22:49 05-01-2026

Why these beloved U.S. models were discontinued for EVs

www.ford.com

Explore why Ford Edge, Toyota Avalon, Malibu, 300 and more were discontinued in the U.S. as carmakers pivot to EVs and crossovers. See the market shift.

Across the United States, carmakers are changing course at speed, putting their money on versatile EVs and crossovers while quietly retiring distinctive models many buyers once cherished. Below is a look at the once-popular nameplates that have left the U.S. market in recent years.

Ford Edge

The Ford Edge—long one of the standout compact premium crossovers of its generation—was unexpectedly dropped after 2024. Despite strong sales, company leadership chose to focus exclusively on a new wave of electric vehicles. It’s a pointed reminder that numbers alone no longer guarantee a place in the lineup.

Toyota Avalon

Toyota’s flagship sedan left the assembly line earlier, in 2022. The brand is channeling resources into a full range of SUVs, sharply trimming its roster of traditional sedans, even the successful ones. For drivers who prize long-haul comfort, that leaves fewer familiar choices.

Chevrolet Malibu

Another well-known American model exited General Motors’ production in 2023. The mid-size Malibu had earned consumer trust for years, but the company decided to concentrate on EVs and contemporary crossovers. The shift underscores where development budgets are headed.

Chrysler 300

The full-size, executive-leaning Chrysler 300 concluded its run at the end of 2023, marking the close of an era for big American premium sedans. In its place, the brand plans to lean into less traditional body styles and electric offerings. The silhouette may change, but the ambition clearly remains.

Honda Fit

The compact Honda Fit began its gradual departure from the U.S. market in 2020. Its popularity among younger buyers faded as preferences tilted toward larger crossovers and family-focused vehicles. A clever, space-efficient hatchback simply found itself out of step with new habits.

Subaru Legacy

The family-oriented Subaru Legacy wrapped up its production career in 2025. The company pivoted to building more SUVs, reflecting evolving consumer tastes. For a sedan known for balance and practicality, the curtain call felt almost inevitable in today’s market.

Nissan Maxima

This upscale Nissan was one of the last D-segment flagships in America, yet it bowed out in 2023 as demand shifted toward SUVs and EVs. The decision fits the broader trend, even if the nameplate carried real weight among loyalists.

Mazda 6

The stylish Mazda 6 ended production in 2022. The Japanese brand moved to high-volume crossover manufacturing, leaving behind a distinctive and well-liked sedan. The trade-off favors market momentum over characterful niche appeal.

Volkswagen Passat

The German VW Passat also retired in 2022. Its departure formed part of Volkswagen Group’s wider transformation toward mass production of cleaner electric models. Another chapter closes as the industry turns the page to its next act.

Caros Addington, Editor