10 Cars That Became TV Icons in the Past Decade: What to Watch Tonight

Over the past twenty years, a handful of cars have become as memorable as the leads driving them. Some have even turned into symbols of the shows they appeared in. Here’s a look at ten vehicles that earned legendary status thanks to hit series of the last decade.

Chevrolet Impala — Supernatural (2005–2020)

The black 1967 Chevrolet Impala, affectionately nicknamed “Baby,” became the heart of Supernatural and, in many ways, the unofficial “third Winchester brother.” Its durability and constant presence through all fifteen seasons made it inseparable from the show’s tone. The raw look and muscle-car attitude fit perfectly with Supernatural’s dark world, turning the Impala into a symbol of road trips, danger, and everything tied to Sam and Dean’s journey.

Mazda RX-8 — Sherlock (2010–2017)

In Sherlock, the Mazda RX-8 adds a distinctly modern contrast to the timeless streets of London. The sleek sports coupe with its rotary engine mirrors the sharp, unconventional mind of Sherlock Holmes. It appears in Season 1, Episode 3, subtly marking the intersection of classic detective storytelling and a contemporary setting.

1962 Chevrolet Corvette C1 — Lucifer (2016–2021)

Lucifer Morningstar’s striking Corvette roadster perfectly matches his refined taste and bold personality. With its aggressive stance and vintage glamour, the C1 brings a sense of elegance and mischief to every scene. It underscores Lucifer’s confidence, charm, and love for the finer things in life—fitting for a character who thrives on style and drama.

Dodge Charger — Fast & Furious: Spy Racers (2019–2021)

Aimed at a younger audience, the animated Spy Racers series still pays homage to the legendary cars of the Fast & Furious universe. The Dodge Charger remains a symbol of brute power, freedom, and high-speed action—traits that define the franchise. The show lets fans see animated versions of their favorite machines, keeping the spirit of the films alive.

Range Rover — The Night Manager (2016)

In The Night Manager, the Range Rover is more than transportation—it’s an emblem of status, sophistication, and British refinement. It complements the show’s suave lead and spy-themed plot, where danger and double-crossing are part of daily life. As a symbol of luxury and authority, the Range Rover strengthens the series’ polished and dramatic tone.

Audi R8 — Stumptown (2020)

The Audi R8 Spyder shows up in Episode 11 of the first season, instantly adding flair to the series’ fast-moving storyline. Its open-top silhouette and performance-oriented styling elevate the visual energy of every scene it appears in. The R8 isn’t just background—it’s part of the show’s identity, injecting tension, beauty, and modern tech into the narrative.

Mercedes-Benz S560 — Prodigal Son (2019–2021)

The S560 embodies prestige, power, and technical refinement. With its high-end cabin and smooth performance, it fits naturally into scenes involving influence and social stature. Crime dramas often rely on such vehicles to highlight authority, wealth, or menace, and in Prodigal Son the S560 becomes another layer of character definition—quietly reinforcing confidence and charisma.

Land Rover Defender — The Crown (2016–present)

Few vehicles fit The Crown as perfectly as the Land Rover Defender. Long linked with the British royal family, the Defender symbolizes tradition, resilience, and heritage. Appearing in numerous key scenes, it serves as a visual extension of the monarchy’s connection to the countryside and its long-standing customs. It’s iconic, unmistakably British, and a natural fit for the show’s tone.

Cadillac Escalade — Mr. Robot (2015–2019)

In Mr. Robot, the Escalade embodies luxury wrapped in technical sophistication—matching the series’ dark, tech-heavy world. Its bold presence and upscale design underscore the power dynamics and hidden agendas that drive the story. When it shows up, it immediately signals authority, secrecy, and the high stakes at play.

Lincoln Continental — Billions (2016–present)

The Lincoln Continental perfectly reflects the world of wealth and influence portrayed in Billions. Sleek yet imposing, it emphasizes the characters’ drive for dominance in the financial arena. Its presence enhances the show’s atmosphere of luxury, strategy, and intrigue—making the Continental a natural fit for a story about ambition at the highest level.

These cars didn’t just appear on screen — they became part of the storytelling, helping define the mood and identity of the shows they belonged to.