The boxy car has returned in the past few years, specifically in the SUV segment. These somewhat angular, square-shaped cars fill in the qualities of style, practicality, and nostalgia. As we approach 2024, most car manufacturers are jumping on this trend with their modern boxy cars models that suit several tastes and lifestyles.
Why Do Boxy Cars Attract People
Box shaped cars are different from the slender and aerodynamic vehicles we always see. They usually focus on interior space and practicality, making them perfect for families, adventurers, and anyone who values functionality. Their square shape allows for optimal use of space with plenty of headroom, legroom, and cargo capacity.
Moreover, the retro look of the boxy cars takes many of us down memory lane, reminding us of the vehicles of old.
How We Chose the Vehicles for This List
We considered several key factors before making the list of box shaped cars of 2024:
- Space: The spaciousness of the interior and cargo capacity, plus versatility.
- Sustainability: A car’s environmental footprint, fuel efficiency, and electric or hybrid options.
- Technology: Advanced features, infotainment systems, and safety technologies.
- Performance: Powertrain options, driving dynamics, and off-road capabilities, when applicable.
- Design: The general look of the vehicle with its square body shape, angular lines, and unique styling.
These Square SUVs & Cars Have the Styling & Space You Need
Do you like your cars boxy? Some people love their fantastic utility, practical vibe, or unique looks. So, this year, we’ve found the best modern boxy cars. Most of them are SUVs but vary in size, price, and functionality. Our picks are listed below, from least expensive to most.
The Shift In Automotive Design
Automotive design is dynamic, as designers look for the next big thing or trend forever. We’ve seen a shift from boxy SUVs with proper angles to sleek crossovers with smooth curves. The old-school boxy look is making a comeback and is mainly electric.
Why Boxy SUVs are Making a Comeback
There was a time when boxy SUVs were thought to be overrated, overshadowed by the rise of crossovers. But now, with the general push towards electric vehicles, boxy designs are back in style. They offer a perfect blend of the old and new, combining retro aesthetics with modern technology and efficiency.
So, be nostalgic about the past or get excited about the future; these top ten modern boxy cars of 2024 are sure to offer something. From family-friendly SUVs to versatile off-roaders, there’s a box shaped cars for everyone.
1. Kia Ev9
The Kia EV9 is a flagship electric SUV from Kia. It is boldly designed, has a huge range, and has unique features. Designing these boxy-looking cars is a fusion of a modern design with a spacious, luxurious interior. The EV9 offers an estimated 280 miles on a single charge, thanks to its aggressive dual electric motors and high-capacity battery. With fast-charging capabilities, it goes from 10% to 80% in just 20-30 minutes. Advanced technology includes a large-format touchscreen infotainment system, wireless charging, and next-generation driver assistance systems to provide safe and convenient driving. As an all-electric vehicle, the EV9 helps reduce carbon emissions, promoting a greener future.
2. Kia Soul
Learn More About the Features of 2024 Kia Soul Sporty Ride! The GT-Line exterior design is accentuated by a sleek 2-tone roof, black high-gloss mirrors and front grille. Ride on 17″ & 18″ alloy wheels and move efficiently with EPA estimated 35 MPG HWY. Stay connected with wireless Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and a 10.25-inch touchscreen with navigation. Drive in comfort with a power sunroof, 10-way power driver’s seat, and dual-zone climate control. Drive smarter with advanced safety features like auto emergency braking, blind-spot collision warning, and lane-keeping assist. This car is built for style, comfort, and safety.
3. Chevrolet Traverse
The Chevrolet Traverse is a top pick for families—blending a boxy design with practical features. This spacious SUV seats up to eight passengers and offers cargo space. The turbocharged 2.5L I4 engine delivers 328 horsepower and a maximum of 5,000 lb. Towing capacity. Safety features include forward collision alert, automatic emergency braking, and lane keep assist. As one of the standout boxy-looking cars, the Traverse offers an intuitive infotainment system featuring Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration to make any drive enjoyable and convenient.
4. BMW XM
The BMW XM is the ultimate luxury SUV, combining bold design with top-tier performance. Available in this square-shaped car is a plug-in hybrid powertrain that includes a 4.4L twin-turbo V8 for 644 horsepower and 590 lb-ft of torque. The 0-60 mph run comes in a staggering 3.4 seconds, with an estimated 30 miles of electric-only range. Inside, BMW’s finest craftsmanship, premium materials, and advanced tech include an extensive touchscreen infotainment system. For those who love square cars, the BMW XM offers a powerful, luxurious driving experience that’s hard to beat.
