Automakers have long used platform sharing to reduce production costs while offering distinct models across different markets or brands. This strategy results in cars that share the same mechanical components but feature unique designs, branding, and target audiences. While they may look different on the outside, these vehicles often have identical engines, transmissions, and chassis underneath.
Toyota 86 / Subaru BRZ
The Toyota 86 and Subaru BRZ are virtually identical sports cars, jointly developed by Toyota and Subaru. Both feature the same 2.4L flat-four engine, rear wheel drive layout, and lightweight chassis. Their only differences lie in minor styling tweaks, such as the front grille, badges, and suspension tuning. Despite their shared DNA, Toyota markets the 86 with a sportier appeal, while Subaru positions the BRZ as more refined.
Chevrolet Silverado / GMC Sierra
General Motors produces both the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra as mechanically identical full-size pickup trucks. They share the same engine options, transmission choices, and towing capacities, but differ in styling and branding. GMC positions the Sierra as a more premium option with upscale trims like the Denali, while the Silverado emphasizes rugged durability. Underneath, however, they are nearly the same truck.
Audi Q7 / Volkswagen Touareg
The Audi Q7 and Volkswagen Touareg are built on the same Volkswagen Group MLB platform, sharing engines, transmissions, and chassis components. While the Q7 offers a more luxurious interior and third row seating, the Touareg focuses on a more budget-friendly yet capable design. Both feature similar performance options, including turbocharged engines and all wheel drive capabilities. Their distinct branding and design elements create the illusion of two completely different SUVs.
Dodge Challenger / Chrysler 300 / Dodge Charger
These three vehicles from Stellantis share the same LX platform, making them mechanically similar despite their different market positions. The Dodge Challenger is a two door muscle car, while the Dodge Charger is a four door sedan, both emphasizing performance. The Chrysler 300, in contrast, has a more upscale and luxury focused design but still offers powerful engine options. Despite the visual differences, they have the same underpinnings and drivetrain choices.
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Ford Escape / Mazda Tribute
The Ford Escape and Mazda Tribute were co-developed by Ford and Mazda in the early 2000s as compact SUVs. They shared the same engines, transmissions, and chassis, making them mechanically identical. However, the Tribute featured unique Mazda styling cues and sportier suspension tuning. Ford’s Escape leaned toward mainstream practicality, while the Tribute aimed to attract Mazda’s performance oriented audience
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Nissan 370Z / Infiniti Q60 Coupe
Nissan and Infiniti, both part of the same parent company, created the 370Z and Q60 Coupe using similar mechanics. Both cars share a 3.7L V6 engine and rear wheel drive layout, but the Infiniti Q60 offers a more refined, luxurious package. While the 370Z is a pure sports car with a more aggressive stance, the Q60 prioritizes comfort and high-end styling. Their differences cater to both performance seekers and luxury coupe enthusiasts.
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Toyota Land Cruiser / Lexus LX
The Toyota Land Cruiser and Lexus LX share the same body-on-frame platform and robust off-road capabilities. While the Land Cruiser is known for its rugged, adventure ready design, the LX takes a more luxurious approach with premium materials and advanced technology. Under the hood, they often share the same powerful V8 engine and all wheel drive system. The Lexus version, however, is targeted at buyers who want both off-road ability and upscale refinement.
Honda Civic / Acura ILX
The Acura ILX may look like an entry-level luxury sedan, but it shares its underpinnings with the Honda Civic. The ILX features more premium materials, a refined suspension setup, and a slightly different powertrain tuning. However, both cars offer a similar driving experience, with the Civic often considered the better value. Acura’s branding and design tweaks aim to make the ILX feel like a luxury alternative.
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Jeep Grand Cherokee / Dodge Durango
The Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango share the same platform but have vastly different identities. The Grand Cherokee is marketed as a rugged SUV with off-road capabilities, while the Durango leans more toward a performance-oriented family SUV. Despite their different styling cues and branding, they both offer similar engine options, including the powerful HEMI V8. Their differences mainly come down to exterior design and target audiences.
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Chevrolet Tahoe / GMC Yukon
Chevrolet and GMC are known for offering similar vehicles with distinct styling and branding, and the Tahoe and Yukon are prime examples. Both share the same body on frame construction, engine options, and overall dimensions. However, the GMC Yukon is positioned as a slightly more upscale alternative with a different grille, headlights, and interior trims. Underneath the surface, though, they are nearly identical SUVs.
Hyundai Santa Fe / Kia Sorento
Hyundai and Kia, both part of the Hyundai Motor Group, often share platforms across their models, and the Santa Fe and Sorento are no exception. These midsize SUVs feature nearly identical engine options, technology, and drivetrains. While the Santa Fe leans toward a more modern and premium design, the Sorento offers a slightly sportier and boxier look. Despite their design differences, both SUVs provide similar performance and practicality.
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Automakers frequently sell mechanically identical cars under different names to appeal to different market segments. While styling, branding, and minor performance tweaks set them apart, their underlying engineering remains the same. This strategy allows companies to maximize profits while giving consumers more options. Whether you prefer luxury, sportiness, or practicality, chances are there’s a version of these cars that suits your needs.
Disclaimer: This list is solely the author’s opinion based on research and publicly available information.
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