Have you ever seen a car on the road with an emblem from three triangles, but couldn’t remember what brand it was? Such a logo actually exists - and it belongs to one of the most recognizable, but often confused, automakers. In this article we will figure out what brand of car is hidden behind the three triangles, how it is related to other brands of the concern, and why this symbol is so easily confused with the logos of competitors.
One can argue endlessly about what the geometric shapes in car logos mean. But in the case of three triangles, everything is much simpler than it seems: there are no hidden meanings about speed, stability or innovation. This is pure engineering logic, reflecting the history of the merger of companies. And if you think that this is about Mitsubishi (they also have triangles, but different ones!), then you are mistaken. Details below.
Which brand uses a logo with three triangles?
Emblem with three triangles, forming a closed figure, belongs to the German automaker Audi. More precisely, this is a logo Audi AG - the parent company of the concern Volkswagen Group. The symbol appeared in 1932 after the merger of four independent manufacturers: Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. Each triangle represented one of the companies, and their unification symbolized a new stage in the automotive industry.
Interestingly, the logo was originally not just a set of triangles, but four rings (by number of brands). However, in some stylized versions - such as on old grilles or in advertising materials - the rings were simplified to triangular shapes. Modern logo Audi still represents four intertwined rings, but in a simplified form (for example, on wheel cover icons) it can actually be perceived as three triangles.
Why is the Audi logo confused with Mitsubishi and other brands?
The main reason for the confusion is the visual similarity with the logo Mitsubishi Motors, where triangles are also used. However, the Japanese brand has them three red diamonds (not triangles!), arranged in the shape of the coat of arms of the Iwasaki clan - the founder of the company. Unlike Audi, where the symbol reflects merger of companies, y Mitsubishi this is a family emblem.
Other brands that are sometimes confused with "three triangles":
- 🔺 Renault — their logo also has a diamond shape, but without division into triangles.
- 🔺 Alfa Romeo - a cross and a snake in a circle, but in simplified versions it can resemble geometric shapes.
- 🔺 Citroën — two “chevrons” (V-shaped elements), which in some angles merge into triangular shapes.
To avoid mistakes, remember: if the triangles form a closed figure without breaks and are located horizontally, it is 99% Audi (or its subsidiary brands). U Mitsubishi The rhombuses stand vertically and do not touch at the corners.
If in doubt, look at the color of the logo: Audi is traditionally silver/black metallic, Mitsubishi is bright red.
The evolution of the Audi logo: from rings to triangles
First logo Audi appeared in 1909 and was a stylized inscription Audi in an oval frame. After the merger of companies in 1932, the famous symbol was approved four rings, which personified the union Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer. Interestingly, some early versions had rings different sizes - this emphasized the different status of brands in the association.
In the 1960s–1980s, the logo was simplified: the rings became identical, and in some advertising materials they were depicted as three triangles (the fourth one is “hidden” behind the front one). The modern version, used since 2009, is a 3D gradient ring, but in minimalist versions (like on keys or nameplates) they revert to flat triangular shapes.
| Year | Logo description | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1932 | Four rings (Audi, DKW, Horch, Wanderer) | Rings of different sizes, black and white version |
| 1965 | Simplification to identical rings | Appearance of red in some versions |
| 1995 | 3D effect | Silver gradient, "metallic" look |
| 2009 | Modern version | Clear contours, minimalism, adaptability for digital media |
On which Audi models can you see the “three triangles”?
Although the official logo Audi - these are four rings, stylized three triangles often found on:
- 🚗 Wheel caps - especially on older models (for example, Audi 80 or Audi 100 1980–1990s).
- 🔑 Ignition keys - many owners call this icon a “triangle”.
- 📄 Documentation — in some service books or instructions, the logo is simplified to a minimalistic form.
- 🎨 Designer collaborations - for example, in limited editions (for example, Audi Sport).
On new models (Audi A4, Audi Q5, Audi e-tron) the logo is usually full - four rings. However, in 2020s the brand began experimenting with flat versions of the logo, where the rings visually merge into triangular shapes, especially against a dark background.
Where else can you find “three triangles”?
In addition to Audi, some tuning studios (for example, ABT Sportsline) or regional dealers use similar symbols. Triangular shapes are also found in the logos of motorsport teams associated with Audi, e.g. Audi Sport Team Joest.
How to distinguish Audi from Mitsubishi by logo: step-by-step instructions
If you see a car with triangles on its emblem, use this check:
☑️ Checking the logo on the car
Additional tips:
- 🔍 On Audi the logo is usually located on radiator grille (in the center), and Mitsubishi - on the hood or front bumper.
