27 Cars With Interiors So Weird, They’re Genius
Car interiors are usually designed for comfort and function, but sometimes automakers throw the rulebook out the window and create something truly bizarre.
I once sat in a friend’s Citroën BX, and instead of a traditional turn signal stalk, there was a weird spaceship-like pod with buttons.
It felt like I was piloting a sci-fi experiment rather than a car. But here’s the thing—sometimes these oddball designs actually make sense in their own strange way.
From centrally mounted gauges to joystick steering, these interiors might look weird, but there’s a certain genius hiding beneath the surface.
1. Fiat Multipla
Ever sat inside a Fiat Multipla? I did, and it was unforgettable. The three front seats were quirky yet functional, making me wonder how they came up with such an idea.
My friend once called it the ‘party car’ because it fits everyone upfront. What struck me most was the dashboard – it felt like a spaceship control panel.
Did you know the Multipla won awards for its design? This car may look odd from the outside, but step inside, and it’s a whole different universe.
2. Citroën DS
Citroën DS, the epitome of French elegance, was a marvel in automotive design. With its advanced hydropneumatic suspension, it glided on roads like no other.
The interior felt like stepping into a Parisian salon, with plush seats and a thought-provoking dashboard. Its single-spoke steering wheel resembled a work of art, akin to a painter’s brush.
This vehicle was not just about luxury; it embodied innovation. Citroën DS wasn’t merely a car; it was an experience, transforming mundane drives into journeys of sophistication.
3. Tesla Cybertruck
Remember the first time you saw the Tesla Cybertruck? It was like witnessing a sci-fi movie come to life. This electric beast doesn’t just break the mold; it smashes it.
The interior, with its minimalist design and steering yoke, is as polarizing as its exterior. The spacious cabin feels ahead of its time, thanks to the central touchscreen that controls almost everything.
Love it or hate it, the Cybertruck’s legacy is unforgettable. Will it redefine what we consider ‘normal’ in vehicle interiors?
4. BMW i3
While many cars chase traditional elegance, the BMW i3 took a leap towards sustainability and modernity. Its interior boasts eco-friendly materials, contrasting with conventional luxury.
Yet, it offers an experience akin to its sibling, the BMW 7 series, in terms of innovation. The spacious layout is impressive, with a digital cluster that keeps you informed seamlessly.
BMW i3 isn’t just another electric vehicle; it’s a statement of futuristic design. It defies the norms, inviting you to rethink automotive interiors without analogies.
5. Nissan Cube
Climbing into a Nissan Cube feels like stepping into a world of whimsy. Once, during a road trip with friends, its lounge-like seating made every mile feel like a cozy chat session.
The asymmetrical elements in the dashboard added a touch of playfulness, sparking endless conversations. Did you know it was inspired by minimalist Japanese design?
The Cube may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but for those who dare to be different, its charm is irresistible.
6. Aston Martin Lagonda
The Aston Martin Lagonda was the equivalent of driving a luxury yacht on wheels. In the 1980s, it boasted digital displays that were far ahead of their time.
Inside, you felt pampered by plush leather seats and a dashboard that seemed to be from a sci-fi set. It was like navigating a spaceship, with controls that looked and felt avant-garde.
The Lagonda didn’t just transport you; it elevated every journey to an expression of opulence and technology.
7. Renault Avantime
In a world of conformity, the Renault Avantime dared to stand alone. Its panoramic windows offered a view that was both liberating and exhilarating.
Driving it was like floating through the cityscape. The Avantime’s two-door design was a bold choice, challenging traditional norms.
The futuristic dashboard only added to its charm. Love it or hate it, this car left a lasting impression. Could such innovation ever make a comeback, or was it a once-in-a-lifetime spectacle?
8. Subaru SVX
In the 1990s, the Subaru SVX was a revelation, much like the sporty Nissan 300ZX. Its driver-centered controls and innovative window design set it apart.
The leather seating provided comfort while the dashboard focused entirely on the driver experience. Unlike many sports cars of its era, the SVX wasn’t just about speed; it combined elegance with performance.
