Car trends constantly change, but not always for the better. Even the cool trends can eventually become boring as every carmaker jumps on the bandwagon.
Whether they’re purely for aesthetic reasons or have some sort of function, there are guaranteed to be gearheads who don’t approve.
From fake vents and exhausts to a lack of buttons or transmission options, we’ve gathered 13 car trends we’re sick of seeing.
Fake Vents and Air Intakes
Air vents and intakes look awesome and certainly give the car a more aggressive and performance-oriented appearance.
However, car manufacturers have now turned them into a fashion statement rather than a functional feature. Is it too expensive for them to actually make a hole in the bumper or hood?
Fake Exhaust Tips
Fake exhaust tips are another somewhat pointless trend we’re seeing these days. It’s especially bad when we can see the actual exhaust exiting underneath the bumper.
Manufacturers do this for several reasons. It’s supposed to give the car a sportier look, it’s easier to keep clean, and it’s cheaper. However, we’d prefer the real deal.
Fake Engine Sounds
Ugh, more fakery. Moving towards hybrids and EVs means that the traditional engine noise is slowly but surely disappearing. Perhaps to ease the transition to these new electrified vehicles, automakers have introduced artificial engine sounds.
This fake engine noise mimics what you’d experience when driving a gas-powered vehicle, so you won’t miss that roaring engine noise. However, they’re also doing this to gasoline-powered cars, which makes no sense whatsoever.
Oversized Grilles
We’re looking at you, BMW! The Bavarian carmaker isn’t the only brand guilty of this sin. Several brands have introduced massive grilles on their cars in recent years, and to make matters worse, only a small portion of the grille that lets air pass through, and EVs don’t need them at all.
In some markets, such as China, large, bold grilles are seen as more luxurious, and since that’s a huge market, it may have influenced the carmakers.
Performance Badges
If you buy a BMW M3 or Mercedes-AMG, it should, of course, have some sporty badges on the trunk and fenders, but that’s not what we’re talking about here.
Carmakers now offer performance badges on standard models, such as Audi’s S-line and BMW’s M badges, often with sportier looks but without any real performance enhancements, to capitalize on their performance divisions.
Soft Limiters on Performance Cars
New cars often have what’s known as soft limiters to help reduce emissions and noise pollution. There’s no doubt that they have some environmental benefits, but it’s a bit contradictory when it’s used in performance cars.
Cars that are built purely for their roaring engine sounds, high-speed capabilities, and excellent driving dynamics are being muted as the soft limiters water down the experience.
EVs Without A Frunk
EVs don’t have an engine under the hood, so you’d think that car manufacturers would jump for joy as that space can be used for cargo, making their cars more practical.
It seems not all car companies like that idea, though. Several models, such as the Cupra Born, VW ID.3, and BMW iX, among others, don’t have a frunk. We realize they’ve most likely put something else under there, but seeing as most other EV manufacturers offer it, we think they could take advantage of it, too.
Touch Controls
There’s a severe lack of buttons in new cars. We agree that some buttons can easily be moved to the infotainment system, but not all of them!
Car interiors, especially dashboards, are significantly different than they used to be, but that’s not always good. Having to take your eyes off the road to find some function hidden within the infotainment system rather than twisting a knob or pushing a button is not particularly user-friendly and has raised safety concerns.
Cameras Instead Of Side Mirrors
This one hasn’t become the norm quite yet, but judging by concept cars from recent years, it’s obvious that car manufacturers eventually want to replace side mirrors with cameras.
Sure, cameras will offer better aerodynamics and may potentially even help increase safety. However, imagine the costs if it breaks. If you thought buying a new mirror was expensive, you’ll be in for a surprise once you need to replace a camera setup.
Confusing Car Body Type Names
Remember the good old days when a coupe was a two-door hard-top car? Well, that’s not always the case anymore.
Manufacturers are now referring to some of their four-door sedans and even SUVs as coupes, probably as an attempt to make them sound sportier. This is confusing and makes no sense. Surely, there are other terms they can use instead?!
Confusing Car Naming Conventions
It’s not just the car types that have become confusing. Car manufacturers are also using misleading model names that have left gearheads scratching their heads.
The Porsche Taycan Turbo S is a prime example of this, as it’s an EV and doesn’t actually have a turbocharger. Ford has also decided to capitalize on its sporty Mustang muscle car and introduced the Mustang Mach E, an electric SUV that has nothing in common with the Mustang.
Lack Of Manual Transmission Options
This is a big one for driving enthusiasts. Modern automatic transmissions may offer quicker acceleration times than a manual, but it will never be as much fun.
There’s something special about rowing your own gears. It creates a deeper connection between the driver and the machine, especially if you’re driving on a nice, twisty road or a racetrack.
Big Wheels On Basic, Mass-Market Cars
Large-diameter rims with low-profile tires may be more aesthetically pleasing, but they also have some substantial drawbacks, especially for a daily driver.
Some of the most common issues owners face when their car has big wheels are curb rash, damage from hitting potholes, a lack of comfort, and expensive tires.
Author: Andre Nalin
Expertise: Automotive
