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| {{Short description|Industrial automobile model}} | |||
| {{ |
{{for|miniature replicas of automobiles|Model car}} | ||
| {{Multiple issues | |||
| ] models sold in 1928.]] | |||
| | refimprove=March 2011 | |||
| |original research=November 2012}} | |||
| The '''model''' of a car is its design, in the context of the manufacturer's range or series of cars. Different models, variants are distinguishable by technology, components, underpinnings, and/or style and appearance. | |||
| ] configurations of a sedan ], station wagon ] and hatchback ] from the same ], here the ].]] | |||
| The methods used to categorise cars into models differ significantly between manufacturers. Frequently, several different body variants are offered, depending on market demand; and when completing their 'production lifespan', sufficiently successful models are usually followed by a new 'generation' of that model. | |||
| An '''automobile model''' (or '''car model''' or '''model of car''', and typically abbreviated to just "model") is a particular brand of vehicle sold under a ] by a manufacturer, usually within a range of models, usually of different sizes or capabilities. From an engineering point of view, a particular car model is usually defined and/or constrained by the use of a particular car ]/] combination or the same ], although sometimes this is not the case, and the model represents a marketing segment. | |||
| The name of a model (range or series) is almost always ]ed, so that competing manufacturers cannot also use it (unless the owner permits it, for an agreed licence fee). | |||
| A model may also be referred to as a ''']''', specifically when referring to the product from the point of view of the manufacturer, especially a model over time. For example, the ] is the oldest automobile nameplate in continuous production, dating to 1934 (1935 model year), while the ] was (until its demise in 1996) the oldest North American car nameplate. "Nameplate" is also sometimes used more loosely, however, to refer to a brand or division of larger company (e.g., GMC), rather than a specific model. | |||
| A popular model can have a significantly valuable ], and manufacturers often take great care in fostering and maintaining the brand image of the models bearing the name, both in terms of key model characteristics, as well as the targeted market, and the expected or desired buyer's demographic. | |||
| This engineering frame may have derivatives, giving rise to more than one ] for a particular car model. For example, the same model can be offered as a four-door ] (saloon), a two-door ], a ] (estate), or even as a folding-roof convertible, all derived from essentially the same engineering frame. An example of this is the ]. | |||
| == Common characteristics == | |||
| Fully specifying an automobile can involve many levels of detail, most basically: | |||
| ] body styles: sedan, station wagon and hatchback]] | |||
| * Manufacturer (company) | |||
| * Model (brand, product name) | |||
| ⚫ | * Model |
||
| and often further: | |||
| * Body style (e.g., 2-door, 4-door) | |||
| * Trim level (often denoted by lettering after the model name) | |||
| * Individual options (e.g., a sunroof) | |||
| Traditionally in North America, especially in police reports, automobiles are specified by "year, make, model" – model year, manufacturer snd product, as in a "2000 Toyota Camry". | |||
| Equipment, upholstery and exterior trim are usually determined by the ], the car model often defines the ] (which determines the engines, drivetrains and chassis options available), ] and ].<ref>{{cite web|title=2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Driven Review|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/chevrolet/2017-chevrolet-cruze-hatchback-driven-ar176644.html|website=www.topspeed.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2017 Honda Civic Hatchback First Drive: Incremental Business or Next Big Thing|url=http://www.motortrend.com/cars/honda/civic/2017/2017-honda-civic-hatchback-first-drive-review/|website=www.motortrend.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2019 Kia Cerato hatch styling revealed|url=https://www.whichcar.com.au/car-news/2019-kia-cerato-hatch-styling-revealed|website=www.whichcar.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Mazda to Unveil Updated Mazda6 Wagon at Geneva Motor Show|url=http://www2.mazda.com/en/publicity/release/2018/201802/180209a.html|website=www.mazda.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> | |||
| ==Mechanical internals== | |||
| The same car model can be offered with different mechanical internals, such as a choice of several engine sizes, automatic or manual transmissions, different suspension, braking or steering systems, etc.; all of these options considered fairly interchangeable on that specific body frame. It is common for any specific car model to carry additional badges or letterings to announce the mechanical option(s) incorporated on it. | |||
