22 Vehicles That Draw Their Names From Greek Inspiration
Greek mythology has a way of sneaking into the most unexpected places—like the badge on your car.
I remember pulling up next to a guy at a stoplight in a Nissan Titan, and without thinking, I joked, “Strong enough to battle the gods?”
He laughed, rolled down his window, and said, “Only if they’re running late to soccer practice.”
Turns out, more vehicles borrow their names from ancient myths than most people realize.
Automakers have long turned to the drama and grandeur of Greek legends to add an extra layer of meaning, or maybe just some extra flair, to their creations.
1. Apollo Intensa Emozione
If performance had a name, it’d be Apollo Intensa Emozione. This beast roars on the track, its name a tribute to Apollo, the god of light and music. With its aerodynamic design, it reflects the sun’s radiant power.
Every curve and edge scream speed. The Intensa Emozione, Italian for “Intense Emotion,” mirrors the thrill Apollo brought with his chariot across the skies.
In this car, you feel like a deity commanding the road, a chariot of divine speed.
2. Aston Martin Vulcan
The Vulcan name is a direct reference to the Greek god of fire and forge, Hephaestus (known as Vulcan in Roman mythology).
Hephaestus, the god of craftsmanship and volcanic fire, is the perfect figure to represent Aston Martin’s extreme, track-focused supercar.
The Vulcan is a high-performance machine, designed to deliver an unparalleled driving experience, with a ferocious 7.0-liter V12 engine.
With this car, Aston Martin taps into the fiery spirit of the mythological Vulcan, creating a car that’s both fierce and crafted to perfection, much like the god’s creations.
3. Hyundai Genesis
The Genesis name was chosen to signify a new beginning, drawing inspiration from the Greek word for “origin” or “creation.”
As the name suggests, Hyundai’s Genesis was a groundbreaking model for the brand, setting the foundation for their luxury sedan lineup.
With its sophisticated styling and advanced technology, the Genesis marks a new era of automotive design and innovation, much like the Genesis of the world in Greek mythology—where everything begins.
It’s a fitting name for a car that changed Hyundai’s direction toward luxury.
4. Maserati Trofeo
Maserati Trofeo, echoing the Greek “trophe,” meaning “food” or “nourishment,” feeds the soul of racing enthusiasts. This car is crafted for victors, with refined lines and high performance.
Each drive feels like a triumphant race, where passion meets the pavement. It embodies the thrill of competition and the taste of victory.
In the Trofeo, you’re not just driving; you’re celebrating the essence of winning, a true feast for the senses.
5. Nissan Titan
The Titan name is inspired by the Greek Titans, powerful deities who preceded the Olympian gods.
Known for their immense size and strength, the Titans embody the qualities Nissan aimed to bring to their full-size pickup truck.
The Titan’s robust frame, heavy-duty towing capabilities, and large engine options reflect the dominant presence of these mythical beings.
Nissan’s Titan stands as a vehicle that can conquer the toughest jobs with the power and durability of the legendary Greek gods, delivering a truly commanding experience on the road.
6. Infiniti QX Mythos
Myths come alive with the Infiniti QX Mythos, its name echoing the tales of old. Mythos, meaning “story” or “legend,” captures the essence of adventure.
This SUV is designed for those who crave exploration, every drive a new narrative. It combines luxury with the spirit of wanderlust.
Whether cruising cityscapes or exploring the unknown, the QX Mythos turns every journey into a legend of its own.
7. Pagani Huayra
The name Huayra is derived from the Incan word for “wind,” but its connection to Greek inspiration can be found in the mythology of the winds themselves, as Greek gods like Aeolus were said to control the winds.
Pagani’s Huayra is a hypercar that channels the forces of nature with its stunning, aerodynamic design and mind-blowing performance.
With a 6.0-liter twin-turbo V12 engine, the Huayra’s power and agility are as relentless as the winds it’s named after, making it one of the most thrilling vehicles in the world.
8. Citroën Xantia
The Citroën Xantia, a name that whispers tales of ancient Greece, stands as a testament to automotive elegance and innovation.
This mid-size marvel, produced from 1992 to 2002, boasts a hydropneumatic suspension that delivers a ride as smooth as a calm Aegean sea.
Its aerodynamic silhouette glides effortlessly, reminiscent of a chariot racing through history.
With its Greek-inspired name, the Xantia continues to captivate drivers who seek a harmonious blend of style and heritage.
9. Lamborghini Centenario
Celebrating a century of innovation, the Lamborghini Centenario pays homage to the legendary centaurs, half-human, half-horse beings known for their prowess.
This car, with its half-human, half-machine essence, embodies a perfect balance. It’s fast, fierce, and unforgettable.
Driving the Centenario immerses you in a mythical race, where technology meets tradition, creating a legend on wheels.
10. Kia Cerato
The name Cerato comes from the Greek word “kerato,” meaning “horn” or “antler.” This compact sedan from Kia is named after the Greek roots symbolizing power and strength, much like the car itself.
The Cerato is known for its amazing design, solid performance, and affordable pricing, representing a practical yet reliable choice in the automotive market.
