Dodge Charger, Chevy Bolt Among Car Models Discontinued for 2024
The 2020s are proving to be a transformative time for the automotive industry as auto makers everywhere are figuring out the balance between offering traditional vehicles and pioneering in electric and alternative fuel models. As the focus begins to shift heading into the middle of the decade, some brands are discontinuing some widely recognized models to usher in a new era of driving.
Whether you're a Dodge and Chevy lover or Audi and Mercedes fan, get ready to say goodbye to some popular car models going into next year.
Dodge Charger and Challenger
Dodge's Charger and Challenger were popular muscle cars during their lifespan. The Challenger was even named the number one muscle car in the country in 2021. But the company is winding down production of the once-reigning champ to shift its attention to EVs and look forward to "a bright new electrified future."
"The brand will mark the last of our iconic Charger and Challenger nameplates in their current form in the same way that got us here, with a passion both for our products and our enthusiasts that drives us to create as much uniqueness in the muscle car community and marketplace as possible," Tim Kuniskis, Dodge brand chief executive officer said in a statement.
Stellanis, Dodge's parent company, aims to have 50 percent of its passenger car and light-duty truck sales in the U.S. come from EVs by 2030.
Chevy Bolt and Bolt EUV
The Chevy Bolt was instrumental in bringing electric vehicles to the mainstream, as was its SUV counterpart, the Bolt EUV. But despite record sales in the first quarter of 2023, the company is ending production of all Bolt vehicles at the end of the year.
According to USA Today, General Motors CEO Mary Barra confirmed the move as GM looks at other electric brands in its lineup, including Hummer, Blazer, and Silverado.
Related: Chevy Bolt EV: The Electric Car for the Everyman
Nissan Maxima
The Nissan Maxima first rolled off dealer lots in 1981 and became a staple among everyday sedans. Now, 42 years after its debut, Nissan is halting production of the Maxima in mid-2023. Nissan spokesperson Ashli Bobo said the decision stems from the company's prioritization of electric vehicles. The Japanese giant hopes to have 40 percent of its sales be fully electric by 2030.
Audi R8 and TT
Audi is working to become a fully electric company by 2033. To move toward that goal, the German automaker is discontinuing its R8 and TT models and dedicating resources to electric innovation. The cars won't have direct electric successors, but Audi of America spokesperson Mark Dahncke said the company is "investigating options of what that could be."
"In the coming years, we want to focus our Technical Development and Audi Design capacities entirely on expanding the battery electric and hybrid models," Dahncke explained.
Related: The 2020 Audi R8 Is a Subtle Supercar
Kia Stinger
Kia first introduced the Stinger in the U.S. in 2019, and since then, more than 65,000 units have been sold in the country. But after just four model years, Kia is ending production of the fastback sedan. A "limited edition" 2024 model is available for customers to purchase before the Stinger name is retired officially.
"While it may be the end of the road for Stinger, its legacy lives on through our innovative products, both current and forthcoming,” Kia America Chief Operating Officer Steven Center said in a press release of the move.
Related: The 2019 Kia Stinger GT2 Is the Luxury Ride You Never Expected From Kia
Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class cars
Mercedes-Benz is cleaning house going into 2024. In August, the CLS class is being taken out to pasture. On top of that, the automaker is cutting off production for the C-Class Coupe and Cabriolet and the E-Class Coupe and Cabriolet this summer.
“In their place, we will continue our long tradition of sporty, elegant dream cars with a new, independent model series—the Mercedes-Benz CLE," company spokesperson Andrew Brudnicki said of the change. The new CLE Coupe and CLE Cabriolet are expected to provide drivers more space, dynamism and sportiness.
McLaren 720S
Mercedes isn't the only luxury brand to discontinue models for 2024. McLaren stopped production of its 720S Coupe last year to prepare the way for its spiritual successor, the 750S Coupe. The first 750s are scheduled to be delivered to customers in Q4 2023.