| Some models have only one body style (e.g. the ] hatchback),<ref>{{Cite web|title=HYUNDAI i20 models and generations timeline, specs and pictures (by year) - autoevolution|url=https://www.autoevolution.com/hyundai/i20/|access-date=2021-04-02|website=www.autoevolution.com}}</ref> while other models are produced in several body styles (e.g. the ], which has been produced in hatchback, sedan and convertible body styles).<ref>{{cite web|title=2017 Audi A3 Hatchback|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/audi/2017-audi-a3-hatchback-ar172252.html|website=www.topspeed.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> In some cases, a manufacturer has marketed a body style as a separate model, such as the ] and the ], which are based on the ] and ] platforms respectively.<ref>{{cite web|title=2019 Volkswagen Jetta Preview|url=https://www.thecarconnection.com/overview/volkswagen_jetta_2019|website=www.thecarconnection.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2018 BMW 4 Series Convertible Review|url=https://www.topspeed.com/cars/bmw/2018-bmw-4-series-convertible-ar173950.html|website=www.topspeed.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> | |||
| However, when the same engineering body frame is sold under a different marque or by a partner automaker, it usually becomes, from a commercial point of view, a different car model. See ]. | |||
| Some models have an only engine (or electric/hybrid powertrain) option available, while other models have multiple powertrains available.<ref>{{cite web|title=2018 Ford Mustang|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2018-ford-mustang-first-drive-review|website=www.caranddriver.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> | |||
| ==Marketing== | |||
| Sometimes the marketing department may give each body style variant its own trade name, creating as many car models as body variants, even though they may share a large parts commonality and the engineering department may continue to consider them all part of the same project. An example of this is the ] hatchback and the ], which is of "three-box" design with a boot/trunk added to what is essentially a Golf. | |||
| In North America, a model can also be called a '''nameplate'''. The ] is the oldest automobile nameplate in continuous production, dating to 1934, and the 1940-1996 ] 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. The ] is also a long-running model that has returned for 2003, having originally been introduced in 1925. | |||
| Conversely, the marketing department may advertise a car model as a convenient derivative of some popular car, when in fact they may be completely different engineering projects with almost no parts commonality, or from differing generations of the model. (For example, convertibles are often so heavily engineered, for a relatively small number of sales, that an older generation model is facelifted and carried forward with a new generation of the model's other body styles.) However, this can also mean that it can change some things.{{vague|date=August 2012}} | |||
| === Country-specific model names === | |||
| ==Regional variations== | |||
| The same car model may be sold by the automaker in different countries under different model names. Examples include ],<ref>{{cite web|title=Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero|url=https://www.hemmings.com/magazine/hsx/2008/07/Mitsubishi-Pajero-Montero/1661617.html|website=www.hemmings.com}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=Mitsubishi Montero/Pajero SUV Redesign Delayed, PHEV Possible|url=http://www.motortrend.com/news/mitsubishi-monteropajero-suv-redesign-delayed-phev-possible-340545/|website=www.motortrend.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> ],<ref>{{cite web|title=2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata may be getting 181 hp|url=https://www.autoblog.com/2018/03/01/2019-mazda-mx-5-miata-may-be-getting-181-hp/|website=www.autoblog.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> ]<ref>{{cite web|title=2007 Volkswagen Rabbit|url=https://www.caranddriver.com/reviews/2007-volkswagen-rabbit-short-take-road-test|website=www.caranddriver.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> and ].<ref>{{cite web|title=Ford Endeavour facelift spied in Thailand|url=https://www.autocarindia.com/car-news/ford-endeavour-facelift-spied-in-thailand-407063|website=www.autocarindia.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|title=2018 Ford Endeavour/2018 Ford Everest (facelift) spied testing for the first time|url=https://indianautosblog.com/2017/06/2018-ford-endeavour-2018-ford-everest-facelift-270717|website=www.indianautosblog.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> | |||
| The same car model may be sold by the automaker in different countries under different names. An example of this is the ]. | |||
| == |
==Model years== | ||
