Star Wars x Aston Martin; Y2K Nissan Qashqai; New Peugeot Envy trim Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Aston Martin, Peugeot, Nissan and people news Lucy Abbott
In pictures: Polestar Formula 2030 concept Polestar has officially unveiled its concept car that shows us the direction of 'new' head of design Philipp Roemers Car Design News
Considering the Tesla Roadster: "The last, best driver's car" Tesla debuted its latest Roadster in a pyrotechnic show of automotive gymnastics. But is the car more than smoke and mirrors? Karl Smith
Design round-up: 20 years of Qashaqai; AUDI's Shanghai tech centre; Kia experiments with clay Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Nissan, AUDI, Kia and people news Lucy Abbott
First sight: Alfa Romeo Cuorerosso On the ground at the Paris Motor Show, Car Design News speaks to Alfa Romeo’s design VP Alejandro Mesonero-Romanos to learn more about the brand’s stunning new concept Lucy Abbott
Design round-up: McLaren’s new supercar & Lepas Aura concept Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from McLaren, Lepas, Skoda and people news Lucy Abbott
SEMA concepts underline the importance of design details A handful of JDM concepts have caught our eye from a trade show that typically passes us by Freddie Holmes
“The interaction between human and vehicle needs to be optimised” – Chery’s VP of design Steven Eum on human-centred design Steve Eum discusses the role of tactility and AI in creating a more intuitive relationship between people and their vehicles Lucy Abbott
Tobias Sühlmann on the Mission S and the future of Porsche’s design language CDN correspondent Laura Burstein gets the inside scoop from Porsche’s new VP of design on the eve of the brand’s mid-engine supercar concept debut. Laura Burstein
Design round-up: Tesla Roadster 2; Porsche Mission S; Aston Martin’s new global design director Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Tesla, Porsche and people news Lucy Abbott
What the MX-5 can teach Mazda about its next sports car As Mazda explores electrification and the prospect of a production Iconic SP, a drive in the MX-5 RF shows why lightness, communication and character matter more than outright performance – regardless of powertrain James McLachlan
How British creativity and exuberance of proportions led to the Jaguar Type 01 Car Design News sits down with Andrew Wheel, director of design development at JLR, to discuss everything from sticking ‘two fingers’ up at convention to updating the laws of physics when designing the Type 01 Lucy Abbott
Type 01 – the most important Jaguar ever – as explained by its designers (but not Gerry) Jaguar has just revealed a rather important car in New York called the Type 01 (6th October 2026). Ahead of that official launch in early September Car Design News talked to a trio of its key designers alongside pre-production cars at a sneak media preview in Jaguar Land Rover’s Gaydon HQ to get the low-down Guy Bird
Touring Bertone – the styling house that made history Bertone was always one of the biggest names in car design and today the Bertone Collection resides in the Stellantis Heritage Hub in Turin. Mark Smyth went to have a look Mark Smyth
Hyundai talks Tucson and 'intuitive' design The new Tucson has been given a premium push which culminates in reduced clutter and only gadgets that matter Freddie Holmes Freddie Holmes
First sight: Volkswagen’s Mission Efficiency streamliner is more practical than it looks Volkswagen's Stefan Wallburg explains how extreme aerodynamics, aircraft-inspired surfacing and some ingenious packaging came together in a 2+2 concept that combines streamliner-inspired design with genuine everyday usability James McLachlan
Design round-up: Hyundai Tucson; New Vauxhall emblem; Six Mercedes-Benz concepts at Paris Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Hyundai, Vauxhall, Mercedes-Benz and people moves Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Peugeot e-208 GTI Car Design News visited the delights of Loch Lomond to test and observe Peugeot’s new electric hot hatch. We were not disappointed by car or landscape Freddie Holmes
Flashback: Chevrolet Turbo-Titan III (1965) The 1960s brought with it some remarkable concept cars, but also some wild trucks. Freddie Holmes digs into the story behind GM's little-known turbine-powered Big Rig Freddie Holmes
First sight: Bentley Torcal The Bentley Torcal is the blueprint for future Bentley models – combining new technology while maintaining key heritage markers through design. Car Design News got a sneak preview at the carmaker's Crewe campus and caught up with the team at a high profile launch in Central London Lucy Abbott
Design round-up: VW ID.3 GTI; LEVC’s new London black cab; GM’s fresh pickup truck interface Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Stellantis, Volvo, LEVC, GM and people news Lucy Abbott
IAA Transportation 2026: key launches and design trends Commercial vehicle design is alive and kicking — and as broad and varied as ever Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Polestar’s new concept; Nissan’s next city EV; Volvo 40 series design updates Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Volvo, Nissan, Polestar and people news Lucy Abbott
