36 Dumbest Looking Cars
Some cars are sleek, some are rugged, and then there are the ones that make you wonder, What were they thinking?
I once saw a car so bizarre at a stoplight that I had to double-check if it was real or some kind of prank.
It had the proportions of a shoebox, headlights that looked like bug eyes, and a rear end that seemed to belong to an entirely different vehicle.
Some designs are bold, others are just baffling, and a few are so odd that they cross into legendary territory.
1. Fiat Multipla
One day, as I was walking down the street, I saw a Fiat Multipla parked along the curb. Its wide, frog-like appearance caught my eye immediately.
I couldn’t help but chuckle at its bulbous windshield and odd proportions. The Multipla is quirky, to say the least.
The interior is spacious, but the exterior design, with its double-layered windshield, makes it stand out in an awkward way.
Despite its odd look, the Multipla has a loyal fan base. It’s functional, but its legacy in design? That’s a whole different story.
2. Pontiac Aztek
The Pontiac Aztek is often the butt of jokes when it comes to car design. With its angular and blocky body, it resembles something from a sci-fi movie.
The Aztek’s front grille and mismatched headlights are bizarre features that confuse the eyes.
Inside, it’s actually quite practical, offering a surprising amount of space. However, its exterior is what catches attention, often compared to a drawing made by a child.
Despite its innovative features, the Aztek’s legacy remains as one of the ugliest cars made.
3. Nissan Juke
Walking through the city, I noticed a peculiar vehicle that seemed to defy standard design rules. It was the Nissan Juke, with its round headlights and unique shape.
At first glance, it was hard to determine if it was charming or just plain odd. Despite its polarizing look, the Juke has developed a bit of a cult following.
Many love its distinctive character, while others just can’t get past its unusual aesthetic. Its legacy? Controversial but undeniably memorable.
4. SsangYong Rodius
When parked next to a minivan, this car looks even more peculiar. The SsangYong Rodius is known for its ungainly proportions and bulky design.
Its rear end, especially, seems to have been an afterthought, awkwardly jutting out in a way that’s hard to ignore.
While the Rodius offers space, its aesthetic appeal is almost non-existent. It’s a vehicle that tries to combine the functionality of a van with the style of an SUV but ends up failing on both fronts.
5. Chrysler PT Cruiser
I remember seeing a PT Cruiser for the first time while grabbing a burger at a diner. Its retro-styled appearance was like a throwback to the past.
The rounded edges and vintage vibe made it seem more like a prop from a movie set. Despite its unique charm, it often looked out of place on modern roads.
The PT Cruiser may not win beauty contests, but it certainly has a nostalgic appeal that some appreciate.
6. AMC Gremlin
The AMC Gremlin is a car that has often been described with quirky analogies. Its compact design and stubby back end make it look like it’s missing a few parts.
Despite its odd appearance, the Gremlin was quite popular in its time. With its unique hatchback and distinct look, it was a pioneer of sorts.
However, in the pantheon of automotive design, it stands out for all the wrong reasons, a testament to the eccentric creativity of its era.
7. Ford Edsel
Cruising down memory lane, you might recall the notorious Ford Edsel. Its distinctive grille, often likened to a horse collar, was a bold choice.
Despite the innovative vision behind its creation, the Edsel never quite caught on. What it did gain, however, was a reputation for being a design misfire.
Its legacy is a mix of ambition and failure, remembered more for its marketing disaster than its automotive achievements.
8. Toyota Prius (2nd Gen)
Sitting next to a Honda Civic, the Toyota Prius doesn’t immediately scream innovation. However, its contribution to hybrid technology is undeniable.
The Prius’s design, while practical, is often described as bland and uninspiring. Its teardrop shape, intended for aerodynamics, missed the mark in styling.
Yet, despite its aesthetic shortcomings, the Prius revolutionized the hybrid market, paving the way for more environmentally-friendly vehicles.
9. Nissan Cube
I once saw a Nissan Cube parked at the edge of a bustling street. Its boxy shape and compact size made it stand out among the sea of cars.
The Cube’s design seemed almost playful, as if it was made from building blocks. While it may not be conventionally beautiful, the Cube’s charm lies in its uniqueness.
It’s a car that doesn’t take itself too seriously, and that’s part of its legacy.
10. Renault Twingo
The Renault Twingo could be likened to a toy car with its bright, playful colors and compact design. It’s a car that exudes charm and personality.
Despite its small size, the Twingo offers surprising interior space and practicality. However, its exterior design is often seen as too childish and simplistic.
The Twingo is remembered fondly by some, but its quirky design ensures it remains a polarizing figure among car enthusiasts.
11. Suzuki X-90
I remember driving through the countryside when I first encountered the Suzuki X-90. Its small, sporty frame was intriguing against the vast landscapes.
