Car manufacturers beginning with the letter A

Several car companies worldwide have names starting with A. Some are major global manufacturers you see on roads everywhere; others are smaller or regional brands, or companies that no longer produce vehicles. This guide lists the real companies, what they make or made, and where they operate.

The list includes both current manufacturers and historical brands. Some names you may recognize from dealerships in your area; others exist mainly in specific countries or have become part of larger corporate groups.

Key Takeaways

  • Audi is a German luxury brand owned by Volkswagen Group and sells vehicles worldwide, including sedans, SUVs, and performance models.
  • Alfa Romeo is an Italian manufacturer known for sports cars and sedans, currently owned by Stellantis.
  • Acura is Honda's luxury division and sells only in North America, focusing on sedans and crossovers.
  • Several other A-brands exist or existed in specific regions, including Aston Martin (British sports cars), Abarth (Italian performance vehicles), and Aiways (Chinese electric vehicles).
  • Some A-brands like Allard and Auburn are historical manufacturers no longer in production.

Major global A-brands you can buy today

Audi is a German luxury automaker and part of the Volkswagen Group. It sells sedans, SUVs, wagons, and high-performance models in most countries worldwide. Audi dealerships operate in North America, Europe, Asia, and other regions. The brand competes directly with BMW and Mercedes-Benz in the luxury segment.

Alfa Romeo is an Italian manufacturer owned by Stellantis (the parent company formed from the merger of Fiat Chrysler and PSA Group). Alfa Romeo makes sports cars, sedans, and SUVs sold primarily in Europe and other markets. The brand has a long history in motorsports and is known for performance-oriented vehicles.

Acura is Honda's luxury brand and operates only in North America. It sells sedans, crossovers, and SUVs through dedicated Acura dealerships. Acura vehicles use Honda engines and platforms but feature different styling, interiors, and technology packages than Honda models.

Smaller or regional A-brands

Aston Martin is a British manufacturer of luxury sports cars and grand tourers. The company produces a limited number of vehicles each year and sells them worldwide through a small dealer network. Aston Martin vehicles are among the most expensive cars on the market.

Abarth is an Italian performance brand owned by Stellantis. It modifies and sells high-performance versions of Fiat vehicles, primarily in Europe. Abarth focuses on small, lightweight cars with upgraded engines and suspension.

Aiways is a Chinese electric vehicle manufacturer founded in 2017. It produces battery-electric SUVs and sedans sold mainly in China and some European markets. Aiways is one of several newer EV makers competing in the Chinese market.

Historical A-brands no longer in production

Auburn was an American luxury car manufacturer that operated from 1900 to 1936. Auburn made high-end sedans and sports cars during the 1920s and 1930s but ceased production during the Great Depression. You may see Auburn vehicles at classic car shows and auctions.

Allard was a British sports car manufacturer that operated from 1946 to 1956. The company built hand-assembled, high-performance vehicles in small numbers. Allard cars are now collector's items and rarely appear on public roads.

Argonaut was a short-lived American manufacturer from the early 1900s. Very few Argonaut vehicles survive, and the brand is largely forgotten outside automotive history circles.

What to know when shopping for an A-brand vehicle

If you are considering buying a car from an A-brand manufacturer, the dealer network and service availability vary widely by brand and location. Audi, Alfa Romeo, and Acura have established dealership networks in most major cities across North America and Europe. Aston Martin dealers are far fewer and concentrated in wealthy urban areas. Aiways has limited presence outside China.

Parts availability and repair costs also differ significantly. Audi and Acura parts are widely available because both brands have large production volumes. Aston Martin and Abarth parts may be harder to find and more expensive. If you own a vehicle from a smaller or historical A-brand, finding replacement parts and may have access to mechanics can be challenging.

Resale value depends on the brand and model. Audi and Acura vehicles hold value reasonably well within their segments. Aston Martin vehicles are luxury collectibles with unpredictable resale markets. Aiways vehicles are too new to have established resale patterns.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Acura the same as Honda?

Acura is Honda's luxury division, so they share engines, platforms, and some components. However, Acura vehicles have different exterior styling, more upscale interiors, and different technology packages. You cannot buy an Acura at a Honda dealership — they operate separate dealer networks.

Where can I buy an Aiways vehicle?

Aiways vehicles are sold primarily in China through their own dealer network. Some models are available in select European countries, but Aiways does not currently sell in North America. Availability varies by country and changes as the company expands.

Are Aston Martin cars reliable?

Aston Martin vehicles are hand-assembled luxury sports cars, not mass-produced vehicles. Reliability data is limited because production numbers are very small. Owners should expect higher maintenance costs and longer service times compared to mainstream brands.

Can I still buy parts for an Auburn or Allard?

Parts for these historical brands are difficult to find. Specialty suppliers and classic car restoration shops may have original or reproduction parts, but availability is limited and prices are often high. Owners of these vehicles typically work with classic car mechanics who specialize in vintage vehicles.

What is the difference between Alfa Romeo and Abarth?

Alfa Romeo is the main Italian brand that makes a full range of vehicles. Abarth is a performance sub-brand that takes Fiat models and upgrades them with more powerful engines, sport suspension, and aggressive styling. Abarth vehicles are smaller and more focused on performance than most Alfa Romeo models.