SUV models have long been a staple of the automotive market. Consumers’ love for SUVs has only grown over the years. Unfortunately, with the 2022 model year closing, it’s time to say goodbye to some SUVs that will no longer be available in 2023. Some of these SUVs are being discontinued due to changing consumer preferences, dwindling sales numbers, and manufacturers streamlining their model lineups. So, which SUVs are being discontinued in 2023?

1. Buick Encore

Initially introduced in 2013, the Buick Encore was a subcompact SUV that set itself apart from competitors with its signature QuietTuning Technology, smooth ride quality, and luxurious interior. It’s no surprise that Encore has been popular among luxury SUV fans since its inception.

According to GM Authority, the Buick Encore is set to be discontinued due to sluggish sales over the past few years after the 2022 model year. But this comes as no surprise, as the Buick Encore trim level lineup was recently streamlined, with only one trim level offered for the 2022 model year. General Motors intends to use the extra resources to focus on the development of the Encore GX and expand the production of its close cousin, the Chevy Trailblazer.

2. Chevy Trax

The Chevrolet Trax is another subcompact SUV that will be discontinued after the 2022 model year. The Chevy Trax has been on the U.S. market since 2015 and has seen its fair share of success over the years. While the Trax was initially popular with younger drivers, Chevrolet recently shifted its focus to SUVs like the Chevy Trailblazer, leaving little room for the Trax in their lineup. Despite its impressive fuel economy and feature-rich trim levels, sales numbers have dropped significantly, leading to GM Authority’s decision to discontinue the Trax in the last third quarter of the 2022 calendar year.

3. Ford EcoSport

First introduced in the U.S. market in 2018, the Ford EcoSport is a subcompact SUV that has been met with mixed reviews. Despite its impressive fuel economy, feature-rich trim levels, and sharp styling, Ford has decided to discontinue the EcoSport after the 2022 model year after shuttering its plant in India, where the EcoSport is built. According to a report from the Detroit Free Press, Ford is now shifting its focus to develop engineering and technology resources for SUVs like the Bronco, Escape, and Explorer.

4. Chevy Spark

Introduced in 2013 as a modern take on the classic small car, the Chevy Spark has been one of the most affordable small SUVs on the market. Unfortunately, after a nine-year run, Chevy has decided to discontinue the Spark after the 2022 model year.

This is no surprise, as sales numbers have been steadily decreasing over the past few years, with SUVs like the Trailblazer and Equinox taking up more space in Chevy’s lineup. In addition, the GM spokesman cited, “Chevy has no plans to replace the Spark with a new small car and instead direct clients to buy its Trailblazer subcompact crossover.

5. Lexus RX L

The Lexus RX L is a three-row SUV that has been on the market since 2018. Despite its well-equipped interior, upscale styling, and impressive fuel economy, Lexus announced plans to discontinue the RX L after the 2022 model year. This decision comes as part of a larger plan by Lexus to streamline its lineup and focus on all-electric SUVs. In addition, a spokesman for Lexus cited that sales numbers have declined due to SUVs like the RX 350L and GX 460 taking up more space in its lineup.

Of course, SUVs aren’t the only vehicles being discontinued in 2023. Honda recently announced that it is discontinuing its Insight sedan after the 2022 model year. Meanwhile, Hyundai is also phasing out its Accent sedan. On the other hand, Toyota is discontinuing its Avalon sedan after the 2022 model year. Lastly, Volkswagen will say goodbye to the Passat sedan after 2023 as it focuses on SUVs like the Atlas and Tiguan.

As automakers focus on SUVs and electric vehicles, we will have to say goodbye to these beloved SUVs and sedans. It’s a bittersweet and exciting time as automakers focus on developing new and improved SUVs.