New Road Ahead: Discontinued Ram TRX, GTR, Camaro, And…

New Era, Old Legends: Ram 1500 Classic and Iconic Models End Production

The sun is finally setting on a classic—a legend that’s roamed the roads for 17 years. The Ram 1500 Classic, a stalwart in the pickup truck world, will finally bow out after 2025, ending an impressive run that began in 2009. It’s a bittersweet farewell to a model that has served as an entry point for truck enthusiasts and a reliable workhorse for countless drivers.

But it’s not just the Ram 1500 Classic that’s riding off into the sunset. As the automotive landscape shifts to accommodate the rising dominance of SUVs and electric vehicles, several other iconic models are also being retired. Let’s dig into the details and explore what’s ending, why, and what it means for the future of the automotive world.

Farewell, Ram 1500 Classic: A Legend’s Last Ride

The Ram 1500 Classic has been a mainstay in the Ram lineup, offering a budget-friendly option for those who needed a reliable pickup without all the bells and whistles of the newer models. When Ram redesigned its pickup trucks for the 2019 model year, the Classic continued to be sold alongside the newer models. It was a move that puzzled many, but for others, it was a godsend—an affordable, no-nonsense truck that got the job done.

But now, Ram has confirmed that the 1500 Classic will be phased out after 2025. It’s a decision that marks the end of an era for a truck that has become synonymous with durability and dependability. The introduction of the Tradesman trim on the new Ram 1500 for the 2024 model year signals the end of the road for the Classic, which will continue to be sold until 2025. But even legends must eventually retire.

Ram’s decision to continue producing the 1500 Classic alongside the newer models was a bold one. It provided a bridge for those who weren’t ready to embrace the new design or who simply couldn’t justify the extra cost. The Classic became the go-to option for businesses and commercial buyers who needed a truck that was as tough as they come but didn’t break the bank.

However, with the new Ram 1500 models offering more power, better technology, and improved fuel efficiency, it’s time for the Classic to step aside. The Tradesman trim on the 2024 Ram 1500 offers a similar no-frills approach but with all the benefits of modern engineering and design.

A Roundup of Discontinued Models: Who’s Not Making It to 2025?

The Ram 1500 Classic isn’t the only vehicle waving goodbye. A number of other models, each with its own loyal fanbase, are also being discontinued as automakers shift their focus to meet the growing demand for SUVs and electric vehicles.

Here’s a look at some of the notable models that won’t be making it to 2025.

Chevrolet Camaro: The End of an Icon

The Chevrolet Camaro, an American muscle car icon, is also heading to the great garage in the sky. Chevrolet announced last year that the sixth generation of the Camaro would be the last, with production ending after the 2024 model year. The Camaro has been a symbol of power and performance, capturing the hearts of car enthusiasts for decades.

But as the market shifts towards more eco-friendly and versatile vehicles, the demand for high-octane muscle cars has dwindled. While Chevrolet hasn’t announced a direct successor to the Camaro, the brand assures fans that this isn’t the end of the Camaro story. The legacy of the Camaro will live on, even as it takes a backseat to the future of automotive innovation.

Mitsubishi Mirage: A Small Car Bows Out

The Mitsubishi Mirage, a small and economical car that has been a staple for budget-conscious drivers, will also be discontinued after 2024. The Mirage has been one of the most affordable new cars on the market, offering a no-frills driving experience for those who needed a simple and reliable vehicle.

Mitsubishi plans to stop producing the Mirage for the U.S. market by the end of 2024, but expects dealer stock to last into the summer of 2025. As the demand for small cars continues to decline in favor of SUVs and crossovers, the Mirage’s departure is yet another sign of the changing times in the automotive industry.

Nissan Titan: The End of a Full-Size Truck

Nissan is also bidding farewell to one of its full-size trucks, the Titan. Production of the Titan will end in the summer of 2024 as Nissan shifts its focus to electric vehicles. The Titan, which has been in production for 20 years, has been a solid contender in the full-size truck market but has struggled to keep up with its competitors.

The decision to discontinue the Titan is part of Nissan’s broader strategy to revamp its lineup and focus on the future of mobility. The Canton, Mississippi plant where the Titan is produced will be retooled to manufacture electric vehicles, marking a significant shift in Nissan’s production priorities.

