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17 Cars Your Grandpa Would Laugh At—Until He Drove One

Cameron Eittreim July 23, 2025

We all know someone who judges a car by its quirky looks or questionable reputation—maybe even your grandpa. Yet, beneath odd styling and misunderstood badges, some vehicles hide surprising performance, comfort, or innovation. These are the cars that spark laughter or skepticism at first glance, only to leave drivers grinning after a test drive.
It’s easy to dismiss a small hatchback or a boxy hybrid, but don’t be fooled. This list uncovers 17 cars that defy their reputations—vehicles grandpa might mock, but would secretly love after taking the wheel. Prepare to rethink what makes a car truly great.

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1. Toyota Prius

The Toyota Prius has long been the butt of jokes for its unconventional design and “eco-warrior” image. But once behind the wheel, skeptics quickly discover its legendary fuel efficiency and bulletproof reliability. Compared to traditional sedans, the Prius often delivers double the gas mileage, saving drivers money at the pump and trips to the mechanic.
Its smooth hybrid system makes every drive surprisingly pleasant. Learn more about the impressive tech behind the Prius at the official Toyota Hybrid page.

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2. Smart Fortwo

Smart fortwo 2020 01@2x — A compact Smart Fortwo effortlessly fits into a tight urban parking space, perfectly suited for city living. | Image from realsandiegohotels.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Smart Fortwo may look more like a toy than a real car, often drawing chuckles for its pint-sized frame and unusual proportions. But what it lacks in size, it more than makes up for in urban agility. Navigating through tight city streets and squeezing into parking spots most cars can only dream of, the Smart Fortwo is a secret weapon for city dwellers.
According to Car and Driver, its turning radius and maneuverability are truly impressive.

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3. Nissan Leaf

1200px 2017 nissan leaf %28ze0 my17%29 hatchback %282018 11 02%29 01 — A sleek Nissan Leaf electric vehicle glides down a tree-lined street, showcasing the future of green driving. | Image from www.uihere.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Nissan Leaf often flies under the radar, dismissed for its modest looks and unassuming presence. Yet, skeptics are quickly converted after experiencing its instant torque and whisper-quiet electric ride. The Leaf’s acceleration surprises even seasoned drivers, and its smoothness makes city driving a breeze.
For those open to electric motoring, the Leaf delivers a practical, enjoyable drive that challenges its humble reputation. Discover its innovative features at the official Nissan Leaf features page.

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4. Fiat 500

1200px fiat 500 electric%2c vilnius%2c rotu%c5%a1%c4%97s aik%c5%a1t%c4%97 — A classic Fiat 500 in vintage white rests on a cobblestone street, embodying timeless Italian retro charm. | Image from www.publicdomainpictures.net (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Fiat 500 is instantly recognizable for its quirky, retro styling and tiny footprint. While it might seem more like a fashion statement than a serious car, one drive reveals its playful handling and undeniable Italian charm. Zipping through city streets becomes a joy, thanks to its lightweight design and peppy engine.
The Fiat 500 proves that compact doesn’t have to mean boring—this car turns every errand into an adventure. Check out more about its style and features on the official Fiat website.

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5. Honda Fit

1200px honda fit gk shishi 01 2022 09 24 2 — A sleek Honda Fit compact hatchback is parked curbside, highlighting its sporty design and impressively versatile interior. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

At first glance, the Honda Fit might seem like just another basic hatchback. But step inside and you’ll find a marvel of clever engineering—its “Magic Seat” system and flexible cargo space make it far more versatile than expected.
Behind the wheel, the Fit’s nimble handling and responsive steering deliver a surprisingly engaging drive, whether in the city or on twisty roads. As noted by Edmunds, the Fit is a small car with a big personality.

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6. Subaru Crosstrek

1200px 2018 subaru crosstrek — A rugged Subaru Crosstrek with all-wheel drive is parked beside a scenic forest trail, ready for outdoor adventure. | Image from commons.wikimedia.org (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Subaru Crosstrek may appear to be just a “tall hatchback,” but it’s far more than meets the eye. Its standard all-wheel drive and rugged stance make it a favorite for outdoor enthusiasts who need capability without bulk.
Skeptics who take it off the pavement quickly realize the Crosstrek’s practicality and surprising off-road chops. For those who crave adventure in a compact package, this Subaru delivers. Learn more about its features on the official Subaru Crosstrek page.

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7. Kia Soul

640px 10 kia soul back — A stylish Kia Soul showcases its signature boxy design, embodying modern flair in a compact SUV package. | Image from www.rawpixel.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

With its unmistakable boxy shape, the Kia Soul has always stood out—sometimes for the wrong reasons. But step inside, and you’ll find unexpected comfort, generous cargo space, and a value-packed feature list that punches above its weight.
Drivers who once laughed at the Soul’s funky look often end up appreciating its practicality and fun personality. As Kelley Blue Book notes, this compact car offers more than meets the eye, making it a smart choice for all ages.

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8. Chevrolet Bolt EV

1200px 2019 Chevrolet Bolt Ev April 2019 %282736%29 — A sleek Chevrolet Bolt EV glides through bustling city streets, showcasing the future of electric urban driving. | Image from www.nps.gov (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Chevrolet Bolt EV might not turn heads with its modest hatchback styling, but it’s a different story once you hit the accelerator. The Bolt’s instant electric torque delivers a surprisingly zippy driving experience, and its impressive range means fewer stops to recharge than many expect.
Skeptics are often won over by the Bolt’s blend of practicality and fun. For a deeper look at what sets it apart, visit the Chevrolet Bolt EV overview.

