Colombian singer Maluma has partnered with Hot Wheels to launch a custom-designed car as part of the company’s Challenge Accepted campaign, much to the delight of fans and car enthusiasts alike. The pre-order announcement came on 28 August, allowing fans to secure a spot for Maluma’s unique addition to the iconic toy line.
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The collaboration stands as a testament to Maluma’s lifelong passion for cars, a fascination that he traced back to his childhood. He recalls the joy of receiving his first Hot Wheels set, a cherished gift from his uncle, who returned from the United States with a treasure trove of miniature cars and tracks. This moment sparked a long-lasting admiration for automobiles in the young artist. “Hot Wheels has been part of my whole life,” Maluma stated. “Back then, for us Colombians, the only way to experience them was through the television. It was quite challenging to get those small cars in our country.”
Since that pivotal day, Maluma has expressed his love for cars extensively, stating, “I have cars everywhere. Cars have been a significant part of my life. I admire the art of building them, the curves, and shapes. It has always been a dream to curate my own collection, starting with Hot Wheels.”
For the design of his custom car, Maluma opted for the Toyota Land Cruiser, diverging from the stereotypical sports cars often anticipated from celebrities. “It’s a vehicle built for family,” he explained, pointing to his current priorities as a father. With an expanding family, including a baby boy on the way, Maluma emphasises safety and practicality in his vehicle choice. “I’m not racing anymore; I am focused on my family and making sure we reach places safely.”
Maluma’s excitement for impending fatherhood was made public when he announced he was expecting his second child with girlfriend Susana Gomez back in May. This upcoming arrival will join their daughter, Paris, who was born in March 2024. Reflecting on his evolving role as a father, Maluma expressed his eagerness to engage in activities with both children, particularly his cherished moments of playing Hot Wheels.
“My daughter loves Hot Wheels and plays in a way that reminds me of my youth,” he shared. “She’s not interested in screens or social media, which I find refreshing. I can’t wait for my baby boy to join us in these shared experiences. He will bring so much joy to our lives.”
Fans eager to add Maluma’s custom car to their collection can pre-order it as part of the 2026 Global Legends Collection starting 28 August at 9 a.m. ET through MattelCreations.com. In addition to the online offering, Hot Wheels is hosting a pop-up experience at The Brig in Venice, California, from 28 to 30 August, where attendees can view life-size representations of the beloved toy cars.
This partnership not only highlights Maluma’s personal history with Hot Wheels but also illustrates the brand’s continuous evolution in connecting with new generations of fans. The collaboration encapsulates the nostalgic connection many share with the brand, bridging past and present through the lens of family and cherished memories.
As Maluma looks to the future, he reflects on how his passion for cars, integrated with his burgeoning family life, is a thrilling new chapter that he is keen to embrace. His venture with Hot Wheels serves as both a celebration of his childhood memories and a meaningful way to share that experience with his own children.