| {{main|Model year#Automobiles}} | |||
| Previously, automakers (especially American) had offered lots of options to give customers much flexibility, however this has largely been discarded in favor of ''trim levels'' (also known as ''grades'' and sometimes as ''option packages''), which offers manufacturing and marketing simplicity. | |||
| The model year (MY) is a manner of indicating the version of a car that has been produced and changed over multiple years. | |||
| {{clear right}} | |||
| ==Trim level== | |||
| A model may be offered in varying ''trim levels'', which denotes different configurations of standard equipment and amenities. For instance, the base trim may have only basic features (wheel covers, cloth seats) compared to the top-of-the-line model (alloy wheels, leather upholstery). | |||
| {{main|Automotive trim level}} | |||
| A conventional ] is often considered standard equipment, while automated transmissions (] including ]s, ]s (CVTs), and ]s including ]s) are usually treated as options. The base engine in, say a midsize car or crossover ] from a mainstream manufacturer, is usually a four cylinder (inline-4) while the upgrade is a V6. Often, certain features and packages are only available in combination with the more powerful engines in a vehicle lineup.<ref></ref><ref></ref> | |||
| Some stand-alone options may not be part of packages, including ''factory options'' such as a ] or ], and ''dealer options'' such as a roof rack and hood deflector. The term "option" is somewhat misleading, as vehicles are often sent from the factory to the dealership having several popular options as de facto-standard equipment. For instance, most stock models of entry-level luxury cars on dealer lots contain leather upholstery and a moonroof, as the base vehicle without these amenities (known as a "stripper") is usually available only by special order from the factory (frequently for fleet use such as for taxicabs). Companies and dealerships follow this practice since considering these features as options is more lucrative than raising the price of the model and including these as "standard" equipment.<ref></ref><ref></ref> A delete option is an item that the customer can order not to be included in the car, rather than the opposite. | |||
| It is common for any specific car model to carry additional badges or lettering to announce its trim level. For example, the ]'s trim levels: Camry CE (]), Camry LE (]), and Camry ] (]). Other manufacturers prefer names rather than alphanueric initials for trim levels; the ] range includes entry-level trim badged ''Renault Scénic Authentique'', the next model up badged ''Renault Scénic Expression'', then ''Renault Scénic Dynamique'' and finally the luxury ''Renault Scénic Privilège''. The ]'s trim levels from Evolution I to Evolution X include: RS for ]; GSR for ]; SE for ]; MR for ] and ] for ] (note: GT-A for Evolution VII only; SE for Evolution IX only and; MR for Evolution VIII-present). Often the top-of-the-line engine in the lineup features exclusive badging (V12 badges feature on the 2010 BMW 760Li<ref></ref>), while certain manufacturers have often given the option to customers to remove the badging from the vehicle.<ref></ref> | |||
| The highest trim level is sometimes seen as slightly removed from the rest of the range. For instance the ] high-performance variant is often marketed separately from the regular lineup. ] traditionally sells a '']'' luxury model above the models designated by initials. ] used the name of a former coachbuilder, '']''. There may also be a high-performance version, such as a ]. | |||
| {{see also|trim package}} | |||
| Offering an array of body styles, mechanical specifications and trim levels allow manufacturers to target the same car model to different market niches. For example, an inexpensive base trim three-door hatchback is targeted at motorists on a budget such as students, while the mid-range sedan with the comfort package may suit the needs of a middle-aged family, and the expensive high-performance variant may catch the eye of the sportier-minded auto enthusiast, all of the three variants sharing the same nameplate with a common platform and engineering. An example of this is the ]. | |||
| Often in the later model years of a particular generation of vehicle, there have been "]s" to cut down on the number of options as production winds down, such as the ] and the 2011 BMW 323i ].<ref>{{cite news|author=Canada |url=http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-drive/deals-of-the-week-bmw-3-series-mustang-hyundai-veracruz/article1703107/ |title=Deals of the week: BMW 3-Series, Mustang, Hyundai Veracruz |publisher=The Globe and Mail |date= |accessdate=2011-03-11}}</ref> | |||
| ⚫ | ==Model |
||
| A car model may be further subdivided into ]s, all cars from a particular model year sharing approximately the same characteristics (given the same trim level, body style, engine option, etc.) but sometimes with differences from others of a different model year. | |||