The Audi A2 returns as an electric companion The Audi A2 has become something of a cult car, but Audi designers don’t want to see the new A2 E-Tron as its successor, as Mark Smyth discovered when he spoke to them in Munich Mark Smyth
Car design round-up: Pajero, Porsche and electric Range Rover Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Porsche, Mitsubishi and recent people news Freddie Holmes
“It needed to be something that was no shrinking violet" In 1966 Jensen revealed the Interceptor at the Earls Court Motor Show, 60 years later, the model is the face of the brand’s relaunch Trinity Francis
How JCB designed its way into the 400mph club Data from JCB’s diesel land speed record car 20 years ago played a crucial role in designing the world’s fastest hydrogen combustion engined vehicle. Trinity Francis was there to witness the record being set Trinity Francis
Design driven: Mazda 6e — has something been lost in translation? Handsome, well resolved and unmistakably Mazda on the surface, the 6e makes a convincing design statement. But beneath the Kodo styling, Mazda’s first electric saloon struggles to deliver the character expected of the brand James McLachlan
Nichols N1A is a track car that doesn’t compromise on style This small-batch British design takes styling cues from the 1960s — and the team behind it makes clear that aesthetics was the priority Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Genesis GV90; Bentley Torcal materials; Škoda updates Slavia for India Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Genesis, Bentley, Škoda and people news Lucy Abbott
How function defined Lamborghini’s latest ‘super veloce’ Aerodynamic principles were central to the Revuelto SV’s razor sharp bodywork, with significantly more downforce and balance than before Freddie Holmes
Design driven: Morgan Supersport Deputy editor Freddie Holmes had a chariot of fine fettle for this year’s Goodwood Festival of Speed. It is a reminder that art is fundamental to car design Freddie Holmes
Louis Vuitton X Singer; Cadillac Celestiq Night Test; Ferrari CZ26 Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Singer, Cadillac, Ferrari and people news Lucy Abbott
Acura introduces new design language under new design director Acura celebrates 40 years with a new design director and a new aesthetic direction Karl Smith
McLaren completely revamps design language with new McL 6GT The McL 6GT concept introduces a graceful new design language inspired by '60s race cars of the Bruce McLaren era Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Bugatti Destrier; Audi Nuvolari; Ford Fathom Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Ford, Bentley, Audi, Bugatti and people news Lucy Abbott
Luce sales point to the power of divisive design If Ferrari’s polarising EV has indeed sold out, it can be labelled a commercial success. What does this tell us about design strategy for the upper echelons of luxury where exclusivity reigns supreme? Freddie Holmes
Borkert on the Urus SE Perfomante – “it just gets better and better” Lamborghini’s flagship SUV is now both electrified and performance focussed. Design boss Mitja Borkert speaks to CDN about the challenge of working with mixed materials and aero, and why the industry’s fascination with big wheels may have reached its limit Freddie Holmes
Daytona Shooting Brake Hommage pays tribute to iconic coachbuilt design The latest creation from Niels van Roij Design is a homage to the 1972 Ferrari Daytona Shooting Brake. Mark Smyth spoke to Van Roij at its reveal at the prestigious Royal Automobile Club Concours Mark Smyth
Design driven: Alfa Romeo Giulia Intensa Car Design News spends a week with the medium-spice variant of Alfa’s stunning sedan Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: New electric Mercedes GLA; Audi Q9; 25 years of Mini design Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Mercedes-Benz, Audi, Mini and Bentley Lucy Abbott
Audi, Apple and Arc'teryx designers reimagine the beach buggy The fusion of automotive and industrial design has led to a pared back all-rounder that leaves only what matters — but is far from boring Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Vanquish 25th anniversary edition; Princess Royal opens paint shop; people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Bentley, Aston Martin, Omoda and people news
“Beauty cannot be a byproduct; it has to be intentional” – Hennessey head designer on the Venom F5-M Car Design News caught up with Hennessey head designer Nathan Malinick in the Supercar Paddock at Goodwood Festival of Speed 2026 to learn more about the design process behind the new Venom F5-M Lucy Abbott
Design round-up: Aston Martin Dreadnought; Bentley Torcal’s new sound; VW ID Cross reveal Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Aston Martin, Bentley, Volkswagen and a plethora of people news Lucy Abbott
Monthly focus: Surfacing & aerodynamics Car Design News explores surfacing and aerodynamics this month, speaking to a range of automotive designers about the delicate balance between sculptural expression and aerodynamic efficiency Lucy Abbott
Mercedes Heritage CEO: “Classic cars are about more than nostalgia” Car Design News discusses the themes of brand value and timeless design with the head of Mercedes-Benz Heritage Freddie Holmes
