The automotive world is witnessing a thrilling resurgence of classic cars making a comeback, bringing both nostalgia and innovation to the market. Many iconic models that once defined an era are being reimagined for modern times, blending retro design with advanced technologies like electric powertrains and innovative features. These comebacks are not merely about reliving the past; they are about creating new legends that appeal to both old fans and new customers. Enthusiasts and collectors alike eagerly await the return of these beloved cars, each bringing a unique blend of style, performance, and technological upgrades.
Some of the most anticipated comebacks are from manufacturers that have spent years thinking about how to balance the allure of classic design with the need to meet contemporary standards. From all-electric revivals to retro-styled sports cars, these comebacks push the envelope in terms of engineering and design. In this article, we explore ten of the most exciting cars that are slated to return, each offering a modern twist on their classic predecessors. Whether it’s a high-performance sports car, an electric revolution, or a complete reimagining, these comebacks are proof that the automotive industry is not afraid to take risks while honoring its history.
1. Renault 5 EV: A Retro Revolution
Renault’s decision to bring back the Renault 5 as an electric vehicle (EV) has stirred excitement in the automotive world. Originally a popular supermini from the 1980s, the new Renault 5 EV offers an enticing combination of retro appeal and modern electric technology. Renault has designed the 5 with unmistakable nods to the past, incorporating design cues like the iconic front grille and compact dimensions. However, the 2024 Renault 5 is much more than just a nostalgic look at the past. Priced at around $25,000, it offers a range of up to 248 miles in its longer-distance configuration, making it a practical choice for daily commutes while delivering a dose of classic charm. With its affordability and attractive styling, the 5 EV is set to make waves in the electric car market.
The electric platform on which the 5 is built also promises a dynamic driving experience, with advanced technologies and a focus on sustainability. Renault’s decision to bring back this classic in a new form highlights the growing trend of manufacturers taking iconic models and adapting them for the future. The Renault 5 EV stands as a reminder of how classic designs can be modernized without losing their essential character, making it one of the most anticipated returns in the EV space.
2. MG Cyberster: A New Age of British Sports Cars
While not a direct comeback in the traditional sense, the MG Cyberster evokes memories of the classic MG MGB. As a new all-electric roadster, the Cyberster represents a bold new direction for MG, now owned by Chinese automaker SAIC. Its design pays homage to MG’s sporty roots while embracing cutting-edge technology. The Cyberster boasts a 496-horsepower flagship model and a performance-oriented electric powertrain that delivers an impressive 535 lb-ft of torque. The base model still offers an excellent 335 hp and a range of 316 miles, making it an appealing option for those seeking both performance and practicality. The new Cyberster is expected to bring a fresh perspective to the roadster segment, with a sleek and aggressive design.
Beyond its looks, the Cyberster’s electric powertrain marks a significant leap for the brand, which is looking to carve out a modern identity. With its blend of retro-inspired design and futuristic technology, the MG Cyberster is a prime example of how traditional brands can reinvent themselves for the electric age. Whether it will become a true successor to the MGB remains to be seen, but the Cyberster has certainly generated a great deal of anticipation.
3. Toyota Celica: The Return of a Legend
The Toyota Celica, a beloved nameplate in sports cars, could be making a long-awaited return. Although not officially confirmed, rumors suggest that Toyota is considering reintroducing the Celica as part of its lineup. The model’s last production run ended in 2006, and since then, enthusiasts have been eagerly awaiting its revival. In 2023, Toyota’s Akio Toyoda, known for his passion for sports cars, hinted that the Celica might make a comeback in a modern form, potentially following the footsteps of the revived Supra. Fans of the original Celica, known for its stylish design and affordability, would love to see it return while staying true to its roots and integrating the latest technologies.
Celica’s legacy includes its success in motorsports, particularly rallying, where it earned a reputation for agility and performance. A new Celica could be a formidable competitor in the modern sports car market, combining high-performance engineering with a retro design. Whether it arrives as a sleek coupe or a more radical interpretation, the Celica’s return could offer a breath of fresh air for those craving a new Japanese sports car.
4. Ford Capri: An SUV Twist on a Classic
The Ford Capri, once an icon of the 1970s and 1980s, is returning, but not in the form fans might have expected. Originally launched as a sports coupe with a long hood and muscular proportions, the 2024 Ford Capri is now an electric SUV. This transition has divided fans of the original Capri, who were hoping for a return to the classic coupe silhouette. Nevertheless, Ford is marketing the new Capri as a spiritual successor, boasting all the hallmarks of modern electric vehicles, including a sleek design, advanced technology, and an expected price tag of around $50,000. While the electric SUV may differ significantly from the original Capri, it does represent a move toward sustainability, which many classic car enthusiasts can appreciate.
Despite the disappointment among purists, the new Capri will likely appeal to those who prioritize modern electric capabilities and cutting-edge design. As Ford pivots to electric power, the Capri’s return marks a shift in how iconic nameplates are being reinterpreted for a new era. It remains to be seen if the new Capri can capture the spirit of its predecessor, but its comeback is a notable milestone in Ford’s EV journey.
