18. 2001 Pontiac Aztek
The 2001 Pontiac Aztek is often remembered for its polarizing looks, but beneath the quirky exterior was true innovation.
As one of the first crossover SUVs, the Aztek combined car-like comfort with SUV versatility and introduced clever features—like a removable cooler and a tent package—that catered to adventurous lifestyles.
While critics mocked its styling, the Aztek’s influence is clear in today’s booming crossover market.
As CNN notes, it was simply ahead of its time.