1: Nissan NX2000
Much like Mazda had attempted with the MX-3, Nissan was trying to make the hatchback segment sporty. The automotive press lauded the NX2000 for its notable performance at the time. The exterior styling of the NX2000 was similar to the Mazda MX-3, in that it was a hatchback with rounded styling. But that’s where the similarities ended, because the Nissan had a horrific looking front fascia (via Car Gurus).
The NX2000 could have been so much more if Nissan had put more effort into the exterior of the car. Between the similarities with the Mazda and the hideous front styling, the NX2000 just didn’t catch on with consumers. Not to mention that hatchback models were unpopular at this point in time as consumer tastes had switched.