Past predictions of cars of the future promised expressive styling and wild design ideas. Instead we are stuck in the era of the SUV/crossover jellybeans where distinctiveness is all but extinct.

There is one part of contemporary car design where character and uniqueness still has a foothold and that’s wheels. From old school steelies to carbon fiber track shoes, the 2026 NY Auto Show had a decent mix of the last remaining bit of exterior automotive jewelry.

The most unique set were found on a Fiat 500e Giorgio Armani Collector’s Edition. I’m not clear how much giant logo hubcaps say luxury fashion brand but they are memorable.

Photos and Text: Dave Pinter