How nature-inspired surfacing defines the Lepas design language As the Chery Group's newest brand arrives in the UK, global chief designer Ivan Dulanovic explains how leopard-like surfacing gives Lepas its identity Lucy Abbott
CDN’s takeaways from Goodwood 2026 The CDN team was out in full-force at the 2026 Goodwood Festival of Speed. Here are the conversations, sights and trends that resonated with us James McLachlan Freddie Holmes Lucy Abbott
MG on next-gen EV design: "Authenticity will become even more valuable" Carl Gotham, design director of SAIC London Advanced Design explains how the studio developed its latest electric concept, the MG Go, why simplicity creates stronger surfacing, and why authentic British storytelling remains central to the brand's future James McLachlan
Dacia Striker revealed as an aerodynamic alternative to SUVs Dacia’s newest addition to the fleet has been revealed – the Dacia Striker. Positioned as an SUV, estate and saloon crossover, the Striker is designed to complement the Bigster Lucy Abbott
"We wear many hats" – Why Mahindra Advanced Design Europe merge advanced and production design As CDN’s final exploration of its advanced design monthly focus, we dive into Mahindra Advanced Design Europe’s (MADE) studio, which offers a different perspective – rather than treating advanced and production design as distinct disciplines, its designers move between both worlds Lucy Abbott
Zeekr 7GT is a bid to redefine luxury The Zeekr 7GT showcases a brand passionate about design. Mark Smyth spoke to its chief exterior designer Lukas Medeisis at the cars’s European launch in Spain. Mark Smyth
Design round-up: Alpine X Lacoste; Rolls-Royce Phantom Regatta; fifth-gen BMW X5 Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Alpine, Rolls-Royce; Bentley; BMW and people news Lucy Abbott
First sight: Škoda Peaq Positioned at the top of Škoda’s electric line up, the seven-seated Peaq was revealed at Mont-Salève in France. CDN reports from the launch event Lucy Abbott
Exclusive: VW on the new Atlas and global collaboration Volkswagen’s full-size SUV celebrates its ten-year anniversary, and Car Design News caught up with two of its main architects to learn more Freddie Holmes
"Design something people genuinely want" – Pratap Bose, Mahindra CDO Mahindra's chief design officer Pratap Bose shares his thoughts on the all-new BE 6 and small cars James McLachlan
Design round-up: Polestar 4 coupé; Renault Megane E-Tech facelift; Jeep teases 2027 Cherokee Trailhawk Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Polestar, Oilstainlab, BYD, Renault and Jeep Lucy Abbott
Morgan reveals limited run Midsummer Coupé Morgan’s drop-dead drop-head Midsummer has been given a new coupe form as part of an exclusive line of commissions Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Audi A6 allroad; Dacia New Spring; Škoda Peaq interior sketches Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Audi, Dacia, Škoda and the latest people moves Lucy Abbott
OEMs, kids and the forever young With memories of Skoda’s ‘Ooooh, that’s EpiQ’ installation at this year’s Milan Design Week still fresh, it’s high time that we look at how OEMs are courting kids, both big and small Aysar Ghassan
Design driven: 2026 Mitsubishi L200 Car Design News was at Thruxton racetrack of all places for the launch of Mitsubishi brand’s seventh generation pick-up truck Freddie Holmes
Maserati channels MCXtrema for three new facelifts The Modena brand has unveiled updated designs of the GranTurismo, GranCabrio and Grecale. Head of design Klause Busse delves into the details… Lucy Abbott
Hyundai Advanced Design India: Why localised advanced design studios are key Hyundai’s network of advanced design studios is helping to uncover new influences and future opportunities. Piljoong Ham explains how local insight from India is shaping the future of the brand’s design vision Lucy Abbott
Design round-up: BMW M Concept Neue Klasse; third-gen Audi Q7; VW Caddy interior update Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Bentley, BMW, Audi, Volkswagen and the latest people news Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Lotus Emeya – bravery with intelligence Lotus' premium grand tourer, the Emeya, has struggled to find its audience. Yet its blend of daring design, genuine innovation and driver engagement makes a strong argument for reassessment James McLachlan
Reimagining an icon: Wayne Burgess on the new Ford Escort Mk1 RS Boreham Motorworks debuted the new production prototype Ford Escort MK1 RS at a press preview ahead of the London Concours. Car Design News reports from the event and speaks to DRVN design director Wayne Burgess Lucy Abbott
Sponsored King of the Mountain: New race car designed with Autodesk Fusion aims to break Pikes Peak records Pikes Peak legend Robin Shute has leveraged the latest Autodesk software to develop a new kind of vehicle to tackle the mountain once more — and break records Heather Miller
Design driven: Refreshed Tonale keeps Alfa on brand CDN tries the refreshed Alfa Romeo Tonale and learns more about its unexpected links to the 33 Stradale and Giulia GTA Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: Rolls-Royce Spectre II; former Afry design boss launches studio; Mazda reveals new shade of green; Morgan teases latest commission series Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Rolls-Royce, Mazda, Morgan, Skoda & the latest people news Lucy Abbott