- 🔍 U Audi eat often chrome trim around the emblem Mitsubishi - no.
- 🔍 On the back of the car Audi usually duplicates the logo on the trunk, and Mitsubishi — on the fifth door (for hatchbacks).
If the car has a red emblem of three diamonds, it is 100% Mitsubishi. If it is silver/black with rings or triangles - Audi.
Interesting facts about the Audi logo
1. The hidden meaning of the rings: Although the rings officially symbolize the unification of the four companies, some designers claim that they also represent four stroke internal combustion engine (intake, compression, stroke, exhaust). This is not confirmed by the brand, but sounds logical for an engineering company.
2. Logo on the moon: B 1971 lunar rover Apollo 15 was equipped with electric motors developed based on technology Audi (back then NSU, part of the concern). The symbol of the four rings even appears on some archival photos of the mission.
3. The most expensive logo: B 2016 Audi updated the brand book, and the new logo cost the company more than 1 million euros - only for design and perception testing. At the same time, the changes were minimal: the proportions and gradient were slightly changed.
4. Triangles in motorsport: Racing cars Audi (for example, Audi R8 LMS) often have simplified versions of the logo, where the rings turn into triangles for better readability at high speeds.
If you see a car with three triangles on the track, there's a good chance it's an Audi racer. Mitsubishi practically does not participate in circuit racing in Europe.
What to do if you find a car with an unknown logo?
If you are still not sure which brand is in front of you, use these tips:
⚠️ Attention: Never rely only on the logo when buying a used car! Fraudsters often fake emblems to pass off a cheap car as a premium brand. Always check the VIN and documents.
1. Take a photo of the emblem and use logo recognition services (for example, Google Lens or Yandex.Pictures).
2. Look at the design of the car:
- Audi usually has clear body lines, large radiator grille (Singleframe) and LED headlights.
- Mitsubishi more common with aggressive front bumper (for example, at Lancer Evolution or Outlander).
3. Check the model by bumper:
- U Audi A4/A6 tail lights have trapezoidal shape.
- U Mitsubishi ASX or Pajero lanterns often vertical.
4. Take a look at the salon:
- Audi uses virtual dashboard (Virtual Cockpit) and minimalistic design.
- Mitsubishi equips machines more often physical buttons and classic arrows on the speedometer.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions about the three triangle logo
Is this really an Audi and not some Chinese brand?
Yes, Audi only uses a logo with four rings, which in simplified form turn into three triangles. Chinese brands (eg. BYD or Geely) have completely different logos. The exception is some little-known clone companies, but they are not officially sold in Russia and Europe.
Why does the logo on my Audi look like three triangles and not four rings?
Most likely you have one of the following situations:
- 🔧 This old model (until the 2000s), where a simplified version was used on wheel covers or keys.
- 🎨 This tuned version — some studios stylize the logo to look like a sports car.
- 🖨️ This is printing on documentation — in the black and white version, the rings can merge.
The official brand logo remains four rings, but their visual perception depends on the angle and medium.
Is it possible to identify an Audi model by its logo?
No, the logo itself does not indicate the model. However, there are indirect signs:
- 🚘 On Audi A8 the logo is usually larger and has a chrome surround.
- 🚙 On Audi Q7 the emblem can be integrated into the grille without a separate frame.
- ⚡ On electric vehicles (Audi e-tron) the logo is sometimes highlighted.
To accurately determine the model, look at the shape of the headlights, grilles and taillights.
Why doesn't Mitsubishi sue Audi over a similar logo?
Because logos are not legally considered similar. U Audi - four rings (or three triangles as a derivative), Mitsubishi - three separate rhombuses. Besides:
- 📜 Brands are registered in different categories (Audi - premium segment, Mitsubishi - mass market).
- 🌍 Logos have different history and geography (Audi - Europe, Mitsubishi - Japan).
- 🎨 The color schemes are fundamentally different (silver vs red).
There were lawsuits over the similarities in the 1990s, but the lawsuits were dismissed.
Where else, besides cars, can you see the Audi logo with three triangles?
In addition to cars, this logo can be found on:
- 🏢 Dealership buildings - often stylized in architectural elements.
- 🎮 Video games - for example, in the series Need for Speed or Gran Turismo (there the logo is simplified for texture).
- 👕 Merch — on brand T-shirts, caps or backpacks.
- 📱 Applications - in MyAudi or Audi Connect use minimalist versions.
Also triangular shapes can be seen on nameplates or in commercials brand.