Volkswagen Car Names

We’ve all heard of classic VW models like the Golf and the Jetta, but have you ever wondered what these Volkswagen car names mean? Many car names for Volkswagen have German roots while others are named after cities and even myths! Get to know the meanings behind the Volkswagen car names with Suntrup Volkswagen, and see the latest VW inventory up close in our St. Louis showroom.

Volkswagen Car Names: Inspiration & History

Did you know that the Tiguan was named for a lizard or that the Passat was inspired by the weather? The car names for Volkswagen showcase creativity and history, so here are just a few of the most interesting examples:

• Volkswagen ID.4: As the newest all-electric innovation from VW, the ID.4 sets high expectations from its unique name – meaning intelligent design, identity, and visionary technologies.
• Volkswagen Atlas: In mythology, Atlas was so strong that he held the entire Earth on his shoulders. This served as a great inspiration for the best-selling seven-passenger midsize SUV of the lineup, known for its capabilities and resilience.
• Volkswagen Arteon: The Arteon was designed with a more intricate, refined look – a work of art. So, it’s fitting that the name is derived from the Latin word for art: “Artem”.
• Volkswagen Golf: The VW Golf doesn’t draw inspiration from the putting green, but the weather. The Golf was named after the German word for Gulf Stream: “Golfstrom”.
• Volkswagen Jetta: Another weather-related name, the Jetta gets its name from the German word for “Jet Stream.”
• Volkswagen Passat: Finally, the Passat is named after the German word for trade winds: “Passatwinde”.
• Volkswagen Tiguan: The Tiguan name is a blend of two different animals: the tiger and leguan. These are the German words for tiger and iguana.
• Volkswagen Taos: Known as the Volkswagen Tharu in China, the VW Taos changed names as it entered the North and South America market. Taos pays homage to the town of Taos, New Mexico.

How Did Volkswagen Get Its Name?

We’ve covered car names for Volkswagen, but what about Volkswagen itself? Volkswagen means “The People’s Car.” This brand was designed to appeal to the modern driver with top-notch performance, technology, and comfort features. And while the brand has come a long way since its debut in 1937, VW vehicles remain popular around the world for quality and style.

Whether you drive a fuel-efficient sedan in St Louis or a spacious SUV in St Peters, it’s clear that the Volkswagen brand continues to be the trusted car of the people.

Find for Your New Volkswagen at Suntrup Volkswagen!

Now that you know the meanings behind the Volkswagen car names, want to take a closer look at a brand-new VW Atlas or ID.4 in the Webster area? We’re ready for your test drive at our St. Louis showroom, so contact us to learn more. You can also preview our new, pre-owned, and certified pre-owned inventoy online.