Mattel is taking on Lego with a brand-new building block range that brings its Hot Wheels cars to life in brick form. Called Mattel Brick Shop, the new collection launches with seven sets across three price tiers, combining brick-building with the company’s long-standing expertise in die-cast cars.
Unlike traditional construction toys aimed solely at children, this range is clearly designed to appeal to both younger fans and adult collectors. The Premium set is rated for ages 17+, and even the more accessible Speed and Elite series carry a 10+ age guide. Across the board, each set includes a 1:64 scale Hot Wheels die-cast car – many of which are exclusive to the Brick Shop boxes – and the bricks themselves include metal parts, which isn’t something you’ll find in your average building set.
Real cars, real customisation
The first wave includes a mix of licensed and original Hot Wheels designs, ranging from classic muscle cars to endurance racers. You’ll find adjustable parts, interchangeable decals, swappable wheels, and in some cases, functional features like opening doors and steering.
At the top of the range is the Hot Wheels Premium Series, headlined by the Mercedes-Benz 300 SL Gullwing. Priced at £136.99, the model is built at 1:12 scale and includes a die-cast version of the same car. The build incorporates metal details like the Mercedes badge and wheel covers, with the target age group reflecting its complexity and display-oriented design.
For those looking for something a little more hands-on, the mid-tier Elite Series includes models such as the Corvette Grand Sport, a ’90s-era Acura NSX, and a modified 1962 Chevy pickup with a surfboard in the bed. These sets offer a balance between display value and customisation, retailing for £44.99.
Finally, the entry-level Speed Series drops the price to £21.99, but still includes vehicles like the Cadillac Project GTP Hypercar and Maserati MC20. Like the rest of the range, they’re designed with changeable parts and come bundled with their own metal car for the shelf.
Building, collecting, or both?
There’s a clear nod here to both the build-it-yourself creativity that defines Lego, and the collector culture that surrounds die-cast Hot Wheels. While these sets are designed to be fun to assemble, they also double as display pieces – especially for car fans who don’t mind getting their hands a bit brick-dusty.
Mattel says the sets were developed to maintain accurate proportions and model-specific detail. Whether that’s the butterfly doors on the MC20 or the pop-up headlights on the NSX, there’s been an effort to retain each vehicle’s character, even within the limitations of brick construction.
With these first seven sets now available for pre-order
and general release scheduled for this summer, Mattel clearly has its sights set on grabbing a slice of the construction toy market. And with a launch lineup focused entirely on cars, it’s clear where they’re placing their bets.
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