashion label.

It had quilted leather seats, a designer logo on the dashboard, and a price tag that made my wallet cry just looking at it. But that is nothing compared to some of the strangest car collaborations in history.

From unexpected brand mashups to bizarre limited editions, automakers have taken some wild chances with their partnerships.

1. Volkswagen and International Harvester: 2026 Volkswagen Scout

Growing up, my family’s summer trips weren’t complete without our trusty International Harvester. It was a staple for any off-road adventure, and the Volkswagen collaboration to create the 2026 Scout feels like a nod to that legacy.

The Scout still exudes the rugged charm of the original, with modern enhancements. This vehicle doesn’t just carry forward a name; it embodies a history of reliability and adventure.

When I see the new Scout, it feels like meeting an old friend who’s ready for new journeys.

2. Fiat and Mazda: 2017-2020 Fiat 124 Spider

The Fiat 124 Spider, born from a partnership with Mazda, is a blend of Italian flair and Japanese precision. Similar to the Mazda MX-5 Miata, it offers an exhilarating drive with its nimble handling and spirited engine.

But the Spider stands out with its distinct styling and luxurious touches, making it more than just a roadster.

Imagine a maestro conducting a symphony; this car harmonizes performance and aesthetics, creating an unforgettable driving experience that rivals its peers in the convertible segment.

3. Toyota and Mazda: 2016 Scion iA / 2017-2020 Toyota Yaris iA

Back in college, my budget was tight, but I needed a reliable car. The Scion iA, later the Toyota Yaris iA, became my choice—a decision I never regretted.

This vehicle represents a seamless blend of Toyota’s reliability and Mazda’s driving dynamics. It might not have been flashy, but its legacy of dependability and efficiency made it an unsung hero in my daily life.

Every ride was steady, a reminder that practicality often brings its own kind of satisfaction, much like an unexpected favorite tune.

4. Aston Martin and Toyota: 2011-2013 Aston Martin Cygnet

The Aston Martin Cygnet is a curious blend of opulence and economy, like pairing a tuxedo with sneakers. It shares its platform with the Toyota iQ, yet Aston Martin’s touch elevates it to luxury status.

With a plush interior and Aston’s iconic design touches, the Cygnet is like a compact jewel in the urban jungle.

It invites comparisons to its more extravagant siblings, yet it remains a testament to what happens when luxury meets practicality in the bustling cityscape.

5. Tesla and Lotus: 2008-2012 Tesla Roadster

I remember my first glimpse of the Tesla Roadster at a car show. It was revolutionary—a true electric sports car from Tesla and Lotus, combining high performance with eco-friendliness.

This wasn’t just a car; it was a statement of innovation. The legacy of the Roadster is one of breaking barriers and setting new standards for electric vehicles.

Even years later, the image of its sleek design speeding along the highway remains etched in my memory, symbolizing a leap into the future.

6. Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz: 2004-2008 Chrysler Crossfire

The Chrysler Crossfire, a collaboration with Mercedes-Benz, is akin to a phoenix—bold and striking. Its aggressive styling and performance are similar to the Mercedes SLK, yet it stands apart with its distinct Chrysler identity.

Underneath, it carries the heart of German engineering, promising a drive that is both thrilling and refined.

This car is more than just a sports coupe; it’s where American flair meets European precision, offering a spirited ride wrapped in a uniquely styled package.

7. Honda and Land Rover: First Generation Honda Crossroad

My first road trip was in a Honda Crossroad, a car with a legacy of blending Honda’s innovation with Land Rover’s ruggedness. It wasn’t a typical sight on the road, which made it all the more special.

This vehicle was an embodiment of adventure, ready to tackle any terrain with ease. Its legacy isn’t just about performance; it’s about the joy of exploration and the memories created along the way.

Today, it remains a cherished part of automotive history, symbolizing a unique partnership.

8. Mitsubishi and AMG: Mitsubishi Galant AMG

The Mitsubishi Galant AMG can be compared to a well-tailored suit—sleek, stylish, and made for performance.

This collaboration brought AMG’s tuning expertise to Mitsubishi’s sedan, transforming it into a powerful machine.

With sporty aesthetics and enhanced performance, the Galant AMG shared similarities with its more famed AMG counterparts.

Yet, it offered a unique charm, a balance of everyday usability and spirited driving, making it a standout choice for those seeking something different without sacrificing style or capability.

