As the summer fades and winter looms, car buyers often stand in the driver’s seat of advantage. Dealerships look to clear last‑year inventory, especially when models are being discontinued or superseded by redesigns. Japanese brands are feeling the pressure, particularly with shifts in market demand and trade challenges. Here’s a look at five current models that may see steep markdowns before the snow flies.
Subaru Legacy
Subaru is winding down Legacy production in spring of 2025 after more than three decades in showrooms. As dealers race to move the last sedans amid declining buyer interest in non‑SUV models, aggressive discounts are expected to flood the market. It is one of the slowest sellers in the Subaru lineup and represents a prime opportunity for shoppers looking for sedans with solid value.
Honda Passport
The 2026 Passport redesign is already prompting dealers to offer deep incentives on remaining 2025 inventory. Buyers today can find discounts up to several thousand dollars below MSRP, as dealerships clear the way for the new model. If you are after a midsize SUV from a trusted brand, now is the time.
Nissan Versa
The Versa is on its way to extinction by 2026 as Nissan shifts priorities toward SUVs and EV hybrids. Combined with weak consumer demand for budget sedans, the Versa is among America’s slowest moving new cars right now. These factors are creating a pressure cooker for price drops — savvy buyers could snap up a new Versa for significantly less before production ends.
Infiniti QX50
Infiniti plans to discontinue the QX50 and QX55 crossovers in the U.S. by the end of 2025. Tariff pressures and shifting consumer focus are behind the move, meaning present stock must be cleared quickly. If you are in the market for a luxury crossover with advanced tech, you may find deals as labels get lowered fast before the end of the year.
Mitsubishi Mirage
The Mirage subcompact will no longer be imported into Japan and is being discontinued in North America by 2025. Sales have already slowed, and remaining units on dealer lots are expected to face aggressive discounts as automakers shift focus to more profitable segments. It is one of the least expensive new vehicles on the market now—but likely to become even cheaper before stock runs out.
Seasonal Buyer Mood
Winter often brings frosty prices and hot deals, especially on models that are being replaced or phased out. Currently, old favorite sedans and niche models like the Legacy, Passport, Versa, QX50, and Mirage are showing signs of price softening. If you have been waiting for better leverage at the dealership, this seasonal shift is an ideal moment to strike.
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
Car loans are one of the most common ways people fund car purchases. Like any other kind of loan, car loans can have certain features that can be regarded as an advantage or a disadvantage to the borrower. Understanding all essential facts about car loans and how they work to ensure that you get the best deal for your financial situation is essential. Here are 25 shocking facts about car loans that most drivers don’t realize:
25 Facts About Car Loans That Most Drivers Don’t Realize
