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There’s one thing fascinating a few automotive that makes you cease and stare — whether or not you’re admiring it or questioning what the %#$! designers have been considering. All through automotive historical past, sure autos have sparked heated debates at dinner tables, automotive reveals, and on-line boards, splitting fanatics proper down the center.
Some folks see daring innovation and inventive braveness, whereas others see a design that missed the mark. These polarizing autos usually change into probably the most memorable ones, residing rent-free in our collective automotive consciousness lengthy after their manufacturing runs finish. The fantastic thing about automotive design is that it’s subjective, and what one particular person considers an eyesore could be one other’s dream storage centerpiece.
Let’s take a cruise by way of a few of the most divisive automotive designs that had everybody selecting sides.
Pontiac Aztek (2001-2005)
The Pontiac Aztek has change into the poster baby for controversial automotive design, although its popularity could be harsher than it deserves. With its angular physique panels, outstanding plastic cladding, and weird proportions, the Aztek seemed prefer it was designed by three totally different groups who by no means talked to one another.
Critics lambasted its look, but the automobile was truly forward of its time by way of performance, providing options like a built-in tent, detachable cooler, and versatile cargo house. At present, some fanatics have embraced the Aztek mockingly, whereas others genuinely respect its quirky persona and sensible improvements. Its starring function in Breaking Dangerous actually didn’t harm its cult standing.
Whether or not you assume it’s charmingly bizarre or simply plain bizarre, there’s no denying the Aztek made an impression that lasts to this present day.
My Opinion: I’m at all times shocked that the Aztek is so controversial. To me, it’s simply plain boring and I’d by no means choose it out of a crowd of SUVs with out my glasses on. For me, it’s a miss.
BMW 5 Sequence (E60) with Chris Bangle Design (2004-2010)
BMW’s radical design departure below Chris Bangle despatched shockwaves by way of the automotive world, and the E60 5 Sequence turned floor zero for the controversy. The flame-surfaced bodywork, outstanding trunk lid shelf, and controversial “Bangle Butt” rear finish made traditionalists cry foul over the abandonment of BMW’s clear, basic traces.
Purists felt the sharp creases and unconventional proportions betrayed the model’s heritage, whereas others praised BMW for taking dangers and pushing design boundaries. In an interview with BMW Weblog, Bangle defined that the design was because of the crew’s dedication to holding the late Davide Arcangeli’s idea alive: “When a designer is misplaced at that stage within the mission, it may be, and it was in that case, that everybody on the crew felt extraordinarily devoted to his reminiscence and that meant ‘don’t change something.’”
Over time, a lot of Bangle’s design components turned trade tendencies that different producers adopted. The E60 has aged surprisingly effectively in some eyes, with its daring stance now wanting extra visionary than outrageous. Adore it or hate it, this technology pressured everybody to have an opinion, and it proved that even established luxurious manufacturers aren’t afraid to shake issues up.
My Opinion: I’m not a BMW fanatic, so I is probably not the one to evaluate. To me, this appears like a daily ol’ BMW with its outsized grille and sorta secure design. However okay, I can see a few of the unflattering traces. For me, it’s one other miss.
Nissan Juke (2011-2017)
The Nissan Juke arrived on the scene wanting like a bullfrog that hit the gymnasium, with its elevated driving place and muscular haunches making a love-it-or-hate-it silhouette. These distinctive headlights — cut up into higher place lights and decrease fundamental beams — turned probably the most debated design aspect, giving the entrance finish an expression that some discovered aggressive and others discovered confused. The excessive beltline and thick C-pillars created a bunker-like look that made the cabin really feel comfortable, although critics argued it felt claustrophobic.
Regardless of the polarizing appears, the Juke discovered a robust following amongst youthful consumers who appreciated its quirky persona and zippy efficiency, particularly in NISMO trim. It carved out a distinct segment within the subcompact crossover section and proved there was a marketplace for unconventional styling. The Juke taught the trade that typically being bizarre is healthier than being forgettable.
My Opinion: The Juke just isn’t for me (me being a “younger” purchaser is debatable), however I do assume it has its enchantment. For those who’re gonna get an SUV, why not get a enjoyable one? For me, it’s a success.
Chrysler PT Cruiser (2001-2010)
The PT Cruiser’s retro-inspired design was both an enthralling throwback to Nineteen Thirties sizzling rods or a confused styling train, relying on who you requested. When it launched, the distinctive design drove vital gross sales as consumers flocked to one thing totally different in a sea of bland sedans. The excessive roof, curved fenders, and distinctive grille created instantaneous recognition, making each PT Cruiser instantly identifiable from blocks away.
Nevertheless, the novelty wore off for a lot of, and the design that when appeared contemporary started to really feel gimmicky because the years handed. Critics pointed to the execution of inside particulars and supplies that didn’t fairly stay as much as the outside’s ambitions.
