What cars are similar to Oka: a review of the most unusual “fish” models

Automotive design has long ceased to be boring: manufacturers are experimenting with forms, inspired by nature, futurism and even... the underwater world. One of the most unexpected trends in recent years has been cars, visually reminiscent of a perch - a fish with a streamlined body, bulging eyes and a characteristic “humpbacked” profile. Such cars attract attention not only with their shocking appearance, but also with innovative engineering solutions.

In this article we will look at 7 most striking modelsthat are associated with snapper, from concept cars to production cars. You will find out what technological features are hidden behind the “fish” shell, how much these cars cost on the secondary market and what to look for when buying. Spoiler: Some of them can be purchased today!

1. Why did cars become like fish?

Trend on biomimicry (borrowing natural forms) is not new in auto design, but it reached its peak in the 2020s. Engineers discovered that the perch's streamlined body was ideal for two key purposes:

• 🐟 Aerodynamics: The shape of the fish minimizes water resistance - a similar principle works for air. Drag coefficient (Cx) in “fish” cars is often below 0.25, which is comparable to premium electric cars.
• 👁️ Security: Convex “eyes” (headlights and cameras) provide a wide viewing angle, and rounded sides soften impacts in case of an accident.
• 🔋 Energy efficiency: Due to the streamlined design, electric cars with this design travel 8–12% more on a single charge.

The first sign was the concept Mercedes-Benz Bionic (2005), inspired by a bony fish. His Cx = 0,19 still remains a record for production prototypes. Today, “perch-like” features can be seen even in budget models - for example, Toyota bZ4X or Hyundai Ioniq 5.

⚠️ Attention: Not all “fish” cars are equally practical. Models with an excessively rounded body (for example, Fiat Multipla) may have problems with visibility through the rear window and limited trunk space.

2. TOP 7 cars that look like a perch: photos + characteristics

We selected cars that most closely resemble a perch according to three criteria: body shape, location of the “eyes” (headlights/cameras) and general silhouette. The table contains key parameters for comparison:

Model	Year of manufacture	Body type	Cx (aerodynamics)	Price (2026, Russian Federation)
Mercedes-Benz EQS	2021	Sedan	0,20	from 8.5 million ₽
Toyota bZ4X	2022	Crossover	0,28	from 3.8 million ₽
Hyundai Ioniq 6	2022	Liftback	0,21	from 4.2 million ₽
Aptera (3-wheel)	2023	Microcar	0,13	from 2.5 million ₽*
Fiat Multipla (1998–2010)	1998	Minivan	0,32	from 300 thousand ₽

*Price for Aptera indicated for pre-order (deliveries to Russia are expected in 2026).

Unique fact: Aptera - the only production car with a coefficient Cx = 0,13, which is lower than that of Formula 1 racing cars. Its shape copies the body of a moray eel fish, but visually it is closest to a perch due to its “humpbacked” silhouette.

3. Mercedes-Benz EQS: luxury "perch" with artificial intelligence

Flagship electric car Mercedes It doesn't just look like a perch - it literally copies its anatomy. The front part has narrow “eye” headlights, a body that gradually tapers towards the rear, and even “gill” air intakes on the sides. But behind the surface there are revolutionary technologies:

• 🤖 MBUX hyperscreen: 55-inch dashboard that spans the entire front of the cabin, supporting gestures and voice control.
• 🔋 107.8 kWh battery: power reserve up to 780 km (according to the WLTP cycle).
• 🚗 Rear steering axle: allows you to turn almost on the spot (turning radius - 10.9 m).

The main disadvantage is the price. Even used EQS 2022 in Russia costs from 7 million rubles. In addition, due to sanctions, official dealers do not provide a warranty on new models.

4. Aptera: three-wheeled perch that doesn't need to be charged

This American startup has revolutionized the idea of micromobility. Aptera looks like a hybrid of a fish and a spaceship, but its main feature is solar panels on the roofthat give up 64 km mileage per day without recharging. Technical features:

• ☀️ Solar roof: 3 sq. m of panels with an efficiency of 24.4%.
• 🔌 Charging from a wall outlet: full charge in 4 hours (from 220 V).
• 🛡️ Composite body: 4 times lighter than steel, but stronger than aluminum.

In Russia Aptera has not yet been certified, but enthusiasts order it through intermediaries (price including delivery - from 3 million rubles). The main risk: lack of service centers and spare parts.

Why does Aptera only have 3 wheels?

The three-wheel design allows the vehicle to be classified as a motorcycle in some countries (such as the US), making certification easier and reducing taxes. In addition, one front wheel reduces air resistance.

