INTRO: Many beloved trucks have come and gone over the years, leaving fans wishing they had stuck around a bit longer. Whether due to shifting market demands or changes in company strategy, some trucks were discontinued before they reached their full potential. Here, I take a look at seven vehicles that left the scene too soon.
Chevrolet Avalanche
The Chevrolet Avalanche was a unique blend of an SUV and a pickup truck, with its production spanning from 2001 to 2013. This vehicle stood out for its innovative Midgate design, which allowed drivers to expand cargo space by folding down the rear seats and the partition between the cab and the bed. Despite its versatility and strong fan base, it was discontinued in 2013, with Chevrolet citing declining sales as the primary reason for its departure.
The Avalanche was praised for its comfortable ride and powerful engine options, appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. While it had a successful run, the decline in demand for large SUVs and pickups during its final years contributed to its untimely end. However, its legacy lives on among enthusiasts who continue to appreciate its unique design and functionality.
Ford Ranger (U.S. Market)
The Ford Ranger was a staple in the compact pickup market from 1983 until its discontinuation in the U.S. market in 2011. Known for its reliability and affordability, the Ranger was a favorite among those looking for a practical and capable truck. The decision to halt production was driven by shifting consumer preferences towards larger trucks and SUVs.
Despite its absence, the Ranger’s reputation for being a durable workhorse kept it in demand, eventually leading to its reintroduction in 2019. The Ranger’s return was met with enthusiasm, highlighting how its early discontinuation left a void in the compact truck segment. Its comeback underscores its importance and the lasting impression it made during its initial run.
Dodge Dakota
The Dodge Dakota was a mid-size pickup truck that offered a perfect balance between full-size capability and compact efficiency. Introduced in 1987, it was the first mid-size pickup to feature a V8 engine, providing impressive power for its class. The Dakota was discontinued in 2011 as Chrysler shifted its focus to other models and adjusted its lineup following the Fiat merger.
Even after its discontinuation, the Dakota remains a popular choice for those seeking a reliable and versatile truck. Its combination of power, comfort, and moderate size made it a standout in its segment, and many still remember it fondly for these attributes. The Dakota’s departure left a noticeable gap in the mid-size truck market, which many believe was never fully filled.
Honda Ridgeline (First Generation)
The first generation of the Honda Ridgeline, produced from 2005 to 2014, was known for its unconventional design and innovative features. It boasted a unibody construction, which provided a smoother ride and better handling compared to traditional body-on-frame trucks. The Ridgeline also introduced the industry’s first in-bed trunk, adding versatility to its utility.
Despite these innovations, the Ridgeline struggled to capture a significant market share, leading to its temporary discontinuation. However, it left a lasting impact on the industry, influencing the design and features of future pickup trucks. The Ridgeline’s return in 2016 with a redesigned model attests to its initial promise, proving that its early discontinuation may have been premature.
Nissan Xterra
Although not a traditional pickup truck, the Nissan Xterra was a rugged SUV that shared much of its DNA with Nissan’s truck lineup. Debuting in 1999, it was tailored for adventure enthusiasts with its off-road capabilities and practical design. Unfortunately, the Xterra was discontinued in 2015 due to increasingly stringent fuel economy standards and declining sales.
Fans of the Xterra appreciated its affordability, durability, and off-road prowess. Its discontinuation left outdoor enthusiasts with fewer affordable options for rugged, off-road-capable vehicles. The Xterra’s absence is still felt today, as the demand for affordable and capable off-road vehicles remains strong.
GMC Syclone
The GMC Syclone was a high-performance pickup truck produced for just one year in 1991. Known for its incredible speed, it could accelerate from 0 to 60 mph in just 4.3 seconds, thanks to its turbocharged V6 engine. The Syclone was ahead of its time, offering sports car-like performance in a pickup truck package.
Despite its impressive capabilities, the Syclone was too niche to sustain long-term production. Its limited run has made it a collector’s item, cherished by those who appreciate its unique blend of speed and utility. The Syclone’s brief existence is often cited in discussions about fast and affordable vehicles, serving as a reminder of what could have been in the performance truck segment.
Toyota Hilux (U.S. Market)
The Toyota Hilux, known for its durability and toughness, was removed from the U.S. market in 1995, when it was replaced by the Toyota Tacoma. The Hilux had built a reputation for being nearly indestructible, with various models proving their reliability in extreme conditions worldwide.
While the Tacoma has been successful, many still reminisce about the Hilux’s legendary resilience and straightforward design. Its departure from the U.S. market was a strategic shift by Toyota, yet the Hilux continues to be cherished by enthusiasts around the globe. The decision to discontinue it in the U.S. is often viewed as a loss, considering its established reputation and ongoing global success.