Ford Edge: Midsize SUV Makes Way for New Models

The Ford Edge, a midsize SUV that has been a popular choice for families and adventurers alike, is also being discontinued. Ford’s Oakville Assembly plant in Ontario, where the Edge was produced, ended production of the model to retool for new vehicles. The plant will begin producing the F-Series Super Duty truck starting in 2026, one of Ford’s most profitable vehicles.

The Edge has been a reliable and versatile SUV, but as Ford shifts its focus to more profitable and in-demand models, it’s time for the Edge to make way for the next generation of vehicles. The decision reflects Ford’s strategy to prioritize models that align with current market trends and consumer preferences.

Mini Clubman: A Quirky Wagon Says Goodbye

The Mini Clubman, a small station wagon that has charmed drivers with its unique design and fun driving experience, is also being discontinued. Mini ended production of the Clubman in February 2024, as the brand shifts its focus to electric vehicles and crossovers.

The Clubman’s quirky design and compact size made it a favorite among urban drivers, but as the market for small wagons continues to shrink, Mini has decided to move on. The electric Mini Aceman crossover will take the Clubman’s place in the company’s global portfolio, marking a new chapter in Mini’s evolution.

Nissan GT-R: The End of a Performance Legend

After more than 17 years in production, the Nissan GT-R is also taking its final lap. The last GT-R for the North American market is set to roll off the assembly line in October 2024. Nissan is celebrating the GT-R’s legacy with two limited edition models: the T-spec Takumi Edition and the Skyline Edition.

The GT-R has been a symbol of Nissan’s engineering prowess and performance excellence, earning a reputation as one of the most capable sports cars on the market. But as Nissan looks to the future, the company is shifting its focus to the next era of performance innovation, leaving the GT-R to retire with its head held high.

Fisker Ocean: An EV Fades Away

The Fisker Ocean, an electric SUV that once held promise as a key player in the EV market, has also been discontinued. Fisker, the latest EV company to face financial difficulties, halted production of the Ocean amid waning demand and regulatory issues.

The vehicle was under investigation for faulty brakes and other problems, and the company contracted to build the Ocean, Magna International, has ceased production. Fisker’s struggles are a reminder of the challenges facing new entrants in the competitive EV market, where established players and new startups alike must navigate a rapidly evolving landscape.

Chevrolet Malibu: A Sedan’s Last Stand

The Chevrolet Malibu, a midsize sedan that has been a staple in the Chevrolet lineup for decades, is also nearing the end of its road. General Motors will end production of the Malibu after the 2025 model year, marking the end of a nine-generation run that saw over 10 million units sold globally.

The decision to discontinue the Malibu is part of GM’s broader strategy to invest in electric vehicles and shift away from traditional sedans. The Fairfax Assembly Plant in Kansas, where the Malibu is produced, will be retooled to manufacture the Chevrolet Bolt, signaling a new direction for the plant and the brand.

Volvo S60: Luxury Sedan Says Goodbye

Volvo is also retiring one of its luxury sedans, the S60, after the 2025 model year. Production at Volvo’s Ridgeville, South Carolina plant ended in mid-2024, as the company prepares to launch its new flagship vehicle, the fully electric EX90 SUV.

The S60 has been a symbol of Volvo’s commitment to safety and luxury, offering a refined driving experience with a focus on innovative technology. But as the market shifts towards electric vehicles, Volvo is pivoting to meet the demands of the future, leaving the S60 behind as it embarks on a new journey.

Ram 1500 TRX: The Last of the V8s

Finally, the Ram 1500 TRX, a high-performance off-road truck that set new standards in the segment, has also reached the end of its production run. Ram wrapped up production of the TRX at the end of 2023, but not before introducing a special edition for the 2024 model year: the RAM 1500 TRX 6.2L Supercharged V8 – Final Edition.

This special edition, limited to just 4,000 units, is aimed at true enthusiasts who appreciate the power and performance that the TRX brought to the table. The TRX’s departure marks the end of an era for high-performance trucks, as Ram shifts its focus to more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly models.

What’s Next for the Automotive Industry?

The discontinuation of these models marks a significant shift in the automotive industry… Photo Credit – Mecum