The Audi Nuvolari shows what Frascella has in store for Audi Audi reveals the second work from chief design officer Massimo Frascella with a monolithic supercar. Jens Meiners was at the reveal for Car Design News Jens Meiners
June focus: Advanced design This month we dig into the world of advanced design to explore how these hyper-creative teams work. And given this is a future-looking discipline, we consider the long-term strategy for advanced design teams following the closure of major studios Freddie Holmes
SMMT Test Day 2026: manuals, muscle cars and a GTI masterclass Designers spend years refining proportions, surfacing and user experience; SMMT Test Day offers the chance to judge the finished result. CDN sampled a selection of standout models, discovering where great design enhances the drive – and where nostalgia still holds sway James McLachlan
Umeå UID 2026 degree show highlights Car Design News shares a selection of mobility projects on show today at the Umeå Institute of Design Freddie Holmes
Ferrari’s electric future arrives without its soul A fascinating object — and an unconvincing Ferrari. In treating the car as a product rather than an object of desire, LoveFrom's Luce sacrifices the emotion that made the marque iconic James McLachlan
Design round-up: AC Cobra GT coupe; the lightest Lotus Emira; Bentley expands Mulliner personalisation Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from AC Cars, Bentley, Lotus and the latest people news Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Mazda CX-5 The new Mazda CX-5 brings sharper styling, a roomier cabin and refined road manners, while evolving the brand’s Kodo design language. Car Design News explores the exterior, interior, CMF details and why the new touchscreen HMI is a step backwards James McLachlan
Luce is a ‘new chapter’ in Ferrari design The Ferrari Luce has been unveiled in Rome with design led by Sir Jony Ive and Marc Newson Lucy Abbott
Design round-up: Mercedes-AMG GT 4 door coupé; Stellantis announce small, affordable E-Car; Volvo evolves driving technology Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Mercedes, Stellantis, Volvo, Renault, Denza and the latest people news Lucy Abbott
Design driven: 2026 Subaru Forester While the design fundamentals are solid, an established brand has no excuse to sign off such a poor user experience Freddie Holmes
Design round-up: New electric VW ID.Polo GTI, first look inside the Audi Q9 & people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Volkswagen, Audi, Rolls-Royce and people moves Lucy Abbott
Max Missoni on the new Vision BMW Alpina The new Vision BMW Alpina concept just launched represents a fully-grown manifesto for the future of the understated high-performance Alpina marque, now that it is fully tucked into the BMW Group fold Guy Bird
Design driven: Xpeng G6 refresh This electric fastback SUV has been subtly refreshed, but does it stand out any better than the previous version? Freddie Holmes
The best bits of Polestar 5 – according to the team who designed it CDN People Award-winning Polestar 5’s design team walks Car Design News around their favourite elements of the vehicle Lucy Abbott
Bentley Supersports: from gentleman’s express to tyre-smoking menace Conceived as a modern expression of Bentley’s racing heritage, the Supersports pairs aggressive aero, reduced weight and bespoke craftsmanship with a newfound sense of mischief James McLachlan
Renault goes beachy with new concept The Renault 4 JP4x4 Concept introduces an open air experience to the versatile runaround Freddie Holmes
Auto China review: more is more now = less later? This year's Beijing auto show had plenty going on inside (and outside) the enormous exhibit halls, complete with evening entertainment on behalf of CDN Guy Bird
Lotus teases new mid-term strategy, and a V8 Famed British sportscar manufacturer is channelling its roots with a new 2030 strategy and news of a new V8 Freddie Holmes
Hyundai Ioniq 3: “We wanted to do something different, but for a logical reason” Car Design News has a walkaround of the Ioniq 3 ‘aero hatch’ and reflects on Hyundai’s latest component to the ‘chess piece’ design strategy Freddie Holmes
Design round up: New ID. Polo EV; Lepas UK design manifesto & people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Volkswagen, Lepas, Polestar & BMW Lucy Abbott
Diverse by design: China’s latest big wave of debuts at the 2026 Beijing Auto Show CDN's China correspondant, Toby Clarke, reports from the Beijing Auto Show 2026 Toby Clarke
Italdesign celebrates the process Italdesign returns to Milan celebrating the process of design and showed off quite a few artefacts of its design journey Karl Smith
From fortwo to fastback: smart’s next chapter in design smart debuted the Concept #2 and the #6 EHD at its global brand event in Beijing, signalling a new design direction that reinterprets its heritage while expanding into new segments Toby Clarke
Shaping the future without losing the past From timeless proportions to radical reinterpretations like the NSX-based TensEi with JAS Motorsport, Pininfarina’s leadership explains how beauty, heritage and innovation continue to drive a design philosophy that is evolving across industries and global markets James McLachlan
