20 embarrassing car publicity photos

We often stumble across awkward, dodgy and slightly embarrassing press photos. Now, for the first time, we’ve assembled a collection as some kind of press office rogues gallery. Get ready for cheesy grins, awkward poses and images that shouldn’t be taken out of context.

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Audi 100

One to be filed under ‘embarrassing holiday snaps’? Not exactly, because this happens to be an official Audi press photo, from the days when the German company required the help of ladies to promote its brand.

Skoda Felicia

Mate, you really ought to think about moving your Skoda.

Daewoo

How do you celebrate the opening of a new dealership? By asking the company’s MD and dealer’s aftersales manager to clamber into the boot, of course.

Citroen Saxo VTS

Ah yes, the good old days. When the Citroen Saxo VTS ruled the streets – or at least the McDonald’s car park – and Katie Price was still known as Jordan. Some might say the car has aged better than the lady…

Peugeot 207 CC

Here’s Britain’s favourite pantomime dame, Christopher Biggins, out enjoying his Peugeot 207 CC. Check out the motion blur on his hand. Jazz hands, Biggins?

Fiat Panda

Here’s the cast of the Italian version of Fame demonstrating how many people you can’t fit in a Fiat Panda. Probably.

Citroen XM

Back in the day, nothing said business car quite like the Copthorne Hotel and a huge mobile phone…

Daihatsu Charade

The child is wearing a look that says “Daddy, do we have to downsize from the Range Rover?” Mum’s response: “If it means we get to keep the cottage in the country, Tabitha, then yes.”

Renault Twingo

Here we find two sumo wrestlers about to demonstrate the flat-folding seats in the Renault Twingo. We’re pretty sure they managed to get in, although getting out again was a different matter.

Chrysler PT Cruiser

In 1998, Michael Owen had the world at his feet following an outstanding goal against Argentina. He was also given a Chrysler PT Cruiser. Life is all about pleasure and pain, Michael.

Ford Focus

Some photos need a little context. In reality, Ann Widdecombe was demonstrating Ford’s self-parking technology. Taken out of context, it looks like she’s been left horrified by the Ford Focus.

Rover 100 Ascot SE

Hats off to you, Rover, that’s not a bad way to promote the Ascot special edition. The hat shop is still there. The Rover, we suspect, has long since retired.

Suzuki Vitara

That look might work on the American West Coast, but at a British marina, we don’t think so. We wouldn’t like to say how many dogs have cocked their leg on that lamp post.

Proton GEN-2

Des looks delighted to have won a Proton GEN-2, although he quite fancied a Jumbuck.

Renault Clio

We’ve got absolutely no idea what’s going on here, but we really fancy a Renault Clio Baccara.

Citroen Xantia

Glynis Barber, is that you? And is that Boris Becker? Not, it’s another period press photo.

Volkswagen Derby

She could have dressed for the occasion. It’s not everyday you’re asked to stand alongside a Volkswagen Polo saloon.

Saab Sonett

Don’t start stripping off now, for goodness sake. You’ll catch your death in rural Sweden.