Product life cycle for cars and trucks

In the early 80's, the Japanese car makers followed a typical 4 years cycle.  Now, it's 5 years with a typical 3rd year face-lift. The luxury vehicles have a even longer product life cycle of 6 years.  The product changes are even more subtle than ever.

No more 1986 Ford Taurus like design changes.

The new vehicles were typically introduced in September, but it new models are coming to market through out the year. There is no more "bargain" model -end discount in the summer.

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Acura MDX 2011 (6 years) 2007
BMW 3-series 2006 (6 years) 2012
BMW X-5 1999-2006 (6.5 y), 2006-2013
Chevrolet Suburban 8th gen 1973 (19 years) 1992 (8 years) 2000 (7 years) 2007
Lexus LS 1989 (5 years) 1994 (6 years) 2000 (6 y) 2006
Honda Accord 82-85 (4y), 86-89 (4y), 90-93 (4y), 94-97 (4y), 98-02 (5 y), 03-07 (5y), 08-??