Bottom line up front
Audi’s design chief, Marc Lichte, openly said he isn’t a fan of the massive screens that are popping up in many new cars, hinting at a possible shift back to more driver‑focused dashboards.
Audi Design Director Calls Out Big Screens – Implications for Future Dashboards
Image: Audi Design Director Calls Out Big Screens – Implications for Future Dashboards – Performance Comparison and Specifications
Design & Looks
In recent concept reveals, Audi showed slimmer, more traditional instrument clusters instead of the sprawling touch‑screens some rivals are chasing. Lichte explained that a huge screen can distract the driver and make the cabin feel less personal. He prefers crisp analog‑style gauges that keep the eyes on the road while still offering modern tech.
Fans will notice that the new concepts blend classic Audi styling – clean lines, subtle chrome – with selective digital touches. The result feels both fresh and familiar, a look that could roll out across the Q4 e‑Tron line and future A‑series models.
Performance & Mileage
While the design talk dominates headlines, Audi still promises strong performance. The concepts are powered by the brand’s latest 2.0‑litre turbo‑four and a plug‑in hybrid variant that delivers around 35 miles of electric range. Real‑world mileage is expected to stay competitive, roughly 30‑35 mpg combined for the gasoline model.
By keeping the dashboard simple, Audi hopes to reduce weight and improve aerodynamics slightly – a modest gain that can help fuel efficiency without sacrificing the sporty feel drivers love.
Price & Rivals
Pricing hasn’t been announced, but analysts predict the new designs will sit in the mid‑range premium segment, roughly $45,000‑$55,000 for the base gasoline version. This places Audi against the BMW 3 Series and Mercedes‑C Class, both of which are already experimenting with larger screens.
What sets Audi apart could be the balance between tech and driver focus. If Lichte’s vision sticks, Audi may attract buyers who feel overwhelmed by today’s screen‑centric cabins.
Key Specs at a Glance
| Engine | Mileage (combined) | Price (US$) | Top Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2.0 L Turbo‑4 | 30‑35 mpg | $45,000‑$55,000 |
|
FAQ
- What does Audi plan to replace big screens with? Lichte says the brand will focus on smaller, high‑resolution displays combined with classic analog gauges to keep drivers engaged.
- Will the new dashboard affect fuel economy? The slimmer design may shave off a few pounds, helping the car stay in the 30‑35 mpg range.
- Is Audi’s new approach better than BMW’s large screens? It depends on personal taste; Audi aims for a driver‑centric feel, while BMW leans toward infotainment‑heavy layouts.
What do you think about the move away from giant screens? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
Source: Read Official News
