Cars With Questionable 90s Design
The 1990s gave us plenty of memorable vehicles, but not every design was a winner. Some automakers tried too hard to be futuristic, while others missed the mark entirely. From awkward proportions to questionable styling cues, these cars remind us that not everything from the 90s deserves nostalgia.
Eagle Premier (1990–1992)
The Eagle Premier carried into the early 1990s with boxy styling that looked outdated even when it was new. Its awkward proportions and generic design left little to admire. Chrysler hoped it would compete with imports, but American buyers largely ignored it, and the car quickly faded from memory.
Ford Taurus (1996–1999)
The late 90s Taurus redesign leaned heavily on oval shapes. Headlights, grille, and even the dashboard were built around the same theme. Instead of looking futuristic, it came across as cartoonish and overdone. Many buyers could not get past the awkward styling, and sales quickly declined.
Plymouth Prowler (1997)
The Prowler was Plymouth’s attempt at a hot rod revival, but the execution divided opinions. With its exposed front wheels and odd proportions, it looked more like a concept car that somehow made it to production. Some loved its uniqueness, but many thought it looked silly.
Suzuki X-90 (1995–1997)
The Suzuki X-90 tried to blend SUV toughness with sporty coupe looks, and the result was puzzling. Its stubby body, tall stance, and removable T-tops created a vehicle that did not seem to know what it wanted to be. Buyers were not impressed, and it vanished quickly.
Chrysler Concorde (1993–1997)
Chrysler’s “cab forward” design language was bold, but the Concorde’s stretched proportions and strange front end did not win fans. Its sloping windshield and pinched nose made it look out of sync with the times. While roomy inside, it is remembered more for its awkward shape than anything else.
Isuzu VehiCROSS (1997–1999)
The VehiCROSS looked like it belonged in a sci-fi movie. Its cladding, bulging panels, and unusual grille made it stand out, but not in a good way. While it had impressive off-road ability, most American buyers could not look past the bizarre styling.
Toyota Echo (1999)
The Echo may have been affordable and efficient, but it also had one of the strangest silhouettes of the 90s. With its tall, narrow body and bug eyed headlights, it looked more like a toy than a serious car. Practical? Yes. Attractive? Definitely not.
Hyundai Tiburon (1996–1999)
Before Hyundai improved its styling, the first generation Tiburon looked more awkward than sporty. Its odd curves, cheap details, and mismatched lines left it struggling against rivals. Later versions became stylish and competitive, but the 90s Tiburon remains an example of design gone wrong.
Pontiac Sunfire (1995–1999)
The Pontiac Sunfire tried to be stylish and sporty but ended up awkwardly designed. Its oversized headlights and cheap looking details made it look dated even when it was new. Compact car buyers had plenty of better options, leaving the Sunfire with a reputation for forgettable looks.