The X-90 had a distinct two-seater design, which was unusual for an off-road vehicle. While it wasn’t the most practical car, it left a lasting impression for its boldness.
Its legacy is one of adventurous spirit and whimsical design, though not without its critics.
12. Chevrolet SSR
By the beach, this car seems both out of place and right at home. The Chevrolet SSR is a quirky blend of a convertible and a pickup truck.
Its retro-styled design and bright colors give it a unique appeal. However, the blend of styles doesn’t sit well with everyone.
While it offers a fun ride and striking visuals, its confused identity often leaves people wondering what it’s trying to be.
13. Buick Rendezvous
Years ago, I had a friend who owned a Buick Rendezvous. Its robust, yet awkward design always caught my attention.
At first glance, its crossover SUV appearance seemed practical, but the execution felt clumsy. Inside, it offered comfort, yet its exterior was a mix of styles that never quite fit together.
Despite this, it was reliable, and my friend swore by it. Its legacy is one of utility over aesthetics.
14. Mitsubishi i-MiEV
The Mitsubishi i-MiEV might remind one of a futuristic golf cart. Its small, compact design and electric capabilities were ahead of their time.
The i-MiEV’s look is both its charm and its flaw, standing out in a world of larger vehicles. Despite its size, it offers decent range and efficiency.
For all its peculiarities, the i-MiEV helped pave the way for more accessible electric vehicles, albeit with mixed reviews on its appearance.
15. Ford Scorpio (2nd Gen)
Driving through the city, I once came across a Ford Scorpio. Its large, cumbersome body seemed at odds with the sleek designs surrounding it.
The Scorpio’s second generation model was particularly criticized for its ungainly shape and oversized headlights. Despite these flaws, it had a comfortable interior.
Its legacy, however, is tinged with criticism, remembered more for its design missteps than its driving experience.
16. Citroën Ami
Parked next to a Fiat 500, the Citroën Ami appears even more unusual with its futuristic design. This small two-seater electric vehicle looks more like a matchbox car.
With minimalistic aesthetics, the Ami focuses on function, catering to short urban trips. Its symmetrical design, while innovative, lacks conventional beauty.
Despite its odd look, it serves a purpose, reflecting the shift towards sustainability in urban mobility.
17. Subaru Tribeca
I recall a trip to the mountains when I saw the Subaru Tribeca for the first time. Its mid-size SUV design was both practical and baffling.
The front end, with its unconventional grille, made it look constantly surprised. Though spacious inside, the exterior left much to be desired.
Despite its odd look, it handled the rugged terrain well, leaving me with mixed feelings about its design legacy.
18. Peel P50
The Peel P50 is often likened to a toy car due to its tiny, three-wheeled design. It’s the world’s smallest car, designed for maximum efficiency in tight spaces.
With only one seat, it’s more a novelty than a practical vehicle. Despite its awkward appearance, the P50 has achieved cult status, celebrated for its uniqueness and charm.
It’s a piece of automotive history that continues to fascinate car enthusiasts.
19. Reliant Robin
Strolling through a neighborhood, you might notice a car that tilts slightly to one side. The Reliant Robin is infamous for its three wheels and instability.
While it offered an economical option for drivers, it was often the subject of jokes.
Despite its design flaws, the Robin has a place in automotive history, representing a unique approach to economic motoring. Its legacy is both humorous and endearing.
20. Lancia Thesis
When placed next to a Mercedes E-Class, the Lancia Thesis stands out with its peculiar elegance. As a luxury sedan, it aimed to make a statement.
The Thesis’s design is both bold and unconventional, with unique curves and angles. Despite its luxurious interior, the exterior left many puzzled.
Its legacy is one of ambition and innovation, with a design that refused to conform to norms.
21. Tata Nano
I remember the buzz when the Tata Nano was first introduced. Its compact size and affordability made it an instant hit in India.
Despite its small engine and basic interior, it promised mobility for many. However, its design left a lot to be desired, with a look that was more functional than fashionable.
The Nano’s legacy is one of accessibility, opening roads to many who couldn’t afford cars before.
22. Fiat 500L
The Fiat 500L is often compared to a stretched-out version of its iconic predecessor. It attempts to capture the charm of the classic Fiat 500 but misses the mark.
Its larger size and awkward proportions make it look like a caricature of the original.
Despite its spacious interior, the 500L’s design doesn’t resonate with everyone. It’s a modern take on a classic that struggles to live up to its heritage.
23. Lincoln MKT
In the heart of the city, I spotted a vehicle that seemed to blend luxury with an odd shape. The Lincoln MKT is a crossover that aims high but falls short.
Its long, sweeping design is supposed to evoke elegance but often feels misguided. Despite a comfortable ride and luxury features, the MKT’s look is polarizing.
Its legacy is mixed, remembered for trying to push design boundaries but not always succeeding.
