3. Pontiac Aztek
Pontiac introduced the Aztek in 2000 and it was a good idea on paper, at least. A mid-size crossover model with sharp styling, a decent engine lineup and plenty of interior space was a modern concept at the time. Pontiac was eager to present it to the public since the overall sales of the brand were suffering. They thought their new model would boost the popularity of the brand and bring new customers to the dealerships. Pontiac’s plan was sound, except for one thing: the design.
Somehow, the Pontiac designers managed to produce one of the ugliest cars they ever made. Even 17 years after the first Aztek saw the light of day, it is still a car design that makes no sense whatsoever. Simply, every design component of the car was extremely ugly. The interior is also questionable, too. Aztek designers later created the great-looking Corvette C7, so it is strange how they managed to do such a bad job for Pontiac.
The pure ugliness of the car, as well as the bad fit and finish quality, sealed the fate of the Aztek. However, it did have some good features, as well. The Aztek had plenty of space inside and provided a decent performance. It also had a higher-than-average equipment level and a big trunk. In fact, it would be good family crossover if it wasn’t for that hideous design. But in recent years, over a decade after they stopped producing them, Azteks are popular.
The new popularity is mostly due to an appearance in the cult TV show, Breaking Bad. Also, the Aztek won first place in many “ugliest car” lists. Unfortunately, the failure of the Aztek affected Pontiac as a brand, so a couple of years later, they closed their doors forever.