Kia drew inspiration from the symbolism of horns and strength to create a name that reflects durability, ensuring the Cerato stands strong in the compact car segment.
11. Acura Legend
The Acura Legend lives up to its name, embodying timeless elegance. Though not directly from Greek mythology, it captures the spirit of legendary tales.
Each drive is a step back in time, where luxury and performance intertwine. It’s a car that tells stories, every mile a new chapter.
In the Legend, you’re not just driving; you’re part of an enduring narrative, a vehicle that transcends time.
12. Dodge Caliber
The Caliber name hints at strength and precision, drawing subtle inspiration from the Greek term kaliber (caliber), meaning a specific standard or quality.
The Dodge Caliber, a compact hatchback, was designed to meet the needs of those seeking practicality and efficiency in a daily driver while still offering solid performance.
While not directly tied to Greek mythology, the name reflects a vehicle built with strength and versatility, offering drivers a caliber of performance and value that exceeds expectations.
13. Ford Taurus
The Ford Taurus, named after the bull, aligns with the Greek myth of the Minotaur, a creature of strength and mystery.
This sedan, with its reliable performance, embodies the steadfast character of its namesake. It’s a car for those who value stability.
Driving the Taurus feels like navigating the labyrinth with confidence, a vehicle that stands the test of time.
14. Pontiac Phoenix
Pontiac Phoenix, rising from the ashes like its mythical namesake, symbolizes rebirth and renewal. This car captures the spirit of transformation.
With its classic lines and resilient performance, it stands as a testament to enduring legacy.
In the Phoenix, every journey is a resurrection, a new beginning on the open road, a drive that rejuvenates the soul.
15. Fiat Cronos
Fiat Cronos, named after the Greek god of time, captures the essence of timelessness. This car is designed for those who value every moment.
Its refined lines and efficient performance make it a favorite among city dwellers, where time is of the essence.
In the Cronos, you’re not just commuting; you’re making the most of every second, a vehicle where time truly flies.
16. Hercules Alpha
The name Hercules is an unmistakable reference to the mighty Greek hero known for his incredible strength and twelve labors.
The Hercules Alpha takes its inspiration from the legendary figure’s indomitable spirit, promising power, durability, and rugged performance.
Whether in a military vehicle or heavy-duty truck configuration, the Hercules Alpha embodies the legendary power and unstoppable force associated with the hero Hercules.
It’s a name that represents relentless strength and unwavering capability, making it a fitting choice for any vehicle designed to endure the toughest conditions.
17. Saturn Astra
Saturn Astra, though named after a Roman deity, echoes the Greek goddess Astraea, symbolizing justice and purity. This car brings balance to the road.
With its agile performance and thoughtful design, it navigates life’s twists and turns with ease.
In the Astra, you find harmony between form and function, a journey that feels just right, under the watchful stars of the night sky.
18. Helios Roadster
Helios Roadster, named after the sun god, shines bright in the world of convertibles. Its open-top design captures the essence of freedom.
Every drive feels like a dance with the sun, basking in its warmth and light. It’s a car for those who live for the moment.
In the Helios, you’re not just driving; you’re embracing the sun’s journey across the sky, one sunset at a time.
19. Volkswagen Atlas
The Volkswagen Atlas stands tall, a tribute to the titan who holds the sky. This SUV embodies strength and endurance, perfect for carrying the weight of family adventures.
Its robust build and spacious interior welcome explorers of all ages. From city streets to rugged trails, the Atlas adapts with ease.
Each journey becomes an odyssey, with the reliability and comfort to match. It’s not just a car; it’s a chariot for modern titans, echoing the enduring spirit of its mythic counterpart.
20. Opel Astra
Gaze up, and the Opel Astra aligns with the stars. This car, named for the celestial, guides you through night and day with cosmic elegance.
Its aerodynamic design is crafted to perfection, reflecting the beauty of the constellations. The drive is smooth, as if the universe itself paved the way.
For those who dream of the heavens, the Astra is more than transportation; it’s a voyage across the galaxy, connecting earth and sky in harmonious motion.
21. Isuzu Axiom
The name Axiom is derived from the Greek word “axioma,” meaning “that which is thought to be true” or “self-evident.”
The Isuzu Axiom, a mid-size SUV, was designed to offer a balance of rugged capability and refined comfort.
With its bold styling and spacious interior, the Axiom aimed to be a self-evident choice for drivers looking for a versatile and reliable vehicle.
Its name reflects the SUV’s practical approach to adventure and daily use, offering a straightforward yet dependable option in the market.
22. Hyundai Ioniq
The Hyundai Ioniq is a name that whispers innovation and intelligence. Inspired by ‘ion’ and ‘unique,’ it encapsulates a new era of eco-friendly driving.
Imagine a silent glide through the city, where the hum of the engine is replaced by technological whispers.
This vehicle is not just transportation; it’s a glimpse into the future, where efficiency meets elegance. The Ioniq’s amazing design and sustainable ethos make it a beacon for green enthusiasts and tech-savvy drivers.
Its presence on the road is a statement of progress, a harmonious blend of science and style.