I am thrilled to finally share one of my latest projects: a set of exclusive illustrations created for Auto Express, visualizing the striking next-generation Audi A3.
Bringing this concept to life was all about capturing Audi’s newly reformed design language and adapting it to a compact, petrol-powered footprint. The automotive landscape is shifting rapidly, and exploring how Audi’s new "North Star" design principles translate into a mainstream, everyday driver was a deeply rewarding creative challenge.
Here is a closer look at the design philosophy that shaped these renders.
A Bold New Exterior Design Language
For the exterior, the goal was to create a confident, grounded stance that feels both fresh and unmistakably Audi. The illustrations draw heavy inspiration from the brand's latest flagship models and conceptual visions. Specifically, I channeled the bold, architectural cues of the Nuvolari supercar and the Concept C, scaling those dramatic proportions into a more accessible hatchback form.
You will notice clean, sweeping lines that echo the much-loved earlier generations of the A3. Instead of relying on overly complex creases or chaotic surfacing, the design focuses on tension and proportion. It is a careful balancing act—blending modern aggression and a wider track with an understated, sophisticated elegance that commands attention without shouting.
The Return to Premium Minimalism
While the exterior captures the eye, the broader design philosophy of the new A3 signals a massive shift toward premium minimalism. Over the last few years, the industry has rushed toward screen-heavy, buttonless interiors. The vision for this next-generation A3 pushes back against that trend.
My artwork aims to reflect this renewed commitment to craftsmanship and tactile quality. The design narrative here points toward a beautifully reduced layout that champions the return of physical, mechanical haptic controls. Add in a classic, perfectly proportioned round steering wheel and top-tier materials, and you have a vehicle that prioritizes the actual driving experience over digital distraction.
Channeling the Spirit of 1998
Ultimately, this visual reset is aimed at recapturing something very specific: the benchmark-setting perception of quality that defined the original 1998 Audi A3. That car proved that a compact hatchback could feel every bit as premium as an executive saloon.
These illustrations embody that same ethos. They serve as a reminder that everyday drivability and a compact footprint do not have to compromise on high-end aesthetics or tangible quality.
I am incredibly proud of how these renders turned out and how they capture the future of Audi's petrol lineage. Be sure to check out the full feature and all the details over at Auto Express.
