Volkswagen is making a significant shift in its design philosophy, moving away from the use of cheap, scratchy plastics in favour of higher-quality fabrics in its interiors. This decision is part of a broader commitment to enhancing cabin quality while also streamlining production processes, ultimately saving money for the company. This change, as described by Andy Mindt, VW’s head of design, and Christian Schreiber, head of design strategy, is intended to create a more refined and functional experience for Volkswagen drivers.
Schreiber highlighted that the brand’s cabins will focus on simplicity and usability, ensuring that design choices prioritize function over unnecessary decoration. He emphasised that a Volkswagen should feel intuitive and supportive to its user: “When you open the door of a Volkswagen, it needs to be simple and usable, and not overly decorated,” Schreiber explained. Additionally, Volkswagen will incorporate nostalgic design elements, such as specific patterns for GTI models, maintaining a sense of heritage without overextending these unique features across the range.
Mindt further elaborated on VW’s commitment to quality by emphasising the push for sustainable materials. The goal is to eliminate cheap plastics and focus on fabric-based materials while simplifying the design process. For example, they aim to reduce multi-part components into single, streamlined pieces, making production more sustainable and efficient: “We’re going to try and kick out cheap plastic materials and put the money into fabrics and improving quality,” said Mindt.
In terms of overall design philosophy, Volkswagen wants to distinguish itself from the aggressive styling of some competitors by embracing a more friendly, approachable aesthetic. Mindt described VW’s design approach as that of the “nice guys”: “I believe most people don’t want to be the coolest or appear aggressive in public,” Mindt said. Instead, Volkswagen aims for a polished, confident look that fosters optimism and contentment, avoiding the overly aggressive visual language often seen in other brands.
This shift reflects VW’s commitment to enhancing user experience while promoting sustainability and craftsmanship in its future models.
