Car names are often intended to evoke power, luxury, or speed, but sometimes they miss the mark— and hilariously so. The following examples show that even automakers can have a sense of humor (or an unfortunate slip-up, perhaps quirky translations to blame):
1. Ford Probe
The Ford Probe was launched in the late 1980s. Ford intended it to be a sleek, sporty car to replace the gas-guzzling Mustang. (You heard that right—replace the Mustang.)
But the name “Probe” sparked amusement and discomfort due to its medical connotations, especially in English-speaking markets. It went to auto-heaven after less than a decade (1989-1997) in production.
2. Mazda Bongo Friendee
This minivan was popular in Japan during the 1990s as it was practical and meant for family use. Now, we’re not being disparaging, but the name sounds like something a child might come up with.
Bongo Friendee. Say that out loud a few times. Try it.
3. Isuzu Mysterious Utility Wizard
With a truly bizarre name, the Isuzu Mysterious Utility Wizard is an SUV sold primarily in Japan. It’s a mouthful, and the word “mysterious” doesn’t exactly inspire confidence in a utility vehicle. Calling it the Isuzu MUW doesn’t quite work, either.
In any case, when it went to US markets, it was renamed the Isuzu Rodeo. Guess the wizard decided to put on a cowboy hat.
4. Mitsubishi Pajero
The Mitsubishi Pajero gets its name from Leopardus pajeros, the Southern Pampas Cat. The name “Pajero” might sound harmless, but in Spanish-speaking regions (which, ironically, includes the Pampas Cat’s habitat of South America), it’s slang for something offensive.
Mitsubishi changed the name to “Montero” in those countries, to dodge that particular ball.
5. Daihatsu Charade
The Daihatsu Charade was a supermini that, despite its fair performance, had a name suggesting that it was somehow fake or not to be taken seriously.
But in all honesty, it deserves much seriousness. This little car with its 1.0-liter engine has survived several tough rallies, including the Safari Rally, considered one of the most challenging rallies in the world. Still think it was a ‘charade’?
6. Volkswagen Thing
Volkswagen developed this vehicle for the West German Army as a European Jeep. Officially named the Volkswagen Type 181 (though more commonly called the Kurierwagen in Germany), it was only meant for short-term use but stayed in production for 16 years (1968-1983).
In the US, it was marketed as the “Thing,” a name that underscored the vehicle’s odd, boxy shape. It’s almost as if VW couldn’t quite decide what to call it. It also had different names in other countries—Trekker in the UK, Safari in Mexico, and Pescaccia in Italy.
7. AMC Gremlin
The AMC Gremlin was a subcompact car from the 1970s. The name “Gremlin” conjures images of mischievous creatures that cause mechanical problems, which is an odd choice for a car. To top off the somewhat negative connotations, Business Week tagged it as one of the “Ugliest Cars of the Past 50 Years” in 2009.
But don’t laugh too hard. Those days, you could get a factory Gremlin fitted with a 5.0-liter V8 engine. Race, anyone?
8. Subaru BRAT
The Subaru BRAT (Bi-Drive Recreational All-Terrain Transporter) was a small pickup truck-like vehicle that could’ve been a niche favorite. However, the name “BRAT” (with its obvious association with unruly children) made it a talking point.
The BRAT was marketed in the US between 1978 and 1987, so you’re not likely to see one on the road now. Still, imagine saying to a friend, “Hey, I saw a BRAT on the road just now,” and enjoy the ensuing confusion.
9. Tata Zica
The Tata Zica, a compact 5-door hatchback from Tata Motors, was cleverly named to reflect its “zippy car” personality. Unfortunately, the car’s launch coincided with the global Zika virus outbreak, making its name an unlucky coincidence that no amount of “zip” could fix.
In a swift PR move, Tata rebranded it as the Tata Tiago in 2016. Thankfully, after shedding its viral association, the Tiago zipped right into buyers’ hearts, becoming a popular choice for its affordability and smart design.
10. Toyota Deliboy
The Toyota Deliboy, a small van sold primarily in Japan, wears its purpose right on its sleeve—or rather, in its name. Derived from “delivery boy,” the name leaves no mystery about its intended use: a reliable little van for getting goods from point A to point B.
But the cute name sounds more like a youngster working at your local sandwich place than a serious vehicle model, making you picture a helpful sidekick rather than a workhorse.
11. Chevrolet Citation
The Chevrolet Citation’s name ironically conjures up images of traffic tickets—never a good look for a car. It was launched in 1980 with strong initial sales but was plagued by quality issues, including brake problems and recalls, which only reinforced its unfortunate name.
Ultimately, the car’s negative reputation sealed its fate, and by 1985, the Citation was off the road, name and all.
12. Nissan Homy Super Long
The Nissan Homy Super Long was a van designed for large families and businesses, offering (as you can imagine) plenty of space. However, its name raised more than a few eyebrows, as “Homy” conjured up a cozy, domestic vibe, while “Super Long” added an almost comical touch. Say it out loud, and it sounds like a vehicle that’s just a little too friendly—and maybe never-ending.
Despite the amusing name, it delivered on comfort and practicality, capable of carrying up to 15 people!