| 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 ] of the vehicle.<ref>{{cite web|title=Trim levels 101: All about trims, styles, options and packages|url=https://www.edmunds.com/car-buying/trim-levels-101.html|website=www.edmunds.com|accessdate=4 April 2018}}</ref> | |||
| In this context, a ] (also known as a mid-generational refresh or minor model update) may update an aging car model, usually with exterior or interior cosmetic changes, and sometimes powertrain changes—but without a major platform engineering revision that would be costly for the automaker. This results in a so-called "second series" of that particular model, and sometimes becoming the opportunity for a marketing re-launch of the same car. A variation of this is a "reskin" where an automaker creates a "new" model by creating completely new outer panelwork for the car but leaves the inner core structure and mechanical configuration from the previous generation largely unchanged - good examples of this include the ] and later ], or the Mark II and Mark III versions of the ]. | |||
| 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 ], ] and additional ]s). | |||
| Many times a manufacturer decides to completely redesign the car, but with the aim of offering the new model to the same specific public or in the same market niche, keeping it similarly priced and marketed against its usual competitors from other manufacturers. The car is usually considered a different model by the engineering department, carrying a different model designator, but, for marketing reasons, it is offered to the consumers with the same old, traditional, familiar name. An example of this is the ]. | |||
| {{clear right}} | |||
| ⚫ | == Model code == | ||
| Total production run for a given car is usually calculated regarding the engineering project name or designator. The marketing department may advertise figures for a continuous-production tradename instead, divided in so-called "generations". However, for government or sport regulatory purposes, each body-style/mechanical-configuration combination may be counted as a different model. | |||
| Model codes (also known as chassis codes, codename, designation, or descriptor, among others)<ref>{{Cite web |last=Georg |first=Kacher |date=2023-08-30 |title=All the BMW E, F and G codenames explained |url=https://www.carmagazine.co.uk/car-news/industry-news/bmw/all-the-bmw-e-and-f-codenames-explained/ |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=CAR Magazine |language=en}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=Finding vehicle details (Department of Transport and Main Roads) |url=https://sc-tmrwcmgr-cd.azurewebsites.net/business-industry/accreditations/heavy-vehicle-registration-assessment-scheme/information-sheets/finding-vehicle-details |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=sc-tmrwcmgr-cd.azurewebsites.net |language=en}}</ref> are designated to a vehicle to provide identification.<ref>{{Cite web |last=Banditoy |title=Banditoy |url=https://www.banditoy.ch/e/shop-spare-parts-land-cruiser-hilux-4x4/code-model-chassis.asp |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=www.banditoy.ch |language=en}}</ref> It provides information on its type, and to an extent its engine, ] and ].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Toyota-Tech.eu |url=https://www.toyota-tech.eu/FindYourModelCode.aspx |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=www.toyota-tech.eu}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |title=What are Toyota Model Code and Production Date? |url=https://www.toyotapartsdeal.com/service/toyota-model_code_production_date.html |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=www.toyotapartsdeal.com}}</ref> Some manufacturers include model codes on the vehicle identification plate alongside the ]. Some manufacturers adopted development codes as model codes.<ref>{{Cite web |date=2019-08-19 |title=European Vehicle Development & Model Codes |url=https://www.santaanawheel.com/blog/european-vehicle-development-model-codes/ |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=Santa Ana Wheel |language=en-US}}</ref> Model codes can be used to find the correct parts for the vehicle.<ref>{{Cite web |title=How to Find Model Code and Chassis Number - BE FORWARD Auto Parts |url=https://autoparts.beforward.jp/help/HowToFindModelCode/ |access-date=2023-11-24 |website=autoparts.beforward.jp}}</ref> | |||
| ==See also== | ==See also== | ||
| {{Div col|colwidth=30em}} | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | * ] | ||
| * ] | |||
| ⚫ | * ] | ||
| * ] | * ] | ||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | |||
| * ] | * ] | ||
| {{div col end}} | |||
| * ] | |||
| ==References== | ==References== | ||
| {{Reflist|colwidth=30em}} | |||
| {{reflist}} | |||
| ] | ] | ||
| ] | |||
Latest revision as of 23:01, 5 December 2024
Industrial automobile model For miniature replicas of automobiles, see Model car.