Škoda’s Play-Doh inspired installation at Milan Design Week Škoda teamed up with designer and architect Ricardo Orts to take over Palazzo del Senato with a colourful inflatable installation and concept car for Milan Design Week. Plus, Skoda’s CEO Klaus Zellmer opens up to CDN about the future of the brand’s design Lucy Abbott
Freelander reborn (in)credibly in 2026 The near 30-year old model nameplate of Land Rover has been resurrected in 2026 as a whole new brand via Jaguar Land Rover’s longstanding Chinese joint venture partner Chery. Car Design News was on the ground in Wuhu to bear witness to the Freelander brand’s global unveil and evaluate its substance (or otherwise) Guy Bird
Audi lands a UFO at Porto Venezia Karl Smith reports on Audi's contribution to Milan Design Week 2026, which arrived in an extra-terrestrial fashion Karl Smith
Round-up: Nissan Juke; Mini X Vagabund collaboration and people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from VW, Mini, Nissan & the latest people news Lucy Abbott
The unbearable heaviness of brand A fortnight with the Lotus Emeya raises a deeper question about the power — and peril — of brand identity. As carmakers electrify and evolve, how far can design challenge tradition before it is dismissed as simply “off-brand”? James McLachlan
Rolls-Royce reveals design of Project Nightingale Project Nightingale, the first in the Coachbuild Collection programme, has been unveiled by Rolls-Royce Lucy Abbott
Design Driven: DS N°8 – Less than the sum of its (well-designed) parts? Guy Bird gets behind the wheel of DS' highly-lauded design, but does the experience match the appearance? Guy Bird
Exploring the many points of the third-generation Jeep Compass Sacha Barber, chief exterior designer for Jeep EMEA, had the task of creating the third generation Jeep Compass. Mark Smyth spoke to him about its evolution Mark Smyth
Round-up: Honda Super-N, two new Hyundai concepts & Ford expands World HQ Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Honda, Hyundai and Ford Lucy Abbott
First look: Cupra unveils new Raval The sporty Spanish carmaker has taken the wraps off its new urban electric vehicle, specifically designed to appeal to a young demographic Michael Nash
Design driven: Changan S05 It is difficult to fault the Chinese brand’s next offering for Europe, but there is no shortage of capable and affordable EVs on the market. Will the Changan name cut through? Freddie Holmes
Design driven: Kia EV4 – Fastback vs Hatchback Guy Bird drives both the Hatchback and Fastback versions of the Kia EV4 to see which he prefers Guy Bird
Design walkaround: Urban Automotive’s Lamborghini Urus SE Widetrack Urban Automotive design lead John Hancock guides Car Design News around the enhanced Lamborghini Urus SE Widetrack Lucy Abbott
Lola launches period correct supercar, with a twist Storied British brand Lola Cars has used its motorsport roots for a 'sustainable' V8 supercar. Car Design News was at the launch in London today Freddie Holmes
Round up: Škoda Peaq preview, Rolls-Royce yachting collection & people moves Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Škoda, Rolls-Royce, Chevrolet and the latest people moves Lucy Abbott
Lexus LS Micro concept: "This is not a car" Lexus presents a tiny expression of luxury mobility. Just don’t call it a car… Karl Smith
Design of new Mercedes-Maybach S-Class revealed Mercedes-Benz’s new Maybach S-Class debuts a new operating system and a leather-free interior Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Porsche Taycan 4S Cross Turismo In stretched wagon guise, the Taycan feels like the Porsche shooting brake we never had. But is it any good? Freddie Holmes
Round up: VW previews ID. Cross; Xiaomi refreshes the SU7 & people moves Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Xiaomi, Volkswagen, Changan and the latest people news Lucy Abbott
Marek Reichman on designing a mid-engined Aston Martin How did Aston Martin channel a history of front-engine, rear-drive cars into the wild new Valhalla? We spoke to design chief Marek Reichman to find out Stephen Dobie
BMW welcomes new i3 to the 3-Series family The eighth-generation 3-Series is also the second generation of the i3. This time, its form is more in line with conventional BMW design principles Freddie Holmes
Designing the Volvo EX60: “The electric architecture means we can craft proportions to our liking” Volvo’s head of interior design and director of exterior design explain key design decisions behind the EX60 Lucy Abbott
DS continues to evolve its latest design language in the new No.7 DS has taken the design language introduced on the No.8 and interpreted it for the new No.7. Mark Smyth spoke with the design team at the Stellantis design studio near Paris Mark Smyth
VW design team builds ‘confident’ new SUV on Xpeng’s electric platform The ID.Unyx 08 shows how one platform can support two distinct design languages. VW’s Frank Bruese speaks to CDN about the design process which took less than a year Freddie Holmes
Round-up: Coventry design firm goes bust; Ferrari Amalfi Spider & Nissan X-Trail Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Ferrari, Nissan, Mercedes-Benz, Morgan and HPL Prototypes Lucy Abbott
Soft power play as MG refines the MG4 The MG4 Urban tempers the sharper edges of the hatch that helped revive the brand James McLachlan
