A car emblem is more than just a decoration on the hood or trunk. It tells the history of the brand, its philosophy and even the technical features of the models. Among hundreds of logos, a special place is occupied by triangular emblems: they are used by both legendary Japanese manufacturers and European giants. But why this particular geometric figure? And how not to confuse Mitsubishi with Renault, if both brands use triangles in their design?
In this article we will look at all car brands with a triangle in their logo, their history, the hidden meanings of the symbols and practical tips on how to distinguish them from each other even at a great distance. You'll find out why three diamonds Mitsubishi symbolize reliability, like Renault transformed his diamond into a triangle, and which little-known brands also use this shape. And at the end - interactive table to quickly identify the brand by key details of the emblem.
If you frequently buy or sell used cars, being able to recognize logos at a glance will save you time checking documentation. For example, a triangle with three diamonds inside issues immediately Mitsubishi, and the stylized letter "R" in the triangle is a sign Renault last generations. But there are exceptions: some Chinese brands copy the design, and older models Daihatsu also had triangular elements. How not to make a mistake? Read on.
1. Mitsubishi: three diamonds that everyone knows
Logo Mitsubishi Motors - one of the most recognizable in the world. Three red diamonds (or diamonds) combined into a triangle appeared back in 1870 - long before the company's first car. The symbol originally belonged to a shipping company Mitsubishi, and its meaning is associated with Japanese heraldry:
- 🔺 Three diamonds is a stylized image of the coat of arms of the Iwasaki clan, the founder of the company. In Japan this pattern is called "Mitsubishi", which literally translates to “three water chestnuts.”
- 🔴 Red color symbolizes passion, energy and reliability - the key values of the brand.
- ▲ Triangular shape represents stability and dynamics (the acute angle is directed forward, as a desire for innovation).
By car Mitsubishi The logo is placed on the radiator grille, steering wheel and wheel caps. At the same time, the design of the emblem has remained almost unchanged since 1914 - only in 2021 the company slightly simplified the graphics, removing volumetric effects. Interestingly, on some models (for example, Mitsubishi Pajero) the triangle is also used in the design of the headlights, creating a unified corporate identity.
⚠️ Attention: Logo knockoffs are common on the second-hand market. Mitsubishi, especially on Chinese replicas. The original emblem has clear diamond edges and a deep red color (Pantone 185 C). If the shade is closer to orange or pink, this is a reason to check the car's history.
2. Renault: from diamond to triangle (logo evolution)
French manufacturer Renault Many people associate it with a diamond-shaped logo, but in the latest models (for example, Renault Arkana or Austral) symbol transformed into triangle with rounded corners. Why?
In 2021, the brand introduced a new corporate style, where the rhombus “stretched” horizontally, and its lower part became flat, forming a triangular base. The designers explained this by the desire to "dynamism and modernity". Now the logo looks like this:
- 🟡 The color yellow is a reference to solar energy and electric vehicles (e.g. Renault Zoe).
- △ Triangular base symbolizes sustainability and innovation.
- 🔄 The letter "R" is preserved inside - a key element of the brand's identity.
Distinguish the new logo Renault from triangles of other brands is simple: it always has yellow or silver tint and rounded corners. On older models (before 2015), the diamond was completely closed, without triangular elements.
Why did Renault change the logo?
In 2021, the brand announced a move towards electric vehicles and needed a more futuristic image. The triangle is associated with charge (like the "play" sign or lightning), and the yellow color emphasizes environmental friendliness. Plus, the simplified design looks better on car digital screens.
3. Daihatsu and other “forgotten” triangles
In addition to giants like Mitsubishi and Renault, triangular emblems were also used by lesser-known brands. For example, a Japanese company Daihatsu in the 1980s–1990s placed a logo in the form of stylized letter "D" in a triangle. Today this symbol can only be seen on rare models, such as Daihatsu Charade or Rocky.
Triangles are also found in:
- 🚗 Proton (Malaysian brand): logo in the form of a winged triangle (symbol of the national coat of arms).
- 🔧 Zastava (Serbian manufacturer): triangle with the letter "Z" inside (on models Yugo).
- ⚡ Byvin (Chinese startup): triangle as a reference to electric cars.
These brands are not so common on the Russian market, but their emblems can be found on used cars from Asia or Eastern Europe. The main difference from Mitsubishi or Renault — additional elements inside the triangle (letters, wings, abstract lines).
| Brand | Triangle shape | Color | Additional items | Model example |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mitsubishi | Equilateral, made of 3 rhombuses | Red (Pantone 185 C) | — | Outlander, Lancer |
| Renault | Rounded, flat base | Yellow/silver | Letter "R" inside | Arkana, Clio |
| Daihatsu | Right triangle | Blue/white | Letter "D" | Charade, Cuore |
| Proton | Triangle with "wings" | Silver | National ornament | Saga, X70 |
4. How to distinguish triangular emblems in practice: 5 key signs
If you see a car with a triangle on the emblem, but are not sure about the brand, pay attention to these details:
1. Emblem color (red = Mitsubishi, yellow = Renault)
2. Shape of corners (sharp = Mitsubishi, rounded = Renault)
3. The presence of additional elements inside (letters, diamonds, lines)
4. Placement on the car (on the radiator grill or trunk)
5. Car model (crossover, sedan, hatchback) -->
Example 1: On an SUV with a red triangle of three diamonds - this is 100% Mitsubishi (for example, Pajero or ASX).
