Themodel 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 alwaystrademarked, 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 valuablebrand 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.
Equipment, upholstery and exterior trim are usually determined by thetrim level, the car model often defines theplatform (which determines the engines, drivetrains and chassis options available),body styles andaesthetic theme.[1][2][3][4]
Some models have only one body style (e.g. theHyundai i20 hatchback),[5] while other models are produced in several body styles (e.g. theAudi 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 theVolkswagen Jetta and theBMW 4 Series, which are based on theVolkswagen Golf andBMW 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 North America, a model can also be called anameplate. TheChevrolet Suburban is the oldest automobile nameplate in continuous production, dating to 1934, and the 1940-1996Chrysler 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. TheRolls-Royce Phantom is also a long-running model that has returned for 2003, having originally been introduced in 1925.
The same car model may be sold by the automaker in different countries under different model names. Examples includeMitsubishi Pajero / Montero,[10][11]Mazda MX-5 / Miata,[12]Volkswagen Golf / Rabbit[13] andFord Everest / Endeavour.[14][15]
The model year (MY) is a manner of indicating the version of a car that has been produced and changed over multiple years.
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 thetrim 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 oflane departure warning system,collision avoidance system and additionalairbags).
Model codes (also known as chassis codes, codename, designation, or descriptor, among others)[17][18] are designated to a vehicle to provide identification.[19] It provides information on its type, and to an extent its engine,transmission andbody style.[20][21] Some manufacturers include model codes on the vehicle identification plate alongside thevehicle identification number. Some manufacturers adopted development codes as model codes.[22] Model codes can be used to find the correct parts for the vehicle.[23]