5. Jeep Wrangler
The Jeep Wrangler is an off-road icon known for its rugged capability and endless customization options. At its very reasonable starting price, the Jeep Wrangler is a fun square-body car to drive. The 4-door Wrangler Unlimited is perfect for additional passengers and cargo space. Powertrains range from 270 to 470 horsepower, but a fuel-thrifty 4xe PHEV is also offered. There’s a Wrangler for every person’s needs. But for comfort and practicality, be warned the Wrangler ride can be rough, and this Jeep doesn’t offer the best gas mileage or crash-test ratings.
6. Jeep Gladiator
The Jeep Gladiator is a fusion of the ruggedness of the Wrangler with the utility of a pickup truck. With suspension components from the Ram 1500, the Gladiator is built for challenging truck work while offering unique Wrangler qualities: removable doors and roof panels. This popular box-shaped car gives users extra off-road capability and smoother ride quality. However, its price and fuel economy might be some drawbacks. The base model is expensive, and standard equipment is minimal, but there are many ways to configure one. Just be prepared for the cost to rise quickly as you add features.
7. Ford Bronco
Based on the Ford Escape, the Ford Bronco Sport capitalizes on off-road ability and flair. It doesn’t have the most luxurious interior, but it’s durable and very functional. The Bronco Sport offers lots of headroom, comfortable front seating, and excellent visibility, although backseat legroom is limited. Its base 181-horsepower engine is modestly performing and rated at 26 mpg combined, while the available 250-horsepower engine drops to 23 mpg. But while the Bronco Sport has a higher base price for a compact SUV, its rugged appeal and off-road prowess make it a compelling choice.
8. Land Rover Defender
The Land Rover Defender is unique in design, with its standard 4-wheel drive and unrivalled off-road capabilities. It starts with a muscular 296-horsepower turbocharged 4-cylinder engine, then adds a powerful supercharged V8 with 500 horsepower for those who desire more power. Inside, the roomy and comfortable Defender leans more toward ruggedness than practicality and fuel economy could be better. It’s perfect for adventurous families, with a third-row seat, and the 4-door model offers enormous cargo capacity. The Defender even comes in a rare 2-door version, adding to its unique appeal.
9. Mercedes-Benz G-Class
The G Wagon is a legend when it comes to its off-road capability and iconic boxy design. However, it only offers some significant value. Starting at $143K, the 2024 G 550 is much more expensive than other luxury SUVs, such as the Range Rover. This squared SUV has a lousy fuel economy, small towing capacity despite the powerful engine under its hood, and no third-row seating, which means there is very little cargo space when the second row is folded flat. It is stylish and capable of going off-road, but buyers will want to know whether its high cost and low practicality fit their needs.
10. Toyota 4Runner
The Toyota 4Runner is an athletic and rugged midsize SUV, best for off-road driving in its rugged design and spacious interior. But at the same time, it is overpriced, old-fashioned, and inconvenient for everyday driving. It is slow to accelerate, gets poor gas mileage, and has average crash test ratings. A standard equipment roster includes two rows of commodiously sized seats, with an available child-sized third row. Even though it’s very truck-like when handling off-road excursions, it is excellent for off-road excursions. It has a user-friendly touch screen, Apple Car Play, Android Auto, and Amazon Alexa.
The revival of square cars, specifically in the SUV segment, marks a significant automotive design shift. Modern boxy cars represent a unique mix of style, practicability, and even nostalgia to accommodate a range of tastes and lifestyles. For this reason, a boxy car is available to suit your needs, from the off-road capability of the Jeep Wrangler to the luxury and the best in performance that the BMW XM has to offer.
Some will be all about off-road performance; others would like to see the luxury or price. Yet, as different as the characteristics may be, there is something prominent: boxy cars are back in style, straddling the past and the future with retro-inspired good looks and modern technology. Whether you are really into the iconic vehicles of the past or excited by the promise of the electric revolution, the top 10 boxy cars of 2024 have something for everybody as the new era of automotive design and innovation continues.
