10 modern cars with cool retro-inspired design

Retro features we know and love are making a comeback in these modern cars, blending vintage vibes with futuristic performance.

Feeling the pull of nostalgia? Find yourself dreaming of cars gone by - but not ready to give up modern technology and comforts?

Luckily, there're many retro-styled cars on the market that tap into that unique nostalgia for some of the design choices and well-loved cars from yesteryears, but without compromising on safety or comfort.

We've rounded up some of our favourite cars that either borrow from retro design or have stuck with their classic looks while getting a tech and performance overhaul.

Now, it's up to you to pick your favourite – and trust us, it’s no easy choice.

But with great retro-styled car lease deals, you'll be cruising in style and comfort before you know it.

Fiat 500

The Fiat 500 is a true icon.

First launched back in 1957, the instantly recognisable shape has changed little over the years. It's been a stalwart of the modern city car category for years and has been instrumental in shaping how they look and performs. 

The current Fiat 500 shot onto the scene back in 2007 and has remained true to the tiny original - without compromising on modern safety standards.

It's practical, refined, and - with a monthly car lease - affordable, with a cute retro design and plenty of technology.

The latest generation of the Fiat 500 has even gone fully electric, planting the Fiat 500 firmly in the 21st Century and ensuring it remains a popular choice for years to come.

It's the very definition of a retro-styled success story.

Browse our best-selling Fiat 500 lease deals

Jaguar F-Type

The Jaguar F-Type might not hit you instantly as a retro-styled car, but it owes its shape to the coupes of the '60s. 

The F-Type has been heralded as the spiritual successor to the Jaguar E-Type, and there's a certain resemblance between the look of the two cars. But in its heyday, the Jaguar E-Type was the sports car.

Beloved by fashionistas and footballers alike, the stylish looks and superior performance made the E-Type a stand-out vehicle and it remains a popular classic. 

The F-Type borrows some of its iconic lines, but without looking outdated - its tight proportions and slightly rugged appearance bring it up to date.

But it's still an incredible sports car. The top trim R-Coupe P575 AWD boasts a 567bhp output, and it feels every inch the supercar.

Browse our best-selling Jaguar F-Type lease deals

Jeep Wrangler

First launched in the summer of 1986 - inspired by the Willys MB and Ford GPW used by the military during WWII - you'd be hard pushed to tell the newest model apart from the very first Wranglers.

It doesn't get much more retro-styled than this.

The Wrangler has kept the CJ-inspired design cues down the years, with the squared-off body, external fenders, and slatted grille design. The only real change is the windscreen - it's a bit steeper now.

It's the quintessential off-roader. 

So much so that the word 'jeep' has become a catch-all term for nearly any vehicle with off-roading capabilities, in much the same way that vacuums are Hoovers and sticky tape is all Sellotape.

It's probably the first vehicle you think of when you hear the phrase 'off-roading'. 

It's a definite example of a successful retro-styled vehicle - though the Jeep Wrangler isn't so much retro-styled as 'this worked so well no one bothered fiddling with the design'.

We love it.

Browse our best-selling Jeep Wrangler lease deals

MINI

Another example of a retro recreation of a beloved past model, the MINI - first built by BMC, British Leyland, and Rover - has been a staple on British roads for decades.

It was a best-seller, cycling through seven generations from its launch year in 1959 until production ceased in 2000. 

Just a year later, BMW launched their remake of the classic Austin Mini, and it's proved supremely popular ever since.

The new MINI retains the iconic style of the original but in a larger, more modern package. Blending distinctive retro features with improved safety and durability, the latest iterations are a fresh yet familiar take on a classic.

The traditional 3-door hatchback remains a stalwart of the brand, carrying on MINI's iconic legacy and ensuring that its retro appeal isn't going anywhere anytime soon.

Browse our best-selling MINI lease deals

Ford Mustang         

Originating in 1965, the Ford Mustang quickly became a hugely influential car for the American manufacturer.

Cementing the legacy of 'muscle cars', the Mustang carved out its place in automotive folklore. The sixth-generation Mustang was launched in 2015 and has seen the Mustang return to its roots. 

It remains an appealing choice, especially for a monthly Ford lease deal. 

