Best cars to modify in UK

Perhaps you want to customise the look of your car. Or maybe you’ve been watching some Fast & Furious films and have an urge to release the girl or boy racer inside. If you’re looking for the best cars to modify, we’ve compiled some things to consider. 

A modified car is a vehicle that has been altered in some way from the manufacturer’s original specifications to improve its performance and appearance. Common modifications include:

• Tinted windows
• Loud exhausts
• Enhanced sound systems
• Alloy wheels
• Spoilers
• Body kits
• Lowered or raised suspensions
• Neon lights

Top 10 cars to modify

Honda Civic

The versatile one

 

Pros

? Delight to drive

? Nice and efficient

? Plenty of boot space

Cons

? Interior’s a touch dull

? Bit more expensive than others

Summary

Whether you’re diving into performance upgrades for more power from the engine, fine-tuning suspension mods for tighter handling, or simply adding a custom flair, the Civic handles it all with ease.

From street racers to show cars, this hatchback (or saloon) offers endless potential.The Honda Civic has long been a legend in the car modification scene, and for good reason. Its versatile platform, accessible aftermarket parts, and reputation for reliability make it one of the best cars for enthusiasts.

Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution

The dream project

Pros

? Brilliant handling

? Packs a punch

? All-wheel-drive capability

Cons

? High maintenance costs

? Low fuel economy

Summary

The Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution, or Evo as it’s affectionately known, is a dream project car for modification fans. With rally-bred roots and an already potent turbocharged engine, it’s a prime candidate for engine upgrades that can push performance to jaw-dropping levels.

Its robust all-wheel-drive system and adaptable chassis make it one of the most exciting modified cars on the road or track. Whether you’re chasing horsepower records, refining handling, or crafting a street-ready beast, the Evo offers unlimited tuning potential.

Ford Fiesta ST

The tuner’s choice

Pros

? Great fun to drive

? Decent standard equipment

? Cheap to run

Cons

? Not that practical

? So-so interior quality

Summary

The Ford Fiesta ST is a pocket rocket that’s one of the most often modified cars. Known for its punchy turbocharged engine and sharp handling, it’s perfect for tweaking performance and style.

The engine bay is a playground for upgrades, from larger intercoolers to turbo enhancements, while exhaust systems are often swapped out for sportier sound and improved airflow. Its lightweight chassis responds brilliantly to suspension tweaks, perfect for track days or spirited drives.

Affordable, fun, and endlessly customisable – the Fiesta ST is a tuner’s delight.

Subaru Impreza

The rally icon

Pros

? Sharp handling

? Sticks to the road in the wet

? Unbeatable reliability

Cons

? Expensive to buy

? Not the best fuel economy

Summary

The Subaru Impreza is an icon of modded cars. It’s loved for its rally heritage, symmetrical all-wheel drive, and turbocharged engines.

The Impreza offers endless possibilities, whether you’re aiming for more speed, better handling, or a throatier growl. Exhaust upgrades are a popular first step, unleashing that signature burble while boosting airflow.

The Impreza’s robust platform easily handles power increases, making it perfect for improving performance without sacrificing reliability. From aggressive body kits to fine-tuned suspensions, the Impreza is a go-to for those wanting to make a statement on the road or track.

Toyota Supra

The fun one

Pros

? Lots of fun to drive

? Top-notch performance

? Quality infotainment system

Cons

? Cramped interior

? Limited outward visibility

Summary

The Toyota Supra is a stalwart of the modding scene, celebrated for its legendary driving experience and rear-wheel drive layout. In earlier generations, it was known for its robust 2JZ engine, which can handle staggering amounts of power with relative ease.

Whether adding bigger turbos, refining suspension modifications for track precision, or tweaking the exhaust for that unmistakable growl, the Supra is a playground for mod fans. Its sleek design and tunable platform make it a staple in car culture, proving time and again that this machine is built for speed and limitless potential.

Mini Cooper

The cult classic

Pros

? Great around town

? Fantastic-looking interior

? Relatively affordable

Cons

? Minature boot

? High maintenance costs

Summary

The Mini is undoubtedly a cult classic, blending iconic style with excellent handling and endless customisation potential. Whether you’re tweaking it for tighter cornering, squeezing out extra horsepower, or adding some visual flair, it’s a dream project for enthusiasts.