Nonetheless, the PT Cruiser offered over 1.3 million models throughout its run, proving that divisive design can nonetheless translate to business success when the timing is true. The designer, Bryan Nesbit, turned a little bit of a reluctant celeb when the PT Cruiser went 2000’s model of viral. However for Nesbit, all he wished to do was get a job: “I had simply graduated from the Artwork Heart [College of Design in California, in 1993] with plenty of debt, my marriage was breaking apart, my buddies acquired jobs at Ford and Audi, I couldn’t get a job… it was an enormous disappointment.”
My Opinion: My sibling adamantly hates the PT Cruiser, calling it “undatable” after it appeared in some video of probably the most unappealing vehicles a person can personal. Nevertheless, I believe it’s a bit cute. For me, it’s a success.
Tesla Cybertruck (2023-Current)
When Tesla unveiled the Cybertruck’s angular, stainless-steel exoskeleton, the web virtually broke in half with reactions starting from awe to disbelief. The design appears prefer it drove straight out of a Nineteen Eighties sci-fi film, with its flat panels, sharp angles, and full rejection of conventional truck aesthetics.
Some see it as a revolutionary departure from cookie-cutter pickup designs, whereas others assume it appears unfinished or overly gimmicky. The polarizing look was onke of the explanations for its struggling gross sales over time. Its supporters argue that the unconventional design serves purposeful functions, from aerodynamics to sturdiness.
Whether or not the Cybertruck’s design will age like nice wine or milk stays to be seen, but it surely’s actually acquired folks speaking.
My Opinion: I believe the Cybertruck goes for “future” with its featureless, pointy design. However to me, it appears like “future unhealthy funding.” You’d assume with such a simplistic design, Tesla would have the assets and time to make sure it’s constructed effectively, however the Cybertruck is continually getting recalled and failing at off-road exams, regardless of what its supporters need to imagine it’s able to. For me, it’s a miss.
AMC Pacer (1975-1980)
The AMC Pacer was presupposed to be the automotive of the longer term, with its huge physique, huge glass space, and distinctive rounded profile meant to revolutionize compact automotive design.
At 77 inches huge however solely 171 inches lengthy, the Pacer was practically as huge as a full-size automotive, creating proportions that some discovered appealingly distinctive and others discovered simply plain odd. The fishbowl-like greenhouse supplied wonderful visibility but additionally made occupants really feel like they have been sitting in a show case. AMC’s advertising and marketing known as it the “first huge small automotive,” although critics known as it different issues solely. The Pacer discovered a second life in popular culture, turning into an icon of Seventies design extra in motion pictures like Wayne’s World.
Its popularity oscillates between misunderstood innovation and automotive punchline, with fanatics nonetheless arguing each side as we speak.
My Opinion: Yeah, it’s a bit quirky and possibly a bit unneeded. Nevertheless, I like its distinctive look, particularly the home windows. For me, it’s a success.
Nissan Dice (2009-2014 in US)
The Nissan Dice introduced Japanese quirk to American shores with its asymmetrical rear window, wraparound rear glass, and boxy proportions that divided opinions immediately. The inside featured inventive touches like round gauges, rippled headliner, and out there shag dashboard trim that felt extra like a boutique resort foyer than a automobile.
Some consumers embraced the unconventional design as refreshingly totally different and sensible, with its tall roofline and sq. form maximizing inside quantity. Others couldn’t get previous the eccentric styling, significantly the rear window that wrapped across the driver’s aspect however not the passenger aspect. The Dice cultivated a small however devoted following amongst city drivers who appreciated its persona and gasoline effectivity. Mentioned one conflicted fan: “I really like the Nissan Dice. It’s so dumb and hideous. Lovely creation.”
Gross sales within the US by no means reached Nissan’s expectations, proving that Japanese-market quirkiness doesn’t at all times translate to American tastes.
My Opinion: Not gonna lie, I prefer it! I wouldn’t purchase one, however I’d smile if I noticed one. It has a little bit of a enjoyable edge to it and you may’t fault a driver that simply desires to smile on the best way to work. For me, it’s a success.
Lincoln MKT (2010-2019)
Lincoln’s MKT tried to carry daring design to the luxurious crossover section, however its cut up rear window and weird proportions left many scratching their heads. The distinctive rear styling, the place the aspect glass wraps across the D-pillar, created a glance that some discovered refined and others discovered awkwardly executed. Up entrance, the big chrome grille and horizontal headlights gave it presence, although critics argued it seemed overstyled in comparison with German opponents.
Inside, the MKT provided real luxurious and spectacular consolation, with out there options that rivaled pricier European alternate options. The controversial styling doubtless saved it from reaching its full gross sales potential, although it developed a loyal following amongst consumers who wished one thing totally different. Lincoln’s design language has developed considerably since then, however the MKT stays an enchanting instance of American luxurious’s try to face out.
My Opinion: That is only a forgettable SUV with a shiny grille. For me, it’s a miss.
