Some cars have always been an embodiment of power and performance, but sometimes their design choices can be quite polarizing. Grilles, in particular, are the face of the car and can make or break its aesthetic appeal. Here are eight factory cars known for having some of the most controversial grilles.
Pontiac Aztek
The Pontiac Aztek often tops lists of cars with questionable design, and its grille is no exception. The Aztek’s angular, multi-part grille was a bold choice that didn’t resonate with many. Its split design seemed more like a forced attempt at modernity than a cohesive stylistic element. Despite its shortcomings, the Aztek has gained a cult following, partly due to its unique appearance. While some might find its grille charmingly quirky, most agree it’s not the car’s best feature.
Ford Edsel
The Ford Edsel is a classic example of design gone awry, with its infamous horse-collar grille leading the charge. Ford’s attempt to create a distinct identity resulted in a look that was more odd than appealing. This vertical oval grille earned nicknames like “the toilet seat” and was a primary reason for the car’s commercial failure. Despite its historical significance, the Edsel’s grille remains a lesson in how design risks can sometimes backfire.
Subaru B9 Tribeca
The Subaru B9 Tribeca made waves with its unconventional grille that resembled a propeller, a nod to Subaru’s aircraft heritage. However, this design was widely panned for being too avant-garde for consumer tastes. The grille’s unusual shape, flanked by narrow headlights, gave the car a perpetually surprised expression. Subaru eventually redesigned the Tribeca, but the original grille remains a memorable misstep in automotive design history.
Nissan Juke
The Nissan Juke’s grille is part of a love-it-or-hate-it design that has sparked debate since its release. Its bold, bug-eye appearance is accentuated by a small, inverted trapezoid grille that seems dwarfed by the oversized headlights. While the Juke’s design has its fans, many find the grille’s placement and size awkward and unappealing. The Juke proves that daring design can be divisive, especially when it comes to the car’s front end.
Alfa Romeo SZ
The Alfa Romeo SZ, also known as the Sprint Zagato, is a striking vehicle with a grille that is both unique and controversial. Its narrow, horizontal slats are flanked by three inset headlights, creating a look that’s more robotic than sleek. While the SZ is appreciated for its performance, its grille often draws mixed reactions. Some fans appreciate its boldness, but others feel it detracts from the car’s overall elegance.
Chrysler PT Cruiser
The Chrysler PT Cruiser’s retro-inspired design was a hit for some, but its grille was often a point of contention. The vertical slats and large chrome surround tried to evoke classic cars but ended up looking dated and out of place in the modern era. While the PT Cruiser enjoyed considerable popularity, its grille remains a divisive feature, with many criticizing its attempt at nostalgia.
BMW iX
The BMW iX represents a bold step into the future with its oversized kidney grille, which has been a hot topic among car enthusiasts. While BMW’s kidney grilles are iconic, the iX takes it to new extremes, leading to mixed reactions. Some appreciate the futuristic approach, while others feel the grille is disproportionate and clashes with the vehicle’s overall design. The iX’s grille is a testament to BMW’s willingness to push boundaries, even at the risk of controversy.
Chevrolet SSR
The Chevrolet SSR’s grille is part of a design that blends retro style with modern muscle, but it doesn’t quite hit the mark. The SSR features a wide-mouth grille that attempts to look aggressive but ends up appearing more cartoonish. The combination of a bold, horizontal bar and large Chevy logo creates a face that many find unappealing. Despite its intent to merge past and present design elements, the SSR’s grille often feels like a misstep in an otherwise interesting concept.
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*Created with AI assistance and editor review.