The Mini’s reasonable price makes it accessible to first-time modifiers and seasoned tuners. Plus, there’s something undeniably special about being the proud owner of a tricked-out Mini!

It’s a car with a character that shines even brighter when personalised. Compact, agile, and bursting with character, it’s a canvas for your creativity.

Nissan Skyline

The performance monster

Pros

? Powerful performance

? Easy to tune

? Advanced technology

Cons

? High maintenance costs

? Drinks up fuel

Summary

The Nissan Skyline is a stone-cold legend of the modding community. It’s celebrated for its robust engines, tunable chassis, and iconic design. 

Whether you want to increase power with bigger turbos or refine handling with upgraded suspension, the Skyline takes mods in stride. Its cosmetic mods scene is equally vibrant, with widebody kits, custom paint jobs, and aggressive aero designs, making each Skyline a head-turner. 

This Japanese icon offers endless potential for enthusiasts, from track monsters to show cars. With a loyal following and endless aftermarket support, the Skyline isn’t just a car – it’s a benchmark of automotive creativity.

Mazda MX-5

The cool compact

Pros

? Efficient engine

? Handles like a dream

? Top value

Cons

? Limited interior space

? Prone to rust

Summary

The Mazda MX-5 is a global favourite among people modifying cars, and it’s easy to see why. Lightweight, rear-wheel drive, and brilliantly balanced, it’s a tuner’s dream straight from the factory.

Whether you’re upgrading the suspension, squeezing more power from the engine, or adding eye-catching body kits, the MX-5 handles it all with flair. From the classic NA to the modern ND, each perfect foundation for tuning across various models. 

Known as one of the most modified cars in the world, it’s proof that sometimes the best projects come in small, roadster-shaped packages.

Jeep Wrangler

The rugged one

Pros

? Loves off-road

? Plenty of standard equipment

? Lots of options

Cons

? On the costly side to buy

? Not so great on the road

Summary

The Jeep Wrangler is an off-road icon and a dream to modify. Known for its rugged design and go-anywhere attitude, it’s the perfect canvas for adventure enthusiasts.

Whether you upgrade to bigger wheels, tweak the suspension for improved ground clearance, or fine-tune the engine for more performance, the Wrangler takes mods in stride. With countless model variants and aftermarket options available, personalisation is practically limitless.

Every tweak, from roof racks to snorkels, transforms the Wrangler into a unique off-road beast. The Wrangler is ready for your creative touch if you’re looking for a car that thrives on customisation.

Ford Mustang

The one that’s all about horse-power

Pros

? Tremendous engine

? Exciting driving experience

? Iconic design

Cons

? Not fuel efficient

? Not that comfortable

Summary

The Ford Mustang is one of the best car models for modifications, blending raw power with iconic style. Its muscular engine bay welcomes everything from cold air intake upgrades to supercharger kits, unlocking even more thrilling performance.

Known for being incredibly fun to drive, the Mustang easily handles tweaks to its suspension, exhaust, and styling. Whether you’re building a track monster, a drag racer, or just refining its aggressive growl, this pony car delivers.

With an endless aftermarket scene and a global fanbase, the Mustang isn’t just a car – it’s a statement of speed and style.

FAQs

Which car modifications are illegal in the UK?

Beware. In the UK, certain mods can land you in trouble. New exhausts that exceed noise limits, excessively tinted windows, and illegal number plates are all on the no-go list. Be cautious with aftermarket alloys – if they stick out too far, they could be deemed unsafe.

Mods like neon underglow or loud horns that distract other cars are also a no. Always check legal requirements before giving your vehicle a makeover.

How much does a basic body kit cost?

The cost of a basic body kit can vary depending on the models of cars you’re customising. For most, you’re looking at anywhere between £300 and £1,000 for a simple setup.

Installing it can be incredibly easy if you’re handy with tools, but professional fitting adds to the price. Keep in mind that higher-end kits or unique designs can cost much more – so be prepared to shell out if you really want your car to stand out.