SUVs with their specific boxy design and lines resembling old generations is a trend favored by numerous car manufacturers.

SUVs have driven sales and profits in the automotive industry for the past two decades. Their popularity took off in the 1990s in the United States, when Toyota and Honda launched the RAV4 and CR-V, respectively.

Suddenly, these vehicles became affordable, more attractive and trendier. Previously, the market for high ground clearance cars was dominated by boxy and expensive ones using old technology and more focused on off-road capabilities than on daily use.

In 2022, about 32.8 million SUV units were sold worldwide, increasing by 2% compared to 2021 and accounting for 45% of total passenger car sales (including pickups).

In response to the decline in growth, automakers are seeking solutions to bring SUVs newness and appeal. Retro style is a common choice of many brands. New models have a boxy appearance and in numerous cases resemble old design elements that they have brought over from the original versions.

Some automotive brands, such as Ford with the Bronco, are bringing some models back from the past; others are simply revamping long-lived iconic models, such as Jeep with the Wrangler or Land Rover with the Defender. Besides, others are making their own models, such as Chinese brands. Meanwhile, manufacturers like Lada bring back Niva Legend – an off-road model using old technology.

The vintage off-road SUV segment consists of about 33 models ranging from the inexpensive products like Lada Niva, Mahindra Bolero, or UAZ Patriot to the luxury models like Mercedes G-Class or even the electric Rivian R1S.

Some of the hallmarks of a vintage off-road SUV include boxy shape, higher ground clearance than other SUVs, outstanding off-road capability, big wheels and small/regular sized rims, and some models show off their spare wheel at the back.

Land Rover Defender is possibly one of the best examples of how investing in this trend is paying off. Previously, the British manufacturer discontinued the original Defender in 2016 and bring it back three years later.

Its new version heightens the shape and spirit of the old one and adds new technology and comfort. As a result, Defender becomes Land Rover’s best-selling vehicle in 2022 and is also the only product in the British brand’s range to grow compared to 2021. Ford also achieved positive results with the latest report from Bronco, as did Suzuki with the Jimny.

Those models are probably the reason why brands are beginning to reshape their SUVs and make them boxier. The new generation Hyundai Santa Fe also seems to follow the trend.

Source: vnexpress.net