24. Hyundai Veloster
When parked next to a Volkswagen Golf, the Hyundai Veloster shows its unique personality. This sporty hatchback features an unusual door configuration.
Its bold design attempts to capture the spirit of adventure, though not everyone appreciates its styling.
The Veloster’s legacy is one of daring and innovation, appealing to those who seek something out of the ordinary.
25. BMW i3
Years ago, I took a test drive of a BMW i3. Its compact, futuristic design was intriguing, yet polarizing.
The i3’s electric capabilities were groundbreaking, offering a glimpse into the future of driving. Its unique look, however, wasn’t for everyone.
Despite its unconventional aesthetics, the i3 remains popular among those who appreciate innovation over tradition.
26. Mercedes-Benz R-Class
The Mercedes-Benz R-Class is a vehicle that blends the lines between an MPV and a luxury sedan. Its elongated shape and styling are reminiscent of a hearse.
Despite its luxurious interior, spaciousness, and comfort, the exterior design remains a point of contention.
The R-Class is often seen as a misstep in Mercedes’ design history, an experiment that didn’t quite hit the mark.
27. Kia Soul
In a vibrant part of town, a vehicle with a boxy silhouette caught my eye. The Kia Soul is known for its quirky design and youthful appeal.
Its unique shape and vibrant colors make it a hit among some, though it doesn’t appeal to everyone.
Despite its polarizing look, the Soul has built a significant following, celebrated for its individuality and fun-loving spirit.
28. Scion xB
The Scion xB, when placed next to a Nissan Cube, highlights its peculiar box-shaped design. This compact car is known for its straightforward, angular aesthetics.
While it stands out, the xB’s appearance is not universally loved. It appeals to those who value practicality and space over conventional beauty.
The xB’s legacy is one of function over form, catering to a niche market.
29. Toyota Mirai
A few years back, I had the chance to see a Toyota Mirai up close. Its hydrogen-powered engine was the future, but its design was strikingly different.
The Mirai’s bold front end and sleek lines are both futuristic and polarizing. While it’s a technological marvel, its appearance often divides opinion.
Despite this, the Mirai’s legacy is one of innovation, paving the way for hydrogen-powered vehicles.
30. Daihatsu Materia
The Daihatsu Materia could be compared to a miniaturized SUV with its compact MPV shape. It’s a car that offers practicality over style.
Its boxy form and design are functional, providing ample space for passengers. However, it lacks the visual appeal that many seek in a vehicle.
The Materia’s legacy is one of utility, serving those who prioritize function above all else.
31. Plymouth Prowler
During a visit to a car show, I came across the Plymouth Prowler. Its retro hot rod design was a bold statement.
With its long front end and open wheels, it looked like something out of the past. While it captured the spirit of classic cars, it struggled to fit in with modern aesthetics.
The Prowler’s legacy remains as a daring homage to a bygone era, appreciated by enthusiasts.
32. Aston Martin Lagonda
In the realm of luxury vehicles, the Aston Martin Lagonda stands out with its angular and futuristic design. It’s a vehicle that dared to be different.
With sharp lines and an elongated body, it was both innovative and polarizing. Despite its advanced technology for its time, the Lagonda’s aesthetic remains divisive.
It’s a car that symbolizes boldness, both in design and ambition.
33. Cadillac Seville (1980s)
Back in the day, I remember riding in a Cadillac Seville from the ’80s. Its angular lines and classic sedan profile were unmistakable.
The Seville was a statement of luxury, though its design was often considered too square and conservative.
Despite this, it provided a comfortable ride and had a certain charm. Its legacy is rooted in nostalgia, remembered by those who appreciate the elegance of that era.
34. Renault Avantime
The Renault Avantime defies categorization with its two-door coupe minivan design. It’s a car that dared to break the mold.
Its futuristic look and spacious interior made it a standout, though not everyone appreciated its style.
The Avantime’s design is often likened to a concept car, ambitious but ahead of its time. It’s a vehicle remembered for daring to be different.
35. Isuzu VehiCROSS
While hiking along a rocky trail, I once came across the Isuzu VehiCROSS. Its rugged build was impressive, though its design was a different story.
The VehiCROSS’s unusual cladding and bold features made it stand out, not always in a good way. Despite its off-road capabilities, its design often overshadowed its performance.
Its legacy is one of contradiction, celebrated for its functionality but questioned for its form.
36. Tesla Cybertruck
In a parking lot full of conventional vehicles, the Tesla Cybertruck stands out like a spaceship. Its futuristic, angular design is revolutionary yet controversial.
The Cybertruck’s strong stainless steel exoskeleton is unlike anything seen before, a testament to Tesla’s commitment to innovation.
However, its aesthetic appeal is heavily debated. The Cybertruck represents a bold step forward in automotive design, loved by some, loathed by others.