User:Vossanova/sandbox


 * Wikipedia_talk:WikiProject_Automobiles/Conventions/Archive_3
 * Wikipedia_talk:WikiProject_Automobiles/Archive_53
 * Wikipedia_talk:WikiProject_Automobiles/Archive_31

Start year should be the first model year for cars from brands based in North America. Otherwise, it should be the first production year. It is best to avoid including the end year in the generation title (e.g. "2006–2012")


 * (Ordinal) generation ([Model code;] (start year))
 * (Year) update

A new generation is a major change in body style (entire body, not just front or rear), and/or change in platform. Such a change will often be called "all-new" by the brand in press releases.

An update, sometimes called a "mid-cycle" update or refresh, is when the brand makes a minor body change, usually only to the front or rear of the car. Such an update is also called a "facelift", but the changes can go beyond just the exterior, so the term "update" is preferred. For example, the instrument panel could be changed, or powertrain options like engine or transmission. Such a change will often be called "new" (as opposed to "all-new") by the brand in press releases.

The model (or type) code is used by the manufacturer to identify the specific generation of the model. They are usually not known or used by the public, aside from enthusiasts, so this field is optional. When specified, the model code should have a reference from a reliable source (i.e. not a forum), as Wikipedia should not be the primary source of the model code information.

"(Ordinal) generation" can be omitted in rare cases when the generation model/type code is well-known and used by the public (e.g. Porsche 911: 996, 997, etc.)