I should start off by clarifying that my "Attack of the Clones" posts (admittedly a dated title, but I don't know if I should stop after using it for so long) aren't necessarily saying that the cars featured within are ugly. I realize this may be a bit confusing. I mean - the blog is about ugly cars. However it's mainly a blog where I vent on automotive style, so I think posting cars that tread previously travelled roads when it comes to style are ok to be featured. But I wanted to sure to clarify this, as I don't think the Dodge Durango is an ugly truck.
When Dodge teased shots of the new Durango (although I have to say I prefer the Magnum name, but I understand it's good to maintain consistancy), I thought the revised face was refreshingly attractive, yet masculine and bold. Plus I love the new divided cross hair grille (the new Dodge logo, not so much). I had high hopes from the rest of the truck, mainly because Chrysler corporation cars and trucks have been so disappointing for the past few years, especially since they were a high water mark for design in the 90's.
However, new that the shots of the entire truck have been released, I have to admit I'm a little let down. Not that it's ugly, but from the headlights back the flowing curves look remarkably like those on the Buick Enclave (of the two, I prefer the Durango however). I guess I was expecting something a little more butch, given the angry front end treatment. Although I suppose it's platform-mate the Grand Cherokee got the masculine square shouldered lines, so the Durango had to be unique to that end.
Which is strange considering the taillight treatment. Looking at the rear of both trucks, it's actually a bit hard to tell them apart. I suppose the reverse lamps/turn signal locations are flipped, but the shape of the trapezoid taillights are the same - and both have a chrome strip connecting them. I little variety wouldn't hurt, especially since the trucks share a majority of parts.
It's refreshingly unique for a Chinese brand I suppose. Still, this squinty-eyed car combines all the bad parts of the Sbarro X5 and Spada Codatronca to create an unattractive concept that looks like it could be terrestrial conveyance for Storm Troopers, if the AT-ATs and speeder bikes proved ineffective.
However, new that the shots of the entire truck have been released, I have to admit I'm a little let down. Not that it's ugly, but from the headlights back the flowing curves look remarkably like those on the Buick Enclave (of the two, I prefer the Durango however). I guess I was expecting something a little more butch, given the angry front end treatment. Although I suppose it's platform-mate the Grand Cherokee got the masculine square shouldered lines, so the Durango had to be unique to that end.
Which is strange considering the taillight treatment. Looking at the rear of both trucks, it's actually a bit hard to tell them apart. I suppose the reverse lamps/turn signal locations are flipped, but the shape of the trapezoid taillights are the same - and both have a chrome strip connecting them. I little variety wouldn't hurt, especially since the trucks share a majority of parts.
Besides destroying the good looks of the W126 coupes, no Mercedes should ever slightly resemble 1980's Toyota Celicas, or have reworked bodywork thats cast reflections like funhouse mirrors. Or look like they've been sitting in an abattoir for a week. Seriously - if Sbarro intended this gullwing Mercedes coupe to be the spawn of the 300SL, it looks like it just tore it's way out of the womb, Alien style.
So you may be wondering why I'm postings the F430 Scuderia. I don't think the car is fugly, just these two specifically. Why? Although it may be hard to tell in the muted dones above, the cars are painted a pale yellow with maroon accents. Quite tasteful if you ask me. And by tasteful I mean I can taste bile in my mouth because I just threw up a little.
