Volkswagen doesn't want its cars to look too "aggressive": don't want to appear aggressive

Most modern sports cars feature aggressive designs: angry eyes, huge grilles, and sharp lines. However, Volkswagen doesn't necessarily want its cars to embody that level of aggression. Andy Mindt, head of design at Volkswagen, told Top Gear that there’s nothing wrong with a slightly friendlier design.
 

"I believe most people don’t want to be the coolest person or look aggressive in public," he said. "They want to wear a suit, look good, and feel happy and optimistic at the same time. What’s the need to be aggressive? Our core philosophy is this: be a good guy."
 

For the most part, Volkswagen's designs have leaned toward a friendlier aesthetic lately. The ID. Buzz has Volkswagen’s signature angry eyes, but otherwise sports a cute retro look. Most of Volkswagen’s SUVs also present a friendly appearance, and even the GLI and GTI—despite their droopy headlights and large grilles—don’t look overly aggressive compared to their competitors.
 

Mindt also mentioned that the company is working extensively on its next-generation interiors. The cockpit will reportedly improve by “eliminating” cheap trim and investing more in high-quality materials. "We’re going to try to eliminate cheap plastics, opting for fabrics, and put the money into quality," he said.
 

Volkswagen recently launched the 2025 Golf R and 2025 Jetta GLI in the U.S., with more products planned for the next few years. Arguably the most anticipated new Volkswagen is the electric GTI, which the company claims is "more exciting" than the gasoline version.