CARVERSAL

The automotive industry is constantly evolving, with new models replacing older ones to meet changing consumer demands, stricter emissions regulations, and advancements in technology. As we approach 2026, several cars will bid farewell, making way for more modern and electrified options.

A line of discontinued models runs from upscale sports coupes to everyday sedans. As the result of low sales volume, a loss in the marketplace, or maybe even pressure toward electrically powered vehicles, these cars aren't crossing into the 2026 model.

The Cars That Will Be Discontinued Before 2026

1. BMW X4

This is the stylish coupe SUV by BMW, facing discontinuation. What was famous for sports design with SUV practicality has been put to the challenge in the market of luxury compact SUVs. BMW is moving on towards all-electric and plug-in hybrid lines, and it seems like the X4 has been a cut-short product.

2. BMW M8 Competition

The BMW M8 Competition is a high-performance beast with a 617-horsepower twin-turbocharged V8 engine. Despite its jaw-dropping speed and luxurious interior, BMW has decided to discontinue this model. The M8, along with the 8 Series lineup, will be phased out after 2025. BMW is moving towards more efficient and electrified models, and unfortunately, this powerhouse doesn’t fit into that vision.

3. Cadillac XT4

Cadillac says goodbye to the XT4 compact SUV. One of the brand's best sellers in 2024, but the company won't keep this one around any longer to accommodate the Chevrolet Bolt. The automaker is desperately trying to catch up with electric car mania. Cadillac will be electric someday. It's one step closer to the phase-out of the XT4.

4. Infiniti QX50

Infiniti's compact luxury SUV, the QX50, will not make it past 2025. While the model saw a small increase in deliveries (up 2% compared to the previous year), it struggled to compete with other luxury SUVs in its class. As Infiniti restructures its lineup, it will focus on newer and more competitive models, leaving the QX50 behind.

5. Infiniti QX55

The Infiniti QX55, a coupe-styled variant of the QX50, is also being cut from the lineup. Unlike its sibling, the QX55 faced a significant drop in sales, with deliveries down by 26.9%. With Infiniti’s overall sales declining by 2.3% in the fourth quarter of 2024, the company is trimming underperforming models to focus on a stronger future lineup.

6. Lexus RC & RC F

Lexus is killing its RC coupe and the high-performance RC F. The RC never really caught on as Lexus had hoped, and the RC F, even with its V8 punch, couldn't help but stumble in a shrinking market for gas-powered sports coupes. When the RC and RC F are gone, the Lexus LC will be the last front-engine, rear-wheel-drive coupe remaining in the company's lineup.

7. Nissan Altima

Probably the most iconic name in the mid-size sedan realm, the Nissan Altima is leaving the road. Introduced to the market so long ago, in 1993, it's been a stalwart player in reliable family cars, but, sadly, all things must come to an end. For years, declining sales of sedans combined with Nissan's gradual move towards SUVs and electrics proved enough to signal a curtain call.

Why Are These Cars Being Discontinued?

1. Shift Toward Electric Vehicles (EVs)

Manufacturers are aggressively spending on electric cars to ensure they meet all the emission targets across the world and are aligned with new customer preferences. Some of these discontinued models are replaced by electric versions like Cadillac XT4 and Nissan Altima.

2. Declining Sales

Some of those models did not sell very well to continue to be considered a viable product line for the company. Take the Infiniti QX55, for example; sales plummeted by 26.9%. The Lexus RC never did well in the luxury coupe segment, for one.

3. Changing Market Preferences

The preference among consumers is changing, and SUVs and crossovers are currently the dominant players. Traditional sedans, like the Nissan Altima, are being eroded by compact SUVs and electrified cars.

4. Automakers Streamlining Lineups

Car manufacturers are focusing on profitable and high-demand models, eliminating low-performing vehicles. Infiniti, for example, is discontinuing the QX50 and QX55 to focus on its more competitive QX60 and future models.

Final Thoughts

The automotive industry is undergoing a major transformation, and as a result, some beloved cars are being phased out. From the luxurious BMW 8 Series to the practical Nissan Altima, these models won’t make it to 2026.

While it’s always sad to see iconic cars go, their discontinuation opens the door for more advanced, efficient, and electrified models. Whether you’re a fan of performance coupes, compact SUVs, or mid-size sedans, there are plenty of exciting new vehicles on the horizon.

For now, say your goodbyes—because these dead cars won’t make it to 2026.