But perhaps his most notable work was the returning Land Rover Defender, sporting a modern off-roader appeal inspired by the nameplate’s legacy. The current Defender generation still features a staple boxy body flexible enough to come in three wheelbase versions: Defender 90, Defender 110, and Defender 130.

For his new role, Frascella will take on the challenges of designing several cars across various segments, including the ever-growing EV category. The Audi TT and R8 could get electric successors, and both were adored for their distinctive designs. In addition, Audi may be developing a new three-row SUV, which could be called the Q9. Whatever the future holds for the brand, Massimo Frascella will certainly be busy.

The new design boss wants to favor “simplicity” for future Audi cars. Instead of following trends, he vows to rely on a “timeless and sophisticated design language,” and following a restructure that sees the design department report directly to the Chairman of the Board, he should have plenty of freedom.