Car Design News takes a look at the news that may have gone under the radar, including the latest from Aston Martin, Audi, Continental and Mazda
Aston Martin reveals the Vanquish Volante
The Vanquish Volante isn’t just a convertible – it’s a statement.
Sculpted with the same muscular elegance as its coupe sibling, this flagship drop-top balances beauty with performance. Its wheelbase has been stretched 80mm, enhancing the cab-rearward stance, while F1-inspired thermos louvres and a kicked-up Kamm tail ensure functional drama.
The K-fold roof retracts in 14 seconds, maintaining seamless lines with a best-in-class 260mm stack height.
Marek Reichman, chief creative officer at Aston Martin, called it “one of the most breathtakingly beautiful cars ever to wear the nameplate,” and with details like etched headlamp wordmark and frameless aero mirrors, we’d be inclined to agree.
Full release here.
New Audi A5 e-hybrid
Audi’s A5 line-up just got an electrified edge with the introduction of the A5 e-hybrid, blending sharper design with a smarter powertrain.
Sporting the e-hybrid badge, these PHEVs are as visually distinct as they are technically advanced. A refined S line exterior and black styling package reinforce their sporty stance, while under the skin, the hybrid system prioritises electric range with up to 110km per charge through clever energy recuperation.
With steering-wheel paddles to tweak regen levels and a charge slider for energy management, Audi’s latest PHEV is all about intelligent design. These new models will be launched in April.
Full release here.
A display you can hear
Continental has turned up the volume of display tech – literally.
The Ac2ated Sound display transforms the screen into a speaker, ditching bulky audio hardware for a sleeker, integrated design.
Actuators hidden behind the glass create precise vibrations. This space-saving (90% less space needed than traditional speakers, to be exact) and immersive audio-visual experience should be music to a designer’s ears.
Full release here.
Hyundai teases ‘dream car’ concept
Hyundai’s Insteroid is what happens when the Inster EV hits the gym. This pumped-up concept flexes exaggerated wheel arches, oversized 21-inch wheels and a bold pixel-LED signature.
A towering rear spoiler and diffuser cement its racing-game aesthetic, while playful design flourishes – from buttons to brakes – turn every detail into an Easter egg.
From what we can see so far, the Insteroid is Hyundai Design loosening up the reigns and nodding to a youthful digital fantasy.
Expect the full reveal in April, but for now, consider this a high-score teaser.
Full release here.
A new electric offering, the Mazda6e
Mazda’s latest electric offering, the Mazda6e, offers both the elegance of a sedan and the practicality of a hatchback.
Its “Aero-Fusiform” shape – like a tautly sculpted barrel – channels Kodo design’s signature sense of motion, while frameless doors and integrated handles create a seamless, futuristic aesthetic.
A glowing front signature wing debuts as both a visual flourish and hides a charging indicator. Inside, “ma” (Japanese for empty space) informs a minimalist yet refined cabin, with floating elements and tactile materials enhancing the experience.
Full release here.
Nissan boosts electric products
The carmaker will launch two new electric vehicles in 2025 – with a third coming soon.
The new third-generation Leaf, an e-Power tech-boosted version of the Qashqai and a next-generation Juke will be making their way onto the scene.
What’s more, Nissan will also be launching an electric Micra in 2025, designed by the team at Nissan Design Europe.
Full release here.
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