7. Saab, 2010 (sort of)
Saab was known for innovative turbocharged engines and other features that can only be described as quirky. At its peak this was a premium, aspirational brand that was clearly differentiated from German or American offerings. But then GM got involved and everything went to hell. After about two decades of ownership the General largely drove this respected company into the ground. Products like the 9-2X, a rebadged Subaru and the 9-7X, a gussied up Chevy Trailblazer did Saab no favors.
SEE ALSO: Saab Resumes Production
Adding insult to injury was their ludicrous “Born from Jets” slogan. Yeah, your 9-3 is related to an airplane… and Pam Anderson is the same thing as Louis Anderson.
Just like Hummer, the Chinese wanted to get their sweet-and-sour fingers on this snowy-white Swedish brand but GM opposed that move because they were reluctant to transfer technology (their technology) to the Chinese. And let’s be honest, the Chinese generally aren’t the most respectful of intellectual property rights so this was probably a wise move.
Today the automotive part of Saab is dead but not quite deceased. They’re dabbling in electric vehicles, if only barely.