Have you ever noticed a car with a letter emblem? V and wondered what brand it is? This badge is used by several well-known automobile companies - from mass manufacturers to premium brands. But how can you tell them apart and what does this letter even mean?
In this article we will look at all car brands with the badge V, we’ll tell you about the history of their logos, and show you how not to confuse Volkswagen with Volvo, and also give practical advice on identification. You will learn which models of these brands are in demand on the secondary market, what to look for when purchasing, and even what the abbreviation stands for in each case. If you are planning to buy a car with such a logo, this information will help you avoid mistakes and save money.
Which car brands have a V logo?
At first glance it may seem that the letter V in the logo uses only Volkswagen. In fact, there are at least five such brands, and all of them are well known in the automotive world. Here are the main ones:
- 🚗 Volkswagen is a German mass manufacturer whose logo is familiar to everyone.
- 🛡️ Volvo is a Swedish brand specializing in safety and premium cars.
- 🏁 Vauxhall - a British brand owned by the group Stellantis (formerly Opel).
- ⚡ Venturi is a French manufacturer of electric vehicles and racing cars.
- 🚙 VLF Automotive is a niche American brand that produces exclusive sports cars.
Each of these logos has unique features that help differentiate them. For example, at Volkswagen letter V inscribed in a circle, and Volvo — stylized as a shield. But more about this in the next section.
How to distinguish the Volkswagen and Volvo logos?
This is the most common question asked by car enthusiasts. Both logos contain the letter V, but they have key differences:
⚠️ Attention: On the secondary market there are often fake emblems, especially on Volkswagen and Volvo. Before purchasing, check the fastening of the badge - on the original it should be neat, without traces of glue or crooked holes.
| Sign | Volkswagen | Volvo |
|---|---|---|
| Logo shape | Letter V inscribed in a circle on a blue background | Stylized letter V with circle and arrow (symbol of Mars and shield) |
| Color range | Blue + white (sometimes silver) | Blue + silver (sometimes black) |
| Location by car | Center of the radiator grille, sometimes on the trunk lid | The center of the radiator grille, often with a chrome surround |
| Additional items | Often accompanied by the inscription Volkswagen under the logo | There may be an inscription Volvo or just a symbol |
Another way to tell them apart is to look at the grille design. U Volkswagen it is usually horizontal, with chrome stripes, and Volvo — vertical, with a massive central bar. If in doubt, check the car's VIN through services like vinfree.info or autocheck.ru - this will give accurate information about the make and model.
On some models Volvo (for example, XC90 or S90) the emblem is illuminated in the dark. This is a rare option, but if you see this, it’s definitely not in front of you. Volkswagen.
History of logos with the letter V: from Volkswagen to Venturi
Each brand with V-the logo has a unique history of its creation. Let's look at the most interesting facts:
- 📜 Volkswagen: The logo was invented by an engineer Franz Xaver Reimspiess in 1937. Letters V and W (inscribed in a circle) mean "Volkswagenwerk" - "people's car". The emblem was originally black and white, with blue only appearing in the 1960s.
- 🛡️ Volvo: The symbol is taken from alchemy - it is an ancient sign of iron (planet Mars), stylized as a shield. Means strength and safety. The logo has remained virtually unchanged since 1927, making it one of the most consistent in the auto industry.
- 🇬🇧 Vauxhall: British brand uses heraldic griffin with letter V on the shield. The logo refers to the family coat of arms Foxhall - founder of the company. Since 2020, the brand is gradually leaving the market, giving way to Opel.
- ⚡ Venturi: The French electric car manufacturer chose the letter V as a symbol of speed ("vent" in French - "wind"). The logo is stylized as a lightning bolt, which emphasizes the electric nature of the cars.
Little known fact: Logo Volkswagen was temporarily changed in 2020 - the company removed the volumetric effect, making it flat. This is part of a global rebranding aimed at digitalizing the brand. But Volvo, on the contrary, has maintained a classic design for almost a century, which emphasizes their conservatism and attention to tradition.
Popular V-logo models on the secondary market
If you are looking for a used car with an emblem V, here are the models that are most often found in advertisements and are in demand:
| Brand | Model | Average price (2018–2022), rub. | What to check when purchasing |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen | Golf, Passat, Tiguan | 1 200 000 – 2 500 000 | Corrosion of wheel arch liners, work DSG, electronics |
| Volvo | XC60, S60, V40 | 1 500 000 – 3 000 000 | Suspension condition, leaks in AWD, errors by SRS |
| Vauxhall | Astra, Insignia | 800 000 – 1 800 000 | Engines 1.6 SIDI (timing chain problems) |
What to look for during inspection:
Check the originality of the emblem (there are no signs of replacement)
Request VIN history via autocheck.ru or carvertical.com
Inspect the body for corrosion (especially Volkswagen and Vauxhall)
Carry out electronic diagnostics (for Volvo There are often sensor glitches) -->
If you are considering Volkswagen, pay attention to models with engines 1.4 TSI (problems with timing chain) and gearboxes DSG-7 (clutch wear). U Volvo the main “sore spots” are the suspension (struts, silent blocks) and the system Haldex on all-wheel drive versions. Vauxhall often suffers from oil leaks and problems with turbines on diesel engines.
