The implementation of the BS6 2.0 emissions norms, also known as the RDE norms, was a major event in the automotive landscape in 2023. The stricter regulations spelt the end of several cars in the market, especially small-capacity diesels in compact cars. Some vehicles were also taken off the shelves for being at the end of their lifecycle. We take a close look at all cars and SUVs that were discontinued in India in 2023. Do note, for this list, we have only considered vehicles that were discontinued altogether, and not if a particular variant of a model was discontinued. Therefore, models such as the i20 diesel, the Kwid 800, the Honda City or Amaze diesels do not feature on this list.
Features
Certainly! Here are the key features of the title "9 Cars and SUVs Bid Farewell in 2023: Discontinuations Revealed":
- Farewell Tribute: Pays homage to 9 cars and SUVs bidding farewell in 2023, highlighting the end of their production.
- Comprehensive List: Provides a comprehensive list of discontinued models, offering insights into the changing automotive landscape.
- Model-Specific Details: Reveals the reasons behind the discontinuations, exploring the unique circumstances for each car and SUV.
- Brand and Segment Diversity: Encompasses a diverse range of brands and segments, offering a holistic view of the evolving market trends.
- Impact on Market Dynamics: Discusses the potential impact of these discontinuations on the overall market dynamics and consumer choices.
- Farewell Insights: Provides insights into the significance and contributions of the departing models to the automotive industry.
- Industry Shifts: Explores how the discontinuations reflect broader industry shifts, such as evolving consumer preferences and technological advancements.
- Memorable Goodbyes: Celebrates the legacy of the departing cars and SUVs, acknowledging their contributions to the automotive legacy.
- Consumer Considerations: Considers the implications for consumers, offering guidance for those navigating the market with these models no longer in production.
- Reflects Changing Trends: Serves as a reflection of changing automotive trends, shedding light on the reasons behind the industry's constant evolution.
- Informative Resource: Acts as an informative resource for enthusiasts and consumers alike, providing a retrospective on the models bidding farewell in 2023.
As the automotive industry undergoes continuous evolution, 2023 marked the end of the road for several iconic models. From Maruti Suzuki's Alto 800 to Honda's Jazz, City Gen 4, and WR-V, and others, these cars bid farewell, making way for new entrants and aligning with changing market demands. In this detailed exploration, we delve into the reasons behind each discontinuation, the impact on the automotive landscape, and what the future holds for the brands involved.
Maruti Suzuki Alto 800
- The venerable Alto 800, Maruti's most affordable model, met its end in 2023.
- Discontinuation marked the conclusion of the iconic 3-cylinder, 796cc petrol engine (F8D) after four decades.
- Consolidation to the Alto K10 model was driven by a price overlap with the newer Alto K10, streamlining Maruti's lineup.
Mahindra KUV100 NXT
- Mahindra bid farewell to the KUV100, its smallest and most affordable model, with a sole petrol powertrain.
- The 6-seater layout and lack of significant upgrades led to its discontinuation.
- Sales figures, coupled with the absence of updates to meet stricter emissions norms, influenced Mahindra's decision.
Honda Jazz, City Gen 4, and WR-V
- Honda faced the most significant model discontinuations due to RDE norms, retiring the Jazz, City Gen 4, and WR-V.
- The City Gen-4 reached the end of its lifecycle, making way for the City Gen-5.
- The Jazz, though on an extended lifecycle, never saw the fourth-gen model in India, leading to discontinuation.
- The WR-V faced competition in the compact SUV segment, replaced by the larger and more premium Elevate.
Nissan Kicks
- Nissan phased out the Kicks midsize SUV ahead of the RDE norms.
- Despite competitive pricing and a range of engines, the Kicks struggled in terms of sales.
- Lack of periodic updates and the emergence of newer rivals contributed to its discontinuation.
Skoda Superb and Octavia
- Skoda bid adieu to both the Superb and Octavia, sharing a 190hp, 2.0-litre petrol engine.
- Waning interest in the executive sedan segment and limited sales led to their gradual phase-out.
- Talks of a potential return for the Octavia in RS guise with a plug-in hybrid powertrain remain uncertain.
Kia Carnival
- The Kia Carnival faced delisting from the brand's website and dealers stopped fresh orders in April.
- Discontinuation was in anticipation of the RDE norms.
- An all-new generation of the Carnival is expected in the second half of 2024, aligning with global models.
The discontinuation of these cars in 2023 represents a pivotal moment in the automotive industry. Each model had its unique journey and set of circumstances leading to its exit. As brands make room for newer, more advanced offerings, consumers can anticipate a fresh wave of innovation and updates in the years to come. The ever-changing landscape of the automotive world ensures that as some models bid farewell, others emerge to redefine the driving experience.