Cancelled vehicles: Inventory headaches, bargain opportunities
A handful of established models have been scheduled to hit the chopping block in the near future, and drivers could subsequently score a deal. Dealers are more motivated to clear an outgoing model’s inventory, since it’s a depreciating asset that’s taking up storage space from faster-selling units, and cars are primarily axed due to slow sales. Below, you’ll find more information on noteworthy models on their way out and why you should keep an eye on their pricing and availability.
Cadillac CT4
General Motors (GM) announced this month that the Cadillac CT4 and CT5 would be discontinued after the 2026 production year. The first CT4 and CT5 were released for the 2020 model year, and their cancellation reflects how slow sales can occur even despite driver acclaim for variants like the CT4-V Blackwing and CT5-V Blackwing. The CT5 will be returning in the near future, so we’ll focus on its CT4 counterpart. The 2026 CT4 is a compact luxury sedan starting at $35,600, with the high-performance CT4-V Blackwing starting at $50,000. Cadillac’s standard 2026 CT4 already offers relatively accessible pricing for the luxury segment, so the model’s upcoming cancellation could pave the way for deeper discounts and incentives, increasing its value proposition. These potential price cuts, cash rebates, or special financing may also make the CT4-V Blackwing a more alluring option than competitors like BMW’s M3.
Nissan Ariya
Nissan
Nissan confirmed in September that it will pause production of its electric Ariya SUV for the U.S. market after the crossover’s 2025 model year. Drivers are looking for cheaper ways to ditch gas engines after the federal government eliminated its electric vehicle (EV) tax credit worth up to $7,500, and the Ariya’s $39,770 base price could extend even lower as Nissan dealers strive to clear inventory. Additionally, dealers work to clear year-end inventory in general — not just outgoing models — doubling motivation for incentives. While Nissan hasn’t confirmed whether the Ariya will return to the U.S. for the 2027 production year, the model will continue to play a role in the company’s global EV market. U.S. Ariya buyers should look for 0% APR financing offers, limited-time cash rebates, and regional dealer specials.
Kia Soul
Kia
Kia is building the final examples of its 2025 Soul this October. The Soul has been in production in South Korea since 2010, and if you want to score a new one before they’re gone, Kia notes that fewer than 5,000 units remain at U.S. dealerships. Besides the scarcity factor, buyers are likely to sweep up the remaining inventory relatively quickly, given that it’s Kia’s most affordable 2025 model, with a starting price of $20,490 for the LX trim. Currently, through November 3, Kia is also offering 2025 Soul buyers $500 in customer cash.
Final thoughts
Knowing which models are on their way out can pay dividends if you’re looking to buy a new car, and timing will influence when possible options emerge. For example, the Cadillac CT4 isn’t ending production until after its 2026 production year, so chances are higher that you’ll find incentives for this sedan next year. In contrast, outgoing 2025 models may offer more immediate savings opportunities.
