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Model year refers to the designation assigned to a vehicle model to indicate its version, features, and regulatory compliance for that year’s production and sale. The model year is distinct from the calendar year of production and may begin in the preceding autumn or later in the year. Automakers use model years for marketing, regulatory, and planning purposes, while dealers, insurers, and fleets rely on the designation to determine warranties, incentives, and eligibility for programs. In many markets, the model year label appears on the window sticker and registration documents.

In the United States, the model year is tied to regulatory certifications by agencies such as the Environmental Protection Agency and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. A vehicle marketed as a 2025 model year might be built in late 2024 and sold as a 2025 model; conversely, labeling conventions can vary by region, with different start dates or naming practices. Changes between model years can be cosmetic (facelifts), mechanical (engine or transmission updates), technological (infotainment or safety features), or regulatory (emissions equipment).

Not all changes align with a new calendar year, and some brands introduce mid-cycle updates within the same model year. While the term is most commonly associated with automobiles, it is also used for other consumer products with annual model lineups.

Understanding the model year helps buyers compare features, warranty coverage, and depreciation, as it signals the design generation and regulatory standards applicable to the vehicle.