If we were taught anything about media over the last year, it's that context and perspective dictates everything. Here, we have several different cars that are constantly compared in a certain way, but said in a different way, completely changes how they are perceived.
The Honda Odyssey is a pickup truck
Because it shares a platform with the Honda Ridgeline, the Odyssey could be seen as the most badass, testosterone rising, iron pumping minivan in the world. Instead, most people prefer to look at it the other way around by boiling the Ridgeline down to minivan status.
Lamborghini Huracan is an uncivilized Audi R8
The Audi R8 is often seen as the gentleman's supercar. With its illustrious V10 combined with Audi's legendary Quattro all-wheel drive system and a fantastic cabin, many think it's the perfect mix of refinement and mechanical erotica. Enter the Lamborghini Huracan. Loud, brash, unapologetic and snappy, the Huracan takes no numbers, despite sharing the same platform as the R8.
VW Atlas is a global apology
We all know about Volkswagen's love affair with diesel. Although the Atlas was likely well into development when the scandal arose, VW corporate probably felt the pressure to make this new SUV as best as it possibly could be. From what we have seen, it will be a fantastic family hauler.
The Bentley Continental is a spruced up Volkswagen
Remember how everyone in Caddy Shack drove Rolls Royces, Bentleys or any other over-the-top luxury vehicle? Even a BMW would be considered low class to them. Enter the Volkswagen Phaeton. Despite the badge, it is really a Bentley with a different dress, but in America, the Phaeton is seen associated with the Beetle, Jetta and Passat. It is a fantastic car that was never really understood or accepted in the US market.
Toyota Corolla is for those who pretend to like change
"Hey, I got a new car!"
"Really? What did you get?"
"A Corolla."
The Toyota Corolla has remained virtually the same for over a decade. Yes, there have been several refreshes and redesigns in that time, but the power train has remained essentially the exact same. It's like changing into a different suit - sure, it looks great and maybe even better than before, but it is still the exact same person within.
The Toyota Camry is also a Lotus
The Toyota Camry is not known as a sports car or even as anything remotely exciting. It's a car for those that want something to take them from point A to point B - an appliance on wheels. Despite this, it shares an engine with the fantastic Lotus Evora, a car that evokes European racing.
The Toyota MR2 is a budget Alfa Romeo 4C
The Alfa Romeo 4C is one of the last pure sports cars in the market. It's loud, fast, impractical and difficult to drive. It's also mid-engined and rear wheel drive. All of these characteristics fit the Toyota MR2 perfectly, but for nearly one tenth of the price.
