The Volkswagen Group (VW Group) is one of the world’s largest car manufacturers, with a diverse portfolio of brands ranging from everyday cars to luxury supercars and even motorcycles. Many drivers often ask: who owns Volkswagen, and which brands are under the VW Group? Let’s break it down clearly.
Who Owns Volkswagen?
Volkswagen AG, commonly known as the Volkswagen Group, is a German multinational headquartered in Wolfsburg. The company itself is publicly traded, but its largest shareholders are:
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Porsche SE (controlled by the Porsche and Piëch families)
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State of Lower Saxony (which still holds around 20%)
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Qatar Investment Authority
This means Volkswagen is not just a single brand but the umbrella for some of the most recognisable names in the automotive world.
Audi
Acquired in the 1960s, Audi is Volkswagen’s premium brand, well known for its luxury cars, SUVs, and performance models.
Bentley
Bentley (100% Owned)
Volkswagen owns 100% of Bentley Motors, the British luxury brand famous for handcrafted, high-performance vehicles.
Bugatti
Bugatti (Co-owned, majority sold to Rimac in 2021)
Volkswagen previously owned 100% of Bugatti, but in 2021 it formed Bugatti Rimac, where VW retains a minority stake through Porsche.
Lamborghini
Lamborghini (100% Owned)
The iconic Italian supercar manufacturer Lamborghini is fully owned by Volkswagen through Audi.
Porsche
Porsche (Majority Owned – ~75%)
Yes — Porsche is part of the Volkswagen Group. VW owns around 75% of Porsche AG, making it one of the group’s most profitable subsidiaries.
SEAT
SEAT & CUPRA
SEAT is VW’s Spanish brand, focused on youthful, affordable models. CUPRA has evolved into a performance and electric-focused brand.
Skoda
Škoda
Skoda, based in the Czech Republic, offers affordable and practical cars that remain popular across Europe and beyond.
Ducati
Ducati (100% Owned)
Volkswagen owns the legendary Italian motorcycle brand Ducati, acquired via Audi in 2012.
MAN
MAN SE – VW owns 94.36% (since 2012).
Founded in 1758, MAN supplies trucks, buses, vans, and industrial engines. Historically, MAN reported revenues of $13.6B in 2016, but now its performance is consolidated under TRATON.
Why Volkswagen Owns So Many Car Brands
Volkswagen Group’s strategy is clear: diversify across all car market segments. Whether you want to buy or lease a car, from a budget-friendly VW Polo to a luxury Porsche or Bentley, the group ensures it captures every type of customer.
For those comparing options like buying a leased car or opting for a new car lease deal, VW’s wide brand portfolio ensures there’s always a choice — whether it’s affordability, luxury, or sustainability with electric mobility.
Volkswagen and Electric Vehicles
Volkswagen has invested heavily in electric cars, launching the ID. series (ID.3, ID.4, ID. Buzz, and more). The EV push extends across its brands, with Audi e-tron, Porsche Taycan, and CUPRA Born all developed under VW’s strategy.
If you’re considering making the switch, explore our electric car lease deals for affordable ways to drive the latest EVs.
FAQs About Volkswagen Group Ownership
Yes. Volkswagen owns around 75% of Porsche AG, making Porsche one of its key subsidiaries.
Yes. Bentley is fully owned by Volkswagen Group through its luxury and performance division.
Yes. Lamborghini is fully owned by VW, while Bugatti is now co-owned with Rimac (Volkswagen still has a stake through Porsche).
Yes. Ducati has been owned by Volkswagen Group (via Audi) since 2012.
Yes. At the end of your contract, some leasing agreements may allow you to purchase your car. If you’re interested in keeping your vehicle, explore our car leasing options and speak to our team.