These Cars Are DEAD in 2026 (And Here’s Why) | Episode 993
About this episode
A deep dive into the vehicles set to be discontinued in 2026 reveals a trend towards the elimination of higher-end models, with 20 out of 27 vehicles being premium or luxury options. The discussion highlights specific models like the Porsche 718 Boxster and Audi Q8 e-tron, while also addressing the implications for buyers looking for deals on discontinued sedans and EVs. The hosts emphasize the potential for savings on models like the Subaru Legacy and Nissan Altima, as dealers may be eager to clear out inventory. The episode also touches on a charity fundraiser for lung cancer research, adding a personal touch to the conversation.
Toyota Tacoma
"... holiday wishes come true with a new Camry, RAV4, Tacoma and more! Alright, let's sing it together this t..."
Toyota Camry
"...n! Make your holiday wishes come true with a new Camry, RAV4, Tacoma and more! Alright, let's sing it t..."
Toyota RAV4
"...e your holiday wishes come true with a new Camry, RAV4, Tacoma and more! Alright, let's sing it togethe..."
The Toyota RAV4 is a type of vehicle called an SUV, which is bigger than a regular car and has more space inside. It's great for families because it can carry a lot of stuff and is good for driving in different weather conditions.
The Toyota RAV4 is a compact SUV that has been a staple in the automotive market for its reliability and versatility. It's popular among families and outdoor enthusiasts due to its spacious interior and all-wheel-drive options.
trim level
"And so I would be curious as to what higher trim level vehicles are being discontinued. And then what the price points are of those vehicles that are not."
Trim level is like a version of a car that comes with different features. Higher trim levels usually mean more expensive cars with better options.
A trim level refers to a specific version of a vehicle model that comes with a particular set of features and options. Higher trim levels typically include more luxury features, advanced technology, and performance enhancements, which can significantly increase the vehicle's price.
price point
"And if the price points are still well above $50,000,"
Price point is the specific price of a car. It helps people know how much a car costs compared to others.
Price point refers to the specific price at which a product is sold. In the automotive context, it often relates to the pricing of different vehicles or trim levels, helping consumers understand the market positioning of a car.
Porsche Boxster
"The most expensive vehicle being discontinued is obviously the Porsche 718 Boxster, which is $142,000 vehicle."
The Porsche 718 Boxster is a high-end sports car that is designed for performance and driving enjoyment. It's known for its great handling and stylish design.
The Porsche 718 Boxster is a luxury sports car known for its mid-engine layout and agile handling. It is part of the 718 family, which includes both the Boxster and Cayman models.
Ford Escape
"One of the lowest priced vehicles among those being ending or having ended production in 2025 was the Ford Escape at $30,000."
The Ford Escape is a small SUV that is good for families and everyday driving. It has a lot of space inside and is easy to drive.
The Ford Escape is a compact SUV that offers a balance of practicality and efficiency. It is popular for its spacious interior and user-friendly technology.
Audi Q8 Etron
"In 16 of the vehicles being discontinued in 2026, our SUVs are crossovers with the Audi Q8 e-tron being the most expensive at $86,196."
The Audi Q8 e-tron is a fancy electric SUV that is designed to be comfortable and high-tech. It's great for people who want an eco-friendly vehicle without sacrificing luxury.
The Audi Q8 e-tron is an electric SUV that combines luxury with advanced technology and performance. It features a spacious interior and a range of electric driving capabilities.
MSRP
"...average asking prices or MSRPs still be in excess of $50,000? If the answer to that is yes, then okay,..."
MSRP is the price that car makers suggest dealers sell their cars for. It's a starting point for how much you might pay for a new vehicle.
MSRP stands for Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price, which is the price that the manufacturer recommends a dealer sell a vehicle for. It serves as a guideline for pricing and can influence consumer expectations and dealer pricing strategies.
discontinued vehicles
"the list of discontinued vehicles underscores notable shifts..."
Discontinued vehicles are cars that companies have stopped making. This usually happens when they decide to focus on different types of cars that people want more.
Discontinued vehicles refer to car models that are no longer being produced by manufacturers. This often reflects changes in consumer demand and market trends.
EVs
"specifically with regards to sedans and EVs."
EVs stand for electric vehicles, which are cars that run on electricity instead of gas. They are better for the environment and are becoming more common.
EVs, or electric vehicles, are cars that are powered entirely by electricity rather than gasoline or diesel. They are becoming increasingly popular due to their environmental benefits and advancements in battery technology.
sedans
"And sedans, we know are going, by the way..."
Sedans are a kind of car that has four doors and a separate trunk. They used to be very popular, but now more people are buying SUVs.
Sedans are a type of passenger car characterized by a three-box configuration with separate compartments for the engine, passengers, and cargo. They are traditionally popular but have seen a decline in favor of SUVs and crossovers.
Audi Q4
"including the Audi QA. Each of our Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Nissan Aria..."
The Audi Q4 is a small electric SUV made by Audi. It's designed to be stylish and comfortable while being eco-friendly.
