In recent years, the automotive industry has seen a wave of vehicles being discontinued, particularly those with poor safety ratings. As manufacturers strive to enhance their offerings, some models haven’t kept pace with evolving safety standards. Below is a list of six cars that are being phased out due to their subpar safety performances.
1. Ford Fiesta
The Ford Fiesta, once a popular choice for budget-conscious drivers, is being discontinued. Despite its affordability and practicality, the Fiesta has struggled to meet modern safety expectations. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) rated the 2023 model year with only three out of five stars for passenger safety, highlighting its inadequacies in crash protection.
For those considering alternatives, it’s worth exploring other small cars that have earned better safety ratings. Vehicles like the Mazda CX-90 offer more advanced safety features and a robust structure, making them a safer choice for families and individuals alike.
2. Chevrolet Sonic
The Chevrolet Sonic has also reached the end of its road. Despite its compact size and fuel efficiency, the Sonic has failed to impress in safety evaluations. The Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) reported that the Sonic’s crashworthiness was less than stellar, particularly in small overlap front tests.
With the growing emphasis on safety, Chevrolet is redirecting its focus towards models that excel in safety ratings and advanced driver-assist features. For those looking for a safer alternative, consider models that have consistently performed well in safety tests, as highlighted in discontinued cars 2025 reviews.
3. Nissan Versa
The Nissan Versa is another model facing discontinuation due to its safety shortcomings. While it offered an affordable entry point into car ownership, the Versa struggled with crash test ratings, particularly in side impact and rear crash scenarios.
Nissan has acknowledged the need for improvement and is investing in new models that prioritize safety. If safety is a top concern, buyers might want to consider vehicles that come equipped with comprehensive safety packages, such as advanced airbag systems and automatic emergency braking.
4. Kia Rio
The Kia Rio, a long-standing favorite in the subcompact segment, is set to be phased. Despite its reputation for reliability, the Rio has been unable to meet the increasing safety standards required by today’s consumers. The 2023 model scored poorly in crash avoidance and mitigation tests.
Potential buyers might explore other options that offer a better balance of safety and affordability. Investing in a vehicle with a proven track record for safety can provide peace of mind, especially for those frequently traveling with family members. According to best booster car seats guide, choosing a car with robust safety features is crucial for families.
5. Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mitsubishi Mirage, known for its compact design and fuel efficiency, will no longer be available after 2025. Safety has been a consistent issue for the Mirage, with poor ratings in frontal crash and rollover tests. Its limited safety features have made it less competitive in a market that increasingly values occupant protection.
Mitsubishi is expected to focus on enhancing the safety of their future models, but for now, buyers are advised to look at other options that boast higher safety scores. Consider vehicles that offer standard safety technologies and have consistently received high marks from safety organizations.
6. Hyundai Accent
Finally, the Hyundai Accent is another model being discontinued due to deficiencies in safety performance. Though it offered a cost-effective option for many drivers, the Accent’s safety ratings have lagged behind. The 2023 model received below-average scores in the IIHS crash tests, particularly in headlight performance and crash avoidance.
Hyundai is shifting its focus to more innovative and safety-conscious vehicles. Interested buyers should look for alternatives that offer a comprehensive suite of safety features. For more insights into the evolving automotive landscape, check out this book on auto safety ratings.