SUV design has changed dramatically over the years, with automakers regularly refreshing familiar models to look newer and more distinctive. While some updates succeed, others lose the qualities that made a vehicle recognizable.

Oversized grilles, awkward proportions, and questionable styling choices can make a redesign feel less appealing. These five SUV redesigns show how difficult it can be to modernize a familiar vehicle without losing its character.

2025 BMW X3

The BMW X3 had traditionally balanced smooth surfaces with sharper lines, giving the SUV a defined and sophisticated appearance. For the 2025 model year, however, BMW moved toward a much cleaner and more minimal design. The result has received mixed reactions. The larger kidney grille dominates the front, while fewer strong lines make the body appear flatter.

The rear design adds to the unusual proportions, particularly because of the small rear window and high beltline. The X3 remains a capable and enjoyable SUV, but its styling shows how removing too many defining details can make a familiar model feel less distinctive.

2011 Infiniti QX56

The Infiniti QX56 took a very different approach when it was redesigned for 2011. The earlier version had a simple, strong appearance without trying too hard to stand out. The redesign attempted to create a more recognizable identity through rounded bodywork. Unfortunately, the abundance of curves made the large SUV appear bulky rather than sleek.

Almost every exterior panel received softer treatment, leaving the QX56 with an unusual appearance. It is a useful example of how adding more design elements does not necessarily create a better-looking vehicle.

2013 Nissan Pathfinder

The Nissan Pathfinder underwent one of its biggest changes for 2013. The previous generation was known for its rugged, boxy shape, while the new version adopted a much simpler crossover design. Visually, the difference was significant. The new Pathfinder lost much of the personality associated with its predecessor and looked more conventional for its time.

The mechanical change was equally important. The move from a body-on-frame platform to a unibody design changed the vehicle's traditional character and reduced its focus on the kind of versatility associated with the older design.

2027 Audi Q7

Audi's upcoming 2027 Q7 represents another example of a familiar SUV taking a new stylistic direction. The previous Q7 had muscular curves and proportions that clearly connected it with Audi's established design language. The newer model takes a flatter approach. Its front appears wider, while changes to the side profile and rear window make the SUV look more upright and boxy.

The redesign is not necessarily unattractive, but it loses some of the athletic quality associated with the previous Q7. Even relatively small details, such as the size of the grille, can have a major effect on how the entire vehicle looks.

2014 Jeep Cherokee

The 2014 Jeep Cherokee was perhaps the most dramatic visual departure on this list. Earlier versions had retained a boxier shape that connected the model with its rugged roots. For 2014, Jeep transformed the Cherokee into a more conventional compact crossover. Higher trims such as the Trailhawk continued to offer off-road capability, but the exterior design became the main point of debate.

The front end was particularly unusual. A panel line split the fascia, while the grille extended across it, creating an awkward visual effect. Later updates improved the front-end appearance, including changes that gave it a fuller look and visually connected the headlights.

What These Redesigns Teach

These examples share an important lesson: changing a successful design is not always an improvement. SUV styling depends heavily on proportion, recognizable details, and a clear connection between different parts of the body.

A cleaner design can look modern, but too much simplicity may remove personality. Extra curves can create distinction, but too many can make a vehicle appear bulky. Even small changes to a grille, window, or beltline can alter the overall impression.

SUV redesigns are difficult because buyers often expect something new while still wanting the qualities that made the previous model familiar. The BMW X3, Infiniti QX56, Nissan Pathfinder, Audi Q7, and Jeep Cherokee each took different approaches, but their styling changes demonstrate the same challenge.

The best redesigns usually evolve a vehicle without losing its identity. When proportions, details, and character work together, a newer model can feel fresh while remaining unmistakably connected to its name.