5. Fiat Multipla: retro perch for 300 thousand rubles

This Italian minivan from the 1990s is the only car on the list with an internal combustion engine, but its design is so unusual that it was nicknamed “fish” even at its premiere. Two round “eye” headlights, a short hood and a high body make Multipla visually close to the perch. Pros of the model:

• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 6 full seats (including 2 front individual seats).
• 💰 Low price: on the secondary market you can find copies for 250–400 thousand rubles.
• 🔧 Easy to repair: details from Fiat Punto and Lancia Ypsilon fit 70%.

Cons: weak motors (1.6 l, 103 hp), high fuel consumption (9–11 l/100 km) and problems with body corrosion. An ideal option for those who want an unusual car “for every day” without large investments.

⚠️ Attention: Upon inspection Fiat Multipla pay attention to the condition of the suspension - due to the high center of gravity, the car can “throw” at speeds over 120 km/h.

Inspect the underbody for rust (especially around the rear arches)|

Check the operation of the electronics (a common problem is faulty power windows)|

Test the gearbox (on models before 2004, problems with synchronizers are possible)|

Make sure that spare parts for the engine are available (motors 1.9 JTD require regular timing belt replacement)

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6. Where to buy a “perch-like” car in 2026?

Purchasing methods depend on the model:

1. Official dealers: suitable for Mercedes EQS, Toyota bZ4X and Hyundai Ioniq 6. The downside is high prices and a limited selection of trim levels.
2. Secondary market:
   • 📌 Auto.ru / Drom: more than 50 offers for Fiat Multipla (price from 200 thousand ₽).
   • 📌 Japan Auctions (for example, USS Auction): you can find rare ones there Toyota bZ4X with mileage up to 10 thousand km.

Pre-order: for Aptera and other niche models (sites Aptera.com or TopElectricSUV.com).

Tip: When buying an electric car, check the battery history through services like Battery Health Check (for Toyota/Hyundai) or Mercedes Me. Battery degradation of more than 20% is a reason to reduce the price by 15–20%.

7. Legal nuances: is it possible to drive a “perch” in Russia?

Most of the models on the list are certified for use in the Russian Federation, but there are exceptions:

• ✅ Allowed: Mercedes EQS, Toyota bZ4X, Hyundai Ioniq 6, Fiat Multipla (if you have a PTS).
• ❌ Problems with certification:
  • Aptera — has not passed crash tests according to standards EAEU (can be imported as an “exhibition copy”, but not for permanent driving).
  • Chinese analogues (for example, BYD Seal) - require customs clearance and additional checks.

There are benefits for electric vehicles:

• 🚗 Tax deduction: up to 625 thousand rubles when purchasing a new car (until 2026).
• ⚡ Free parking in Moscow and St. Petersburg (for cars with “green” license plates).

Important: from 2026, new rules for electric cars will be introduced in Russia - mandatory installation acoustic signal (for pedestrian safety). This applies to all silent models, including Hyundai Ioniq 6.

FAQ: Frequently asked questions about perch cars

Is it possible to tune a “fishy” car to make it look even more like a perch?

Yes, but with reservations. Popular improvements:

• 🎨 Vinyls with scales (for example, from 3M or Oracal).
• 💡 LED backlight along the contour of the body (imitation of bioluminescence).
• 🔧 Body kits from Liberty Walk (for Mercedes EQS there are special kits).

Beware of changes affecting aerodynamics - this may increase fuel/energy consumption.

Which of these cars is the most reliable?

According to J.D. Power (2023), leader in reliability - Toyota bZ4X (4.5 points out of 5). In second place Hyundai Ioniq 6 (4.3 points). Fiat Multipla has a rating of 3.1 - the main problems are related to electronics and corrosion.

How much does insurance cost for such a car?

The cost of OSAGO and CASCO depends on the model:

• Fiat Multipla: from 5 thousand ₽ (MTPL) + 20 thousand ₽ (CASCO).
• Mercedes EQS: from 12 thousand ₽ (MTPL) + 150 thousand ₽ (CASCO).
• Aptera: insurance is not issued (no certification in the Russian Federation).

For electric vehicles, some companies (e.g. RESO-Garantiya) offer discounts up to 10%.

Is it possible to convert an ordinary car into a “perch”?

Theoretically yes, but it is expensive and difficult. You will need:

1. Change the shape of the body (welding, putty, painting - from 500 thousand ₽).
2. Install round LED headlights (set price - from 100 thousand ₽).
3. Reprogram the ECU to optimize aerodynamics (electric cars only).

Example: studio Prior Design offers a set of body kits for Tesla Model 3, which makes it visually closer to the perch (cost - ~800 thousand rubles).