5. Opel Manta GSe ElektroMOD: Retro Meets the Future
The Opel Manta is another classic car that’s receiving a modern update, with the Manta GSe ElektroMOD leading the charge. Originally produced between 1970 and 1988, the Manta was a sleek and stylish coupe that won the hearts of car enthusiasts. Opel’s 2021 Manta GSe ElektroMOD took the original design and reimagined it as a fully electric vehicle with a retro twist. Featuring a powerful 145 hp electric motor and an LED-lit front fascia, the ElektroMOD combines old-school looks with new-school technology. The Manta GSe is a playful homage to the past while embracing the electric future.
For 2024, Opel is bringing an all-new Manta EV to market, and while it’s expected to be an SUV, it will carry forward the distinctive Manta design elements. This shift from a classic coupe to an electric SUV is a trend many automakers are following, though it may disappoint fans hoping for a coupe revival. Nevertheless, Opel’s commitment to blending history with future tech makes the Manta’s return one of the most exciting automotive developments for 2025.
6. Dodge Charger Daytona: Electrifying American Muscle
The Dodge Charger Daytona represents a dramatic reinvention of one of America’s most iconic muscle cars. After a brief hiatus, the Charger is returning as a fully electric vehicle, with two distinct powertrains offering 496 hp and 670 hp, respectively. The new Charger Daytona, designed for performance, delivers astonishing speed, with a 0-60 mph time of just 3.3 seconds. This high-performance electric muscle car is also equipped with a PowerShot button, which adds an extra 40 hp when needed, making it a force to be reckoned with on the road. The Charger’s muscular design is complemented by cutting-edge electric technologies, positioning it as a leader in the growing performance EV market.
Although the V8 engine is no longer a part of the Charger’s package, the Daytona EV offers a new kind of performance, proving that muscle cars can transition successfully into the electric age. The Dodge Charger Daytona not only pays homage to its powerful predecessors but also paves the way for a new generation of electric muscle cars that push the limits of what’s possible in terms of speed, performance, and design.
7. Lancia Ypsilon HF: A Hot Hatch Reborn
The Lancia Ypsilon is set to return in 2025, but it will take on a more modern, electric persona. While the Ypsilon is not as iconic as some of Lancia’s other models, it carries a legacy tied to the legendary Lancia Delta Integrale, a car that dominated the World Rally Championship. The new Ypsilon HF will be a performance-focused electric hatchback, producing 237 hp and accelerating from 0 to 62 mph in just 5.8 seconds. This electric hot hatch will bring back the excitement associated with Lancia’s rally heritage while offering a modern, sustainable twist.
The Ypsilon HF’s performance capabilities, combined with its potential for over 250 miles of range, make it a standout in the growing electric hot hatch market. With its retro styling and new-age powertrain, the Ypsilon HF is an exciting prospect for those who remember Lancia’s rally days and want a taste of that performance in a more eco-friendly package.
8. Vauxhall Frontera: A Bold Return to the SUV Market
Vauxhall’s decision to revive the Frontera nameplate has sparked intrigue, particularly as it will return as an electric SUV. The original Frontera, produced in the 1990s and early 2000s, was a rugged, large SUV that garnered a
loyal following. The new Frontera will blend its historical ruggedness with modern, eco-friendly electric powertrains, signaling Vauxhall’s commitment to sustainable mobility. Though details on its power, range, and price are still scarce, the promise of a sleek and classy design gives the Frontera an air of modern sophistication.
This comeback is part of a broader trend of brands reintroducing past models with updated technologies, and Frontera’s return is an exciting development for those looking for a capable and environmentally conscious SUV. The transition to electric power will likely resonate well with fans of the original Frontera, especially in a market increasingly focused on sustainability.
9. Chevrolet Camaro: Waiting for the Return
After being retired in 2023, the Chevrolet Camaro has left many enthusiasts wondering when it will return. GM has promised that the Camaro’s story is not over, and while it may not come back in 2024, rumors suggest that it could take the form of an electric sports coupe. After the success of the Chevy Corvette’s hybrid and electric prototypes, a new Camaro EV could offer a combination of performance and sustainability, staying true to the model’s muscular heritage while embracing modern technology.
Camaro enthusiasts can rest assured that this iconic nameplate is far from finished. Whether it reappears as a four-door coupe or an affordable EV, the Camaro’s return is one of the most anticipated in American performance cars. It will be exciting to see how Chevrolet evolves this legendary model for the next generation of drivers.
10. Lancia’s Rally Comeback: A New Chapter for the Ypsilon HF
Although not a direct model comeback, Lancia’s plan to reenter rallying with the Ypsilon HF has sparked considerable excitement. This new version of the Ypsilon will compete in the Rally4 category, featuring a 1.2-liter turbocharged engine that delivers 212 hp. It will sport the iconic Martini stripes, evoking memories of Lancia’s glory days in rally racing. Lancia’s return to motorsport is a promising development for fans who have eagerly awaited the brand’s revival in competitive racing.
The Rally4 Ypsilon HF’s focus on performance and nostalgia encapsulates the spirit of Lancia’s rally heritage. As the brand looks to carve out a new identity in motorsport, this comeback serves as a reminder of Lancia’s historic legacy and the potential for future victories. It will be interesting to see how Lancia balances its past with future innovations as it competes in the challenging world of rally racing.
These ten cars represent a diverse cross-section of automotive history being reimagined for the future. Whether through electric powertrains, performance updates, or design tweaks, each of these comebacks offers something unique to car enthusiasts, proving that even the most beloved classics can thrive in the modern age.