- The Kia K5, Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Santa Cruz, and Nissan Pathfinder continue to hold their own with strong design, comfort, and reliability despite being due for updates.
- Each model benefits from years of tuning and real-world improvement, offering dependable performance and proven quality.
- With attractive pricing, mature engineering, and fewer first-year teething issues, these vehicles remain compelling alternatives to brand-new releases.
The auto industry moves fast, as evidenced by the dramatic changes from generation to generation that no longer qualify as evolutionary. Every year brings new tech, cutting-edge designs, new powertrains, and improved safety features that can make last year’s models feel outdated pretty quickly.
But not every vehicle past its prime deserves to be overlooked. Many buyers want the newest redesign, but fully redesigned vehicles typically have kinks to iron out. Some vehicles have proven themselves close to the end of their life and have matured into refined, capable, and enjoyable choices that still compete strongly in their segments. Here are four vehicles due for a redesign but still worth your attention if you’re shopping today.
Kia K5
The Kia K5 made a strong debut for the 2021 model year, replacing the Optima and setting a new tone for Kia’s sedan lineup. Now entering its fifth year on the market, it’s starting to fall behind fresher rivals like the Honda Accord and Toyota Camry, which bring new platforms, interior tech, and fuel-saving hybrid drivetrains. The K5, meanwhile, only has gas engine choices.
The K5 remains one of the most attractive and well-rounded midsize sedans available. Its long, low silhouette and dramatic lighting still look fresh, and the interior feels more premium than its price suggests. The standard turbocharged 1.6-liter engine is smooth and efficient, while the 290-horsepower GT trim transforms the K5 into a surprisingly quick sport sedan.
The current K5 offers generous equipment and one of the best warranties in the industry. With optional all-wheel drive and a cabin that blends comfort with quality materials, the K5 proves that a stylish, gas-powered sedan still makes sense for buyers who may not be ready to go hybrid.
Volkswagen ID.4
The Volkswagen ID.4 arrived in 2021 as the brand’s first mainstream electric SUV. It was positioned as a practical, approachable alternative to flashier rivals like the Tesla Model Y and Ford Mustang Mach-E. However, its touch-based interior controls and modest driving range have aged quickly, and newer EVs now offer faster charging, smarter interfaces, and longer range. Volkswagen is expected to refresh the ID.4 soon, but the current version is beginning to feel a little dated, especially when it comes to the challenging in-car tech.
The ID.4 continues to stand out for its comfort, practicality, and composure. It’s one of the few EVs that prioritizes ride quality and quiet refinement over gimmicks. The cabin is roomy, well-built, and offers more usable space than many compact SUVs. The available all-wheel-drive version delivers solid performance and confident handling in all weather conditions.
Volkswagen has made ongoing improvements to software and functionality, and U.S.-assembled models now qualify for federal tax incentives. Range remains competitive at up to 275 miles, and access to Tesla’s Supercharger network is coming soon. For drivers who want an EV that feels familiar, comfortable, and understated, the ID.4 remains a smart and dependable pick.
Hyundai Santa Cruz
Hyundai
The Hyundai Santa Cruz debuted in 2022 as a fresh take on what a pickup could be. With its car-like ride, compact dimensions, and bold design, it carved out a niche for buyers who wanted light utility without the size of a traditional truck. Refreshed in 2025 with a more truck-like front fascia and improved controls, it still has the same silhouette and ethos. Unlike the Santa Cruza, a key rival, the Ford Maverick has a hybrid option.
Hyundai
The Santa Cruz remains one of the most versatile and fun-to-drive vehicles in the compact segment. The optional 2.5-liter turbocharged engine gives it brisk acceleration, while its smooth suspension and direct steering make it easy to drive every day. The cabin is comfortable and solidly built, offering premium materials and thoughtful ergonomics.
The Santa Cruz is equally suited for hauling bikes and gear as it is for city commutes. Add Hyundai’s strong warranty and solid reliability record, and the Santa Cruz still delivers one of the most complete lifestyle-truck packages around.
Nissan Pathfinder
Nissan
The current Nissan Pathfinder was redesigned for the 2022 model year, but the three-row SUV segment evolves pretty quickly. With new entries like the Mazda CX-90 and Toyota Grand Highlander pushing the bar higher for efficiency, powertrain innovation, tech, and occupant room, the Pathfinder already feels like it’s due for another leap forward. Its naturally aspirated V6 and conventional design haven’t kept pace with newer hybrid and plug-in alternatives.
Nissan
The Pathfinder succeeds by getting the fundamentals right. Its 3.5-liter V6 and nine-speed automatic make for smooth, predictable performance, and the available all-wheel-drive system provides surefooted traction in bad weather. The interior is one of Nissan’s best, featuring high-quality materials, easy-to-use physiacl controls, and seating for up to eight passengers.
Families will appreciate the flexible second-row setup that allows easy access to the third row even with child seats installed. Towing capacity is impressive at up to 6,000 pounds, and the Rock Creek edition adds a bit of off-road flavor with unique styling and all-terrain tires. The Pathfinder might not be flashy or electrified, but it’s comfortable, capable, and built to handle daily life with ease.
Final Thoughts
Redesigns may bring the latest styling and tech, but the newest vehicle isn’t always the best buy. The Kia K5, Volkswagen ID.4, Hyundai Santa Cruz, and Nissan Pathfinder each offer qualities that have been refined and proven over time. Older models often benefit from incremental updates, real-world owner feedback, and attractive pricing as automakers prepare to replace them. If you’re okay with not having the latest and greatest, you could very well come away with a great buy.
About the author
Amos Kwon
Contributing Writer, Autoblog