In the competitive automotive market, a redesign can make or break a vehicle’s reputation, and several once-popular models have suffered from poor updates that alienated loyal customers. These redesigns often lead to plummeting sales and dissatisfied owners, highlighting the importance of consumer preferences in automotive design. The following list details ten cars that faced significant backlash due to their ill-conceived redesigns.
1. Ford Mustang (2010-2014)
The 2010 redesign of the Ford Mustang aimed to modernize the iconic muscle car but ended up frustrating enthusiasts. While it introduced a more aggressive front fascia and updated technology features, the changes led to a considerable departure from the classic styling that fans cherished. Sales dropped by nearly 10% during its initial year, prompting Ford to revert to a more traditional aesthetic in subsequent models.
2. Chevrolet Camaro (2016-present)
The sixth-generation Chevrolet Camaro received a significant redesign in 2016, which many critics deemed visually unappealing. While the car was praised for its performance and handling, the styling was polarizing, leading to a 25% decrease in sales compared to its predecessor. The criticisms focused on the car’s rear visibility and excessive bulk, which overshadowed its performance capabilities.
3. Honda Civic (2016-2021)
The 2016 redesign of the Honda Civic introduced a more aggressive look but alienated long-time fans who preferred the previous generation’s clean lines. Despite winning awards for its interior quality and tech features, the model’s aesthetic changes led to a 15% decline in sales within two years. Many buyers expressed disappointment over the overly sporty design, which detracted from its practical appeal.
4. Volkswagen Jetta (2019-present)
The 2019 redesign of the Volkswagen Jetta focused on a more upscale appearance, but many loyal customers felt the changes compromised the car’s sporty character. While it brought a more refined interior and advanced technology, the sales figures reflected a lack of enthusiasm, with a reported 20% drop in sales in its first year. The design shift alienated younger buyers, who preferred the more dynamic features of earlier models.
5. Toyota Camry (2018-present)
In 2018, the Toyota Camry underwent a redesign that transformed its appearance into a more aggressive sedan. However, the extreme styling changes were met with mixed reactions, leading to a 10% decline in sales in the following year. Long-time Camry owners were put off by the more pronounced front grille and edgy lines, which they felt strayed too far from the model’s traditional image of reliability and comfort.
6. Subaru Legacy (2020-present)
The 2020 Subaru Legacy’s redesign aimed to enhance its appeal with a more upscale look and improved technology. However, the conservative styling failed to resonate with buyers, resulting in a staggering 30% drop in sales during its first year. Critics noted that it lacked the adventurous spirit associated with the Subaru brand, leaving many potential customers looking elsewhere.
7. Nissan Altima (2019-present)
The 2019 redesign of the Nissan Altima introduced a sporty coupe-like silhouette that was intended to attract younger buyers. However, the radical departure from its traditional sedan form resulted in a 22% decline in sales within the first two years. Many consumers found the new design unappealing and impractical for everyday use, leading to a significant loss of market share.
8. Kia Soul (2020-present)
The 2020 redesign of the Kia Soul attempted to modernize its boxy shape, but many fans of the original model were left disappointed. While the updated version included improved features and technology, the sales figures reflected a 15% drop in popularity. Loyal customers felt the new design strayed too far from the quirky charm that made the Soul a standout choice in the compact segment.
9. BMW 7 Series (2016-present)
The 2016 BMW 7 Series received a major redesign that introduced a bold new look, but the changes were met with mixed reviews. Many traditionalists felt the new design was too radical, resulting in a 12% decline in sales in the luxury sedan market. The oversized grille and sharp lines alienated some existing customers, leading BMW to reconsider its design philosophy in subsequent models.
10. Chrysler 300 (2015-present)
The 2015 redesign of the Chrysler 300 aimed to give the vehicle a more modern and sleek appearance.