The Russian automotive market will experience major changes in 2025. Some cars will disappear from the 2025 market due to low sales, stricter environmental requirements and changing consumer preferences. For example, models such as the Subaru Legacy and Chevrolet Camaro have already been officially announced as going out of production this year. In this article, I will look at which cars will be leaving the market, why this is happening and what's in store for car enthusiasts in the near future.
Subaru Legacy: the end of the saloon era
The Subaru Legacy is one of the models that will officially disappear from the market in 2025. This sedan, popular in the US, faced low sales - only about 25 thousand cars per year in the key market, which proved insufficient for the manufacturer [web:4]. In Russia, the Legacy was not in great demand either, as buyers are increasingly choosing crossovers.
Reasons for leaving
The main factor is the declining interest in sedans. For example, in the U.S., Legacy sales have fallen compared to the peak years when the model was at the peak of popularity [web:4]. Also, the tightening of environmental regulations forces carmakers to switch to hybrids and electric cars, and Legacy does not fit into this strategy. As a result, Subaru decided to focus on more sought-after models such as the Forester and Outback.
Alternatives for buyers
If you've been considering the Legacy, consider Subaru's crossovers that remain in the lineup. For example, the Subaru Forester offers a similar level of comfort and reliability, but with more versatility for Russian roads. In addition, you can consider competitors such as the Toyota RAV4, which dominate the SUV [web:4] segment. Thus, the Legacy's departure opens up new opportunities for choice.
Chevrolet Camaro: Farewell to a legend
Chevrolet Camaro is another model that is on the list of "cars will disappear market 2025". The sixth generation of this maslcar was the last, and production ended in 2024, and in 2025 the model will finally leave the market [web:12][post:0]. Although there were rumours of a possible electric version, these have not been confirmed.
Why the Camaro is leaving
The main reason is low demand. In the USA, Camaro sales have not met expectations, despite a surge of interest in recent years [web:12]. Also, General Motors is betting on electrification, and oilcars with their powerful petrol engines do not fit into the new environmental standards. In addition, competition from the Ford Mustang proved to be too strong. In the end, GM decided to end the Camaro story.
What fans should do
For those who dreamed of a Camaro, there is a chance to find the last copies on the aftermarket. However, it is worth considering that the maintenance of such cars can become more expensive due to the model's departure from the market. As an alternative, you can consider the Ford Mustang, which remains in production for the time being. Thus, fans of maslcars still have options.
Chinese brands: who will leave Russia
A number of Chinese car brands may also disappear from the Russian market in 2025. According to experts, brands with low sales and a weak dealer network have faced serious problems [web:0]. Among them are those who could not withstand competition with leaders such as Chery and Geely.
Problems of Chinese manufacturers
Nikolay Ivanov from Rolf notes that high competition in the price segment from 2 to 3 million rubles has become a key problem for many Chinese brands [web:0]. For example, brands offering cars with similar characteristics cannot stand out against the market leaders. Also, the low profitability of dealership centres leads to their closure, which accelerates the departure of brands. As a result, some Chinese brands risk leaving the market already this year.
Who's under attack
Although specific names have not yet been named, experts predict that these will be brands with minimal market share. For example, those who were unable to offer unique models or establish service support are likely to be the first to leave. At the same time, the leaders, such as Chery and Great Wall, will continue to strengthen their positions [web:0]. Thus, the market will become more consolidated.
Electrification: the demise of petrol models
Electrification of the car market is another reason why cars will disappear from the 2025 market. Many petrol models are giving way to electric cars due to stricter environmental regulations and changing priorities of manufacturers.
Which models will be affected
Among those leaving are the Porsche 718 (Boxster and Cayman) and the petrol version of the Porsche Macan, which will be replaced by electric successors [web:7]. Also BMW 8 Series will leave the market due to low demand, and Lexus RC does not fit into the new strategy of the brand, focused on crossovers and hybrids [web:7]. In Russia, these models were already niche models, but their departure symbolises a global trend.
Market impact
Electrification is changing the structure of demand. For example, in Russia, sales of electric cars in the first quarter of 2025 fell by 77% year-on-year due to high prices and sanctions [web:18]. However, globally, electric cars are gaining popularity and manufacturers are being forced to adapt. As a result, petrol models such as the Porsche 718 are becoming part of history.
Influence of economic factors
Economic factors also play a role in which cars will disappear market 2025. High inflation, increased utilisation fees and tighter car loan conditions are reducing demand for certain models [web:1].
Rising prices and utilisation fee
From 1 January 2025, the utilisation fee has increased, which has led to an increase in the price of cars. For example, the price of Lada Vesta increased by 50 thousand rubles, and in the future the increase may reach 100 thousand [web:8]. This makes inexpensive models, such as those leaving the market, less competitive. In addition, the high key rate of the Central Bank of Russia reduces the availability of car loans, which hits sales [web:1].
Sales forecasts
Avtostat experts forecast a 10% drop in new car sales in 2025, to 1.43 million units [web:1]. In a pessimistic scenario, the market could shrink to 1 million cars. This means that brands with low sales, such as the mentioned Chinese brands, will be hit. Thus, economic factors accelerate the withdrawal of models from the market.
Which cars will disappear market 2025: what's next?
Cars will disappear the 2025 market not just because of low demand, but because of global trends such as electrification and economic changes. Subaru Legacy, Chevrolet Camaro, some Chinese brands, and premium models such as the Porsche 718 are already leaving the market. This opens up new opportunities for manufacturers to offer in-demand electric cars and crossovers.
Market trends
The market is increasingly orientated towards SUVs and electric vehicles. For example, Chinese brands, such as Chery, are betting on the premium segment to hold their positions [web:0]. Also, localising production in Russia could help stabilise the market by 2027, when sales are forecast to reach 1.49-1.55 million cars [web:5]. In the end, the departure of some models is a step towards market renewal.
Tips for motorists
If you want to buy one of the outgoing models, it's best to do so in the first half of 2025 while dealers are selling off leftovers. For example, car dealerships often offer discounts in the first quarter [web:8]. It's also worth considering the aftermarket, where models like the Camaro can still be found. In addition, keep an eye out for new models from market leaders such as Chery and Haval, which are actively developing [web:1]. This way, you can find the right car even in the face of change.
Results: the future of the car market in 2025
Cars will disappear market 2025 due to economic, environmental and market factors. Subaru Legacy and Chevrolet Camaro are leaving the market due to low demand, while Porsche 718 and Macan are giving way to electric cars. Chinese brands with low sales are also at risk of leaving Russia. However, this opens up new prospects for a market that is becoming more technologically advanced and orientated towards SUVs and electric cars. In 2025, car enthusiasts should be ready for change and keep an eye on the new models that will replace the outgoing ones.