Design round-up: BMW M Concept Neue Klasse; third-gen Audi Q7; VW Caddy interior update

Third-generation Audi Q7 revealed 

The new generation of the Q7 retains its muscular design, but with some key differences. Audi’s four-ring logo sits noticeably higher on the hood, making the SUV’s front end appear larger. Another redesigned element is the air-intakes, and the wheel arches have been beefed up. The D-pillar is now more upright overall, resulting in a nearly horizontal roofline and meaning there’s more headroom inside. 

A new panoramic sunroof has been added to the Q7 that spans all three rows. For the first time, the glass roof can be illuminated to the colour of the personalised ambient lighting inside the vehicle.

And inside, there’s a new stone beige colour combination for the seating as well as new inlay options – including fine grain ash natural, silk beige, lime structure natural and carbon fibre weave. The steering wheel has been updated with the airbag cover now coated in leather and colour-matched contrast stitching. 

Full release here. 

Bentley releases new paint finish 

To celebrate Bentley’s new paint shop starting operations, the brand has created a unique Continental GT S with a new ‘Spectraflair’ paint finish.

The finish has been developed by Bentley’s team in Crewe and is an iteration of Bentley’s existing ‘Verdant’ colour – but with a new ‘Spectral Verdant’ paint finish. This finish makes the paint show a sparkling spectrum of colours when under light. 

Full release here. 

BMW M Concept Neue Klasse world premiere

This concept from BMW M previews the new design language for high-performance cars, with the brand also setting a clear intention of an electric future. 

Head of design at BMW M Oliver Heilmer commented: “The new BMW M design language forms the expressive spearhead of the Neue Klasse – determined and purposeful. At BMW M, form consistently follows function. Every detail serves performance. This project is truly special to me because it carries the BMW M character into a new era.” 

The exterior design is characterised by precise lines, a muscular shoulder section and wide wheel arches. The aerodynamic design also features reinterpreted M aero exterior mirrors in the colours of BMW M. 

A forward-facing shark nose and deep-set lighting signature make up the front end of the vehicle, with the headlights and kidney grille forming a single unit. The new M Yellow Lights are set to become a new signature feature of future BMW M cars. Inspiration has been taken from high-speed sailing boats via the trimaran-style bumper on the front apron – which also provides structural support for the front splitter.

The interior features four newly developed bucket seats, integrating structural elements made from natural fibre. These seats are upholstered in Bathurst Blue and Berry Red in a two-tone Merino leather finish. Also, for the first time in a BMW M vehicle, black nubuck leather has been used on the steering wheel, door panels and roll bar.

Full release here. 

VW Caddy interior update 

The revised interior of the Caddy now has a free-standing, larger central display (12.9-inches) that features individually customisable touch controls for quicker access. The temperature is also now controlled via illuminated touch sliders. 

Also, the Caddy passenger car and Flexible models now have grab straps on all B-pillars as entry aids as well as hangers for jackets.

Full release here. 

People news 

Riley Klein joins Ford Motor Company as colour & material designer. Klein graduated from the College for Creative Studies in May 2026, having studied Fiber, Textile and Weaving Arts. 

Azad Saleh will be joining Volvo Group as UX design lead in July. 

Mattia Lusci has joined Avatr global design centre as advanced exterior design manager. Lusci previously worked at Mercedes-Benz AG as an advanced exterior designer. 

Erich Bolinger has joined Ford Motor Company as a digital sculptor.