Example 2: On a compact hatchback with a yellow rounded triangle and the letter "R" - this is Renault Clio or Captur new generation.
⚠️ Attention: Some tuning shops replace the original emblems with stylized triangles (for example, on Toyota or Honda). Always check the logo against the vehicle's VIN if there is any doubt about its authenticity.
5. Triangles in car design: not just emblems
Triangular motifs are used not only in logos. Many manufacturers integrate this form into body design, optics and interior. For example:
- 🔦 Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross: The headlights have a triangular cross-section that follows the logo.
- 🚘 Renault Megane: The rear lights are stylized as a triangle with rounded corners.
- 🔋 Byvin Dolphin (Chinese electric car): the radiator grille consists of small triangular cells.
Such details help strengthen the corporate identity and make the car recognizable even without an emblem. For example, if you see a crossover with "triangle" headlights and red accents, there's a good chance it's Mitsubishi.
When purchasing a used car, pay attention to the integrity of the triangular design elements. For example, on Mitsubishi Lancer Plastic inserts on the bumper in the shape of triangles often break; replacing them costs 5–10 thousand rubles.
6. History of triangular logos: from coats of arms to modern times
The triangle as a symbol has ancient roots. It began to be used in the automotive industry at the beginning of the 20th century for several reasons:
- Heraldry: Many European brands took elements from family coats of arms (e.g. Renault inspired by the coat of arms of the city of Billancourt, where the first plant was located).
- Technological progress: the triangle was associated with "arrow", symbolizing speed and innovation (relevant for Mitsubishi in the 1920s).
- Minimalism: The simple shape can be easily reproduced on metal and glass, which is important for mass production.
Little known fact: the company had the first triangular logo in the auto industry Dürkopp (Germany, 1903) - it depicted a stylized letter "D" in a triangle. The brand lasted until 1929, but its design influenced later emblems, e.g. Daihatsu.
7. Common mistakes when identifying a brand using a triangle
Even experienced car enthusiasts sometimes confuse triangular emblems. Here are the most common mistakes:
- 🔴 Confusing Mitsubishi with Hyundai: y Hyundai the logo is oval, but on some models (for example, Hyundai Tucson 2000s) the radiator grille had triangular inserts.
- 🟡 Mistaking old Renault logo for Daihatsu: until 1992 Renault there was a rhombus without triangular elements, but on rare cars it is confused with the emblem Daihatsu.
- ⚫ Ignore color: triangle is different from triangle - Mitsubishi always red and Proton - silver.
To avoid mistakes, remember a simple rule: "Red and diamonds - Mitsubishi, yellow and the letter R - Renault". All other cases require additional verification.
If the emblem is triangular, but not red or yellow, it is most likely a little-known brand (Proton, Zastava) or a tuned car. Always check the VIN!
FAQ: Answers to frequently asked questions
Why does Mitsubishi use three diamonds rather than one triangle?
Initially logo Mitsubishi consisted of three rhombuses (diamonds) combined into a triangle, as a reference to the Iwasaki family coat of arms. The three elements symbolize reliability, honesty and success — key values of the company. If the brand used a single triangle, the historical meaning would be lost.
Is it possible to determine the year of manufacture of a car by the emblem?
Partially. For example, at Renault Until 2021, the logo was diamond-shaped, and after that it was triangular with rounded corners. U Mitsubishi the design of the emblem has remained almost unchanged since 1914, but on models before the 1980s the diamonds had more elongated shape. To accurately determine the year, it is better to check the VIN or documentation.
Which Chinese brands copy triangle logos?
Some Chinese manufacturers (for example, Zotye or Haval) use triangular elements in their design, but their logos usually contain additional symbols:
- 🔺 Zotye: a triangle with the letter "Z" and wavy lines.
- 🔷 Haval: stylized letter "H" in a diamond shape (sometimes confused with Renault).
You can distinguish them from original brands by quality of the emblem (Chinese ones are often plastic, not metal).
Where else, besides the emblem, can you see triangles on a car?
Manufacturers often duplicate brand symbols in designs:
- 🔦 Optics: triangular headlights (Mitsubishi Eclipse) or taillights (Renault Arkana).
- 🚪 Door handles: on some models Renault they have a triangular depression.
- 🎛️ Steering wheel: Center alarm button Mitsubishi often follows the shape of the logo.
These details help strengthen the brand identity.
Is it possible to order a triangular emblem for a tuned car?
Yes, many studios offer stylized emblems to order. However, there are nuances:
- ⚠️ Replacing the original logo can void the warranty (if the car is under warranty).
- 📄 The PTS must indicate the original brand - changing the emblem does not change the legal status of the car.
- 💰 The cost of manufacturing a metal emblem is from 3 to 10 thousand rubles (depending on the material).
Popular options: a triangle with the owner’s name or an abstract pattern.