Thiago’s Audi A3 8Y Saloon - Belgium’s Green Machine

April 18, 2025

If you're a car enthusiast under 25, chances are your automotive awakening came from a Fast & Furious movie, a late-night binge of Matt Armstrong’s rebuilds, or watching Stradman do donuts in a supercar. Thiago, at 23 and based in Belgium, is no exception. But what makes his story worth telling is what he did after the inspiration struck.

Three years ago, Thiago found himself on the hunt for a second car. Something stylish, fresh, and fast enough to keep things interesting - but still realistic to insure as a young driver. The moment he laid eyes on this 2020 Audi A3 8Y Saloon, it was a done deal. Sharp lines, fresh off the production line, and the refined attitude of a saloon with just enough edge. It ticked all the boxes.

Like many, he started with the basics; wheels and suspension. Black wheels and lowering springs gave the car a nice stance, but it wasn’t long before the modding itch came back stronger. Thiago wasn’t building just another A3, he wanted something truly unique.

The whole car was wrapped in Matte Pine Green from 3M Films, and that’s when everything changed. The bold green completely shifted the car’s personality, giving it the aggressive, one-of-a-kind look Thiago was chasing.

From there, a full Maxton Design kit was added; front lip, side skirts, rear diffuser, and spoiler - although the spoiler didn’t quite hit the mark. So he switched it out for a ducktail sourced with the help of his friend @just_stance.it, which better matched the overall lines of the car.

Then came the biggest transformation: Thiago took the car to @scrape_bug67 and fitted it with a full BONHOFF air suspension setup.

“It drives way more comfortably now, and just looks so much more aggressive. The feeling when driving it is amazing.”

Alongside the visual transformation, Thiago worked with @pho.nick - a photographer he calls “the best in Belgium” - to shoot the car properly. And rightly so, as the finished product deserved it. From the unique wrap to the fitment and stance, the car carries itself with serious road presence.

Thiago’s favourite mod? No hesitation: the colour.

“It’s what makes it truly mine. It stands out and gives the car its identity.”

Unfortunately, the build won’t be seen on the 2025 show circuit as it’s now up for sale. But with that comes new opportunity, and Thiago already has his eyes on the next project. He’s keeping it under wraps for now, but says some solid plans are already in motion.

"I'd like to thank @just_stance.it, @scrape_bug67, @pho.nick, @_furious_drivers_ and @petrolbrothersbe! And definitely, not least my fiancé for supporting me!"

We’re sure whatever’s next will be just as clean; and just as green? Time will tell.

A special thanks to Thiago (@8y.sedan) for letting us feature him in our build breakdown and to @pho.nick for the use of their epic photos on this stand out build. You know the drill, check them out on Instagram and give them a follow.