Aston Martin Lands Former Bugatti Designer

Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd. has hired Tobias Suhlmann as chief exterior designer.

Suhlmann, 39, had spent his entire career at Volkswagen AG, most recently heading Bugatti’s exterior design efforts. He also is credited with leading the design of the 2017 VW Arteon sedan and the third-generation 2019 Touareg.

At Aston Martin, Suhlmann succeeds Miles Nurnberger, who has been promoted to design director. Suhlmann and Nurnberger both report to Marek Reichman, Aston Martin's chief creative officer.

Aston Martin plans to introduce five new models in the next five years. The rollout starts later this year with the DBS Superleggera, which will be followed next by the luxury marque’s first crossover/SUV. A mid-engine supercar (2020), Lagonda SUV (2021) and Lagonda sedan (2023) also are said to be in the works.