Car Design News looks at some of the design stories that may have gone under the radar over the past week. Read on for the latest news in brief
Catch up on some of the smaller stories you might have missed among the headlines. This week’s round-up has a distinct Monterey flavour (yes, kind of like the cheese) but also some straightforward model updates and even a merch drop for RUF fan-people.
Detroit Auto Show actively seeks speakers
In a fiasco that verges on “biscuit, no cake” levels of indecisiveness, the Detroit Auto Show organisers decided to move from January to September, and now back to January. As part of the pivot, it is introducing a new “mobility forum” element to proceedings, and has made a public call for industry experts to get involved and speak on stage.
Full release here.
Bentley Continental GT debuts in Monterey
The fourth-generation Continental GT Speed has made its US debut at The Quail. If ever there were a location to do this, it’s Monterey. Not only is the US Bentley’s biggest market, this particular area of California is home to many an affluent car enthusiast.
The model on show is finished in Orange Flame Satin, which contrasts with the gloss black trim and matching black 22” ten-spoke rims. There is a familiar look to this new generation, but the most striking change is the light signature which has more of a horizontal slash to it than before.
Full release here.
Lincoln Navigator
The new 2025 Navigator has made its global debut, and what a presence it brings. Like the Nautilus, this too is described as a “sanctuary” and a heavy emphasis has been placed on interior luxury. Part of this comes through the “Lincoln Digital Experience” built around the goliath 48-inch panoramic display that occupies the instrument panel. This was one criticism we had of the 2022 Navigator, and you can read that full review here. We found the wheel design particularly eye-catching.
Full release here.
Fastest ever Skoda Octavia vRS
Offered in both hatch and estate forms, the latest fourth-gen Octavia vRS is the most powerful variant yet thanks to a turbocharged 2.0 lump that pushes 265PS.
Both vRS models have a chassis that has been lowered by 15mm, while styling tweaks include new front and rear bumpers and a new vRS logo on the radiator grille – flanked by a black radiator grille surround, side window trim and door mirrors. The rear diffuser and tailpipes are also finished in black, while anthracite 19-inch rims complete the look.
Full release here.
Volkswagen T-Roc and Tiguan updated
There have been updates elsewhere in the VW Group, too. An ‘R Black Edition’ has been added to the T-Roc line-up in the UK which, as you’d imagine, revolves largely around black accenting where possible including pretty much all trim and the 19-inch Estoril wheels.
Naran Prototype at Blenheim
Following its official debut in Switzerland in June, the limited-run hypercar prototype put together by Zimbabwean entrepreneur Ameerh Naran, will be on show to UK public for the first time at Salon Privé, held at Blenheim Palace between August 28-31.
Naran does hold a degree in product and automotive design but enlisted the help of Jowyn Wong, the founder of WYN Design (and former McLaren designer) who is credited with the 2017 Apollo Intensa Emozione and 2019 De Tomaso P72.
Full release here.
Battista Targamerica
As we shared yesterday via Instagram (giz a follow!) this one-off variant of the Automobili Pininfarina Battista takes the already exclusive hypercar to new levels of customisation, sporting a rather luxurious cigar storage unit at the heart of the interior. Because why not?
Full release here.
Thar Roxx
The Thar (pronounced tar) is an icon of Indian roads and its latest variant sticks to the format that has served it so well over the decades: “A distinctive silhouette, a powerful long hood with short overhangs for exceptional approach and departure angles, make it a timeless, iconic design.”
There are similar design cues to those on the Thar.e concept we saw last year, in particular the exposed hinges, boxy bodywork and rectangular taillights.
Full release here.
RUF x High Snobiety
And finally, one that we imagine will pique the interest of designer and fashion afficionado alike. To coincide with Monterey Car Week, RUF and streetwear label High Snobiety have another new collection releasing on 22 August.
Full release here.
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