In 2025, the Australian automotive market experienced a significant transformation with the introduction of new brands and models, while several long-standing vehicles were phased out. Among the most notable exits was the Jeep Grand Cherokee, which bid farewell after a 29-year tenure. Other vehicles such as the Mahindra Pik-Up, LDV V80, Mitsubishi Pajero Sport, and Toyota Fortuner also saw their production halted, marking the end of an era for these popular models.
The Jeep Grand Cherokee, once a dominant force in the large SUV segment, was withdrawn due to a combination of declining sales and stringent new regulations. Despite its previous success, including outselling the Toyota Prado in 2014, the Grand Cherokee’s sales plummeted by 96% since its peak, leading to its eventual discontinuation.
Jeep Grand Cherokee: A Decline from Dominance
The Jeep Grand Cherokee’s departure from the Australian market is a stark reminder of the changing dynamics in the automotive industry. Once the best-selling large SUV in Australia, the Grand Cherokee’s sales have dwindled significantly. In 2014, Jeep delivered 16,582 units, but by last year, sales had dropped to just 645 units, a 48.3% decrease from the previous year.
Jeep’s decision to “pause” the availability of the Grand Cherokee in Australia was influenced by the end of right-hand drive production. The vehicle’s replacement, the electric Wagoneer S, has not yet been confirmed for the Australian market. The current WL generation, introduced in 2022, failed to capture the market’s interest due to its limited engine options and lack of towing capacity.
By the Numbers: Grand Cherokee sales fell by 96% since 2014, with overall Jeep sales plummeting by 92% during the same period.
LDV V80: The End of an Era
The LDV V80, another long-standing vehicle, was officially discontinued early this year. Having been on sale in Australia for a decade, the V80 was one of the oldest models in the market. Developed initially with Daewoo, the V80’s production ended in China after 20 years, and its outdated safety features and low ANCAP rating contributed to its decline.
Despite its affordability, the V80 was overshadowed by newer models like the LDV G10 and Deliver 9, which offered better safety and technology. In its best year, 2023, only 596 units were sold compared to 2843 G10s and 2975 Deliver 9s.
Mahindra Pik-Up: A Quiet Exit
Mahindra’s Pik-Up quietly exited the Australian market earlier this year, leaving the brand with an SUV-only lineup. The Pik-Up, which had been on sale since 2009, was unable to keep pace with newer models and stringent regulations. Although Mahindra has not disclosed sales figures, the brand has promised a new ute designed for the Australian market by 2026.
Mitsubishi’s Strategic Shift
Mitsubishi faced a regulatory challenge with the introduction of Australian Design Rule 98/00, leading to the discontinuation of several models, including the Eclipse Cross and Pajero Sport. While these models featured autonomous emergency braking systems, they failed to meet the new technical requirements.
The Eclipse Cross, launched in 2017, struggled to compete with its siblings, the ASX and Outlander. Despite a sales increase in 2024, the model was ultimately replaced by a rebadged Renault Scenic E-Tech for the European market.
The Pajero Sport, a strong seller in the large SUV segment, is expected to be replaced by a new-generation model based on the latest Triton. Mitsubishi has been stockpiling the Pajero Sport to continue meeting demand until the new regulations take full effect.
Toyota’s Strategic Adjustments
Toyota also made significant changes, discontinuing the Granvia and Fortuner models. The Granvia, introduced in 2019 as a successor to the Tarago, failed to capture the market’s interest. With only 1028 units sold since its launch, the Granvia was overshadowed by competitors like the Kia Carnival.
The Fortuner, a HiLux-based SUV, struggled to compete with the more popular Prado. Despite consistent sales, the Fortuner’s performance was underwhelming for a Toyota model. The vehicle will remain on sale until mid-2026, but the brand acknowledges that customers are shifting towards other models like the HiLux and LandCruiser 300 Series.
Volvo C40: A Short-Lived Journey
Volvo’s C40, a sleek electric SUV, was discontinued just a few years after its launch. The model was overshadowed by the smaller EX30, leading to a significant drop in sales. Despite updates and a planned rebranding to EC40, the C40 was ultimately phased out in favor of its XC40 sibling, now known as the EX40.
As the Australian automotive landscape evolves, these discontinuations reflect broader industry trends towards electrification and compliance with stringent safety regulations. With new models on the horizon, manufacturers are poised to adapt and meet the changing demands of the market.
