People are only just realising what the iconic Audi logo actually means

Daily Record

23-04-2025

No matter your level of interest in vehicles, Audi is a brand that most are familiar with.
The automotive giant has stood the test of time for over a century and sports an easily recognisable emblem. Yet, despite the frequent sight of an Audi on our roads, many remain unaware of what its iconic rings represent.
The question, in fact, sparked curiosity on Reddit when one person enquired about the meaning behind the Audi emblem. The query attracted a host of replies, with car enthusiasts chiming in with various theories.
One individual explained: "The four Audi rings signify Audi, Horscht, DKW and Auto Union. These were four companies that were combined after WW2 because they were all going out of business alone."
Another suggested: "Old 'Quattro GmbH' badge, which was the old name of the company that is now known as 'Audi Sport'. So this is pretty much the predecessor of the S-badge you get on the steering wheels of S-line models of newer cars.
"If it was a S model, like a S2 back then, the left of the silver bars would say 'S' and the right would say '2'."
What many might not realise is that the Audi crest goes beyond being just an aesthetic logo. It's a symbol rich with the brand's identity, principles and narrative.
Beyond its sleek design, the Four Rings of Audi encapsulates the brand's storied heritage and its evolutionary journey.
A statement from Audi Great Neck reveals: "In the early 1930s, a groundbreaking collaboration among four distinguished German car manufacturers – Audi, DKW, Horch and Wanderer – led to the birth of Auto Union AG.
"This alliance was forged to combine resources and expertise, enabling them to thrive in the fiercely competitive automobile industry. The Four Rings emblem emerged as the physical embodiment of this unity.
"Each ring represented one of the four contributing companies, a testament to their combined endeavors and shared ambitions."
While the emblem centres on the concept of unity, it has evolved subtly over time to keep pace with evolving trends in the automotive sector. Regardless of these changes, the core message of unity has always been maintained.
It's commonly noted that the brand consistently achieves a fine blend of tradition and modern flair within its emblem.
Furthermore, Audi Great Neck states: "Beyond its surface elegance, the Four Rings emblem conceals a profound symbolism nestled within each ring. Audi's ring signifies progress and innovation, DKW embodies ingenuity, Horch represents luxury and Wanderer embodies the spirit of exploration.
"When brought together within the emblem, these meanings combine to define Audi's multifaceted character. As years have passed, the Four Rings emblem has grown to be synonymous with Audi's commitment to excellence.
"It has graced vehicles that achieved remarkable feats, from triumphant victories on racetracks to groundbreaking technological advancements. The emblem also proudly adorned Audi's iconic Quattro all-wheel-drive system, cementing the brand's reputation for exceptional performance."