Audi RS 4
PC: Audi Twitter

Creating an advertisement is like a coin toss. Just like there is a 50-50 chance of it landing on either heads or tails, an ad is either successful, or it’s not.

Over the years, advertising has come a very long way. If we compared ads 30 years ago to the concepts today, we could see significant differences.

One of them is the use of sexuality and offensive gestures. Subliminal advertisement is a popular method; it’s used by many popular brands like Hardee’s.

The hidden meaning behind the standard layout speaks much more without having the advertiser explain it to a consumer.

However,  for Audi, the idea completely backfired in their latest ad.

The reason why the ad crashed and burnt wasn’t that the German automaker used a sexual gesture, but because they used a little girl to show that gesture as she ate a banana.

An Audi RS 4 Avant ad was posted on the company’s official Twitter account. Within no time, the post was filled with negative feedback and criticism. Moreover, many pointed out that the slogan used in the advert, “Lets your heart beat faster – in every aspect,” also has a subliminal message.

Realizing how the advert gives a very wrong impression, the titan apologized for its ‘mistake.’

We hear you and let’s get this straight: We care for children.

We sincerely apologise for this insensitive image and ensure that it will not be used in future. -Audi

Social Media Reactions To Audi’s Advert

Here’s what social media had to say about the advert:

Others supported the automaker and shared that Audi did nothing wrong; it’s the minds of the people, which are sick.

Subliminal Advertising In Automotive Industry

There have been countless ads over the years that have also received a mixed reaction from social media.

Here are a few of them:

BMW

Bmw
PC: BMW

Huet MPV

Huet MPV
PC: Huet MPV

Ford

Ford
PC: Ford

It’s not just automakers who use this method of advertisement. It has been and still is used by many brands.

Hardee’s

Hardees
PC: Hardees

Nando’s

Nando’s has been known for its witty social media personality. But, what many don’t know is that their sense of subliminal advertising is also very much on point!

Nandos
PC: Nando’s

Hunky Dory’s

An unusual name for a snack brand, but what’s more interesting is their choice of copy, image, and placement in the advert below.

Hunky Dory
PC Hunky Dory’s

Dolce & Gabbana 

We are not exactly sure what the luxurious clothing brand was trying to portray in this shoot. However, one thing that is crystal clear is that it is NOT acceptable to show women being subjected to force while other ‘men’ watch.

D&G
PC: D&G

Nivea

We know.. But it’s not what you think. This Nivea advert shows a pair of knees!

Nivea
PC: Nivea

What do you think of Audi’s latest advert? Moreover, do you think the trend of subliminal advertisement continues?

Please share your thoughts with us in the comments below.

Stay tuned to Brandsynario for the latest updates.