You’ve come a long way since the start of 2022 — and so has the automotive industry!
As the world is beginning to lean towards a more electric-driven approach to motor vehicles, manufacturers need to open some space in their catalogs to accommodate the coming changes.
With 2023 just around the corner, it’s time to say goodbye to some cars that have driven us through all the bumps and bends of 2022.
Here are 6 models left in the rearview mirror in 2023:
1. Ford EcoSport
With a steady decline in sales from 2017, Ford knew it was time to pull the plug on the Ecosport in America and remove it from the market.
This will make room for the new model of the Ford Escape in 2023 — the slightly bigger and better version of the Ecosport.
2. Chevrolet Spark
Starting at only $14,595, the Chevy Sparky has been an affordable and reliable small car for many years.
But despite its impressively low price tag, it’s often lived in the shadow of competitor models.
While sales for larger cars like SUVs continue to rise in the US, the market for small commuters is clearly shrinking.
GMC (Chevrolet’s parent company) decided it was finally time to cut ties with the Chevy Spark to make way for newer and more exciting models in 2023.
3. Volkswagen Passat
Over 50 years, almost 2 million Americans have made memories behind the wheel of the iconic VW Passat.
Originally sold under the “Dasher” name from 1974-1990, the VW Passat family sedan has finally reached the end of its journey in the US.
While VW has no hard feelings towards the Passat, they decided they needed to shed some weight to focus more on their SUV business in 2023.
4. Honda Insight
Honda announced earlier this year that it would be shutting its doors on the Insight leading into 2023.
Honda claimed it aims to increase the volume of Hybrid core models leading into the future. Other models looking to outshine the late Honda Insight include the new Honda CR-V and Honda Accord hybrid models — also debuting in 2023.
5. Hyundai Veloster N
Most of the Hyundai Veloster range was discontinued in 2021, but the Veloster N managed to sneak its way into 2022. Unfortunately, It couldn’t outrun the inevitable and is now being discontinued for 2023 as well.
Hyundai decided to put more effort into introducing the new Kona N and Elantra N, models that are aimed to combine the Veloster’s sportiness, with everyday practicality.
6. Buick Encore
After being introduced to the US in 2013, with the aim of being targeted at younger crowds, the Buick Encore saw a 42% drop in sales from 2021-2022 alone.
Luckily for Buick fans, the more refined and appealing Encore GX will still be available in 2023.