The Audi Q4 is a compact electric SUV that represents Audi's entry into the growing electric vehicle market. It combines practicality with luxury features typical of the Audi brand.
Nissan Aria
"Each of our Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Nissan Ariya, all of them are being discontinued..."
The Nissan Ariya is a new electric crossover SUV from Nissan. It's designed to be stylish and has many tech features.
The Nissan Ariya is an all-electric crossover SUV that features a modern design and advanced technology. It aims to compete in the growing electric vehicle market.
Tata Motors Aria
"...QA. Each of our Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Nissan Aria, all of them are being discontinued in 2026."
Mercedes-Benz Mercedesbenz Eqb
"including the Audi QA. Each of our Mercedes-Benz EQB and the Nissan Aria, all of them are being discontinued in 2026."
Volvo S90
"...g, by the way, side Subaru Legacy, Volvo S60 and S90 are also no longer going to be an option in 2026..."
The Volvo S90 is a fancy car that is very safe and comfortable to drive. It has a nice design and lots of tech features, making it a good choice for people who want a luxury vehicle.
The Volvo S90 is a luxury sedan that emphasizes safety, comfort, and Scandinavian design. It features advanced technology and a spacious interior, making it a strong contender in the luxury car market.
Subaru Legacy
"So if I'm in the market, let's say, for a Subaru Legacy, and this can be our first little live experiment of the show today, let's say I'm in the market for a Subaru Legacy, so here's a website really quick, and let's take a peek."
The Subaru Legacy is a car that is known for being safe and reliable. It's a good choice for families and people who want a dependable vehicle that can handle different weather conditions.
The Subaru Legacy is a mid-size car known for its all-wheel drive capability and reliability. It is popular among families and individuals looking for a practical vehicle with good safety ratings.
invoice price
"Dealers advertising it for $31,135, invoice price $30,285, when I want to look at here, your negotiation position."
The invoice price is what the car dealer pays to get the car from the manufacturer. It's usually less than the price you see in the dealership, which can help you when trying to negotiate a better deal.
The invoice price is the amount that the dealer pays the manufacturer for the vehicle. It's often lower than the MSRP and can be a useful figure for buyers when negotiating a purchase.
incentives
"I am also curious that incentives wise, let's take a quick peek. Okay, nothing too crazy, 2.9% for 36 months."
Incentives are discounts or deals that car manufacturers or dealers offer to help sell cars. They can make buying a car cheaper or more appealing.
Incentives in the automotive context refer to financial benefits offered by manufacturers or dealers to encourage the purchase of vehicles. These can include lower interest rates, cash rebates, or special lease terms.
2025 and 2026 models
"It's not like they're going to go, well, you can either buy this 2025 or the 2026. It's like, okay, this is the end of the line."
2025 and 2026 models are cars that will be sold in those years. Sometimes, dealers have to sell the older models before the new ones come out.
The mention of 2025 and 2026 models refers to the model years of vehicles that are either currently available or upcoming. Automakers often release new models in advance of the actual year, which can affect pricing and availability.
distressed merchandise
"And anytime that you discontinue a vehicle, whatever of those remain, I don't want to say they're distressed, because it's not necessarily distressed merchandise."
Distressed merchandise means items that are being sold for less money because there are too many of them or they are getting old. For cars, it could mean they need to sell them quickly.
Distressed merchandise refers to products that are sold at a reduced price due to their excess inventory, age, or condition. In automotive terms, it often relates to vehicles that are being sold off quickly to make room for new inventory.
Bmw X4
"The BMW X4 is being discontinued. So that's an example of a luxury vehicle, an expensive luxury vehicle."
The BMW X4 is a fancy SUV that looks like a coupe. It's designed to be sporty and stylish while still being practical for everyday use.
The BMW X4 is a luxury compact SUV that combines the sporty characteristics of a coupe with the practicality of an SUV. It is known for its stylish design and performance-oriented features.
Cadillac XT6
"Let's see what's next on the list. The Cadillac XT6 that is going away in 2026. Let's do that really..."
The Cadillac XT6 is a big, fancy SUV that can fit a lot of people and their stuff. It's designed to be comfortable and has nice features, making it a good choice for families.
The Cadillac XT6 is a midsize luxury SUV that offers three rows of seating and a range of upscale features. It's designed for families who want a combination of space, comfort, and luxury.
Ford Maverick
"...V to put them in. We are supposed to sell them a Maverick? We can put a cover on it, you know."
The Ford Maverick is a small truck that is easy to drive and park. It can carry things in its bed like a regular truck but is also good on gas, which is great for saving money.
The Ford Maverick is a compact pickup truck that combines utility with efficiency, appealing to a younger audience. It features a hybrid powertrain option, making it one of the most fuel-efficient trucks on the market.
Infiniti QX55
"Next on the list, the Infiniti QX50 and QX55. These are supposed to be like big sellers for Infiniti."
The Infiniti QX55 is a stylish luxury SUV that looks a bit like a coupe. It's designed for those who want a sporty feel in a practical vehicle.
