Italy is legendary in the automotive world—known for passion, design, speed, and style. Here’s a list of the most iconic and active Italian car brands, plus a few historic or niche ones:
1. Ferrari
- Known for: High-performance sports cars and racing pedigree (Formula 1 royalty)
- Popular models: 812 Superfast, SF90 Stradale, Roma, Purosangue (SUV)
- Vibe: Pure Italian passion—luxury + performance
2. Lamborghini
- Owned by: Volkswagen Group (via Audi)
- Known for: Bold, exotic supercars
- Popular models: Huracán, Revuelto (V12 hybrid), Urus (SUV)
- Vibe: Loud, aggressive, head-turning
3. Maserati
- Owned by: Stellantis
- Known for: Elegant performance cars with a luxury feel
- Popular models: Ghibli, Levante (SUV), MC20, Grecale
- Vibe: A mix of sport and sophistication
4. Alfa Romeo
- Owned by: Stellantis
- Known for: Stylish, driver-focused cars with racing heritage
- Popular models: Giulia, Stelvio, Tonale
- Vibe: Sporty flair with soul—more emotional than logical
5. Fiat
- Owned by: Stellantis
- Known for: Affordable city cars and practical models
- Popular models: 500, Panda, Tipo
- Vibe: Urban-friendly, playful, iconic (especially the Fiat 500)
6. Lancia
- Owned by: Stellantis
- Known for: Rally heritage and classy past designs
- Current model: Lancia Ypsilon (Italy only), new EV models planned
- Vibe: Once great, now niche, possibly making a comeback
7. Pagani
- Known for: Ultra-exclusive hypercars with obsessive craftsmanship
- Popular models: Huayra, Utopia
- Vibe: Art on wheels—rare, fast, and fantastically expensive
8. Abarth
- Owned by: Stellantis (performance arm of Fiat)
- Known for: Small cars with big attitude
- Popular models: Abarth 595/695 (Fiat 500-based hot hatches)
- Vibe: Loud, feisty, and fun
Honorable Mentions (Historic or Niche):
- De Tomaso – Classic brand revived with supercars like the P72
- Iso Rivolta, Bizzarrini, Cisitalia, Autobianchi – Legendary or collectible, now mostly defunct