Comeback Cars

Naming a new car can be a tricky business for motor manufacturers. Names must be catchy, memorable, and culturally appropriate across different countries. With so many considerations, it’s no wonder that manufacturers are revisiting their archives to resurrect our familiar and beloved car names.

Right now, this trend is in full swing. We’re about to see the return of iconic vehicles from five different brands on motor dealer forecourts, including the much-debated decision by Ford to reintroduce the Capri as an electric SUV.

But does reviving a classic car breathe new life into the motor trade, or is it a risky move? In this article, we look at five popular vehicles relaunching their iconic badges.

1. Ford Capri

The most controversial comeback is Ford’s decision to revive the Capri.

Once a sleek, two-door coupe, the Capri is reimagined as a 2.1-tonne electric SUV, sparking backlash from Ford enthusiasts. The original Capri sold nearly 2 million vehicles between 1969 and 1986 and was loved for its sporty design and affordability. But fans are divided over whether this modern SUV, which bears little resemblance to the classic coupe, can live up to the legacy.

This isn’t Ford’s first foray into reviving classic names for new electric vehicles (EVs). In 2019, they introduced the Mustang Mach-E, a move that also ruffled feathers. Last year, Ford brought back the Explorer name for another SUV. While some have welcomed the return of these iconic badges, many long-time fans remain sceptical about their use on battery-powered SUVs.

2. Renault 5

Renault made waves in 2021 when it unveiled the Renault 5 EV concept, a nod to the original model that became a rally legend in the 1970s. The big question was whether the production version would maintain its retro-inspired design, and earlier this year, Renault delivered a model that stays true to its roots.

While the new Renault 5 will be all-electric, fans of the original will likely embrace the change, thanks to its strong resemblance to the beloved classic. The Renault 5 E-Tech, set to launch in early 2025 with a starting price of around £25,000, will offer a range of 250 miles.

3. Vauxhall Frontera

The Vauxhall Frontera may not be the first car that comes to mind when you think of “classic” vehicles, but its return is still significant. The original Frontera, a boxy 4×4 that was on the market from 1991 to 2004, had a reputation for being reliable but unremarkable. Two decades later, Vauxhall is bringing back the Frontera as part of its push towards electric vehicles.

The new Frontera will be available as a petrol and an electric model, replacing the ageing Crossland. It’s set to compete with popular compact SUVs like the Ford Puma and Nissan Juke. Vauxhall claims the Frontera’s key selling point will be comfort, with an innovative seat design to reduce back pain on long journeys. Unlike its predecessor, the new Frontera won’t be an off-roader—this SUV will only offer front-wheel drive.

4. Fiat Topolino

Fiat is reviving the Topolino, a name last used in the 1950s. The original Topolino, which means “baby mouse” in Italian, was a tiny car produced from 1936 to 1955. Now, 70 years later, Fiat is returning it as a dinky electric vehicle. This two-door “quadricycle” shares its platform with the Citroën Ami, aiming to capture the spirit of urban mobility with a quirky, retro twist.

Fiat promises that the new Topolino will “encapsulate the coolness” of the classic Fiat 500, which debuted in 1957. The latest model even features retro design touches like oval headlamps, dish-style wheel trims, and a suitcase rack at the rear. The Topolino will come in a standard model and an open-top Dolce Vita edition.

5. Honda Prelude

Honda also brings back one of its most famous nameplates—the Prelude. This iconic two-door coupe was first launched in Europe in 1979, and the last version rolled off the production line in 2001. Honda has confirmed that the Prelude will return to UK showrooms in 2025 as a performance hybrid coupe.

The new Prelude will likely feature the same hybrid drivetrain as the current Civic hatchback, making it a blend of performance and efficiency. When it arrives, it will be the only front-wheel-drive coupe on the UK market, as rivals like the Volkswagen Scirocco and Audi TT have been discontinued.

These revivals of classic car names tap into nostalgia while adapting to modern technology. Whether these returns will succeed in winning over old fans and new customers remains to be seen, but it’s clear that the motor trade industry is paying homage to its roots while driving towards the future.