Automakers always push the boundaries of what is possible in design and engineering. While most innovations aim to enhance safety, efficiency, and comfort, not all trends resonate positively with consumers. Let’s look into 15 aspects of modern vehicles that leave many drivers yearning for simpler times.

Oversized Grilles  

Many luxury and high-performance brands have adopted oversized grilles, which can dominate a car’s front end. This trend is often seen in models like the BMW X7 or the Lexus LC. Though intended to convey power and presence, consumers argue that these grilles frequently look aggressive or unbalanced.

Fake Exhaust Tips  

Fake exhaust tips are a cost-saving measure used by manufacturers to give vehicles a sporty look without the engineering required for actual performance benefits. Drivers are often frustrated when these tips serve no real purpose. This trend can also mislead buyers about the vehicle’s true performance potential.

Huge Wheels On Small Cars  

Equipping small cars with oversized wheels, as seen in compact models like the Honda Civic or Mini Cooper, has drawn criticism. Large wheels may enhance visual appeal. Yet, they can lead to several issues, including compromised ride quality, increased road noise, and reduced fuel efficiency.

Touchscreen-Only Controls 

While touch-only controls offer a sleek, modern look, they often make routine adjustments like climate control or audio settings more cumbersome. Also, the lack of physical buttons can be distracting, especially when driving. This can be seen in models like the Tesla Model 3 and the new Audi A8.

Fake Vents And Scoops 

Automakers often add fake vents and scoops to give vehicles a performance-oriented appearance. For example, the Dodge Charger and the Ford Mustang showcase non-functional scoops. Consumers are increasingly frustrated because fake vents give an impression of enhanced cooling or aerodynamics.

Overly Complex Gear Shifters  

Modern gear shifters, including electronic buttons or rotary dials in vehicles like the Mercedes-Benz S-Class or the BMW i4, are often criticized for their complexity. While they may offer advanced features and a futuristic look, many drivers find them less intuitive than traditional gear levers.

SUV Coupes  

Models like the Mercedes-Benz GLE Coupe combine an SUV’s height with a coupe’s sloping roofline. Although this design aims to merge two popular vehicle types, it often results in a car that lacks the practicality of an SUV and the sporty aesthetics of a coupe.

Excessive Chrome Accents

Chrome detailing was once a hallmark of luxury, but its overuse makes it look outdated. Vehicles like the Cadillac Escalade and various high-end Lexus models feature excessive chrome accents that can detract from the car’s overall design. Chrome trims are also prone to showing fingerprints and scratches.

Over-the-Top Interior Lighting  

The interior lights in models like the BMW 7 Series or the Audi A8 include customizable ambient lighting with various colors and animations. Designers believe that this feature enhances the car’s luxury feel. However, the complex system can add to the vehicle’s cost while offering little benefits.

Giant Infotainment Screens

Vehicles like the Tesla Model S and the new Cadillac Escalade feature massive infotainment screens. These screens provide several functionalities, yet their size can be impractical. They can obstruct driver visibility and contribute to a cluttered interior. Additionally, large screens can be prone to glare and fingerprint stains.

Fake Engine Noise  

Manufacturers like Porsche and BMW have begun piping in artificial engine sounds to compensate for the lack of traditional engine noise in electric vehicles. Still, many consumers find it inauthentic and unnecessary. They believe that artificial engine noise can feel deceptive and detract from the actual driving experience.

Over-Done Branding  

Some manufacturers have gone overboard with branding, placing large logos or multiple emblems on various vehicle parts. Brands like Rolls-Royce and Mercedes-Benz are known for this trend. Sadly, many drivers often view this excessive branding as a sign of insecurity about the vehicle’s quality or design.

Excessive Use Of Piano Black Trim  

Piano black trim is known for its glossy and elegant appearance. Yet, it is highly prone to dust, fingerprints, and scratches and requires constant cleaning to maintain its look. Many drivers find the material impractical due to its tendency to show wear and tear quickly.

Crossovers Posing As Off-Road Vehicles  

Crossovers like the Subaru Crosstrek and the Toyota RAV4 Adventure are marketed as off-road-capable vehicles, but many fall short in off-road performance. These vehicles often lack the ruggedness for serious off-roading. Unavoidably, the trend has disappointed many drivers who expected genuine off-road functionality.

Pop-out Door Handles

Pop-out door handles, increasingly common in modern vehicles, annoy drivers due to accessibility issues, reliability concerns, and a lack of intuitive use. They may freeze in cold weather, malfunction, or complicate quick access, leading many consumers to prefer traditional handles for their practicality and ease of use.