Subaru took a bold step with this design, crafting a vehicle that challenged the conventional sports car aesthetics without relying on analogies.
9. Toyota Sera
I remember the first time I saw a Toyota Sera; it was during a local car show. Its butterfly doors were an instant crowd-pleaser. Inside, the wrap-around dashboard created a cockpit-like experience.
The innovative seating layout made every ride a joy. One intriguing fact about the Sera is its influence on future designs, inspiring models like the McLaren F1.
The Toyota Sera may have seemed unusual, but for those in the know, it was a glimpse into the future.
10. Saab 900 (Classic)
The Saab 900 was more than just a car; it was a Swedish masterpiece. Its wrap-around dashboard and ergonomic controls spoke of thoughtful design.
The ignition was intriguingly placed on the center console, reminiscent of fighter jets. The seats, supporting yet plush, were perfect for long journeys through Sweden’s scenic roads.
Saab 900 wasn’t just about getting from point A to B; it was about the journey itself, embodying an engineering ethos that prioritized the driver’s experience above all else.
11. Smart ForTwo (1st Gen)
Navigating through urban jungles often felt like a chore until the Smart ForTwo showed up. This tiny titan redefined city driving. The interior, though compact, was a marvel of space utilization.
The colorful accents injected a dose of fun into every commute. It may not have been the fastest, but its legacy lies in proving that good things come in small packages.
Could this pint-sized pioneer pave the way for a new breed of urban warriors?
12. Peugeot 1007
In the early 2000s, the Peugeot 1007 appeared, much like the Toyota Yaris, to shake up small car conventions.
Its innovative sliding doors offered unparalleled accessibility, a boon in tight parking spots. Inside, the customizable dashboard allowed for personal expression, while comfortable seats made city driving enjoyable.
The Peugeot 1007 wasn’t just another compact car; it was a revelation in practical design, offering features that appealed to urbanites seeking convenience without sacrificing style.
13. Honda Element
I once embarked on a camping trip with a Honda Element, and it quickly became my favorite adventure companion. Its removable seats turned the interior into a camper’s dream.
The water-resistant materials were perfect for all-weather adventures. Did you know the Element was inspired by surfer culture?
Its spacious cargo area carried all our gear effortlessly. The Honda Element may no longer be in production, but its spirit of adventure lives on in every road trip enthusiast’s heart.
14. Mini Clubman (Split rear doors)
The Mini Clubman isn’t just about nimble city driving; it’s a nod to nostalgia. Its split rear doors harken back to a bygone era, while the retro-modern dashboard bridges past and present.
The seating arrangement, though compact, offers surprising comfort for such a small vehicle.
The Mini Clubman isn’t merely a car; it’s a piece of history, reimagined for today’s urban explorers. Its unique blend of old-world charm and modern ingenuity makes every ride a delightful journey.
15. Buick Reatta
Once considered a marvel of American innovation, the Buick Reatta was a beacon of luxury in the 1990s. Its digital touch screen was ahead of its time, making every interaction feel futuristic.
The leather seats provided unparalleled comfort, while the sleek dashboard design felt more akin to a luxury sedan than a sports car.
Despite its brief production run, the Reatta left a lasting legacy. Could this car have paved the way for modern luxury vehicles?
16. Pontiac Aztek
In the early 2000s, the Pontiac Aztek emerged, akin to the Honda CR-V, redefining SUV versatility. Its interior was a mix of rugged design and modern conveniences.
The versatile seating and digital displays provided flexibility for both family trips and rugged adventures.
Though its exterior design was polarizing, the Aztek’s interior offered practicality and innovation. It may not have been a style icon, but for those needing function over form, it was a reliable companion.
17. Isuzu VehiCROSS
I once took an Isuzu VehiCROSS on a mountain adventure, and its interior proved as rugged as its exterior. The sporty seats hugged tightly during every twist and turn.
Digital controls added a touch of modernity to this off-road beast. Fun fact: its design was inspired by rally cars!
The VehiCROSS may not have been everyone’s first choice, but for those who dared, it offered an unforgettable thrill ride.
