There’s something undeniably special about classic cars. The shapes, the soul, and the history represent an era when driving was about passion, not just practicality. But as the automotive industry shifts towards electrification and cutting-edge technology, manufacturers are looking back to move forward, reviving legendary nameplates with a modern twist.
From long-rumoured comebacks to confirmed revivals, we’ve analysed global search data to identify the retro cars enthusiasts are most excited about. We've even had designers reimagine what these classics could look like today. So, buckle up as we take a deep dive into the future of automotive nostalgia.
Mazda RX-7
Few cars ignite excitement quite like the Mazda RX-7. With its lightweight chassis, perfect balance, and legendary rotary engine, it’s a car that defined an era of Japanese performance - so much so that it generates 673,000 Google searches a month globally.
Enthusiasts have been clamouring for its return, but with Mazda focusing on sustainable tech, will we see a new RX-7? Rumours have circulated online that a modern revival could feature a hybrid rotary powertrain, blending nostalgia with cutting-edge engineering.
Our 2025 RX-7 concept blends the essence of the 1978 original with modern touches, featuring a sleek, low-profile coupe with a wedge-shaped nose and aerodynamic lines. Pop-up LED headlights, and multi-spoke wheels maintain its classic and polished design. The revived RX-7 is finished in a luxe satin metallic bronze that gives an understated look.
Volkswagen Beetle
The Beetle is one of the most recognisable cars of all time, raking in 550,000 Google searches a month across the globe. The Beetle was discontinued and then brought back in 1997 before being discontinued again in 2019. There’s been unofficial talk of Volkswagen bringing back the Beetle as an electric car, much like the ID. Buzz.
So, if Volkswagen brought back the Beetle, what would it look like? We’ve reimagined the 2025 Beetle while staying true to its 1938 original form. The model features a compact, upright body with a pronounced hood and separate fenders, keeping the charm of the past intact. Large round LED headlights with chrome bezels, emphasised wheel arches, and minimalist chrome hubcaps complete its timeless design. Painted in the iconic cream with a satin finish and chrome trim, it revives the spirit of the Beetle while feeling fresh and modern.
BMW M1
BMW’s only true supercar, the M1 remains one of the most iconic models in the brand’s history - and it accumulates 301,000 monthly Google searches. With BMW’s modern M division focusing on high-performance saloons and SUVs, could they bring back the mid-engine classic like rumours suggest?
We’ve reimagined the BMW M1 if it was to be brought out today. Our concept maintains the legendary wedge-shaped design while refining it for the 2025 era. The new M1 features softened edges, a streamlined silhouette, and BMW’s signature kidney grilles, it merges the past with modern styling cues. Finished in the classic reddish-orange hue, and with the car’s clean lines, it stands out as a modern masterpiece.
Pontiac Firebird
The Pontiac Firebird was produced from 1976 to 2002 before being discontinued, yet despite the cease in production, the car generates 246,000 global Google searches a month. The car is a symbol of American muscle; it defined an era of V8-powered excess. Rumours online have cited that the Firebird is making a comeback, but unfortunately, it appears these rumours have no basis.
But, still, we can imagine what a Pontiac Firebird would be like if it was brought out today. We’ve blended the aggressive 1976 design with modern aerodynamics to give a fresh look for 2025. The bold grille and muscular stance remain intact, paired with sleek, sculpted lines that reflect contemporary styling. The Firebird is finished in a rich metallic blue gloss, accented with the classic double circular headlights.
Toyota MR2
Toyota has already revived the Supra, so what about its mid-engine sibling, the MR2? The Toyota MR2 sees 246,000 monthly Google searches, clearly still a popular car, despite production stopping in 2007. Compact, lightweight, and playful, the MR2 was the budget-friendly sports car that delivered big thrills. Rumours suggest Toyota could bring it back as an electric sports car, possibly in collaboration with Lotus or Porsche.
Our 2025 MR2 concept retains the sharp, angular design of the 1984 original while incorporating futuristic Toyota styling. With a wedge-shaped nose, sculpted air intakes, and pop-up LED headlights, it perfectly blends retro nostalgia with modern aerodynamics. Painted in striking Super Red with a high-gloss finish, it reflects the warm hues of the sunset, embodying the spirit of a reborn legend.
Retro cars that have already made a comeback
Some brands have already capitalised on nostalgia, bringing back legendary nameplates for a new generation. We’ve analysed global keyword search data to uncover the most popular revivals.
The Fiat 500 is one of the most popular revived cars in the world
The Fiat 500 racks up a whopping 1.83 million monthly Google searches across the globe. This makes it one of the most popular revived cars.
First debuted in 1957, the Fiat 500 quickly became the ultimate city car. Fiat revived it in 2007, keeping its charming design intact while modernising its features. In 2020, Fiat made the 500 fully electric and changed its name to 500e. Fiat has confirmed the 500 will be brought back with a combustion engine in 2026.
Dodge Challenger joins in first place with 1.83 million monthly searches
The Dodge Challenger is the joint most popular revived car, accumulating 1.83 million Google searches a month globally.
The Challenger was originally launched in the late 60s and was Dodge’s answer to the muscle car wars. The Dodge roared back to life in the 2000s, and again in 2023. Dodge has plans to release an electric Challenger in early 2025.
Toyota Supra is the second most popular comeback car in the world
Google searches for Toyota Supra clock in at 1.5 million a month, worldwide, making this iconic car the second most popular.
After disappearing in 2002, the Supra finally returned in 2019. While its BMW underpinnings caused controversy, its performance and styling ensured it still felt like a true Supra. Toyota has since added a manual transmission, responding to fan demand.
Ford Bronco gains 1.22 million searches across the globe
The Ford Bronco is the third most popular revived car with 1.22 million Google searches globally. The Bronco was first introduced in 1966 as a rugged off-roader designed to compete with the Jeep CJ. After being discontinued in 1996, Ford revived the Bronco in 2021 with styling heavily inspired by the first-generation model.
The new Bronco retains its off-road pedigree, featuring removable doors, advanced terrain management, and a turbocharged engine line-up that balances power with efficiency. It’s a true return to form for one of America’s most beloved 4x4s.
Methodology
Leasing Options used listicles to identify iconic retro cars, including those rumoured to be making a comeback. Google Keyword Planner was then used to find the global search volume of each rumoured model, to determine their level of interest and anticipation. Finally, using Midjourney and designers, we visualised how the most anticipated retro cars might look if they were reimagined and released today.
