What Do the Volkswagen Car Names Mean?

Got your eye on a specific model, such as the Atlas or Passat? You may be wondering, “Where do the Volkswagen car names come from?” We can answer that question — along with any others you may have about Volkswagen cars and SUVs. Read on to learn the interesting history behind the car names for Volkswagen.

Volkswagen Car Names: Inspiration & History

Learn more about the meaning behind your favorite Volkswagen model’s name below. You may be surprised at what you learn! Here’s a quick history lesson:

• Volkswagen ID.4: The ID.4 is a new all-electric car from the brand. ID stands for intelligent design, identity, and visionary technologies. It proceeds the ID.3.
• Volkswagen Atlas: The Atlas is a midsize SUV — a true family hauler that can shoulder the weight of seven passengers, plus their belongings. Sound familiar? The Atlas is named after the titan who holds the Earth on his shoulders.
• Volkswagen Arteon: When the Arteon was designed, Volkswagen put emphasis on its intricate style and sophisticated look. It should come as no surprise that Arteon is a derivative of the Latin word, “Artem,” which means art. 
• Volkswagen Golf: Three of the cars in the Volkswagen lineup (Golf, Jetta, and Passat) are named after natural occurrences. “Golfstrom” is German for Gulf Stream, and is where the Golf gets its name. 
• Volkswagen Jetta: The Jetta gets its name from the German word for “Jet Stream.”
• Volkswagen Passat: In German, Passatwinde means “trade winds.” It’s also the inspiration for the Passat sedan’s name. 
• Volkswagen Tiguan: Tiguan is a fusion of two words: tiger and leguan. These are the German words for tiger and iguana.

How Did Volkswagen Get Its Name?

Since we’re on the topic of names, you might also be curious about how the brand earned its name. In German, Volkswagen means “people’s car.” The brand lives up to its namesake, and designs and manufactures vehicles to suit East St. Louis drivers of all stripes. Whether you’re searching for a fuel-efficient sedan, or a spacious and rugged SUV, there’s something for you in the Volkswagen lineup.

Shop for Your New Volkswagen at Auffenberg Volkswagen!

You can browse the full lineup of new Volkswagen vehicles at Auffenberg Volkswagen! We also have a wide selection of certified pre-owned models — all of which are backed by warranty protection. If you’re ready to experience a Volkswagen from the driver’s seat, contact us online or call us at (618) 622-4517 to schedule a test drive. If you want to learn more about VW history, take a look at the history of the VW logo.