Retro is back: the coolest retro vehicles of the moment

When you say hippie van, you immediately think of the Volkswagen T1 from the ’60s and ’70s. The van that symbolized freedom, road trips, and surf vacations. With the Volkswagen ID. Buzz, VW gives that feeling a fully electric update. The round headlights, the two-tone paintwork, and the playful design: everything breathes retro, without compromising on modern technology. Inside? Space, comfort, and all the connectivity you expect today. Ideal for families and for those who have secretly always wanted to drive such a van.

The new Renault 5 E-Tech Electric might be the best retro revival of recent years. Originally, the Renault 5 was the city car of the French middle class in the ’70s and ’80s: small, affordable, and full of character. The electric version retains that compact and playful look, with recognizable design elements such as the angular headlights and clean lines. But don’t be fooled: under the hood, it has everything you expect from a modern EV, including a solid driving range and smart driver assistance systems.

Alongside the 5, Renault is also bringing back the iconic Renault 4. The original ‘Quatrelle’ was known as a no-nonsense workhorse: practical, affordable, and versatile. The new version will be an electric crossover with a rugged SUV profile, but with clear nods to the original. Think of the characteristic rectangular taillights and the angular silhouette. Perfect for those looking for a compact EV with that little extra personality.

MG used to be synonymous with affordable British sports cars featuring rear-wheel drive and open tops. Since the takeover by Chinese SAIC Motor, we mostly saw electric SUVs… until now. With the MG Cyberster, the brand is reviving its roadster heritage. A low, wide, and strikingly styled model, with electric power and a soft top for that true convertible feel. A nice detail: the gullwing doors even give the Cyberster a touch of supercar flair.

Citroën is not choosing just one retro model, but an entire line of city cars with a nod to the past. Think of the Citroën Ami, an ultra-compact electric city car that is as quirky as the iconic 2CV once was. Or the new ë-C3, which with its angular lines and playful use of color is clearly inspired by earlier Citroëns. Comfort and individuality are central, just as they were in the past.

Fiat has long known how to make retro a success. The Fiat 500 has been an icon in its own right for years. But since the arrival of the electric 500e and the choice of striking, bright colors and limited editions, the retro vibe is fully back. Think pastel blue, bright pink, or sunny yellow. The shape? Still recognizably round and compact, but inside completely up to date.

Iconic names, less recognizable looks

Not every brand opts for a pronounced retro design. Some manufacturers mainly revive the names from the past, with only a few small design details referencing an iconic heritage. Take Ford, for example, with models like the Mustang Mach-E, Bronco, Explorer, and the Capri EV. All well-known names with a strong legacy, but visually, you don’t see much resemblance to the original models. Opel also joins in with the Frontera: a rugged SUV, but with little similarity to the sturdy off-roader of the past.

Want retro vibes in your driveway? Interested in which models from our range combine that delightful retro feel with modern technology? Discover our selection here.