The Infiniti QX55 is a luxury crossover SUV that combines sporty design with practicality. It shares many features with the QX50 but has a more coupe-like silhouette.
Infiniti QX50
"... on it, you know. Next on the list, the Infiniti QX50 and QX55. These are supposed to be like big sell..."
Kia Soul
"So we also have the Kia Soul. So here's another example of an affordable vehicle."
The Kia Soul is a small car that looks a bit like a box. It's popular because it's roomy inside and usually costs less than many other cars.
The Kia Soul is a compact crossover SUV known for its unique boxy design and practicality. It offers a spacious interior and is often considered an affordable option in the market.
customer cash
"...you have up to $500 customer cash. Right, yeah, $500 customer cash."
Customer cash is money that the car company gives to buyers to help them buy a car. It reduces the total price you have to pay when buying the vehicle.
Customer cash refers to cash incentives offered by manufacturers to encourage buyers to purchase a vehicle. This amount is typically deducted from the vehicle's price at the time of sale.
coupé
"It's like a coupé. Yeah, coupé."
A coupé is a type of car that usually has two doors and a sporty look. They are often designed for style rather than having a lot of space inside.
A coupé is a car body style typically characterized by a fixed roof, two doors, and a sporty appearance. Coupés often prioritize style and performance over practicality.
Nissan Altimas
"that type of vehicle go away. The Altima's going away, y'all. Along with the Versa."
The Nissan Altima is a regular car that is comfortable to drive and good on gas. It's a popular choice for people who need a reliable vehicle for everyday use.
The Nissan Altima is a midsize sedan known for its comfortable ride and fuel efficiency. It has been a popular choice for families and commuters alike, offering a good balance of features and affordability.
four-wheel drive
"And let's get, we can do this SR four-wheel drive. There we go, strong leverage on this one."
Four-wheel drive means that all four wheels of the car can get power from the engine. This helps the car grip the road better, especially in bad weather or rough terrain.
Four-wheel drive (4WD) is a drivetrain system that provides power to all four wheels of a vehicle, enhancing traction and control, especially in off-road or slippery conditions. It is often found in SUVs and trucks.
Porsche Cayman
"So we know that Sam Cayman, But it feels that way."
The Porsche Cayman is a small sports car that is really fun to drive. It's known for being fast and handling well on the road, which makes it a favorite for people who love cars.
The Porsche Cayman is a mid-engine sports car known for its exceptional handling and performance. It has been praised for its balance and driving dynamics, making it a popular choice among driving enthusiasts.
electric vehicle
"...But I wonder if they're going to stick with it, the McCann only as an electric vehicle. My guess is, this is just a guess."
An electric vehicle is a car that runs on electricity instead of gasoline. They are often quieter and can be better for the environment because they produce fewer emissions.
An electric vehicle (EV) is a car that is powered entirely or partially by electricity, using electric motors instead of traditional internal combustion engines. EVs are known for being more environmentally friendly and can reduce fuel costs.
hybrids
"Porsche come out with some hybrids to go along with their battery electric vehicles."
Hybrids are cars that use both a gas engine and an electric motor to run. They are designed to save fuel and produce less pollution compared to regular cars.
Hybrids are vehicles that use two or more types of power, typically a combination of an internal combustion engine and an electric motor. This design aims to improve fuel efficiency and reduce emissions.
Subaru Outback
"... you need it, it has almost as much space as the Outback. It's built on the same platform as the Outback."
The Subaru Outback is a car that can handle rough roads and bad weather because it has all-wheel drive. It also has a lot of space inside for people and gear, making it great for trips.
The Subaru Outback is a crossover SUV that blends the features of a wagon with the capabilities of an SUV. It's well-regarded for its all-wheel-drive system and spacious interior, making it ideal for outdoor adventures.
Toyota Supra
"...tly. Now another vehicle being discontinued, the Supra. This thing was short lived."
The Toyota Supra is a fast sports car that looks really cool. It's known for being powerful and fun to drive, but it's also been around for a long time and has a lot of fans.
The Toyota Supra is a sports car that has a rich history and is known for its powerful performance and sleek design. Recently, it has been revived with modern technology and styling, making it a hot topic among car enthusiasts.
Barrett-Jackson
"I remember when they brought it back out again and they sold the first one at the Barrett Jackson in Scottsdale."
Barrett-Jackson is a company that holds car auctions, especially for classic and collectible cars. They are famous for selling cars at very high prices, sometimes for charity.
Barrett-Jackson is a well-known auction company that specializes in classic and collector cars. They are famous for their high-profile auctions, where rare vehicles often sell for significant amounts of money.
Request an Explanation
Heard something you'd like explained? We'll add it to this episode.
Sign in to request explanations for terms you heard.
Want to learn more?
Browse our glossary for plain-English explanations of automotive terms, jargon, and concepts.
Help improve this episode
See something that's not quite right? Our annotations are AI-generated and can sometimes miss the mark. Click the flag icon on any annotation to suggest a correction.