There was a time in the not-so-distant past when the station wagon ruled roadways and was the dominant form of family-friendly transportation, before being replaced by the modern minivan.
As little as three decades ago, pickup trucks were viewed as a vehicle typically reserved for farmers and laborers, before being adopted as the ride of choice for those who work office jobs. And the gas-guzzling sport utility vehicles that no one wanted when fuel prices hit record-highs six years ago are hot with young consumers who favor style and comfort over economy.
While virtually every auto industry trend has changed over the years, though, the one constant has always been Americans’ love affair with the sedan and compact car.
Until now.
Because of new wants and needs, consumers now gravitate toward crossovers and SUVs, meaning automakers are scrambling to slash car models and allocate more resources to this growing market. It’s part of a seismic shift that some attribute to the aging Baby Boomer population, most of whom desire vehicles that are easier to get in and out of because of their higher stance.
Although this news is generally viewed as a downturn for the auto industry since some well-known nameplates are on the chopping block and may, or may not, be revived for future production, it’s ultimately a win-win for consumers who want a great deal on a new vehicle and don’t mind driving something that is soon-to-be discontinued.
Volkswagen Beetle
It’s an automotive design so simple – and so iconic – that its style hasn’t changed much over the past 80 years. Yet, people aren’t buying “the people’s car” like they once did. Sales of the A5 never came close to those of the new Beetle and the original, Type 1, which is why Volkswagen plans to squash a car affectionately dubbed “the bug” in mid-2019.
So, if you’ve ever wanted to own a “Punch Buggy,” this may be your last chance.
Though a bare-bones Beetle retails for $24,000, VW plans to release a special, Final Edition version. Available as a coupe and convertible, the car will feature distinctive trim and body details and will be priced in the $30,000 range.
Ford Taurus
There was a time when the Taurus topped the list of best-selling automobiles because of its aerodynamic design and affordable price-point. And there was that period in 2007 when the Taurus was axed because of poor sales, only to be rebadged the following year as the Ford 500.
But, because of the slow demise of the full-size sedan, coupled with Ford’s plan to end production of all cars except the Mustang, it’s not looking likely that the Taurus will make a return. Ever.
That’s why it’s the perfect opportunity to inquire about a 2019 Taurus, which starts at $27,800 for a base model equipped with a 3.5 L V6. Production ended in September and it’s likely that dealers will soon be ready to move the remaining models at a discounted price.
Chevy Cruze
When Chevrolet announced that it was ending North American production of the Cruze in December 2018, the compact car had been one of the brand’s best-selling models, topping over 200,000 units sold during a five-year span from 2011-15.
When gas prices dipped below $2.50 per gallon, though, most people no longer wanted a small car capable of getting close to 44 mile-per-gallon highway, which puts the future of General Motors’ Lordstown, Ohio plant up-in-the air.
Although the vehicle isn’t getting the boot in foreign markets, particularly South America, now is the perfect time to opt for a new Cruze.
With a price tag of just under $18,000, the car is a bargain and likely to drop in price as it slowly gets phased out.
If you recently bought a discontinued model and need an oil change or other service, contact Andy’s Auto Service at 412-478-9304.
