Gavin, Stacey and 16 of the worst car publicity photos

Press photos to make you cringe

To mark the final episode of Gavin and Stacey, Citroen has released the most cringeworthy press photo we’ve seen for some time. Taken on Barry Island, it features Gav’s original Saxo VTR from the TV series alongside a new electric C3. The sporting Saxo still looks ‘tidy’, although we’d question Citroen’s description of its new crossover EV as ‘lush’.

Still, Citroen isn’t the only culprit when it comes to awkward, dodgy and slightly embarrassing publicity photos. Get ready for cheesy grins, awkward poses and images that shouldn’t be taken out of context.

Chevrolet Spark

Nothing says ‘true love’ like an empty football stadium and a Chevrolet Spark. Just imagine driving off into the sunset, with 68hp under your right foot and Football Daily blaring on the radio. Bliss.

Audi 100

One to be filed under ‘embarrassing holiday snaps’? Not exactly, because this happens to be an official Audi press photo.

Skoda Felicia

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

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

Yes, it’s another Citroen Saxo – taken in the days when this compact hot hatch ruled the streets (or at least the McDonald’s car park) and Katie Price was known as Jordan.

Peugeot 207 CC

Here is Britain’s favourite pantomime dame, Christopher Biggins, out enjoying his… Peugeot 207 CC.

Fiat Panda

Meet the cast of the Italian version of Fame demonstrating how many people you can’t fit in a Fiat Panda. Well, probably.

Citroen XM

Back in the day, nothing said ‘I mean business’ quite like an executive hatchback, 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.”

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 a 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 lasted until 2013. 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. Lord knows how many dogs have cocked their legs on that lamp post.

Proton GEN-2

Des looks delighted to have won a Proton GEN-2, although we’re reliably informed 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? No, it’s just another period press photo.