Never Say Never: The Cars That Refuse To Be Forgotten
Every car enthusiast has that one vehicle they wish was still on the market. Whether it’s a high-performance muscle car, a quirky compact, or an off-road beast, many beloved cars have been discontinued over the years. Some have worthy replacements that carry on their legacy, others disappeared with no real successor, and a few are finally making a comeback.
The Good: Cars With a Comparable Modern Alternative
Not all discontinued cars leave a void in the market. Some have been succeeded by models that continue their spirit, performance, and purpose. Here are cars that may be gone, but not forgotten—because you can still get something similar today.
1. Chevy SS (2014-2017) ? Alternative: Dodge Charger Scat Pack or Cadillac CT5-V
Why it was loved: A sleeper sedan with a Corvette-derived V8 and RWD. Why it was discontinued: Low sales and GM shutting down the Holden division. Best modern alternative: The Dodge Charger Scat Pack is the last American V8 sedan, while the Cadillac CT5-V offers similar power and handling.
2. Ford Focus RS (2016-2018) ? Alternative: Toyota GR Corolla or VW Golf R
Why it was loved: AWD, turbocharged hot hatch with an aggressive personality. Why it was discontinued: Ford stopped Focus production in North America. Best modern alternative: The Toyota GR Corolla keeps AWD and turbo fun alive, while the VW Golf R remains a top-tier hot hatch.
3. BMW M3 Coupe (E92, 2013) ? Alternative: BMW M4 or Lexus RC F
Why it was loved: The last naturally aspirated V8 M3, known for its high-revving engine. Why it was discontinued: BMW switched to turbocharged inline-six engines. Best modern alternative: The BMW M4 continues as the M3’s coupe successor, while the Lexus RC F keeps the naturally aspirated V8 alive.
4. Chevy Avalanche (2013) ? Alternative: GMC Sierra Denali CarbonPro or Honda Ridgeline
Why it was loved: Versatile truck/SUV hybrid with the "midgate" for extra cargo space. Why it was discontinued: Declining sales and market shifts. Best modern alternative: The GMC Sierra Denali CarbonPro keeps the premium truck experience alive, while the Honda Ridgeline carries on the unibody truck concept.
5. Volkswagen Beetle (2019) ? Alternative: MINI Cooper or VW ID.Buzz
Why it was loved: A retro-styled classic that mixed nostalgia with modern tech. Why it was discontinued: Declining sales and VW's shift to electric vehicles. Best modern alternative: The MINI Cooper maintains quirky small-car fun, and the VW ID.Buzz brings back retro VW charm in electric form.
The Bad: Cars With No True Replacement
These discontinued cars left behind a void in the market that no current model fully fills.
1. Mazda RX-7 / RX-8
Why it was loved: Rotary-powered sports cars with a unique driving experience. Why it was discontinued: Struggles with emissions and fuel efficiency. No true replacement: Mazda has no modern rotary sports car.
2. Honda S2000
Why it was loved: High-revving engine, lightweight chassis, and perfect balance. Why it was discontinued: Market shifts away from small roadsters. No true replacement: No similar Honda sports car exists today.
3. Toyota MR2
Why it was loved: Affordable mid-engine sports car. Why it was discontinued: Market decline for affordable mid-engine cars. No true replacement: Toyota has hinted at a comeback but hasn’t delivered.
4. Nissan 240SX
Why it was loved: Budget-friendly RWD sports coupe loved by tuners. Why it was discontinued: Shift in consumer preference toward crossovers. No true replacement: Nissan doesn’t offer a similar car today.
What’s Coming Back: Confirmed or Rumored Returns
Some discontinued cars are finally getting a second chance or at least strong comeback rumors.
1. Toyota Land Cruiser (Confirmed Return in 2024!)
Why it was loved: Ultimate off-road capability with Toyota reliability. Why it was discontinued: High price and SUV market changes. Confirmed comeback: A redesigned Land Cruiser returns in 2024.
2. Dodge Hornet (Spiritual Revival of the Neon & Caliber SRT-4)
Why it was loved: Dodge Neon SRT-4 was a fun, turbocharged compact. Why it was discontinued: Dodge abandoned small cars. Confirmed comeback: The Dodge Hornet is a turbocharged AWD crossover carrying the performance torch.
3. Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Rumored Comeback)
Why it was loved: AWD turbo rally performance car. Why it was discontinued: Mitsubishi shifted focus to SUVs and EVs. Rumors: Reports suggest a hybrid or electric Evo may be in development.
4. Ford Thunderbird (Possible EV Revival?)
Why it was loved: Classic American grand touring coupe. Why it was discontinued: Lack of demand in its last iteration. Rumors: Ford has hinted at reviving the Thunderbird name for a luxury electric coupe.
The auto industry is constantly evolving, and while some cars disappear forever, others find new life in modern forms. Whether you’re nostalgic for the raw power of the Dodge Viper, the quirky charm of the VW Beetle, or the off-road prowess of the Land Cruiser, one thing is certain—great cars never truly die in the hearts of enthusiasts.
Which of these discontinued cars do you miss the most? And which one are you most excited about seeing return? If you’re looking for a modern alternative or your next favorite ride, explore our full inventory and see what’s waiting for you.
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