Subaru Baja (2003-2006)
The Subaru Baja seemed like somebody reduce the again off an Outback wagon and put in a tiny pickup mattress, which is actually what it was. This car-truck hybrid puzzled conventional truck consumers who wished extra functionality and confused automotive consumers who didn’t perceive the compromise. The design featured Subaru’s signature rugged styling cues, however the proportions by no means fairly seemed resolved, with the mattress seeming like an afterthought slightly than an built-in design aspect.
Regardless of the lukewarm reception, the Baja provided real versatility with its all-wheel drive, pass-through rear window, and shocking cargo flexibility. At present, the Baja has developed a cult following amongst fanatics who respect its weirdness and practicality in equal measure. It proved there was a slender marketplace for car-based pickups, even when Subaru couldn’t fairly crack the components.
My Opinion: It’s not something I’d need, seeing as I’m not available in the market for a bubbly, cumbersome automotive or an undersized truck. Truthfully, it’s most likely not what most individuals need, however I can respect Subaru’s try at one thing distinctive. For me, it’s a success.
Chevrolet SSR (2003-2006)
Chevrolet’s SSR (Tremendous Sport Roadster) was a retro sizzling rod pickup with a power-retractable hardtop that attempted to be too many issues directly.
The design borrowed closely from Nineteen Forties and Fifties Chevy vans, with exaggerated curves, outstanding fenders, and chrome particulars that screamed nostalgia. Some thought it was a cool throwback that captured basic sizzling rod spirit, whereas others noticed it as overwrought and impractical. With solely two seats and a tiny mattress, the SSR wasn’t sensible as a truck, and its hefty weight meant it wasn’t precisely a sports activities automotive regardless of the V8 energy. The idea was intriguing — a retro convertible pickup — however the execution left many questioning who precisely the goal purchaser was.
Regardless of restricted gross sales, SSRs have maintained respectable worth amongst collectors who respect their uniqueness and comparatively restricted manufacturing numbers.
My Opinion: My sibling was in love with this factor when it first got here out. It’s most likely probably the most distinctive tackle a pickup I’ve seen and it by some means works. I imply it doesn’t, but it surely does. ? For me, it’s a success.
Fiat Multipla (1998-2010, Restricted US Presence)
Although the Fiat Multipla by no means formally offered within the US market, it deserves point out as one of the vital polarizing designs in automotive historical past. The 2-tier windscreen and bulging entrance finish created a face that seemed perpetually shocked, incomes it each design awards and limitless mockery. The bizarre styling served a objective, permitting six passengers to sit down in two rows of three seats, maximizing house effectivity in a compact footprint.
European design critics truly praised its performance and modern packaging, whereas most of the people principally recoiled at its look. The Multipla turned internet-famous years after manufacturing ended, commonly showing on “ugliest vehicles” lists whereas concurrently incomes reward from design faculties.
Generally probably the most purposeful designs can’t prioritize typical magnificence, and that’s okay.
My Opinion: I really feel unhealthy as a result of it sorta appears like an alien baluga whale, but it surely simply feels a bit slapped collectively like a lazy Frankenstein creation. I believe it proves that the seat association simply didn’t work, with the automotive bulging in probably the most uncomfortable methods. For me, it’s a miss.
Honda Ridgeline (2006-2014, First Technology)
Honda’s first try at a pickup truck confused conventional truck consumers who couldn’t perceive the car-like unibody development and unconventional styling. The Ridgeline’s flying buttress C-pillar, dubbed the “Sport Utility Truck” mattress design, created a divisive silhouette that seemed nothing like Ford, Chevy, or Ram vans.
Honda followers appreciated the sensible options just like the in-bed trunk, dual-action tailgate, and car-like trip high quality that made it simple to stay with each day. Conventional truck fanatics dismissed it as not a “actual truck,” although the Ridgeline might deal with most duties the common pickup proprietor truly performs. The styling has grown on some folks over time, and the second-generation design addressed many criticisms whereas holding the sensible improvements.
The primary-gen Ridgeline stays an enchanting case examine in what occurs when an automaker challenges established section conventions.
My Opinion: It appears just like the bulkiest automotive ever made. I’m scared Dr. Now could be going to pop up outta nowhere and provide me a gastric bypass surgical procedure. For me, it’s a miss.
Conclusion
Probably the most divisive automotive designs usually educate us extra about automotive tradition than the universally beloved ones ever might. These autos remind us that design is deeply private, and that taking dangers typically means alienating half your potential viewers whereas creating devoted followers within the different half.
Many of those controversial autos have aged higher than anticipated, with time softening harsh preliminary judgments and revealing modern considering that wasn’t appreciated at launch. The automotive panorama could be extremely boring if each producer performed it secure, sticking to confirmed formulation with out experimenting with daring concepts. Whether or not these designs characterize courageous innovation or misguided experiments, they’ve all contributed to the wealthy tapestry of automotive historical past.
Right here’s to the vehicles that made us argue, debate, and in the end care deeply concerning the steel, glass, and rubber rolling down our roads.