9. Mercedes-Benz and McLaren: Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren

Attending a racetrack event, the Mercedes-Benz SLR McLaren caught my eye with its sleek lines and roaring engine. This car, born from a collaboration with McLaren, was a marvel of engineering and design.

The legacy of the SLR McLaren is one of speed and prestige, a testament to what happens when luxury meets performance.

Driving or even seeing this car was an experience—an unspoken promise of power and elegance. It remains a symbol of automotive excellence, a true masterpiece on wheels.

10. Fiat and Gucci: Fiat 500 by Gucci

The Fiat 500 by Gucci is like a fashionista among cars—stylish, compact, and full of character. This collaboration brought Gucci’s signature flair to the beloved Fiat 500, adding a touch of luxury to its retro charm.

With unique Gucci design elements, it stands alongside other fashion-forward vehicles like the Mini Cooper. However, it distinguishes itself with its unmistakable style and brand prestige.

An ideal choice for those who value aesthetics as much as functionality, it blends city practicality with haute couture elegance.

11. Bugatti and Hermès: Bugatti Chiron Hermès Edition

Walking into a luxury showroom, the Bugatti Chiron Hermès Edition immediately commanded attention. This collaboration between Bugatti and Hermès is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design.

Its legacy is one of unparalleled luxury, where every detail is meticulously crafted to perfection. The Chiron isn’t just a supercar; it’s a statement of art and power.

Seeing it up close felt like encountering an art piece, a perfect blend of speed and elegance, a testament to what happens when two titans of industry unite.

12. BMW and Louis Vuitton: BMW i8 Louis Vuitton Edition

The BMW i8 Louis Vuitton Edition is a fusion of futuristic design and classic luxury, much like a sci-fi action star in a tailored suit. This collaboration showcased Louis Vuitton’s bespoke luggage set tailored to the BMW i8’s boot.

The i8, known for its hybrid technology and innovative aesthetics, pairs seamlessly with Louis Vuitton’s refined craftsmanship.

This vehicle offers not only performance and eco-consciousness but also a sense of prestige and style, making it a remarkable example of where technology meets luxury in the automotive world.

13. Mercedes-Benz and Swatch: Smart Car

During my years in the city, the Smart Car was a revelation. Born from a collaboration between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch, it was perfectly tailored for urban life—a compact, efficient marvel.

The legacy of the Smart Car is one of innovation and practicality, a testament to rethinking mobility in crowded spaces. Each drive felt like a small victory over the chaos of city parking.

Its playful design and efficiency were ideal for navigating bustling streets, capturing the essence of modern urban living.

14. Lamborghini and Versace: Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace

The Lamborghini Murciélago LP640 Versace is akin to a runway model with the heart of a beast. This collaboration melded Versace’s high fashion with Lamborghini’s raw power.

With bespoke Versace interior touches, it offers a rare blend of style and performance, similar to the Ferrari F430. It stands out not just as a supercar but as an icon of luxury and power.

This car embodies the ultimate expression of Italian craftsmanship, resonating with both car enthusiasts and fashion aficionados alike.

15. Toyota and Tesla: 2012 Toyota RAV4 EV

I once took a road trip in a Toyota RAV4 EV, a testament to the collaboration between Toyota and Tesla. This vehicle was more than just an SUV; it represented a step towards sustainable driving.

The electric motor provided a silent, smooth ride, a promise of a cleaner future. The RAV4 EV’s legacy is one of pioneering the electric SUV market, bridging the gap between practicality and eco-consciousness.

Each journey felt like a contribution to a better world, echoing the spirit of innovation.

16. Subaru and Saab: Saab 9-2X

The Saab 9-2X was a result of an unexpected collaboration between Subaru and Saab. Initially released in 2005, this compact car combined Subaru’s renowned all-wheel-drive system with Saab’s distinct styling.

The marriage of these two brands brought together Subaru’s engineering reliability and Saab’s flair for quirky design.

Despite its unique appeal, the 9-2X struggled to find a large market, leading to its discontinuation in 2006. Nonetheless, it remains a beloved choice among fans of both brands who appreciate its hybrid heritage.

17. Citroën and Polyphony Digital: GT by Citroën

Trying out a video game, I stumbled upon the GT by Citroën, a virtual car turned real. This collaboration with Polyphony Digital was a dream come true for gaming and car enthusiasts alike.

The GT embodies a legacy of pushing boundaries, a symbol of imagination becoming reality. Its futuristic design drew me into the digital world while hinting at the future of automotive design.

This car bridges the gap between reality and fantasy, a thrilling concept brought to life on both screen and road.