10 Car Design Trends That Need To Disappear

September 27, 2025

Car design trends shape not just how vehicles look, but also how we experience daily driving. Over the years, automakers have introduced features and styles that grab attention, but not all trends are practical or safe. Some car design trends that need to disappear actually make cars less enjoyable, more expensive, or even harder to use. Whether it’s about aesthetics, convenience, or safety, bad design decisions can affect everyone on the road. Let’s break down the top offenders in modern car design and why it’s time to retire them for good.

1. Oversized Grilles

It seems like every new car has a grille that’s bigger than the front bumper. While automakers claim it’s about brand identity, these massive grilles are mostly about looks. They often serve no real functional purpose and can even reduce aerodynamics. Additionally, they increase the cost of repairs and contribute to a trend that’s more about style than substance. Oversized grilles are one of the car design trends that need to disappear for cleaner, more efficient vehicles.

2. Fake Exhaust Tips

Many cars now sport flashy exhaust tips, but look closer and you’ll see they’re not always connected to the real exhaust system. These fake exhausts are simply decorative, fooling no one and adding unnecessary complexity. They can rust, rattle, and even trap debris. Instead of faking performance, automakers should focus on genuine engineering improvements.

3. Excessive Touchscreens

Touchscreens have replaced physical buttons in car interiors, but sometimes less is more. While a touchscreen can clean up the dashboard, relying on it for every function is distracting. Adjusting climate controls or changing the radio shouldn’t require taking your eyes off the road. This is a car design trend that needs to disappear, or at the very least, be used more thoughtfully.

4. Fake Vents and Scoops

Some cars are loaded with vents and scoops that don’t actually do anything. These purely cosmetic features are meant to make a car look sporty or aggressive, but they often just collect dirt and detract from a clean design. Real performance cars have vents for a reason—let’s leave the fakes in the past.

5. Overly Complicated Headlights

Headlights have become a canvas for designers to show off, resulting in intricate shapes and complex lighting patterns. While advanced lighting can enhance visibility, the trend toward overly complicated headlights results in higher repair costs and increased potential for malfunctions. Simpler, more effective lighting would be a welcome change.

6. Coupe-Like Rooflines on SUVs

Many modern SUVs now sport sloping, coupe-like rooflines, sacrificing practicality for style. These designs often reduce headroom and cargo space, making the vehicle less useful for families or road trips. It’s a clear case where form trumps function. This is another car design trend that needs to disappear if SUVs are to remain practical choices.

7. Unnecessarily Large Wheels

Big wheels might look cool, but they come with downsides. Larger wheels can make the ride harsher, increase tire replacement costs, and sometimes even hurt fuel economy. They’re also more prone to damage from potholes. Sticking to more reasonable wheel sizes makes for a better driving experience all around.

8. Piano Black Interior Trim

Piano black trim looks sleek in the showroom, but it’s a magnet for fingerprints, dust, and scratches. Keeping it clean is a full-time job, and over time, it starts to look worn out. Numerous attractive, durable materials require minimal maintenance. For a more practical interior, this is one trend that needs to go.

9. Overly Aggressive Styling

Sharp lines, fake vents, and angry headlights make some modern cars look like they’re always in a bad mood. While aggressive styling might appeal to some, it often dates quickly and can even hurt resale value. A timeless design will always age better. The cycle of ever-more-extreme looks is a car design trend that needs to disappear.

10. Hidden Door Handles

Flush or hidden door handles are designed to enhance aerodynamics and give cars a futuristic look. In reality, they can be frustrating to use, especially in cold weather or when you’re in a hurry. Sometimes, simple is better—traditional handles work just fine and are easier for everyone to use, including first responders in an emergency.

Looking Forward to Smarter Car Design

Many of these car design trends that need to disappear started with good intentions—making cars look modern, sporty, or high-tech. But when style comes at the expense of function, safety, or affordability, it’s time to rethink the approach. As drivers, we want vehicles that are practical, comfortable, and easy to live with day after day.

Automakers need to listen to real-world feedback and prioritize features that actually improve the driving experience. What car design trends do you think need to disappear? Share your thoughts in the comments below!