Car names with hidden geographical origins
Many car names are tied to specific geographical features and cities around the world, evoking the romance of travel, the beauty of nature, and the history of various regions. However, some models have less obvious name origins connected to particular corners of the Earth. Here is a list of such vehicles.
Lamborghini Jarama
This standout from Italian automaking is named after Spain's Jarama province, known for breeding the fighting bulls used in bullfighting. The area also gained fame from hosting Formula 1 races—the iconic Jarama Circuit was the venue for the Spanish Grand Prix from 1968 to 1981.
Ford F-150 King Ranch
The Ford F-150's King Ranch trim proudly carries the name of the legendary Texas ranch, which spans roughly 825,000 hectares. It is the largest ranch in the United States, covering more land than the entire state of Rhode Island.
Ferrari Portofino
This beautiful Italian sports car owes its name to the charming village of Portofino on Italy's Ligurian Sea coast. The small resort is celebrated for its exclusivity, luxury yachts, and refined Mediterranean scenery.
Bentley Bentayga
The Bentley SUV's name comes from Roque Bentayga, the highest peak on Gran Canaria. The mountain sits within a unique natural landscape designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
Alfa Romeo Stelvio
Alfa Romeo's marketers chose to name their model after the famous Stelvio Pass in the Italian Alps. The pass is renowned among driving enthusiasts for its challenging serpentine roads and breathtaking views.
Nissan Murano
Many assume the Nissan Murano crossover is linked to the city of the same name in Florida. That is not entirely accurate. The car's name actually derives from the small island of Murano near Venice, famous for its master glassblowers and centuries-old glassmaking craft.
GMC Acadia
The American brand GMC drew inspiration from Acadia National Park in Maine. The park is distinguished by its stunning Atlantic coastline landscapes and is popular with tourists and outdoor enthusiasts.
Bentley Mulsanne
This luxurious British sedan is named after the Mulsanne Corner, a legendary section of the Le Mans circuit. It is there that some of the most demanding tests of a car's endurance and speed take place.
Renault Floride
At first glance, it seems the French automaker named the car after the U.S. state of Florida. However, the original version was called "Floride," tied to the French interpretation of the word. Later, in America, the car was sold under a different brand name—Caravelle.
Hyundai Palisade
The Korean brand selected an unusual name for its crossover: Palisade. It originates from a prestigious Los Angeles neighborhood along the Pacific coast of Southern California. The area is famed for its beautiful panoramic views and is considered an elite residential district.
Plymouth Savoy
The Plymouth Savoy originally took its name from a famous late-19th-century London hotel—The Savoy Hotel. Built by theatrical producer Richard D'Oyly Carte, the hotel became a symbol of British culture and art in the early 20th century.
Jeep Wrangler Rubicon
The model's name recalls the famous Roman river Rubicon, symbolizing the crossing of an empire's boundary. But here, the historical connection is different: the SUV is named after a challenging trail through the California-Nevada desert that has tested the skills and mettle of countless drivers.
Hyundai Kona
Hyundai's popular subcompact crossover takes its name from Hawaii's Kona peninsula, known for its coffee plantations and incredible beaches. The area produces the famous Kona Coffee, regarded as one of the world's finest varieties.