Unpacking the Alfa-Maserati partnership that is Bottegafuoriserie What exactly is Stellantis' new venture, Bottegafuoriserie? We caught up with its leadership duo Camilla Rostagno, head of Bottega and Davide Baldini, head of Fuoriserie to find out Freddie Holmes
Design Driven: Kia PV5 “It really could encourage you to carry too much stuff... but a future classic? Just maybe” Guy Bird
Tensor Robocar: the personal autonomous vehicle shaped by sensors The autonomous SUV features over 100 sensors, a retractable steering wheel and pedals plus the ability to communicate with passengers through natural language. Car Design News speaks to COO Jewel Li to find out more… Lucy Abbott
Car Design round-up: Audi RS 5, four new Polestars and Waymo reduces sensors Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Audi, BYD, Polestar, Skoda, Waymo and more people moves Lucy Abbott
How to design restomods and stamp your creativity on existing cars Theon Design and The Landrovers are 250 miles apart but united in their philosophies Stephen Dobie
Design driven: Skoda Superb This stately offering from the Volkswagen group’s typically sensible brand checks most of the boxes, but mechanical issues hamper an otherwise strong design Freddie Holmes
The rise of Indian car design The Indian automotive industry has shifted from manufacturing international vehicles modified for local roads to producing design-led automobiles shaped by Indian consumer demands Lucy Abbott
Car Design round-up: New BMW Alpina logo, laser-engraved Rolls Royce Phantom & people moves Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from BMW Alpina, Rolls Royce and the latest people moves Lucy Abbott
New AV shuttle has a compelling design, but will the project take off? Freddie Holmes reports from the world premiere of a new autonomous shuttle near Ingolstadt, designed with a multitude of partners and led by the team at UE Studios Freddie Holmes
Design of new 2027 Toyota Highlander revealed Toyota has unveiled the 2027 Toyota Highlander, a three-row battery-electric SUV Lucy Abbott
Design is key for EV buyers, study finds Key performance indicators like charging speed and range are no longer the differentiator for prospective electric vehicle buyers. So says new research from consultancy Escalent Freddie Holmes
Car Design round-up: Bentley, Mercedes and people news Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Bentley, Mercedes, Ultrasuede and the latest people moves Lucy Abbott
Classic three-wheeler reimagined as modern van How do you take a modern van and channel the vibe of a three-wheeler from 1948? CDN speaks to Italian coachbuilder Caselani to find out Freddie Holmes
Monthly focus: Autonomous vehicles – 2026 and beyond This month, Car Design News shines a light on autonomous vehicles and what to expect in 2026 Lucy Abbott
In review: Design for manufacturing As part of Car Design News’ January focus, the practice of design for manufacturing is explored. Here’s what we learnt… Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Porsche 911 Carrera A week with Porsche’s entry-level 911 reveals that it is far more than a blunt tool for backroad blasts Freddie Holmes
Kia PV5: a modular electric toolbox Kia’s Won-Kyu Kang explains how customer research, modular thinking and a product-design mindset shaped the PV5 into a flexible, human-centred electric commercial vehicle James McLachlan
New Renault Duster design for India The Renault Duster has received a design refresh for its 2026 relaunch in the Indian market Lucy Abbott
Designing the Tera: VW Brazil’s compact SUV Volkswagen Brazil design head on freedom, surfacing and creating a more emotional compact SUV for Brazil Nick Gibbs
Exclusive First Sight Q&A: Volvo’s interim design boss on EX60 and what’s next after Ingenlath’s return Nick Gronenthal, acting head of global design talks to Car Design News on Volvo’s new design structure and dapper door handles Guy Bird
Bertone Runabout: ‘projects like this are the zenith for a designer’ CDN meets Andrea Mocellin to discuss the dramatic comeback of a sixties concept car icon Stephen Dobie
Car Design round-up: Volvo EX60, new Mercedes F1 design & people moves Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Volvo, Mercedes and Mini Lucy Abbott
Sponsored ZEISS holographic windshield display: Reconciling infotainment demands with design freedom ZEISS' cutting-edge Holographic Windshield Display (HWD) technology provides an innovative solution to the challenges faced by car interior designers. Car Design News
Jeep Recon: a modular electric off-roader Ryan Nagode explains how the all-electric 2026 Jeep Recon blends shared architecture with unmistakable Jeep character, modular design and off-road-inspired graphics James McLachlan
“Constraints enable creativity” – Oilstainlab CEO on design for manufacturing The creator of a radical retro-inspired hypercar tells CDN how embedding manufacturing constraints early lets their small team turn radical designs into buildable cars Lucy Abbott
Designing on the edge: how Ford’s Dark Horse SC took shape Lead designer and engineer on the Ford Mustang Dark Horse SC reveals how tight timelines, hard points and constant negotiation matched the project's bold design intent with engineering reality James McLachlan
