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The Coolest Retro New Cars You Can Buy Right Now
If you want a modern vehicle that still carries a vintage feel, there are several retro-inspired models available among today’s new cars. Many automakers regularly draw on their history for design inspiration, especially when working with legendary nameplates that have existed for decades. Whether you prefer nostalgic styling, playful character, or distinctive color themes, this list highlights retro-styled SUVs, coupes, convertibles, vans, and hatchbacks you can buy in 2026.
Ryan Mitchell
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If you want a modern vehicle that still carries a vintage feel, there are several retro-inspired models available among today’s new cars. Many automakers regularly draw on their history for design inspiration, especially when working with legendary nameplates that have existed for decades. Whether you prefer nostalgic styling, playful character, or distinctive color themes, this list highlights retro-styled SUVs, coupes, convertibles, vans, and hatchbacks you can buy in 2026.
Ford Bronco
Base price: $42,490
The modern Bronco takes clear inspiration from its 1960s predecessor, featuring a boxy silhouette, flat front end, and round headlights. Its design looks fantastic, and the high-performance Raptor version adds serious off-road excitement. Ford has also introduced multiple heritage-themed trims, including special color packages like the Heritage Edition shown here, emphasizing its classic roots.
Nissan Z
Base price: $44,265
The newest Nissan Z blends modern performance with nostalgic styling cues from earlier generations. Its front design pays tribute to the original 240Z from the 1970s, while the rear incorporates taillight elements inspired by the 1990s 300ZX. Nissan has also released Heritage-inspired editions with retro color schemes to strengthen its classic appeal.
Ford Mustang
Base price: $34,635
Ford treats the Mustang as a core part of its legacy. While the model has evolved through many generations, a major redesign in 2005 brought back strong visual references to the original 1964 version, reinforcing its retro identity. Today’s Mustang still carries that familiar shape. The recent FX package introduces an ’80s-inspired Fox-body theme, even allowing the digital gauge cluster to switch into Fox-body style for added nostalgia.
Mercedes-Benz G-Class
Base price: $155,250
The G-Class remained visually unchanged for decades before receiving a full redesign in 2018. Although modernized underneath and updated with new engines in 2025, it still retains its signature boxy form and round headlights that date back to the 1970s. Mercedes has also offered nostalgic color options, including classic green tones featured on the “Stronger Than the 1980s” edition.
Mini Cooper
Base price: $30,675
When the modern Mini Cooper debuted in 2001, it revived the charm of the original Austin Mini design from the 1960s. Although it has grown in size over time, it still maintains its iconic proportions and playful styling. The car remains highly customizable, with factory options for unique color combinations, interior trims, and signature Union Jack design elements.
Jeep Wrangler
Base price: $38,625
The Jeep Wrangler is widely recognized as a classic off-road icon, with a design that has changed very little over time. It continues to use a body-on-frame structure, removable roof and doors, and a distinctive boxy shape with exposed fenders and a slotted grille inspired by the original CJ models. Jeep frequently releases special editions that reference different eras of its long history.
Volkswagen ID. Buzz
Base price: $61,545
The ID. Buzz is Volkswagen’s modern electric reinterpretation of the legendary VW Bus. Its design strongly reflects the original, featuring rounded shapes and playful two-tone paint options. It is significantly larger than the classic version, and in the U.S. it is offered only in a long-wheelbase configuration with three rows of seating for up to seven passengers.
Ineos Grenadier
Base price: $72,995
If a vehicle resembling a classic Land Rover Defender catches your eye, it may be the Ineos Grenadier. This modern SUV was designed to capture the rugged, old-school off-road spirit after Land Rover transitioned to a more modern design direction. Although entirely new in construction, its styling strongly echoes vintage utility vehicles. It uses a BMW-sourced inline-six engine and delivers traditional off-road driving characteristics.
Toyota Land Cruiser
Base price: $59,375
The newest Land Cruiser does not fully replicate older retro designs, but certain trims—especially the 1958 Edition with round headlights—evoke classic Toyota styling. Even models with square headlights maintain a nostalgic feel thanks to grille lettering and available two-tone roof options, which recall earlier generations of the SUV.
Fiat 500e
Base price: $37,695
The Fiat 500e brings back the charm of the original Cinquecento, designed for compact European city driving. This modern version is fully electric and extremely small by U.S. standards, making it ideal for urban environments. Its playful shape and distinctive styling make it one of the most recognizable and unique vehicles on the road today.
Porsche 911
Base price: $137,850
The Porsche 911 has maintained a consistent silhouette since its debut in 1964. Its rounded headlights, sloping roofline, and rear-engine layout all reinforce its strong connection to its heritage. While it has been continuously updated with modern engineering, the 911 remains one of the best examples of a car that preserves its classic identity while evolving over time.
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Earth’s Largest Deserts: From Ice to Sand
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The Most Industrious Forest Gardener
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How Long Is a Tamandua’s Tongue?
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Imagine the endless horizon of the ocean, where waves brush softly against the coast and the breeze carries the fresh scent of saltwater.
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Colorful French Macarons
Macarons are a quintessential French confection, and these rainbow-hued macarons put a playful spin on the classic. They’re perfect for celebrations like Carnevale, adding vibrant color and charm to any dessert display. Trust me, they taste as delightful as they look.