18. Lancia Trevi
The Lancia Trevi was like stepping into an Italian opera. Its unique dashboard design, with a multitude of buttons, resembled a conductor’s control panel.
The luxurious seating offered comfort akin to a theater box, embracing passengers in opulence. Every detail, from the stitching to the materials, spoke of classic Italian flair.
The Trevi wasn’t just transportation; it was an experience, much like attending a concert in a grand Venetian hall.
19. Toyota Previa (Mid-engine layout)
The Toyota Previa, with its mid-engine layout, was a game-changer. Inside, the spacious cabin felt more like a lounge than a vehicle.
The futuristic seating arrangement made long drives feel effortless. While its design was unconventional, it challenged what a family van could be.
Could this be the blueprint for future family vehicles, or was it simply too ahead of its time?
20. Oldsmobile Toronado (1960s)
In the 1960s, the Oldsmobile Toronado was a front-wheel-drive pioneer, similar to the Cadillac Eldorado. Its interior was luxurious, with plush seats and an innovative dashboard layout.
The classic steering wheel design offered a touch of elegance, making every drive feel special. Though it shared a platform with other GM models, the Toronado’s distinct character set it apart.
This vehicle wasn’t just about power; it was a testament to American luxury and engineering.
21. AMC Pacer
Driving an AMC Pacer felt like cruising in a bubble. During a nostalgic road trip, its wide windows provided panoramic views, making every drive a scenic adventure.
The cozy seating invited relaxation, while the quirky dashboard added a touch of whimsy. Did you know the Pacer was dubbed the ‘flying fishbowl’?
Its design may have been unconventional, but for those who embraced it, the Pacer offered a unique experience.
22. Citroën BX
The Citroën BX was like a mechanical swan, gliding gracefully on its hydropneumatic suspension. Its angular dashboard and spacious seating were reflections of French innovation.
The BX wasn’t just a car; it was a statement of Citroën’s commitment to pushing boundaries.
This vehicle offered a ride that was both smooth and responsive, making it a favorite amongst those who appreciated engineering artistry in motion.
23. Mazda RX-8
Remember when the Mazda RX-8 first roared onto the scene? Its rotary engine was a marvel, promising power in a sleek package.
The driver-focused controls and stylish seating made every journey exhilarating. While some questioned its practicality, the RX-8’s legacy lies in its daring spirit.
Could this sporty ride inspire future generations of thrill-seekers, or will its unique charm remain unmatched?
24. Delorean DMC-12
The Delorean DMC-12, much like the Corvette of its time, was synonymous with 80s pop culture. Its stainless steel accents and gull-wing doors were unforgettable features.
Inside, the retro dashboard offered a glimpse into a time of futuristic aspirations. It wasn’t just a car; it was an icon, forever linked with time-travel fantasies.
While its production was short-lived, the Delorean’s unique design continues to captivate imaginations, leaving a lasting legacy.
25. Plymouth Prowler
When I first saw the Plymouth Prowler, it was love at first sight. Its hot rod inspiration was evident, from the leather seats to the retro-modern dashboard.
Driving it felt like stepping into a classic car show. Fun fact: the Prowler was one of the first cars with an aluminum body.
For those who dared to be different, it offered a thrilling ride down memory lane, blending nostalgia with innovation.
26. Volkswagen XL1
The Volkswagen XL1 was like a glimpse into an eco-friendly future. Its interior featured lightweight materials and advanced digital displays, enhancing the driving experience.
With its futuristic design, this vehicle wasn’t just about efficiency; it was about redefining what a car could be.
The XL1’s innovative approach to design and sustainability made it a trailblazer, a symbol of progress and ingenuity in the automotive world.
27. Chevrolet SSR
The Chevrolet SSR wasn’t just another pickup; it was a retro dream come true. Its convertible roof and comfortable seating made every drive an open-air adventure.
While some questioned its practicality, the SSR’s charm lay in its unique blend of nostalgia and modernity. Could this truck-car hybrid inspire a new wave of design, or was it simply a one-of-a-kind marvel?