What are Vehicle Generations?

Vehicle generations are complete re-designs of a car model by a manufacturer, typically lasting 5-10 years. Each generation introduces new styling, technology, safety features, and sometimes entirely new engineering. This creates a significantly different vehicle from the previous generation but under the same model's name. Minor yearly updates or facelifts can occur within a generation, but a new generation signifies a complete overhaul.

Key characteristics of a new vehicle generation

• Substantial Changes with Major Design Overhaul: A new generation is akin to a completely new car with a familiar name. A new generation often has significant changes such as the engine being moved to the middle of a Chevrolet Corvette. Exterior and interior styling are completely updated.
• New Technology: Incorporation of the latest safety systems, infotainment, and powertrain advancements.
• Improved Performance & Safety: Manufacturers often improve crash test performance and engineering with each new generation.

Why generations matter

• Identify Major Changes and Year-Breaks: Knowing about generations helps buyers understand the significant differences between vehicles from different years. Understanding year-breaks assists buyers with knowing which year/make/model belongs to which generation.
• Researching Vehicles: It allows for more targeted research, as a car's capabilities and features can vary dramatically between generations.
• Value & Features: You can expect a vehicle from the beginning of a new generation to have the latest technology and design, while a vehicle from the end of a generation might be older but potentially available at a lower price