Departure lounge: Cars that are being discontinued in SA

With changing consumer trends resulting in an influx of new alternatives, we look at which cars are being phased out in SA. 

Aston Martin 

The Aston Martin DB11 has served at the summit of the British marque’s grand tourers since 2016, replacing the DB9. It was also the first model to benefit from the engine supply agreement with AMG. It was available in open-air Volante guise, and spawned tasteful spin-offs such as the Superleggera and AMR. It has been retired and the new DB12 will be available in SA as early as Q1 2024.

Audi R8 

The R8 model powered by a howling and naturally aspirated 5.2l V10 engine is on its last legs. The company has not announced plans for a replacement and the local outfit confirms that the remaining stock that is available at dealerships will be the last of the slinky sports car as we know it.

Ford Ecosport

Ford SA has confirmed the Ecosport is in sales run-out phase after its end of production globally. Launched in SA in 2013, the Ecosport was the perfect answer to a market enamoured with the growing compact SUV trend, offering fans of the blue oval brand a nimble, practical and economy-minded solution.

The exit of the small SUV could have signalled the end of the small Ford product in SA, but this not the case. Though Ford SA doesn’t confirm, our sources say the Romania-built Ford Puma, another compact crossover, will be named its replacement. Local introduction of the Puma is expected before year-end.        

Kia Rio 

The Kia Rio is in run-out phase due to the next-generation model being readied, however the replacement will not be coming to SA due to being produced for left-hand-drive markets only. The local company will continue to sell the Rio while stocks last, and adds it will continue to offer the full after-sales service to all customers.

Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe and convertible 

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class coupe is in run-out phase as the brand readies to launch the new CLE coupe in its place. The new two-door dreamboat launched in Europe in November.

SA allocations are expected to arrive during 2024 while the CLE cabriolet version, which was launched alongside the tin top, is likely to go on sale in SA late in 2024, according to Mercedes-Benz SA.

McLaren 720S 

If you fancy the magic and dramatic looks of the McLaren 720S, now might be a good time to secure it. The British super merchants have a lighter, and faster replacement in the new 750S. It is powered by a twin-turbocharged 4.0l V8 petrol engine with outputs of 552kW and 800Nm, good for 2.8 secs from 0-100km/h and a top speed of 332km/h. According to local distributors Daytona, the new McLaren 750S will be in their posh stores starting from Q1 2024.

McLaren 570S

Production of the McLaren 570S with a 425kW 3.8l twin turbo V8 has also ended. If the idea of a hybrid V6 engine, albeit with more power and greener credentials as found in its Artura replacement sounds like an awful idea, it’s also probably time to seek out this McLaren before it disappears.

Rolls-Royce Wraith & Dawn

With the debut of the electric-only Rolls-Royce Spectre, production of the Wraith and its drophead Dawn sibling has officially ended. There are still some units of the Gothic-styled two-door cars propelled by lusty 6.6l twin-turbo V12s. As the brand embarks on a new electric era these will now assume collectable status.

Nissan Almera

A firm favourite among Uber and Bolt operators for its ample cabin, comfortable drive and cheap running costs, the Nissan Almera has reached the end of production globally. Nissan SA confirms has no confirmed plans for a replacement.

Nissan NP200

Production of the venerable NP200 half-tonner at its Rosslyn assembly plant will cease in March 2024. The bakkie, which took over from the legendary Nissan 1400, had a 16-year run in the local market, providing companies and entrepreneurs an affordable commercial option. No immediate replacement model is planned, and Nissan says it is investigating alternatives.