The automotive world is full of amazing stories, and car brands that start with ‘S’ are no exception. They include everything from big global names to small, unique manufacturers with rich histories. Each brand has its own style and story, showing how car design and technology have grown over time. Exploring these ‘S’ brands gives us a fun look into how personal transportation has evolved across different countries and cultures.
Popular Car Brands That Start With ‘S’
Here are some of the most popular and important car brands that begin with the letter ‘S’, along with a quick look at what makes each one special:
Subaru
Subaru is a well-known Japanese car brand, famous for its unique Boxer engines and all-wheel-drive system, which come standard in most of its cars. This setup gives Subaru vehicles better balance, strong grip on the road, and great handling—especially in bad weather or off-road conditions. Popular models like the Outback, Forester, and WRX are loved for their mix of safety, reliability, and sporty performance, making Subaru a top choice for adventure lovers and families alike.
Suzuki
Suzuki is a well-known Japanese brand that makes cars, motorcycles, and even boat engines. In the car world, Suzuki is loved for building small, fuel-efficient, and tough vehicles. Even though it’s not as big in some countries, models like the Swift, Vitara, and Jimny are popular around the world—especially in Asia and developing markets—thanks to their low cost, reliability, and fun, adventurous vibe.
Škoda
Škoda is a car brand from the Czech Republic with a long history going back to 1895, making it one of the oldest car makers still around today. Now part of the Volkswagen Group, Škoda uses modern VW technology while keeping its own unique style. The brand is known for building practical, well-designed cars that offer great value. Features often include smart little touches—called “Simply Clever” ideas—that make everyday driving easier. Popular models like the Octavia, Superb, and Kodiaq are loved for their roomy interiors, smooth rides, and user-friendly design.
SEAT
SEAT is Spain’s top car brand and is also part of the Volkswagen Group. Founded in 1950, SEAT is known for making stylish, sporty, and modern vehicles. Models like the Ibiza and Leon are especially popular with younger drivers thanks to their sharp looks and fun-to-drive feel. SEAT also has a high-performance sub-brand called CUPRA, which shows its strong focus on sporty driving and excitement behind the wheel.
Saab
Saab was a Swedish car brand known for its unique designs, smart engineering, and strong focus on safety. It originally started as an aircraft company, and that influence showed in the sleek, aerodynamic style and clever features of its cars. Even though Saab stopped making cars in 2011, it still has a loyal fan base. Models like the Saab 900 and 9-3 are especially loved for their distinctive look and advanced features that were ahead of their time.
Smart
Smart is a German car brand that started as a partnership between Mercedes-Benz and Swatch. It’s best known for making super small, city-friendly cars like the Smart Fortwo, perfect for busy streets and tight parking spots. In recent years, Smart has shifted to making only electric vehicles, focusing on clean, green driving. New models like the Smart #1 and Smart #3 continue the brand’s mission of offering fun, agile cars made for modern city life.
More Car Brands That Start With ‘S’
Besides the big names, there are plenty of other car brands starting with ‘S’, each with its own unique background. Some are still active, some are part of automotive history, and others focus on very specific or niche markets.
Car Name | Country of Origin | Production Year(s) |
Saleen | USA | 1983–present |
Saturn | USA | 1985–2010 |
Scion | USA | 2003–2016 |
Shelby | USA | 1962–present |
SsangYong (now KG Mobility) | South Korea | 1954–present |
SSC (SSC North America) | USA | 1998–present |
Spyker | Netherlands | 1999–2014, 2021–present (planned relaunch) |
S.S. Cars | UK | 1934–1945 (became Jaguar) |
Saker | New Zealand | 1992–present |
Sareni | Germany | 2012–2014 |
Sbarro | Switzerland | 1971–present |
Scarab | USA | 1957–1965 |
SCG (Scuderia Cameron Glickenhaus) | USA | 2010–present |
SDR Sportscars | UK | 2008–present |
Sensor Racing | USA | Unknown – niche manufacturer |
Serenissima | Italy | 1963–1970 |
Serpollet | France | 1888–1907 |
Siata | Italy | 1926–1970 |
Simca | France | 1934–1978 |
Singer Vehicle Design | USA | 2009–present |
Sisu Auto | Finland | 1931–present |
Soueast | China | 1995–present |
Spania GTA | Spain | 2010–present |
Standard | UK | 1903–1963 |
Sterling | USA | 1987–1991 |
Stutz | USA | 1911–1935, 1970–1995 |
Sunbeam | UK | 1901–1976 |
Celebrating ‘S’ Car Brands: A Legacy on Wheels
This long list shows just how rich and diverse the car world really is. From everyday cars to rare supercars and early automotive pioneers, brands starting with ‘S’ have made a big impact—both on the roads and in the hearts of car lovers everywhere. Each brand has its own story of creativity, engineering, and passion, all helping to shape the way we travel today.