First Look: Audi Revives the Spirit of the TT With the “Concept C”

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Summary

  • Audi reveals the Concept C concept car
  • Based off the TT, the Concept C ushers in a new design language for Audi
  • Design elements highlight “clarity” in design, simplicity and functionality

Audi recently unveiled a groundbreaking new design, heavily influenced by one of their iconic vehicles with a long-standing reputation for success.

Audi recently introduced their “Concept C,” serving as the foundation for a fresh design philosophy that will span their entire vehicle collection. Certain aspects of the Concept C take cues from earlier eras, ranging from designs in the mid-1930s to more contemporary models even dating back to 2004.

In Milan, Italy, we were granted an exclusive preview of the Concept C and received insights from its lead designers about the vehicle’s conceptual origins. To start, the unique front bumper design is the focal point – the angled grille at the front, which represents a development of Audi’s signature look over the years. Interestingly, the Auto Union Type C from 1936 was where Audi’s distinctive face first emerged, with the iconic Four Rings positioned on top of a tall, vertical grille. The 2004 Audi A6 marked the debut of staging the emblem within the vertical grille. These two designs thus serve as the foundation for the bold, squarer aesthetics of Concept C’s striking front bumper, creating a powerful, boxy design language that makes both the grille and Four Rings stand out distinctively.

The new design of Concept C bears many similarities to the TT model, as Audi was not hesitant to point out. For one thing, it returns to a two-seater layout with a retractable hardtop that preserves the Concept C’s stylish coupe appearance. Large rear fenders accommodate 21″ wheels and tires, which echo the iconic six-spoke wheels of the original TT but boast an upgraded design this time around, featuring hollow spokes and a two-toned paint scheme that adds depth both physically and aesthetically. The headlights and taillights are dynamic and adapt to different conditions – day or night – making the Concept C appear as if it has two identities, almost like eyes. Other distinctive features include a glassless rear view, an extremely aggressive front splitter and rear diffuser, deep side skirts, all of which are made from forged carbon fiber.



As a devoted admirer, I’d like to highlight that the Concept C, from Audi, emphasizes “clarity” – a term that encapsulates a harmonious blend of minimalism, cleanliness, simplicity, and functionality. This is evident in its streamlined dashboard, featuring a fixed digital gauge cluster, a fold-away infotainment screen, and a touch-sensitive icon bar for swift access to essential functions. Additionally, buttons located at the steering wheel and center console boast haptic touch feedback, a unique Audi feature they’ve dubbed “Audi Click.”

Intriguingly, ambient lighting graces the panels, providing illumination indirectly, thus avoiding any harsh glare while lending warmth to the pristine, sharp interior. And just as the surroundings are crisp, the Concept C was showcased with fiber seats and a synthetic-yet-plush leather interior, maintaining the minimalistic aesthetic.

According to Audi, the Concept C will transition into a mass-produced model, marking the start of a fresh design philosophy. Therefore, anticipate further innovations from this brand in the near future.

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2025-09-02 21:56