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Dictionary definition of “halo car”

halo car

n. an automobile model that lends prestige or attractiveness to the brands and other models of its manufacturer. Subjects: English, United States, Advertising, Automobiles & Transportation

Editorial Note: This use of halo is derived from halo effect, a tendency of a favorable trait or product to lend credibility or good will to other traits or products from the same source, which dates to at least as early as 1938.

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Citations: 1987 Jim Mateja Chicago Tribune (Apr. 12) “Car Sales In Illinois? Never On Sunday” p. 1: Camaro is an “image or halo car for us,” and a Beretta offshoot might tarnish the image. 1991 Paul C. Judge New York Times (Mar. 30) “Can ‘Image’ Cars Help Detroit?” p. 25: We introduced the Reatta as a “halo” car to attract customers who may not have considered Buick before. 2005 Rick Popely, Jim Mateja Chicago Tribune (Jan. 15) “‘Halos’ light way for Detroit”: “Halo cars,” stylish vehicles built to attract customers to showrooms, work well for some dealers. They are not meant to bring in lots of money in sales but to spark conversation so that the brand stands out among competitors.

Posted 17 Jan 05 | Permalink | Tell a Friend

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