Fakes and replicas: how not to run into a fake?
Emblems with letter V - one of the most counterfeited in the world. Fraudsters often install them on cars of other brands to pass them off as more prestigious brands. Here are the signs by which you can recognize a fake:
- 🔍 Fastening quality: Original emblems are attached with snaps or screws rather than double-sided tape. If the badge can be easily removed by hand, it is a fake.
- 🎨 Color and material: Real logos Volvo and Volkswagen have deep shine and clear edges. Cheap replicas are often matte or have streaks of paint.
- 📏 Size and proportions: Compare the emblem with the official photos from the catalog. The fakes have a letter V may be narrower or shorter than the original.
- 🔢 VIN code: If the body number does not match the brand database (checked via
vin decoder), in front of you is a “broken” car.
⚠️ Attention: Emblems are especially often counterfeited Volkswagen on Chinese cars (for example, FAW or Changan). Before purchasing, check the VIN with the databasezdm.rsa.gov.za(for imported cars) ortraffic police.rf(for Russians).
If the seller refuses to provide the VIN or service history, this is a reason to be wary. It is also worth checking the car for theft through the service avinfo.ru — fake emblems are often found on “rebuilt” cars.
How to check the authenticity of the emblem Volvo?
Original logo Volvo has microtext "VOLVO" on the inside of the circle, which is visible under a magnifying glass. Also on the reverse side there should be an engraving with the part code (starts at 312 or 313).
Legal nuances: is it possible to drive with a non-original emblem?
Replacing the emblem on a car is not just a cosmetic modification, but an intervention in the factory equipment. From a legal point of view, there are several nuances here:
- Technical regulations: According to clause 7.18
Technical regulations of the Customs Union, it is prohibited to make changes that could mislead the make or model of the vehicle. If you bet on Skoda emblem Volkswagen, this may be considered a violation. - Insurance: In case of an accident, the insurance company may refuse to pay if it discovers that the car has been modified (including emblems). This is stated in Art. 12
Law on OSAGO. - Fines: For driving with a “deceptive” emblem, you can get a fine under Part 1 of Art. 12.5
Code of Administrative Offenses of the Russian Federation(500 rubles) for “non-compliance of the vehicle with the basic provisions for approval for operation.”
However there are exceptions:
- ✅ If you replaced the logo with original from another generation of the same brand (for example, they put the old logo Volvo for a new model), this is not a violation.
- ✅ Tuning emblems (for example, VW R-Line or Volvo Polestar), if they are certified by the manufacturer.
If in doubt, it is better to consult a lawyer or check the legality of changes through traffic police (for example, through the portal gosuslugi.rf).
Replacing the emblem with a non-original one can lead to problems when selling the car, passing a technical inspection or obtaining insurance. Always retain receipts for parts and documentation of modifications.
Where can I buy an original emblem with the letter V?
If your emblem is damaged or missing, it is better to buy an original part. Here are verified sources:
| Brand | Article number of the original emblem | Where to buy | Average price, rub. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Volkswagen | 5G0 853 701 A (front) |
ETKA VW, Exist.ru | 1 200 – 2 500 |
| Volvo | 31265060 (main) |
Volvo Parts, EMEX | 2 000 – 4 500 |
| Vauxhall | 13344765 |
Opel Parts | 1 500 – 3 000 |
When purchasing, pay attention to:
- 📦 Packaging: Original emblems come in branded boxes with holograms.
- 🔖 Availability of certificate: Official dealers always have documents confirming authenticity.
- 🔧 Mounting method: Counterfeits often come with a universal adhesive layer, while the originals are attached with latches or bolts.
If you buy a used emblem (for example, on Avito or Drom.ru), ask the seller to send a photo of the fastening and the reverse side. Original parts are always marked with the article number.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about cars with the V-logo
Is it possible to put an emblem Volkswagen on Skoda or Seat?
Technically yes, since all these brands are part of the group VW and have standardized fastenings. However, from a legal point of view, this is considered a modification that may raise questions during inspection or sale. In addition, such replacements are often used by scammers to disguise damaged or stolen cars.
Why on some Volvo black emblem?
Black emblems are installed on the model Volvo Polestar (sports division) and some special versions (e.g. Volvo XC60 R-Design). Also, the black logo can be part of a tuning package or a limited edition (for example, Volvo Recharge for electric cars).
Which V-logo brand is the most reliable?
According to the study J.D. Power 2023, is in the lead Volvo - their models XC90 and S60 show a minimum number of breakdowns in the first 3 years of operation. Volkswagen occupies middle positions (especially reliable Tiguan and Passat with gasoline engines). Vauxhall lagging behind due to problems with diesel engines and electronics.
What does the letter V mean in the logo? Venturi?
In the case of Venturi letter V has a double meaning: it refers to the surname of the founder of the company (Gildas Vesco) and symbolizes speed ("vent" from French - "wind"). The logo is stylized as a lightning bolt, which emphasizes the electrical specialization of the brand.
Is it possible to order a V-logo emblem on AliExpress?
You can, but you risk getting a low-quality fake. Most of the emblems on AliExpress They are made of cheap plastic and do not have protection from UV rays (they fade after a year). In addition, such parts may not fit the fastenings. If you still decide to order, choose sellers with a rating above 98% and read reviews with photos.