The recent influx of new automotive brands and models into South Africa has significantly revitalised the local industry – a trend clearly reflected by the robust growth in monthly sales figures. However, this market enthusiasm isn’t reserved solely for entirely new entrants. Updates and facelifts to established product lines generate a similar level of anticipation among consumers.
While the appeal of the latest safety and convenience technologies is undeniable, price-conscious buyers often view the arrival of an updated model as the perfect window for strategic bargain hunting. But is choosing a ‘run-out’ or discontinued model a risky compromise?
The most common concern for buyers is the fear of being left without parts support for future maintenance needs. Prospective owners often worry that once a model is discontinued, parts will vanish from the shelves. In reality, the opposite is usually true.
“A primary misconception is that a new model launch renders the previous version a mere relic for the manufacturer,” says Brandon Cohen, Chairperson of the National Automobile Dealers’ Association (NADA). “In modern automotive retail, the lifecycle of a vehicle extends far beyond its production run. Consumers can generally buy an outgoing model with high confidence, knowing that the support infrastructure, including parts supply by the manufacturer and specialised equipment at its franchise dealerships, is designed for the long haul. This is particularly true for brands with a perceivable investment interest in the market, either through manufacturing facilities or an extensive dealer network, or a continuing legacy and strong brand presence.”
“Even when a brand exits the market,” Cohen adds, “in many cases, parts may still be available for some time.”
Traditionally, Original Equipment Manufacturers (OEMs) will support discontinued models with service and repair parts for approximately 10 years after the final unit leaves the factory. This ensures the longevity and resale value of the brand’s fleet.
Beyond parts availability, there is the advantage of engineering maturity. An outgoing model represents the pinnacle of its specific generation’s development, benefiting from years of continuous refinement. While the latest models introduce the next frontier of cutting-edge innovation and design, the outgoing version offers a level of predictability that many buyers find reassuring.
“It is all about offering the customer the right choice for their specific needs,” notes Cohen. “The new model represents the future of the brand and the latest in technological leaps. Simultaneously, the outgoing model offers a peak level of refinement for its generation.”
As such, the launch of a new model shouldn’t be viewed as the definitive end of the previous one. With a guaranteed parts supply for a decade or more, a matured mechanical platform, and, in many cases, attractive dealer incentives, an outgoing model can be a savvy choice for buyers in today’s economy.
