We have mentioned the make and model of the car many times, so it makes sense for us to finally take the time to thoroughly explain the actual meaning of these terms. In short, the brand of a vehicle is its brand, and the model is a specific vehicle or combination of vehicles in the brand's lineup. However, the brand can be owned by the same manufacturer, and the model can have multiple variants that affect the overall vehicle cost, so it is important to understand the differences between these concepts before starting the car buying process.

How Are Brands Owned by the Same Manufacturer Different?

It is not uncommon for manufacturers to have multiple independent brands. This may be the result of previous acquisitions or mergers, just as General Motors acquired Cadillac, Buick, and Chevrolet in the early 1900s. Although some of these brands have similar-looking "brother" models, such as the Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave, they do differ in some capacity and are still sold separately under each individual brand.

In addition, manufacturers may have different brands to target different audiences. For example, Ford Motor Company sells its more affordable models under the Ford brand and its high-end models under the Lincoln brand.

How Are Cars of the Same Model Different?

A model can have multiple body styles, usually at least a few trim levels, and is almost always updated once a year. We will use the 2020 Honda Civic as an example to explain each of these identifiers.

Body Style

The body style of a vehicle describes its general shape, size, and the best way to use it. Using our example vehicle, the 2020 Honda Civic, you can choose between three different body styles: four-door sedan, two-door coupe, and hatchback, replacing the classic trunk with a rear hatch. Despite sharing the same model name, the three body styles have obvious differences.

Trims

The interior of the vehicle represents its level in the model. The trim level is used to add a specific set of upgrades and options for performance, technology, and/or style. Common trim level terms you may see include "Base" for the lowest level of decoration without upgrades or options, "Sport" for improved performance specifications, and "Luxury" for upgraded interior, technical and performance specifications.

In the case of the 2020 Civic, you’ll find six different trim levels:

LX: Starting at $19,850

Sport: Starting at $21,550

EX: Starting at $23,600

EX-L: Starting at $25,000

Touring: Starting at $27,250

Sport Touring: Starting at $28,150

We will not discuss the specific features added for each trim level (please feel free to view the full 2020 Honda Civic trim data), but you can see that as you upgrade from the basic LX trim to the high-end Sport, the price will increase. Travel trim.

Model Year

The model year of a vehicle indicates when it was first released, which usually occurs in the second half of the previous calendar year. For example, our trusted 2020 Honda Civic was originally released in October 2019.

Models usually change every year when they are released, but they can range from minor updates, such as adding new features to specific trims, to complete redesigns of the car's look, feel, and driving style. Compared to the 2019 predecessor, a new addition to the 2020 Civic is the six-speed manual gearbox available on the top Sport Touring trim. Visit Cars.com to see the rest of the 2020 Civic updates.

How Do I Find the Make and Model of a Car?

The rear end of the vehicle usually has logos and decals to indicate the brand, model, and trim level information. You can also find more detailed information about a specific vehicle by looking up the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN), which can be found on the driver's side dashboard or the driver's side door frame.

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