Electric Cars

A protracted class-action lawsuit targeting Subaru's EyeSight safety systems has finally drawn to a close, culminating in a settlement that provides limited relief to vehicle owners. Despite initial claims of widespread malfunctions, the resolution offers a partial warranty extension and specific repair reimbursements, with lead plaintiffs receiving a surprisingly modest sum, underscoring the complexities and sometimes disappointing outcomes of such legal battles.

Subaru EyeSight Lawsuit: A Minimal Victory for Owners

In May 2021, a class-action lawsuit was initiated against Subaru, alleging significant defects within its advanced EyeSight safety system. The legal complaint specifically cited issues with critical features such as Pre-Collision Braking, Rear Automatic Braking, and Lane Keep Assist across numerous Subaru models. The plaintiffs contended that these systems frequently failed to operate as intended, particularly the Pre-Collision Braking, and accused Subaru of withholding information about these problems to safeguard profits. After an arduous four-year legal contest, a settlement has finally been reached, although its terms have left many owners dissatisfied.

Subaru, for its part, continues to maintain that its vehicles are free from defects. The settlement, as detailed by Car Complaints, offers two primary forms of compensation. Firstly, an extended warranty for the EyeSight system is provided, covering 75% of repair costs for 48 months or 48,000 miles from the vehicle's original in-service date. Vehicles already exceeding these thresholds will receive a four-month warranty extension from the date of the class-action settlement notice. Secondly, affected owners are eligible for expense reimbursement for 'covered repairs,' defined as rectifying malfunctions in the Pre-Collision Braking, Rear Automatic Braking, or Lane Keep Assist features stemming from issues with the EyeSight camera assembly or rear sonar sensors, also within the 48-month or 48,000-mile limit.

The lawsuit encompassed a wide range of Subaru vehicles from various model years, including the 2013-2022 Legacy and Outback, 2015-2023 Impreza and Crosstrek, 2014-2021 Forester, 2019-2022 Ascent, 2016-2021 WRX, and the 2022-2024 BRZ. However, the most striking aspect of the settlement is the compensation for the lead plaintiffs: a mere $5,000 each. This outcome, following years of litigation, highlights the often-disproportionate effort versus reward in consumer class-action lawsuits.

This case serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges consumers face when confronting large corporations over product defects. While the settlement offers some degree of extended coverage, the nominal financial compensation for those who spearheaded the legal action may not adequately reflect the inconvenience, potential safety concerns, and legal expenses incurred. It prompts a broader discussion on the efficacy of class-action lawsuits in achieving substantial justice for individual claimants, particularly when the settlement terms appear heavily weighted in favor of the defendant, despite the public acknowledgment of system vulnerabilities through a warranty extension. The minimal payout to the plaintiffs could discourage future legal challenges, potentially leaving other aggrieved consumers without a viable path to meaningful redress.

In a surprising turn of events for the automotive industry, the Dodge Durango, a vehicle often considered a veteran in its class, has achieved an extraordinary sales milestone in 2025. Despite operating on a platform that dates back to 2010, this robust SUV has recorded its best annual sales figures in two decades, showcasing an impressive resurgence in market demand. This achievement stands in stark contrast to the overall sales downturn experienced by its parent company, Stellantis, underlining the Durango's unique position and enduring appeal among consumers.

Details of the Durango's Remarkable Sales Performance

Stellantis's recent annual sales report for 2025 unveiled a significant triumph for the Dodge Durango. The SUV's sales soared to 81,168 units, marking a substantial 37% increase compared to the 59,357 units sold in 2024. This performance is particularly noteworthy given that the third-generation Durango has been on the market for over a decade. While the broader Dodge brand experienced a 28% decline in sales, largely due to the discontinuation of popular models like the Challenger and Charger, the Durango emerged as a beacon of success.

Historically, the third-generation Durango maintained annual sales figures between 60,000 and 70,000 units throughout most of the 2010s. The jump beyond the 80,000-unit mark in 2025 represents a significant surge in its market presence. The key to this sustained popularity lies in the Durango's distinctive offerings. Its powerful engine options, including a 295-horsepower V6 and the widely acclaimed V8, provide a level of performance that often surpasses its competitors. Furthermore, the availability of a 710-horsepower supercharged SRT Hellcat variant, now legal across all 50 states, solidifies its appeal to performance enthusiasts seeking raw power in a three-row SUV.

The Durango's strategy of combining competitive pricing with a potent engine lineup, robust towing capabilities, and a generous cabin space has resonated with a segment of buyers who prioritize power and utility over the often more refined, but less exhilarating, alternatives. This combination has allowed the Durango to defy the typical lifecycle decline seen in older models, demonstrating that a well-executed formula can maintain relevance and demand in a constantly evolving market.

Reflections on Longevity and Market Appeal

The Dodge Durango's exceptional performance in 2025 offers a compelling narrative about market dynamics and consumer preferences. In an era where technological advancements and rapid model cycles often dictate success, the Durango's ability to thrive, despite its age, is truly remarkable. It suggests that for some buyers, fundamental attributes like power, practicality, and value can outweigh the allure of cutting-edge design or advanced features. This SUV's journey serves as a reminder that a strong core offering, combined with strategic positioning, can enable a product to maintain a powerful presence even against newer, more technologically sophisticated rivals. The Durango's story is a testament to the fact that sometimes, the 'old school' approach still holds significant sway.