Cars that have been named after famous locations

Explore the world with these cars that have recognisable names

Beyond performance or design, a car’s name is one of its most identifiable features. 

Manufacturers can take different paths when it comes to naming their vehicles. German brands like Audi, BMW or Mercedes follow a consistent naming process. Think A-Class, C-Class, E-Class and so on. 

Others, like many who will feature below, use the name as an opportunity to create more character or pay tribute to layers of history and heritage that have shaped the vehicles we see today.

Inspiration for any new model can come from the location that it was built, the birthplace of a manufacturer or a just famous backdrop, so we’ve picked out some of the best and most celebrated models to be named after iconic locations.

Cupra Formentor

The Cupra Formentor is named after the Formentor peninsula on the Spanish island of Majorca.

Cupra have followed SEAT’s trend of naming some of their models after famous locations despite their recent break away from the Spanish manufacturer.

The Formentor was even filmed on the stunning location of the Cap de Formentor ahead of its launch. 

It’s a location fitting for such a stylish SUV that is oozing Spanish heritage. As the first standalone model produced by Cupra, they needed to make a statement and the Formentor certainly delivers.

Experience that Spanish style for yourself with an affordable and cost-effective Cupra Formentor lease. 

Kia Sorento 

The Kia Sorento has been named after the small town of Sorrento in Italy. Though a slightly different spelling, it is believed the South Korean manufacturer has paid tribute to the coastal town in southwestern Italy.

Apart from the name, there is no obvious connection linking Kia to Sorrento, a town that was believed to be heavily influenced by Greek mythology.

Fortunately for you, Carparison’s best car lease deals cost less a week in the Italian sun and the Kia Sorento is an excellent seven-seater SUV that provides enough space and comfort for any family holiday.

SEAT Ibiza

One of the most well-known modern cars to be named after a famous location, the SEAT Ibiza.

Paying homage to the beautiful Spanish island, the Ibiza first hit the UK market back in 1985. 

It's not the first time the Spanish brand has taken this route when naming a new vehicle. The Ibiza followed both the SEAT Malaga and the SEAT Marbella, though neither quite roll off the tongue in the same manner. 

With a SEAT Ibiza lease, you can enjoy a sporty hatchback that is bursting with character and style. Competing in one of the most sought-after and competitive sectors, the Ibiza has stood the test of time as a worthy contender in the small hatchback class. 

Hyundai Tucson

One of Hyundai’s most popular models, the Tucson was named after the second-largest city in Arizona.

Given the not so obvious link between Hyundai and Arizona, cynics have suggested that this was nothing more than a marketing ploy from the Korean manufacturer.

You can't argue with the results though. The Tucson remains one of the best mid-size SUVs available right now, offering an excellent blend of space, performance and practicality. 

With a Hyundai Tucson lease deal, you can experience the Tucson in all its glory, with fixed monthly payments and flexible lease terms.

Kia Rio

Reports claim that the Kia Rio has been named in homage to the beautiful capital of Brazil, though there is some dispute surrounding that theory.

It has also been suggested that the name 'rio' could allude to the Spanish translation of 'river', which in turn is a nod to the car's flowing design. 

We've already established Kia's creative history when it comes to naming their new models and the Rio is no different. Their unique names add an element of character and flair to their vehicles, helping them compete against more premium rivals. 

As one of the smallest and most efficient models in their line-up, the Rio makes for a smart choice for your next Kia lease deal.

Bentley Mulsanne

Bentley chose to be quite specific when they named the Mulsanne in honour of the Mulsanne Straight that features during the famous Le Mans racing circuit.

The Mulsanne Straight is a near four mile long straight at the Circuit de la Sarthe and when not in use for racing, sections of it form part of a public road. 

The famous British manufacturer has enjoyed a flurry of success at Le Mans over the years, winning six times. Such an achievement deserves recognition of the highest order and the Mulsanne is a vehicle that does just that. 

It's the height of luxury, with beautiful hand-crafted materials and a stunning design that provides unrivalled levels of refinement. 

Hyundai Santa Fe 

Named after Santa Fe in New Mexico, Hyundai tried to capture the feeling of adventure when they released their first SUV. 

This spacious and stylish seven-seater SUV comes with off-road capabilities and that’s something Hyundai wanted to embrace.

However, if you were to choose a current generation Santa Fe for your next Hyundai lease deal, you'll experience a plush and comfortable driving experience that is far more refined than their off-roading history suggests it might be.