The model of a car is its design, in the context of the manufacturer's range or series of cars. Different models, variants are distinguishable by technology, components, underpinnings, and/or style and appearance.
The methods used to categorise cars into models differ significantly between manufacturers. Frequently, several different body variants are offered, depending on market demand; and when completing their 'production lifespan', sufficiently successful models are usually followed by a new 'generation' of that model.
The name of a model (range or series) is almost always trademarked, so that competing manufacturers cannot also use it (unless the owner permits it, for an agreed licence fee).
A popular model can have a significantly valuable brand name, and manufacturers often take great care in fostering and maintaining the brand image of the models bearing the name, both in terms of key model characteristics, as well as the targeted market, and the expected or desired buyer's demographic.
Common characteristics
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.
Some models have only one body style (e.g. the Hyundai i20 hatchback), 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). 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.
Some models have an only engine (or electric/hybrid powertrain) option available, while other models have multiple powertrains available.
In 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. The Rolls-Royce Phantom is also a long-running model that has returned for 2003, having originally been introduced in 1925.
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, Mazda MX-5 / Miata, Volkswagen Golf / Rabbit and Ford Everest / Endeavour.
Model years
Main article: Model year § AutomobilesThe model year (MY) is a manner of indicating the version of a car that has been produced and changed over multiple years.
Trim level
Main article: Automotive trim levelBeyond 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.
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).
Model code
Model codes (also known as chassis codes, codename, designation, or descriptor, among others) are designated to a vehicle to provide identification. It provides information on its type, and to an extent its engine, transmission and body style. Some manufacturers include model codes on the vehicle identification plate alongside the vehicle identification number. Some manufacturers adopted development codes as model codes. Model codes can be used to find the correct parts for the vehicle.
See also
References
- "2017 Chevrolet Cruze Hatchback – Driven Review". www.topspeed.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2017 Honda Civic Hatchback First Drive: Incremental Business or Next Big Thing". www.motortrend.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2019 Kia Cerato hatch styling revealed". www.whichcar.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "Mazda to Unveil Updated Mazda6 Wagon at Geneva Motor Show". www.mazda.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "HYUNDAI i20 models and generations timeline, specs and pictures (by year) - autoevolution". www.autoevolution.com. Retrieved 2021-04-02.
- "2017 Audi A3 Hatchback". www.topspeed.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2019 Volkswagen Jetta Preview". www.thecarconnection.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2018 BMW 4 Series Convertible Review". www.topspeed.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2018 Ford Mustang". www.caranddriver.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "Mitsubishi Pajero/Montero". www.hemmings.com.
- "Mitsubishi Montero/Pajero SUV Redesign Delayed, PHEV Possible". www.motortrend.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2019 Mazda MX-5 Miata may be getting 181 hp". www.autoblog.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2007 Volkswagen Rabbit". www.caranddriver.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "Ford Endeavour facelift spied in Thailand". www.autocarindia.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "2018 Ford Endeavour/2018 Ford Everest (facelift) spied testing for the first time". www.indianautosblog.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- "Trim levels 101: All about trims, styles, options and packages". www.edmunds.com. Retrieved 4 April 2018.
- Georg, Kacher (2023-08-30). "All the BMW E, F and G codenames explained". CAR Magazine. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- "Finding vehicle details (Department of Transport and Main Roads)". sc-tmrwcmgr-cd.azurewebsites.net. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- Banditoy. "Banditoy". www.banditoy.ch. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- "Toyota-Tech.eu". www.toyota-tech.eu. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- "What are Toyota Model Code and Production Date?". www.toyotapartsdeal.com. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- "European Vehicle Development & Model Codes". Santa Ana Wheel. 2019-08-19. Retrieved 2023-11-24.
- "How to Find Model Code and Chassis Number - BE FORWARD Auto Parts". autoparts.beforward.jp. Retrieved 2023-11-24.