Vauxhall Griffin badge evolution 1915‑2026
Vauxhall’s Griffin badge, refreshed six times, most recently in October 2026, drops the historic V‑flag. Dealers must update branding and signage to match.
Vauxhall has unveiled a fresh Griffin badge in October 2026, removing the iconic V‑flag that has adorned the emblem for over a century. The streamlined crest aligns with the brand’s new illuminated Vizor grille, signalling a major visual shift that dealers will need to reflect across showrooms and marketing material.
Key takeaways
- The 2026 Griffin drops the historic V‑flag after 111 years.
- New design is flatter, suited to the illuminated Vizor grille.
- Past redesigns moved from ornate to simplified graphics.
- Dealers must update signage, collateral and digital assets.
Early emblems: 1915‑1971 evolution
The first Griffin appeared in 1915 after apprentice Harry Varley won a competition; it featured a mythical creature clutching a V‑marked flag, a motif that defined the brand for decades.
In 1925 the badge became a more intricate circular emblem, nodding to Vauxhall’s Luton base while retaining the Griffin and its flag. The design added ornamental details but kept the core symbolism.
The 1936 version introduced a striking red‑and‑gold colour scheme and a new shape, a look that continued through wartime production. By 1971 the badge had been simplified to a bold red Griffin, still holding the V‑flag.
Modern simplification: 1983‑2003
1983 saw the Griffin placed inside a red square, rendered in white with most detail stripped away; the V‑flag vanished and the Vauxhall name appeared beneath the creature.
In 1989 the square was abandoned and a circular badge returned, reinstating the V‑flag on a red background. This design endured for more than a decade.
The 2003 upgrade added a metallic three‑dimensional finish, giving the Griffin a chrome‑like presence while preserving the familiar circular shape.
Recent trends: 2008‑2019
2008 enlarged the Griffin within the badge and extended its body beyond the centre, aiming for a cleaner, more up‑market look.
2011 reintroduced red, surrounding a silver Griffin in a bright red circle, creating a more colourful appearance than the previous monochrome style.
In 2019 the badge shifted to a flat red‑and‑white graphic, removing chrome effects and simplifying the Griffin to a prominent two‑tone shape.
2026 redesign – flag removed
The latest Griffin retains the mythical animal but drops the long‑standing flag, a move designed to complement Vauxhall’s new illuminated Vizor grille and modern vehicle aesthetics.
This represents the most substantial visual departure since the original 1915 emblem, yet the Griffin remains instantly recognisable, preserving brand heritage while looking ahead.
What this means for dealers
Dealers will need to source updated signage, vehicle decals and showroom graphics that reflect the flag‑less Griffin. Existing marketing material will require replacement to maintain brand consistency.
The refreshed badge offers an opportunity to launch renewed promotional campaigns, leveraging the novelty of the new design to attract customer interest and reinforce Vauxhall’s contemporary image.
Frequently asked questions
When will the new Griffin badge appear on new Vauxhall vehicles?
The updated emblem is already visible on models released from October 2026 onwards, and will be standard across the entire Vauxhall range produced thereafter.
How should dealers update their branding to match the new logo?
Dealers should replace exterior signage, in‑showroom graphics and digital assets with the new flat Griffin, ensuring the V‑flag is omitted. Coordinating with Vauxhall’s brand‑guidelines will guarantee correct colour usage and placement.
This article summarises reporting first published by Car Dealer Magazine.