What is a Kammback?

Automakers have been abusing the word coupe for the better part of a decade now. Crossovers featuring sloping rooflines—and generally rendered somewhat less practical—and now called coupes. We at Consumer Guide frown on this application of the word coupe, especially because coupes, by our rather traditional definition, feature only two side doors.

But, whatever. We can live with the fact that BMW refers to the X2, X4, and X6 as “coupe” variants of its popular X1, X3, and X5, crossovers respectively, but we balk somewhat acknowledging that Porsche refers to the fastback variant of its popular Cayenne midsize crossover as the Cayenne Coupé. Note that Porsche’s use of the é is somewhat inconsistent.

2020 Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport — We’d argue that the Volkswagen Atlas Cross Sport is a Kammback version of the more mainstream Atlas.

As dubious use of the word “coupe” worms its way into popular automotive vernacular, we would like to explore, briefly, the bygone world of the Kammback. Named for German aerodynamic engineer Wunibald Kamm, the body style closely mimics today’s sloping-roof coupes, and was often associated with smaller and sportier vehicles, though not always. Note that Wunibald was most influential in the Thirties when he was employed by an independent engineering firm. Prior, Wunibald work for Daimler.

Traditionally, the Kammback design included not only a sloping roof, but an abrupt vertical plane at its conclusion. The look was—for a time—distinct, and popular on European cars, especially from German makes.

Included here are a number of vehicles considered to be of Kammback design. Take note of the distinct break in the roofline, and the generally clean and aerodynamic look of the cars. Also, consider whether or not the world would be a better place if we started using the word Kammback again, instead of calling 5500-pound SUVs coupes.

Following is a gallery of automotive designs we would argue are true to the Kammback concept. Let us know what you think. The place to leave comments is down below.