Car model

Chevrolet models sold in 1928.

The model of a car is the name used by a manufacturer to market a range of similar cars. The methods used by car manufacturers to categorise their product range into models varies between manufacturers.

Common characteristics[]

Ford Focus body styles: sedan, station wagon and hatchback

Equipment, upholstery and exterior trim are usually determined by the trim level, the car model often defines the platform (which determines the engines, drivetrains and chassis options available), body styles and aesthetic theme.^[1][2][3][4]

Some models have only one body style (e.g. the Hyundai i20 hatchback),^[5] while other models are produced in several body styles (e.g. the Audi A3, which has been produced in hatchback, sedan and convertible body styles).^[6] In some cases, a manufacturer has marketed a body style as a separate model, such as the Volkswagen Jetta and the BMW 4 Series, which are based on the Volkswagen Golf and BMW 3 Series platforms respectively.^[7][8]

Some models have an only engine (or electric/hybrid powertrain) option available, while other models have multiple powertrains available.^[9]

In the North America, a model can also be called a "nameplate". The Chevrolet Suburban is the oldest automobile nameplate in continuous production, dating to 1934, and the 1940-1996 Chrysler New Yorker was another long-running North American car nameplate. However, the term "nameplate" is also sometimes used to describe an entire brand, rather than a specific model.

Country-specific model names[]

The same car model may be sold by the automaker in different countries under different model names. Examples include Mitsubishi Pajero / Montero,^[10][11] Mazda MX-5 / Miata,^[12] Volkswagen Golf / Rabbit^[13] and Ford Everest / Endeavour.^[14][15]

Model years[]

The model year (MY) is a manner of indicating the version of a car that has been produced and changed over multiple years.

Trim level[]

Beyond the standard equipment that is fitted to all vehicles for a model, additional features (such as the upholstery, interior equipment, safety features and exterior aerodynamic/styling upgrades) are often determined by the trim level of the vehicle.^[16]

Many manufacturers also allow additional equipment to be added to a vehicle by purchasing individual options (such as alloy wheels) or 'packages' of bundled options (such as a "safety package" consisting of lane departure warning system, collision avoidance system and additional airbags).

See also[]

References[]