Ugly cars often get a bad rap, but looks aren’t everything when it comes to driving. Some of the most unattractive vehicles on the road can actually be a blast to drive. These oddball cars might not turn heads for the right reasons, but they make up for their strange looks with excellent handling, peppy engines, or unique features that put a smile on your face. In this blog, I’ll share 11 ugly cars that are surprisingly fun to drive.
Pontiac Aztek
The Pontiac Aztek is often called one of the ugliest cars ever made. It has a strange, boxy shape and odd plastic cladding. But don’t let its looks fool you. The Aztek is actually fun to drive, with a peppy V6 engine and good handling for an SUV. It also has lots of cool features, like a built-in tent for camping. Many drivers say the Aztek is way more enjoyable than they expected.
Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke looks like a frog with headlights. Its bulging front end and tiny rear window are pretty weird. But this little crossover is a blast on twisty roads. It has quick steering and a turbocharged engine that gives it lots of zip. The Juke also comes with an all-wheel drive, making it great in bad weather. Drivers love how nimble and fun it feels, despite its odd appearance.
Fiat Multipla
The Fiat Multipla looks like it was designed by aliens. It has a strange, bug-eyed front end and a fat, rounded body. But this odd little van is surprisingly good to drive. It has a spacious interior that fits six people comfortably. The Multipla also handles well for its size and has good visibility. Many owners say it’s one of the most practical and enjoyable family cars they’ve had.
AMC Gremlin
The AMC Gremlin looks like someone chopped off the back of a normal car. Its stubby rear end and long hood are pretty strange. But this little hatchback is actually quite fun. It has a powerful six-cylinder engine that gives it good speed for its time. The Gremlin also handles well and is easy to park. Drivers say it’s much more enjoyable than its ugly looks suggest.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
The PT Cruiser tried to look retro but ended up just looking weird. Its bulbous body and tiny wheels are pretty odd. But this car is more fun than you’d think. It has a roomy interior and a smooth ride. The turbocharged GT model is especially peppy and fun to drive. Many owners say the PT Cruiser is comfortable and enjoyable for daily use, despite its strange looks.
Suzuki X-90
The Suzuki X-90 looks like a toy car made real. It’s tiny, with a strange bubble-like body and removable roof panels. But this little two-seater is actually a blast off-road. It has good ground clearance and a capable four-wheel-drive system. The X-90 is also fun on twisty roads, with quick steering and a light body. Drivers say it’s way more enjoyable than its silly looks suggest.
Subaru BRAT
The Subaru BRAT looks like a car and a truck had a weird baby. It has a car-like front end with a tiny truck bed in the back. But this odd vehicle is super fun to drive. It has all-wheel drive and good ground clearance for off-road adventures. The BRAT also handles well on pavement and has a peppy engine. Many owners say it’s one of the most versatile and enjoyable cars they’ve owned.
Citroen 2CV
The Citroen 2CV looks like a tin can on wheels. It has a strange, corrugated body and tiny engine. But this little French car is surprisingly fun to drive. It has an incredibly soft suspension that soaks up bumps like nothing else. The 2CV also has a manual gearbox that’s fun to use. Drivers say it’s one of the most charming and enjoyable slow cars you can buy.
Pontiac Fiero
The Pontiac Fiero looks like a budget sports car from the 1980s. It has a wedge-shaped body and pop-up headlights that seem dated now. But this mid-engine car is actually quite fun to drive. It has good balance and handling, especially in later models. The V6 engine gives it decent power for its size. Many owners say the Fiero is way more enjoyable than its reputation suggests.
Volkswagen Thing
The Volkswagen Thing looks like a box on wheels. It has flat sides, a flat front, and a removable top. But this strange vehicle is super fun off-road. It has good ground clearance and simple, rugged mechanics. The Thing is also fun to drive with the top down on sunny days. Owners say it’s one of the most unique and enjoyable classic cars you can buy.
Smart Fortwo
The Smart Fortwo looks like half a normal car. It’s tiny, with just two seats and a stubby front end. But this little city car is surprisingly fun to drive. It can turn on a dime and fit into the tiniest parking spaces. The Fortwo also has a peppy engine for its size and good visibility. Many drivers say it’s one of the most enjoyable cars for zipping around busy city streets.
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