How Geely designed the Starray EM-i in under four months Flavien Dachet, director of design at Geely’s Shanghai design studio, details how the team differentiates between powertrain variants, and how they combine clay and digital design processes Trinity Francis
Ferrari unveils Tailor Made 12Cilindri with Korean inspiration The new Tailor Made 12Cilindri has been created in collaboration with four young South Korean artists using innovative materials and techniques Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Skoda Enyaq Sportline 85x A trip to Devon revealed a competent Christmas carriage, but also the foibles of no home charger Freddie Holmes
Car Design round-up: Renault Filante, Skoda’s flagship SUV & Volvo expands AI voice control Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Harman, Renault, Skoda and Volvo Lucy Abbott
Range Rover reveals London-inspired series The collection of SUVs are crafted to capture the character of London through both exterior and interior design Lucy Abbott
Jensen to use "respected design agency" for new V8 grand tourer Jensen has announced an all-new grand tourer equipped with a V8 engine is on the way, and a familiar name could be behind the design Freddie Holmes
Honda reveals new Base Station Karl Smith attends the reveal of the Base Station in California, Honda's new lightweight mini-camper Karl Smith
Brussels sprouting: Could the Belgian motor show you’ve barely heard of become the ‘new Geneva’? The January 2026 Brussels Motor Show offered a surprisingly exciting start to the year. Half a dozen decent-sized halls were filled with a heady cocktail of compelling product from 67 car and vans brands and 28 motorcycle marques, plus a collective sketch of designers and scrawl of interested journalists to talk and report on them – including two of the Car Design News team Freddie Holmes Guy Bird
Manufacturing department “an enabler” for design, says Xpeng Car Design News sat down with Xpeng’s design manager to discuss the influence of high-tech product design and why a close relationship with manufacturing gurus helps push feasible ideas through to production Freddie Holmes
Honda unveils new logo The new ‘H’ mark was designed in conjunction with the development of the brand’s latest electric vehicles Lucy Abbott
Car Design round-up: Reveals from Brussels Motor Show & people moves Car Design News looks at some news snippets including the latest updates from the Brussels Motor Show (full report to come on that) plus some people moves Lucy Abbott
Why do car people hate new cars? In this comment piece, deputy editor Freddie Holmes suggests that car brands could be more forthcoming with their design stories when presenting to the masses. With early exposure and the right context, new car launches should excite, not fright Freddie Holmes
What next for the exhaust pipe? Electric vehicles have zero tailpipe emissions for obvious reasons – there isn’t one. So what role will exhausts play in exterior design moving forward? Freddie Holmes
The return of primitive shapes in exterior design Primitive shapes – squares, circles, triangles – are making a comeback in exterior design, argues Aysar Ghassan who tracks their origins in modernism and contemporary applications Aysar Ghassan
Car design round-up: Renault Filante crossover, new VW ID.Polo cockpit and a foldable steering wheel Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar over the Christmas period, including the latest updates from Lexus, Renault and Volkswagen Lucy Abbott
Design driven: Audi A6 e-hybrid Car Design News took the Audi A6 e-hybrid to France. Freddie Holmes tested its touring and stowing capabilities, while the car tested its driver’s patience Freddie Holmes
Xpeng banks on fastback for Europe Xpeng has revealed its new P7+ for Europe, a sweeping fastback tourer on the outside with the interior of a tech-savvy premium family estate. CDN spoke to head of creative design Rafik Ferrag at Xpeng HQ Mark Smyth
Design driven: Jeep Wrangler Michael Nash takes the Jeep Wrangler on a three-week road trip across north eastern America, travelling through nine states and across two time zones Michael Nash
The CDN Christmas cracker: best bits of 2025 Car Design News writers reminisce on their favourite moments from 2025 and Christmas wishes for 2026 Car Design News
Car design round-up: Kia Vision Meta Turismo, Alpine teaser and Tokyo auction top picks Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Audi, Kia, Alpine, Mercedes-Benz and the Tokyo Auto Saloon Lucy Abbott
Massimo Frascella accepts Concept Car of the Year award; "It feels amazing" The Concept C is the first product formally led by incoming design boss Massimo Frascella. Here, he speaks to Car Design News at the 2025 People Awards to explain how it feels. The results are published in Car Design Review 12, an annual Car Design News publication. Car Design News
Polestar 5 wins Production Car of the Year; lead designer reacts The Polestar 5 was voted Production Car Design of the Year by a panel of industry judges. Nahum Escobedo, lead designer of the Polestar 5, was interviewed in London by Car Design News. The results were published in Car Design Review 12, a hardback coffee table book. Car Design News
Driverless shuttle brings asymmetry, access and aesthetics In what is likely the final feature on autonomous vehicles for 2025, we spoke to the Pininfarina designers behind the Holon Mover shuttle Freddie Holmes
