The evolution of the front grille can be categorised into five distinct style periods, from a simple frame that allows for a more visual emphasis on the iconic four-ring badge, to the grille. avant-garde single frame. and lower front grille into a unified cluster. The latter played a pioneering role in the design of modern automotive grilles.
Models like the Audi 100 have an almost oversized four-ring logo, surrounded by a simple rectangular front Audi Grille with horizontal chrome accents that draw more attention to the Audi logo and also include around the headlights.
Other Audi models launched around this time, such as the original Audi 80 and the smaller Audi 50, took a similar approach, creating a common family DNA.
The 1980s saw Audi introduce one of its most popular models to date – the Audi Quattro. A racing legend, Quattro has cemented the company's ability to develop and use cutting-edge technologies to build high-performance cars.
The presence of these advancements means that from a design perspective, the Quattro is also the perfect mode to advance the evolution of the Audi grille design. The turbocharger and performance engine need additional cooling and while it's still prominent, the front grille has become a bit narrower and flatter to make room for the lower sub grille. The headlights have also evolved from the traditional round to rectangular design.
Today, Audi continues to use an improved version of the Single Frame design. Unlike the original slightly boxy, beard-like Singleframe designs (as featured on the Audi A4, A6 and A8 models of the 2000s) where the vertical height of the grille is accentuated, the way Modern interpretation takes an angular and powerful approach.
Slightly hexagonal, the latest Singleframe designs as featured on recent Audi models aim to emphasise the vehicle's width.
