Cars That Won’t Stay Gone: Iconic Models Making a Comeback
Some cars leave the market, never to return. Others, though, are simply too legendary to stay gone forever. From beloved classics with worthy successors to models with no true replacement, and even some exciting confirmed and rumored comebacks, let's look at the vehicles enthusiasts refuse to forget.
Still Alive: Models With a Modern Successor
Not every discontinued car leaves a void—some have evolved into modern versions that keep their spirit alive.
Chevy SS (2014-2017) ? Dodge Charger Scat Pack or Cadillac CT5-V
Why it was loved: A sleeper sedan with a Corvette-powered V8 and rear-wheel drive.
What replaced it: The Dodge Charger Scat Pack keeps the V8 muscle sedan alive, while the Cadillac CT5-V offers a refined take on big power.
Ford Focus RS (2016-2018) ? Toyota GR Corolla or VW Golf R
Why it was loved: An AWD, turbocharged hot hatch with serious track capability.
What replaced it: Toyota’s GR Corolla brings AWD turbo fun, and the VW Golf R remains a top-tier hot hatch.
Chevy Avalanche (2013) ? GMC Sierra Denali CarbonPro or Honda Ridgeline
Why it was loved: A truck/SUV hybrid with an innovative “midgate” for extra cargo space.
What replaced it: The GMC Sierra Denali CarbonPro brings premium truck versatility, while the Honda Ridgeline maintains the unibody truck concept.
The Ones We Truly Lost (With No Real Replacement)
These cars left a void in the market, with no true successor.
Mazda RX-7 / RX-8 ? No Replacement
Why it was loved: Rotary-powered sports cars with a unique driving experience.
Why it disappeared: Struggled with emissions and fuel efficiency.
What’s missing: Mazda has no rotary-powered sports car today.
Honda S2000 ? No Replacement
Why it was loved: A high-revving, lightweight roadster with perfect balance.
Why it disappeared: Market shifts away from small roadsters.
What’s missing: Honda has no current sports car to fill this gap.
Nissan 240SX ? No Replacement
Why it was loved: A budget-friendly, rear-wheel-drive coupe loved by tuners.
Why it disappeared: Consumer preference shifted toward SUVs.
What’s missing: Nissan has no modern equivalent.
Coming Back: Confirmed or Rumored Revivals
Some cars are officially returning—while others have strong comeback rumors.
Toyota Land Cruiser (2024)
Why it was loved: Ultimate off-road capability with legendary Toyota reliability.
Why it disappeared: High price and market shifts.
Confirmed comeback: The redesigned Land Cruiser is back for 2024.
Dodge Hornet (2024, Inspired by the Neon & Caliber SRT-4)
Why it was loved: The Dodge Neon SRT-4 was an affordable turbocharged performance car.
Why it disappeared: Dodge left the small car market.
Confirmed comeback: The 2024 Dodge Hornet revives the spirit with a turbo AWD crossover.
Mitsubishi Lancer Evolution (Rumored Comeback)
Why it was loved: AWD, turbo rally car legend.
Why it disappeared: Mitsubishi shifted focus to SUVs and EVs.
Rumors: Reports suggest a hybrid or electric Evo could be in development.
Ford Thunderbird (Possible EV Revival?)
Why it was loved: A classic American grand touring coupe.
Why it disappeared: Lack of demand in its last iteration.
Rumors: Ford has hinted at reviving the Thunderbird name for a luxury EV coupe.
Which One Do You Miss Most?
The auto industry is constantly evolving, but some cars are just too iconic to be forgotten. Whether you loved the raw power of the Dodge Viper, the quirky charm of the VW Beetle, or the off-road dominance of the Land Cruiser, great cars never truly die in the hearts of enthusiasts.
Looking for your next dream car? Explore our full inventory today and see what's waiting for you!
