Over the past two years, South Africa’s automotive market has experienced a significant shift, with 24 vehicle models being discontinued by the end of 2024. The changes behind the discontinued cars, which began in early 2023, have affected both mainstream and niche segments, leading to the departure of well-loved vehicles from the local market. These decisions reflect evolving consumer preferences, cost considerations, and manufacturers’ efforts to streamline their lineups.

The 2023 Car Models Discontinuations

In 2023, several popular budget-friendly SUVs were phased out, leaving a noticeable gap in the sub-R300,000 SUV category. Models like the Ford EcoSport, Suzuki Vitara Brezza, and Toyota Urban Cruiser had been staples in this affordable and versatile segment. Their departure left many motorists surprised, but the manufacturers quickly replaced them with newer options. Ford launched the Puma, Suzuki introduced the Grand Vitara, and Toyota revamped the Urban Cruiser, although the new version was built on a completely different platform.

Additionally, BAIC discontinued its X25, while Mahindra ended production of the KUV100 and XUV500, simplifying its offerings. Toyota also bid farewell to the iconic FJ Cruiser and retired the Almera, reducing the pool of affordable sedans. Hyundai discontinued the Atos, leaving the Grand i10 as its new entry-level offering. Moreover, Toyota replaced the Agya with the Vitz, a model now based on the Suzuki Celerio platform.

The 2024 Changes

The pace of car discontinuations accelerated in 2024, with 12 models removed from showrooms in the first 11 months alone. Subaru replaced the VX with the Crosstrek, while Kia ended production of its Rio hatch for right-hand-drive markets. In a bold move, Citroën revamped its entire lineup, transitioning from European imports to Indian-manufactured models. This shift led to the discontinuation of the C3 and C3 Aircross, replaced by Indian versions of these cars.

Honda followed suit by retiring the WR-V in favour of the Elevate, while Mahindra updated its XUV300 to the XUV300 TurboSport. Volkswagen also ceased production of its entry-level Amarok bakkie, reflecting a broader trend towards adapting to market demands. Other models such as the Hyundai Kona, Nissan Qashqai, Jeep Renegade, Mazda BT-50, and Toyota C-HR were also pulled from showrooms due to declining sales, further reshaping the local market.

In a surprising move, Nissan discontinued the NP200 despite its popularity. This decision was primarily driven by the vehicle’s outdated engineering. Suzuki also made the decision to phase out the Vitara, replacing it with newer models such as the Fronx and Grand Vitara that now dominate its SUV range.

Conclusion

The past two years have seen a dramatic shift in South Africa’s automotive market, with 24 models being discontinued. While many of these vehicles had earned a loyal following, the shift toward newer designs and modern engineering reflects the evolving preferences of local consumers. As the industry adapts to these changes, the South African automative market continues to evolve, with manufacturers focusing on updated models that meet the growing demand for affordability, practicality, and modern features.