There are many reasons why automobile companies stop producing certain car models. But does it affect the reputation of the top car? Certainly not. Do these releases remain demanded and actual? Definitely. And they include not only rare hypercars and exclusive series, but also ordinary cars for everyday use.
Mazda6 MPS
This rating is opened by a stylish and “charged” sedan with a turbocharged engine from Japanese brand Mazda, which at the time of its appearance on sale seemed very futuristic and justified for that time.
At the beginning of the XXI century, manufacturers had every chance to launch even the most unconventional and strange projects with an emphasis on the sports class. But in the case of Mazda turbo sedan the world saw the usual city car in laconic appearance, under which there are powerful units and units.
The premium version of the model was sold with 18-inch wheel disks, improved braking mechanisms, a humped hood, under which the intercooler of the 2.3-liter power unit was installed. The latter was able to demonstrate 260 hp of power and 380 Nm of torque. This allowed it to reach speed up to 100 km/h in just 6.6 seconds, which by the standards of cars for everyday use looked very good.
Without special complexities and manipulations, it was possible to raise the power reserve up to impressive 300 “horses” or even more, that allowed Mazda6 MPS to apply for a class of sports cars. The all-wheel-drive base with active traction distribution and advanced transmission (MKPP) provided stunning results. And if you wanted to use the car for normal driving, the driver was available comfortable interior with leather-covered seats, as well as a roomy rear sofa and luggage compartment.
Ford Focus RS
As with the GTI prefix on Volkswagen’s legendary Golf GTI hatchbacks, the RS designation on Ford cars signaled a “supercharged” version.
The first “heated” modification of the car offered a 212-horsepower engine, and the one released in 2015 showed already 350 hp of power and had an all-wheel drive platform. This allowed it to compete even with the top sport cars and sharply break away from the stream after the start at the traffic lights.
Certainly, the driver of the hatchback was more like a pilot than an ordinary vehicle owner. This was evidenced by the presence of auxiliary systems, which facilitated control and increased safety when driving on the racetrack. By the way, the Ford Focus RS even features a unique drift mode.
Unfortunately, the journey of the legendary hatchback ended in 2020, when engineers of the automaker recognized the project as unprofitable in terms of investment and profit. Serial production of the car became very costly, and the model itself did not meet environmental standards. As a result, the iconic series beautifully left the market, remaining uncompromising and unique in its kind.
Honda CR-Z
If you were to characterize this car in one word, the first thing that comes to mind is the word “flashy.” Even by today’s standards, the Honda CR-Z looks very handsome and stylish, despite the constant changes in automotive design.
This Honda-branded hybrid coupe stands out from its 2009 competitors with its fresh exterior and modern on-board equipment. In addition, the model combines compact dimensions, dynamic appearance and good underhood “stuffing”, which made it one of the most popular in its time.
Honda CR-Z successfully sold on the Japanese market, in African countries and in the Old World, Indonesia and America, where, incidentally, earlier existed its predecessor CR-X in a three-door version.
With the most “charged” power unit, the hybrid car was able to develop 130 hp of power, which clearly was not a record value. Nevertheless, due to the relatively low weight of 1.2 tons and the advanced configuration of the chassis Honda CR-Z was very aggressive and excitable to drive. Externally, the car’s sporting features were emphasized by a predatory front end with an expressive bumper and a skirted roof zone.
It should be noted that by the time it left the market in 2016, the restyled version was virtually indistinguishable from the original version. This is a credit to the successful design project created by the model’s chief designer, Takashi Nagure.
Peugeot RCZ R
Aggression and enthusiasm prevailed in design of the car, as well as hidden potential of powerful power plant. And original swells of a non-standard roof allowed comparing it with representatives of a real sports segment.
As a whole, Peugeot RCZ R became very successful development in the lineup of the French concern. The engine, though not outstanding, showed a sufficient level of dynamics. After the release of the “heated” modification of the Peugeot RCZ R, the 270 hp unit which can accelerate to the first “hundred” in less than 6 seconds was used.
What happened next? Growing interest from enthusiasts, good sales volumes, world awards for car design, entry into professional motorsport… And only in 2015 the conveyor way of the car came to an end. After its fairy appearance on the market, the Peugeot RCZ R delicately left it, becoming an uncompromising legend. Now buying a used coupe in good condition is a real boon for car enthusiasts.
MINI Coupe
The 2-seater car MINI Coupe failed to become mass and popular, making a jump from a top idea to a rare representative of the secondary market. However, from the obvious disadvantages, which can be attributed to this model, only not the most practical interior, designed for seating two people, as well as the modest capacity of the luggage compartment, where you can not place bulky suitcases.
The MINI Coupe does not need a long introduction. It is one of the most iconic British cars and at the same time a very controversial and strange modern project in the history of the company which has been on the market for only 4 years. It is difficult to explain why such a successful concept, loved by European youth, so quickly left the market, but the fact is the fact.
In the hood of the MINI Coupe there is a 122 hp engine, which perfectly shows itself in city traffic. John Cooper Works with a 1,6-liter 211-horsepower engine and the dynamics of more “charged” hatchbacks is the most demanded set. It will be very uneasy to compete with such “tiny” on a road.
Mitsubishi Airtrek Turbo-R
Not all car enthusiasts know about the existence of the “charged” version of the crossover Mitsubishi Outlander. However, at one time it was very popular, combining engines and elements of the transmission of the sports Lancer Evolution. In Russia this variant officially was not on sale, but on the local Japanese market the lucky people could become the owner of the rare combo combining power and practicality.
It is important to notice that the main “twin” Outlander was completed with the 2-liter “four” from Evolution with slightly smaller stock of capacity. Underhood Airtrek Turbo-R was equipped with 240-horsepower power-units, capable to show excellent dynamics and aggression in driving. In addition, the model could boast an outstanding reliability and potential for engine modifications.
In this regard, many buyers are considering this crossover as a sports car for further upgrades and tuning. Now the Airtrek Turbo-R is regarded by enthusiasts as the main competitor to the Subaru Forester.