IMO current automobile design resembles that of the late 50's where every surface of the car must somehow contribute to the over all "effect" of the effort. There is no room for subdued. Every flank must have a crease and a splash of chrome, a rear end must somehow convey as important a design effort as the front, automobile front ends must convey multiple things with one effort - I AM HERE, I exude luxury, I am unique, I am SOMETHING.
Everything was so loud.....interiors included. It's all the same now.
Lincoln once changed this in '61. Their designs went quiet. People were ready for peace and quiet.
I think they have an opportunity to be quiet again. Whomever runs the business will be successful if they tone down design to let people relax.