If the heritage and nostalgia appeal wasn't enough to sway your hand, the Ford Mustang - with its incredible performance and build quality - is good value for your hard-earned cash.

The current car design has a modern edge, but it has enough of an echo back to the original Mustang to retain the retro feel. 

In 2020, Ford released the Mustang Mach-e, a modern alternative with an electric twist, which brings the Mustang up to date and ensures its lasting popularity for decades to come. 

Browse our best-selling Ford Mustang lease deals

Porsche 911

Beloved by many, the Porsche 911 is a sports car that's firmly cemented its place as an icon.

Released in 1963, the 911 has managed to maintain its sleek looks while pushing the boundaries of what technology can do time and time again. 

It's not so much retro-styled as it is a vehicle that's evolved with each passing update, keeping its retro appeal while sticking firmly with the times.

Each new iteration of the 911 has pushed it that bit further, bringing with it everything Porsche has learned over the years to improve the performance while refining the design elements that harken back to the original.

The newest model is unmistakably a 911.

Oval headlights, powerful haunches, curving roofline - you'd never mistake it for anything else. 

Browse our best-selling Porsche 911 lease deals

Honda e

The Honda e meshes the best of both worlds - it's an electric city car with a cool retro design.

The Honda e is a landmark car for Honda. It brings the brand firmly up to date, putting them in a strong position to change with the automotive landscape. The technology Honda uses in the e showcases what they're bringing with them into the years ahead, and the 131-mile range centres the car as an excellent city run-around.

But when it comes to the look, the Honda e is firmly a retro-inspired car.

Its styling cues are inspired by Honda Civics of the 1970s - the circular headlamps set back in the grille are a dead giveaway. The tight proportions and enchanting front are reminiscent of '80s and '90s JDM hatchbacks.

The design is good fun, and the retro appeal makes it stand out in the crowd.

But, sadly, production of the Honda e ended in January 2024. Does that make this now a retro retro-styled car? Retro-squared? We'll let you decide.

We still have some Honda e lease deals kicking around - but they won't be here forever.

Volkswagen ID. Buzz

The Volkswagen ID. Buzz is a modern take on a true classic – the iconic VW Microbus.

Reviving the design from the 1950s, this electric vehicle mixes vintage style with 21st-century technology, making it a must-have for retro lovers.

With a claimed range of up to 258 miles and rapid charging capabilities, the ID. Buzz ensures you can hit the road without worrying about running out of charge.

It’s got all the nostalgic vibes, with clean, sleek lines and a spacious interior, perfect for those looking to blend the past with modern performance.

If you’ve been dreaming of the good old days but still want cutting-edge technology, the ID. Buzz delivers the best of both worlds.

Browse our best-selling Volkswagen ID. Buzz lease deals

BMW Z4

The BMW Z4 Roadster is a true classic, still turning heads with its matchbox size, imposing bonnet, and heart-racing performance.

It's a staple in BMW's line-up and has remained a firm favourite for good reason – whether you're after a sporty ride or simply a stylish weekend cruiser.

Even the basic model packs a punch, but if you’re seeking extreme thrills, the M Performance model with a hefty 340 horsepower is the way to go.

In a car this compact, you’ll find it nearly impossible to wipe the grin off your face.

While not a direct retro remake, the Z4’s design pays homage to BMW’s classic roadsters from the '60s, delivering the perfect combination of luxury and performance.

Browse our best-selling BMW Z4 lease deals

Alfa Romeo Giulia

The Alfa Romeo Giulia has been turning heads since its debut in 2015 with its stunning looks, refined handling, and premium detailing.

Whether you're after a smooth drive or a car that makes a statement, the Giulia’s diesel and petrol variants pack a punch, making it an ideal choice for true car enthusiasts.

This sleek, retro-flavoured saloon channels the Italian charm of the 1960s, while still offering the latest in modern luxury and technology.

The Giulia delivers that perfect blend of classic appeal and cutting-edge performance.

Browse our best-selling Alfa Romeo Giulia lease deals

From classic city cars to rugged off-roaders and sleek sports cars, these retro-inspired rides prove that good design never goes out of style.

Whether you're after nostalgic looks or cutting-edge tech, there's a retro-styled car that’s perfect for you.

With great lease deals on offer, you’ll be cruising in comfort and style in no time.

So, which retro gem will you take for a spin?