In the summer of 2025, five Japanese cars are anticipated to have significant price reductions

5 Japanese Cars Expected to See Major Price Drops: As the automotive market evolves in response to shifting consumer preferences, rising EV adoption, and growing inventories, price fluctuations are inevitable. In summer 2025, several Japanese car models are expected to experience significant price drops, creating opportunities for savvy buyers. If you’re looking to purchase a vehicle that offers reliability, performance, or modern tech at a discounted price, keep an eye on these five Japanese cars poised for potential depreciation.

Nissan Z – Sports Car Performance at a Lower Cost

Estimated Price Drop: Up to 10–15%
Original MSRP: Starting at ~$42,000
Why It Will Drop: Overproduction and waning sports car demand

The Nissan Z, a modern revival of the iconic Z lineup, brought back twin-turbocharged thrills and retro design that excited enthusiasts. However, demand for manual transmission sports cars has slowly cooled outside the niche performance market.

With more affordable electric performance options entering the scene in 2025—like the Hyundai Ioniq 5 N and Tesla Model 3 Performance—many potential buyers are opting for EVs. The Nissan Z is anticipated to experience substantial price reductions, particularly on unsold dealer stock and trial units, as a result of overproduction and limited mainstream interest.

Why You Should Still Consider It:

• 400 hp twin-turbo V6
• Rear-wheel-drive performance
• A true enthusiast car at a more affordable price

Toyota bZ4X – The EV That Fell Behind the Pack

Estimated Price Drop: 12–20%
Original MSRP: Starting at ~$44,000
Why It Will Drop: EV competition and charging limitations

Toyota’s first mainstream EV, the bZ4X, launched with high expectations but failed to impress in critical areas such as charging speed, range, and availability. With an estimated range of 222–252 miles and slow DC charging rates (150 kW max), it lags behind rivals like the Hyundai Ioniq 6 and Tesla Model Y.

In summer 2025, as Toyota releases updated bZ models and other automakers launch more competitive EVs, dealers will likely discount existing bZ4X inventory to make room. Leasing incentives and cash-back offers will make it an attractive EV option for buyers who don’t need long-distance range.

What’s Still Good:

• Spacious, SUV-style interior
• All-wheel drive availability
• Toyota’s build quality and reliability

Subaru Legacy – Midsize Sedan Losing Ground

Estimated Price Drop: 10–15%
Original MSRP: Starting at ~$25,985
Why It Will Drop: Shrinking sedan market and fleet overstock

The Subaru Legacy, once a staple in the midsize sedan segment, is facing an uphill battle. With buyers favoring crossovers and SUVs, sedans like the Legacy are becoming harder to move, especially in dealership lots outside of snow-prone states.

Subaru has been slow to refresh the model and lacks hybrid or electric variants, making it less appealing to fuel-conscious or tech-savvy drivers. Expect dealer markdowns, special financing offers, and reduced lease rates on Legacy models in summer 2025 as inventory piles up.

What Makes It Worthwhile:

• Standard all-wheel drive
• Excellent safety ratings
• Comfortable ride quality

Honda Passport – Competition for Midsize SUVs is Severe

Estimated Price Drop: 8–12%
Original MSRP: Starting at ~$43,000
Why It Will Drop: Competitive SUV segment and market saturation

The Honda Passport is a rugged midsize SUV designed for buyers who want more space and off-road capability than the CR-V, but without the third-row seating of the Pilot. However, the Passport’s pricing has crept into premium territory, making it a tough sell against newer, more efficient SUVs like the Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid or the Kia Telluride.

Honda’s limited updates to the Passport’s tech and interior in recent years have also hurt its value proposition. As dealerships prepare for refreshed 2026 models, expect markdowns, especially on 2024 and early-2025 units.

Reasons to Still Buy:

• V6 power with towing capability
• Honda Sensing standard on all trims
• Excellent reliability track record

Nissan Altima – A Once-Dominant Sedan Losing Steam

Estimated Price Drop: 10–18%
Original MSRP: Starting at ~$26,000
Why It Will Drop: Outpaced by newer tech and design trends

The Nissan Altima was previously a popular family sedan; however, it is currently experiencing a significant decline in both consumer interest and sales as of 2025. With rivals like the Honda Accord, Hyundai Sonata, and Kia K5 offering hybrid drivetrains, sleeker designs, and more tech, the Altima struggles to compete.

Furthermore, the growing demand for compact crossovers means sedans like the Altima are often relegated to rental fleets or fleet sales, which can flood the used market. Expect to see heavy discounts and end-of-year clearance events targeting remaining inventory.

Still a Solid Choice For:

• Budget-conscious commuters
• Those wanting AWD in a sedan
• Drivers who value simplicity and space

Why These Cars Are Dropping in Value

Across the board, these Japanese models are seeing price drops due to common factors, including:

• Shifting consumer demand toward EVs and SUVs
• Inventory buildup and dealer pressure to clear stock
• Slow tech adoption or lack of hybrid/electric options
• Increased competition from Korean and American brands

For shoppers, this means a golden opportunity to score deals on cars that still deliver in performance, safety, or practicality.

Tips for Buying During Summer 2025 Discounts

If you’re planning to take advantage of price drops this summer, here are some strategies:

• Buy at the end of the month or quarter: Dealers are more likely to negotiate.
• Look for demo vehicles or lightly-used loaner cars: These offer deeper discounts.
• Check manufacturer websites for seasonal incentives and cash rebates.
• Consider pre-approval from a credit union or online lender to negotiate better APRs.
• Don’t skip the inspection, even if it’s a new vehicle—especially for discounted stock.

Summary Table

Model	Type	Reason for Drop	Best For
Nissan Z	Sports Coupe	Niche demand, overstock	Driving enthusiasts
Toyota bZ4X	Electric SUV	EV competition, slow charging	Urban EV buyers
Subaru Legacy	Midsize Sedan	Sedan decline, outdated design	AWD sedan seekers
Honda Passport	Midsize SUV	Price/value mismatch	Outdoor lifestyle drivers
Nissan Altima	Midsize Sedan	Shrinking market, aging design	Budget-conscious commuters

Final Thoughts: Should You Buy or Wait?

Each of the models listed here still offers compelling value for the right buyer. Whether you’re a driving enthusiast drawn to the Nissan Z, a commuter in need of the Altima, or someone looking to switch to electric with the Toyota bZ4X, 2025’s price drops offer real opportunity.

However, it’s also wise to weigh depreciation risks, fuel economy, and long-term ownership costs—especially with hybrids and EVs becoming more accessible.