Share this page on

It’s back to the future for this assortment of classically styled, yet forward-looking vehicles.

As the old song goes, “everything old is new again.” It’s long been the case in the world of fashion, where styles and fads tend to recycle themselves anew every few generations. And it’s a growing trend in the auto industry, where models like the Volkswagen New Beetle, Mini Cooper coupe, Chrysler PT Cruiser wagon and Chevrolet SSR Pickup have put new spins on classic designs.

Such back-to-the-future vehicles evoke nostalgia among older buyers and also pique interest among the younger set for their retro-chic styling and thoroughly modern underpinnings. Here’s a look at four of the latest models that evoke a sense of heritage while setting their sights squarely on tomorrow:

Ford Mustang
The latest version of the original pony car borrows styling cues from the 1967 original, with a long hood, short rear deck and side “C” scoops. The new Mustang is otherwise completely contemporary, coming powered by a 210-horsepower, 4.0-liter V-6 engine in its base version, and a more-willing 300-hp, 4.6-liter V-8 in the GT version. A five-speed manual transmission is standard, with a five-speed automatic available. Convertible versions were added this year for open-air enjoyment. A Shelby Cobra variant debuts next spring with a 5.4-liter supercharged V-8 that delivers 450 striding stallions, among other performance-minded upgrades. www.ford.com, MSRP: $19,115.

Chevrolet HHR
New for 2006, this tall wagon features bold, broad-shouldered styling that’s inspired by the original 1949 Chevrolet Suburban. The HHR (for Heritage High Roof) comes powered by either a 143-horsepower, 2.2-liter I-4 engine or an available 2.4-liter version that nets a peppier 172 horses. Both drive the front wheels via either a standard five-speed manual gearbox or an optional four-speed automatic; the latter includes a remote-start feature. A sport suspension is included on the top LT model for more-responsive handling. A flexible cargo management system includes flat-folding seatbacks, storage bins and a height-adjustable cargo panel. www.chevrolet.com, MSRP: $15,425.

Toyota FJ Cruiser
Set to debut in early 2006, this back-to-basics sport utility vehicle harkens back to the automaker’s classic FJ 40 from the ’60s. The FJ Cruiser will come powered by a 4.0-liter V-6 engine that generates 245 horsepower, and will be paired with a five-speed automatic transmission. A six-speed manual will be alternately offered on 4x4 models. A wealth of advanced chassis-control systems will include Vehicle Stability Control, traction control and antilock brakes with Electronic Brake-force Distribution and Brake Assist. The 4x2 models add a Limited Slip Differential for added rear-drive traction. www.toyota.com, MSRP: $22,000 (est.)

Pontiac Solstice
The new-for-2006 Pontiac Solstice is a two-seat convertible that evokes classic European roadsters from the ’60s, with well-balanced proportions and a low, wide stance. The Solstice’s ragtop folds neatly under a clamshell cover behind the cabin, providing a seamless top-down appearance. A 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine produces a robust 177 horses and is mated to a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission. Its cornering abilities benefit from its inherently wide track, standard 18-inch wheels and tires, and fully independent four-wheel suspension. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard, with antilock brakes optional. www.pontiac.com, MSRP: $19,420.

WORDS JIM GORZELANY

• Game Theory

  Business leaders look to video games as the future of management training.
  read more ›
  
  

• Odd Man In

  Once considered an eccentric outsider, Johnny Depp has managed to shoot to the top of Hollywood's A-list—on his own terms.
  read more ›
  
  

• Pack Frat

  Male college students are the secret to a junk hauling company's success.
  read more ›
  
  

• Beauty

  Taking care of your skin doesn’t have to be time consuming or extravagant. The proof is in these products made for men on the go.
  read more ›
  
  

• Biz Bits

  Surf the web from practically anywhere with wireless routers specifically designed for mobility.
  read more ›