As you start the process of buying a car, you’ll probably consider the models available from the most popular, well-known car brands like Toyota, Ford or Dodge. Of course, if you’re just looking at the popular brands, you’re limiting your options and could be missing out on some great vehicles.
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These three brands tend to fly under the radar, but they offer great value, innovative features, powerful rides and a touch of luxury — everything you want in a vehicle you buy in retirement.
Polestar
Polestar, Volvo’s electric vehicle brand, is lesser-known, but rapidly gaining popularity. According to the Polestar website, the brand began in Scandinavia, but vehicles are now driven across the globe, including in the United States. Polestar combines sustainability with a minimalistic design and technological innovation to create performance vehicles that are enjoyable to drive.
According to Car and Driver, in addition to its already impressive vehicle lineup, Polestar will offer an all-electric crossover and a four-door hatchback sedan. Retirees might find the 2025 Polestar 2 EV a fun drive, and it features a 276-mile EPA estimated range. The Polestar 2 starts at $66,200.
If you’re looking for a more luxurious ride, consider the 2027 Polestar 5, which is estimated to start at $100,000.
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Genesis
Genesis, Hyuandai’s luxury brand, is a solid choice whether you’re looking to splurge on an eye-catching ride or want something a bit more practical (but equally enjoyable) to drive. According to Car and Driver, Genesis was founded in 2015 to compete with top luxury brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz. The Genesis lineup includes luxury sedans and SUVs, as well as an upcoming all-electric crossover.
If you want a reliable yet sporty vehicle, consider the 2026 Genesis G70. Car and Driver gave this four-door sedan an 8.5 rating out of 10. The base model has a turbocharged 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and an automatic transmission. The publication reported the vehicle’s suspension creates a smooth ride, and precise and pleasant steering. This 365-horsepower sedan has powerful acceleration, an ergonomic interior, and driver-assist technologies like automated emergency braking with pedestrian detection and lane-departure warning. Its MSRP ranges from $44,845 to $56,995.
Other models include the 2026 Genesis G80, starting at $59,945; the 2026 Genesis G90, starting at $94,195; and the 2025 Genesis GT90, starting at $115,000.
Ultima
If you’re ready to get hands-on and fulfill your dream of building your own sports car in retirement, consider Ultima Sports Ltd. Ultima, an English manufacturer, specializes in self-assembly supercars and has a strong presence in the U.S.
When you choose Ultima, you can order anything from just the base chassis package to a more comprehensive kit that includes everything you need to build your car. The kits are designed so that a builder with just basic automotive knowledge can complete the cars, allowing for a unique hands-on experience. Most builds take about six months.
Ultima offers free shipping on orders over $76,000. Vehicle prices range depending on the kit you choose.
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This article originally appeared on GOBankingRates.com: 3 Overlooked Car Brands Worth Buying in Retirement
