Car fans often love older cars they grew up seeing because those models offer a special feeling of history and uniqueness. Looking ahead 25 years, some cars you can buy today will gain that same special "modern classic" status. But which new models are special enough to earn this title?
Here is our list of current cars that we believe have the potential to become desirable modern classics by the year 2050:
1. Maruti Suzuki Ignis
The Ignis might not be Maruti’s biggest seller, but it is a car that serious drivers enjoy because it's so much fun and relatively affordable.
- Why it might be a Classic: It has a dependable, responsive 1.2-litre petrol engine paired with a smooth 5-speed gearbox. Crucially, it sits on a very stable and well-tuned chassis, making the driving experience snappy and enjoyable.
- Unique Factor: It has a quirky, unique design shared with the global Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) version. This unique look and fun driving nature mean those who appreciate proper engineering will seek it out later.
- Price Range: ₹5.35 lakh to ₹7.55 lakh.
2. Hyundai i20 N Line
The i20 N Line was the first car to introduce Hyundai's sporty N Line badge to India. It impressed drivers by having a specially tuned suspension, which made the hatchback much more agile and exciting to drive.
- Why it might be a Classic: The N Line is bought by a small group of driving enthusiasts. Because only a limited number of these cars are sold compared to the standard i20, it will be a rare find decades from now.
- Collector Appeal: Rarity and its status as the starting point for the high-performance N Line badge in India will make it highly collectible.
- Price Range: ₹9.14 lakh to ₹11.60 lakh.
3. Maruti Suzuki Jimny
For fans of tough, off-road vehicles, the Maruti Suzuki Jimny is definitely going to be considered a modern classic in 25 years.
- Global History: While the Jimny is sold worldwide, the Indian market was key in pushing the brand to create the more practical 5-door version.
- Off-Road Prowess: Despite its small size, the Jimny is an extremely capable 4x4. Its simple, reliable engine, strong chassis, low-range gearing, and solid axles on both ends make it a genuine, no-nonsense off-roader that can handle difficult terrain.
- Rarity and Reliability: Like the N Line, the Jimny is a niche purchase in the Indian market. Its reputation for bulletproof reliability and its simple, rugged mechanical setup will ensure it remains rare and highly valued by collectors.
4. Volkswagen Virtus
The Volkswagen Virtus earns its place for several reasons, standing out as a champion in the declining sedan segment.
- Why it might be a Classic: Even as SUVs take over, the Virtus is one of the segment's best sellers. It offers a chassis known for impressive, engaging handling.
- Performance Factor: It comes with an amazing powertrain: a 1.5-litre turbocharged engine that puts out 150 horsepower. This engine can be paired with either a 6-speed manual or a lightning-fast 7-speed automatic (DCT) gearbox. This combination of great handling and high performance makes it a perfect enthusiast's car for the future.
- Price Range: ₹11.16 lakh to ₹18.73 lakh.
5. Volkswagen Golf GTI
Volkswagen deserves a second spot on this list for delivering pure driving joy, particularly with the Golf GTI—a true high-performance hot hatchback.
- Why it might be a Classic: The Golf GTI was imported to India in very limited numbers and sold out almost immediately. This extreme rarity alone makes it highly desirable.
- Performance Credentials: It uses a powerful turbocharged 4-cylinder petrol engine linked to a DSG automatic gearbox. It can go from 0 to 100 km/h in a blazing 5.9 seconds and has a top speed limited to 250 km/h. With 265 horsepower, it is a performance beast.
- Collector Appeal: Its scarcity and its iconic status as one of the world's most respected hot hatches will make the Indian version the most sought-after modern classic 25 years from now.
- Price Range: ₹50.91 lakh.
