Last year for the Big Game, we wrote an article that asked if Nissan made the best TV commercials. Then, we offered up five examples to buttress that claim.
Well, when the article was shared on Summit Racing’s Facebook page, there were plenty of opinions on the subject. In fact, quite a few folks posited that VW actually makes the best TV ads…
So we did some investigating.
And while VW has plenty of spots to choose from, we gathered five that potentially make the best argument in its favor. Take a look below and see if you agree—and if you don’t, let us know your thoughts in the comments section at the bottom of this article.
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5. “Unpimp Ze Auto” (2006)
As the sport compact scene evolved past body kits and neon lights, VW’s marketing team saw a chance to poke some fun at the enthusiast community—and probably a few of its own customers. These ads presented the Volkswagen GTI as the more mature, refined sport compact option. (Bonus points for one of Peter Stormare‘s best roles!)
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4. “Laughing Horses” (2016)
Maybe it’s because so many of us have been in similar situations, this one just seems to strike a nerve—but we’re not complaining. This spot is an advertising clinic in how to present a familiar problem in a memorable way, and demonstrate how your product solves it. Also, animals are funny.
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3. “Feeling Carefree” (2013)
With the late Gen X/early Millennial demographic locked square in its sights, VW unleashed this ad inspired by A-Ha’s beloved “Take On Me” music video. It’s equal parts nostalgic and funny, and was a smart bridge to promote VW’s new no-charge scheduled maintenance program.
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2. “Luv Bug” (2017)
While it’s easy to get a laugh out of certain “adult” topics, when you’re purposely coy and subtle about the subject matter, the payoff can be even better. Case in point: this suggestive VW ad. While it’s obviously got a very mature theme, by avoiding a crass presentation and staying above the belt, it becomes exponentially more hilarious. Watch it and see what we mean.
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1. “The Force” (2011)
Yup, you can probably shut the conversation down now. Not only is this spot considered one of the most memorable ads from any Super Bowl, it’s arguably one of the best TV commercials of all time. And its one of the first spots to actually get teased before its scheduled airing during the game itself—setting a precedent of “leaking” an ad prior to its official reveal that’s still very much in play today.
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So, what do you think? Does VW make the best TV spots? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section below.
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