Remembering the Ford GT90 Concept One of the best concepts ever from the Blue Oval, it also introduced the ‘New Edge’ design language Karl Smith
How autonomy reshapes vehicle design: the Zoox robotaxi Car Design News speaks to the lead designer and senior CMF designer of the Zoox autonomous robotaxi Lucy Abbott
Sponsored Simplicity in grandeur: Dongfeng’s sub-brand continues minimalist design strategy The eπ 007+ adds a new element to the brand's portfolio of sleek NEVs, actively championing subtlety in a world of drama Car Design News
First Look: Opel refreshes the Astra Opel unveils redesigned Astra with illuminated signature and new material direction James McLachlan
Design Analysis: Encor Series 1 The Lotus Esprit S1 was the epitome of Giugiaro's folded paper aesthetic. Now Encor Design is remastering the legend for a modern era Jason White
First sight: Citroen ELO concept It's blue sky thinking for Citroen's new ELO concept which rethinks many of the core functions we are used to today. More to follow from Paris where CDN is on the ground... Freddie Holmes
Car Design round-up: Lexus LFA Concept, Toyota GR GT and Porsche’s fabric resurgence Car Design News looks at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Porsche, Hyundai, Toyota and Lexus Lucy Abbott
Honda R&D celebrates its 50th anniversary CDN joins the celebration, takes a look back, and also a sneak peek at the future at Honda’s North American Headquarters Karl Smith
Start them young – Toyota reveals autonomous kids mobility solution Autonomous solutions open up new possibilities for individuals without driving licences, Toyota has taken this to a new level with an autonomous vehicle for children Trinity Francis
Where vision meets users: The Nio ET9 Horizon Edition Luxury design isn’t just about materials or technology, but about understanding your users. Car Design News sat down with Kris Tomasson, Nio’s SVP of design, to find out how its ET9 Horizon Edition embodies this approach Toby Clarke
In pictures: Porsche Cayenne Electric Porsche lifted the covers, literally, on the new Cayenne Electric at its Mayfair showroom in London. Car Design News was there to see how this new generation shapes up in the metal Freddie Holmes
Design driven: 2026 Peugeot 308 Sporting a facelift, Car Design News took the Peugeot 308 out for a spin on the Portuguese coast Lucy Abbott
Car Design round up: Goodbye to BMW Z4, Škoda 100 reimagined and new Mazda CX-5 cockpit Car Design News takes a look at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from BMW, Škoda and Mazda Lucy Abbott
Simple, spacious, software driven: the design of self-driving prototypes For all the excitement around the opportunities of autonomous driving, progress is being led by objectively bland cars – for now Freddie Holmes
First sight: Peugeot Polygon concept Equipped with the Hypersquare steering wheel that will enter production in 2027, the Polygon concept introduces the future of design at Peugeot Lucy Abbott
Guangzhou Auto Show highlights Car Design News' Toby Clarke and Mark Smyth report on the latest launches at the Guangzhou Auto Show 2025 Mark Smyth Toby Clarke
Jo Stenuit on the Mazda6e exterior design The Mazda 6 has been reimagined with an electric powertrain. Mazda Design Europe design director, Jo Stenuit gives Car Design news an insight into the exterior design Trinity Francis
Los Angeles auto show highlights CDN returns to AutoMobility LA to find interesting new offerings amid headwinds in the industry Karl Smith
Car Design round-up: Video game-inspired Rolls-Royce, Ferrari educational hub & Hyundai Crater concept Car Design News takes a look at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Rolls-Royce, Ferrari, Hyundai, McLaren and Jeep Lucy Abbott
Porsche reveals design of the Cayenne Electric The Cayenne Electric marks Porsche’s first battery-electric SUV and sports a ‘developed’ design language Lucy Abbott
Half-mil special edition Range Rover is inspired by shotguns Overfinch has filled a space vacated by JLR to continue a long-running partnership with gunmaker Holland & Holland. Prospective buyers will shell out around £500,000, but don’t expect the usual gaudy glamour Freddie Holmes
Don’t overlook the design of the Bentley Supersports Bentley’s head of design shares some insight into the creation of the brand’s new lightweight Continental Freddie Holmes
Book review: The Germans This fourth book in a series of tributes explores a curated selection of 50 cars that defined one of the automotive industry's strongest cornerstones Freddie Holmes
Car Design round-up: Bentley Supersports, Cupra’s racing-inspired Leon and in-vehicle display advancements Car Design News takes a look at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Audi, Bentley, Cupra and Harman Lucy Abbott
“Simplified, emotional but still functional” Škoda’s Oliver Stefani on the Vision O concept Chief designer at Škoda Oliver Stefani walks Car Design News through the Vision O concept during its first UK appearance Lucy Abbott
Car Design round-up: first look at Peugeot concept, Bentley hints at 2026 SUV and two new R&D centres Car Design News takes a look at news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest updates from Bentley, Marelli, Porsche and Peugeot Lucy Abbott
