by Official: Yugo is preparing its return. Yes, that very car, which often became the subject of jokes due to its lack of success, is trying to create a new history. Today we received the first details and a chance to glimpse its design. And to be honest, the new Yugo looks like a worthy successor to its infamous predecessor. The main question is whether it will be ready for the next stage: creating a working prototype to be shown in two years.
Yugo’s Legacy
The original model left its mark on automotive history. It never claimed to be the fastest, the most beautiful, or the most technologically advanced, nor did it need to be. It was functional, practical, and, most importantly, affordable. Although the exact prices for the new version are not yet known, the available details sound quite promising.
Designed by Darko Marceta under the guidance of Professor Aleksandar Belic from Germany, the new Yugo has a pronounced cubic, classic look. The company presented the first large-scale prototype today at the Car Design Event (CDE) in Munich.
Aimed at the European B-segment (analogous to subcompacts in North America), the car has a two-door layout, a wide flat profile, and rear doors with a slight slope. The design combines retro charm with modern elements.
However, the most interesting part is probably hidden under the hood. After all, a beautiful exterior requires appropriate technical content. Yugo states that the model will be available with an internal combustion engine, both with manual and automatic transmissions. The possibility of producing electric modifications and various body styles is also being considered. So, we are looking at a compact, practical car that can offer a manual gearbox.
There is no official information on target markets yet, but a European focus seems most likely.
Future Plans
The company has set key dates for further announcements. On September 15 of this year, a “sports version” and additional technical details will be presented at CDE Classic in Dietzhölztal. That is when, we hope, we will learn about the platform and powertrain of the new product.
However, a full presentation will only take place in 2027. Yugo emphasized that a full-scale working prototype will not appear before May 15 of that same year during the Belgrade Expo. It has been almost a decade since Yugo production ceased in 2008, so a short wait is unlikely to be a serious obstacle. But the idea of an affordable, positive car appearing as soon as possible is appealing. We hope the expectations will be met.