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9. Volkswagen Beetle (New Beetle)

1200px 2002 volkswagen new beetle %289c my02.5%29 2.0 coupe %282010 10 01%29 01 — A beautifully restored Volkswagen Beetle gleams under the sun, showcasing its classic retro curves and timeless charm. | Image from www.publicdomainpictures.net (Creative Commons Licensed)

The New Beetle brought retro flair back to the road, often provoking smiles—or smirks—thanks to its playful curves and flower vase on the dash. But once you take it for a spin, its zippy handling and cheerful personality quickly disarm even the biggest skeptics.
The New Beetle’s unique charm and fun drive have made it a beloved, if unconventional, classic. For a deeper dive into its history, check out this retrospective by MotorTrend.

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10. Mini Cooper

1200px rover mini cooper 2000 28x411jop29 3 — A charming British Mini Cooper, with its iconic compact design, sits gleaming under city lights on a bustling street. | Image from www.publicdomainpictures.net (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Mini Cooper is famous for its playful, almost cartoonish design, which sometimes leads to it being underestimated. However, its go-kart-like handling and eager performance make every drive a delight.
Many skeptics are quickly converted after experiencing the Mini’s sharp steering and lively road feel, which pack a surprising punch for such a small car. For details on models and features, explore the official MINI USA site.

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11. Mazda MX-5 Miata

The Mazda MX-5 Miata is often dismissed as merely a “cute” convertible, but a quick drive reveals why it’s a legend among car enthusiasts. Its lightweight agility, sharp steering, and pure driving feel create an experience that wins over even the most skeptical drivers.
The Miata proves that you don’t need brute power to have fun behind the wheel. For a deeper look at its enduring appeal, see Car and Driver’s long-term review.

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12. Scion xB

The Scion xB is hard to ignore with its unapologetically boxy design—an aesthetic that often draws raised eyebrows. But those willing to look past its unconventional shape discover a car loaded with practicality, from its roomy interior to its versatile cargo space.
Unexpectedly, the xB is also fun to drive, with a responsive engine and nimble manners. For a closer look at what makes this box stand out, read The Drive’s detailed review.

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13. Hyundai Veloster

The Hyundai Veloster stands out immediately with its quirky three-door design—two on one side, one on the other—often leaving observers puzzled. But slide into the driver’s seat, and you’ll find a sporty, engaging drive that’s hard not to love.
Its responsive handling and unique style make it a favorite for those wanting something different in a compact package. Discover more about the Veloster’s features and personality on the official Hyundai Veloster page.

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14. Tesla Model 3

1200px tesla model 3 highland dual motor pearl white multi coat %282%29 — A sleek Tesla Model 3 electric sedan gleams under the sunlight, showcasing cutting-edge technology and modern design. | Image from www.publicdomainpictures.net (Creative Commons Licensed)

The Tesla Model 3 may appear almost too simple, with its minimalist interior and lack of traditional buttons, but don’t let that fool you. Its blistering acceleration and cutting-edge technology have a way of winning over even the most stubborn skeptics.
Once experienced, the Model 3’s seamless electric power and intuitive interface often leave drivers rethinking what a modern car can be. For more impressions, read the New York Times review.

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15. BMW i3

motor-junkie — A sleek BMW i3 electric car stands parked on a city street, showcasing its distinctive futuristic design. | Image from www.flickr.com (Creative Commons Licensed)

The BMW i3 turns heads with its ultra-modern, almost spaceship-like design—a far cry from classic BMW sedans. But step on the accelerator, and its instant electric torque delivers quick, smooth power that delights even traditionalists.
Inside, the i3 surprises with premium materials and innovative tech, blending luxury and sustainability in one compact package. For those curious about BMW’s electric vision, visit the official BMW i3 page.

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16. Toyota Sienna (Hybrid)

The Toyota Sienna Hybrid may carry the classic minivan stigma, but it’s far from the old-school family hauler your grandpa remembers. Its hybrid powertrain delivers impressive fuel economy, while available all-wheel drive and a host of family-friendly features make every trip smoother and safer.
Skeptics are often surprised by how modern and capable the new Sienna feels. For a comprehensive overview, check out the U.S. News Sienna review.

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17. Honda Ridgeline

The Honda Ridgeline breaks the traditional pickup mold with its unique unibody construction, often drawing skepticism from truck purists. But a test drive reveals a remarkably smooth ride and a cabin as comfortable as many SUVs.
Its innovative features—like the in-bed trunk and dual-action tailgate—offer practical solutions that conventional trucks lack. Doubters quickly become fans when they see just how versatile and user-friendly the Ridgeline can be. Explore more on the Honda Ridgeline highlights.

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Don’t Judge a Car by Its Cover

1200px Fiat New 500 28256584830329 — A surprised driver looks on as a smiling grandpa proudly hands over a set of car keys. | Image from www.nps.gov (Creative Commons Licensed)

These 17 cars prove that first impressions aren’t always the whole story. Many vehicles mocked for their quirky looks or misunderstood reputations can surprise you with comfort, innovation, or pure driving fun once you get behind the wheel.
Keeping an open mind could lead to discovering a new favorite you never expected. So next time you’re car shopping, take a second look—and maybe even a test drive. You might just find yourself grinning, just like grandpa.

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17 Cars Your Grandpa Would Laugh At—Until He Drove One

1. Toyota Prius

2. Smart Fortwo

3. Nissan Leaf

4. Fiat 500

5. Honda Fit

6. Subaru Crosstrek

7. Kia Soul

8. Chevrolet Bolt EV

9. Volkswagen Beetle (New Beetle)

10. Mini Cooper

11. Mazda MX-5 Miata

12. Scion xB

13. Hyundai Veloster

14. Tesla Model 3

15. BMW i3

16. Toyota Sienna (Hybrid)

17. Honda Ridgeline

Don’t Judge a Car by Its Cover

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