Getting into a Mk7 Volkswagen GTI, you’ll struggle to find any less-than-perfect surfaces or components. Its cabin design is among the best I’ve experienced: straightforward, functional, and of high quality. Unfortunately, stepping into a Mk8 GTI or any other recent Volkswagen model may leave you dissatisfied, as VW has discarded the effective designs of the previous generation in favor of a confusing touchscreen interface and lower-quality materials. Fortunately, the German automaker appears to have acknowledged its previous missteps and is planning to rectify these issues moving forward.
“When you open the door of a Bentley, you encounter grand and luxurious architecture. Conversely, a Volkswagen should present simplicity and usefulness without excessive adornment,” stated VW’s design chief, Christian Schreiber, in a recent interview with Top Gear. “This philosophy should extend to the driving experience, which should facilitate ease of use rather than complicate matters. It must also connect with the everyday touchpoints in our lives.”
This news is certainly welcomed by those who have grappled with the cumbersome window switches in the Volkswagen ID.4, which feature only two controls—one for the left window and another for the right—along with a button that transfers control between the front and back doors.
Moreover, Volkswagen plans to enhance the quality of materials used in its interiors. Historically, VW was known for its superior interior quality and design, standing out in its market segment. Recently, however, the company has seen an influx of low-quality materials, such as cheap piano black trim, awkward touch-sensitive buttons, and resilient hard plastics. This trend is set to change, according to VW’s head of design, Andy Mindt.
“We aim to eliminate the use of cheap plastic materials and instead invest in better fabrics and quality enhancements. This approach not only saves costs but allows us to allocate resources more effectively. For instance, rather than constructing a door card from three pieces, we will design it as one solid piece in the center. While it will still include a door handle and armrest, they will all be integrated into a single structure. This method also promotes sustainability in our production processes,” Mindt explained.
Several modern vehicles, particularly those from Swedish brands, have successfully utilized high-quality fabrics. By adopting high-grade fabrics and simpler, one-piece door designs, VW could improve the overall feel of its vehicles while potentially reducing production costs, benefitting both the manufacturer and consumers. Mindt believes these changes will contribute to a more inviting atmosphere inside Volkswagen cars.
“Why should we adopt an aggressive stance? Our guiding principle is simple: be the nice guys.”
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