Coca-Cola shocks fans by bringing back iconic 1980s soda flavor

Diet Coke remains a major player, even as Coke Zero gains traction

Coca-Cola has made repeated efforts to promote Coke Zero Sugar over Diet Coke, but loyal fans of the classic diet beverage haven’t allowed it to fade. While some consumers prefer Coke Zero’s taste, in the U.S., it still ranks behind Coca-Cola and Diet Coke in brand popularity.

This isn’t a case like TaB, which was phased out in favor of better-performing products. Diet Coke continues to serve a solid market segment and plays a meaningful role in Coca-Cola’s portfolio — even if it’s no longer the trendiest option.

Diet Coke holds strong on the global stage

According to 2024 data, Diet Coke remained a top-ten soft drink brand worldwide. Coca-Cola itself led the list with a brand value of $98.7 billion, followed by:

1. Red Bull – $22.1 billion

2. Nongfu Spring – $19.9 billion

3. Pepsi – $17.6 billion

4. Nespresso – $11.4 billion

5. Nescafé – $10.4 billion

6. Yill – $10.2 billion

7. Monster – $8.4 billion

8. Diet Coke – $7.7 billion

9. Fanta – $7.6 billion

10. Sprite – $6.8 billion

Many of these beverages may not be household names in the U.S., but Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, and Coca-Cola are still global icons under the Coca-Cola umbrella.

Celebrity attention helps Diet Coke stay visible

Despite shifting consumer preferences, Diet Coke continues to enjoy cultural relevance. Public attention from high-profile figures like Donald Trump and Elon Musk has given the drink a visibility boost, especially in the U.S. where both men are noted fans.

Coca-Cola Reintroduces Classic Diet Coke Cherry Flavor

Over the years, Coca-Cola has offered Diet Coke in a wide array of flavors — much like a traditional soda fountain experience. Previous variations have included Lime, Vanilla, Ginger Lime, and Twisted Mango.

Coke Zero Sugar is often mistaken as a Diet Coke replacement, but Coca-Cola distinguishes the two. As the company explains, “Both drinks are sugar free and calorie free. Coca‑Cola Zero Sugar looks and tastes more like Coca‑Cola Original, while Diet Coke has a lighter, distinct taste.”

Now, in a move that’s exciting longtime fans, Coca-Cola is bringing back Diet Cherry Coke — a beloved classic.

“I’m way too excited for this one — Diet Cherry Coke is returning for a limited time with retro packaging!” shared popular Instagram page Snackolator. “This doesn’t appear to be an exclusive release, but I’ll post updates as it rolls out in stores.”

Coca-Cola Eyes a Health-Conscious Future

While Diet Coke still sparks debate about its health profile, many consider it a better alternative to full-calorie sodas. The beverage industry has seen a wave of innovation with added ingredients like prebiotics, probiotics, and other wellness-focused compounds.

During Coca-Cola’s Q1 earnings call, CEO James Quincey addressed the shift toward “functional” drinks.

“We follow the consumer. What do they actually want, and how do they behave when making purchase decisions?” he said. “Do they want those added ingredients in a beverage — or in another form?”

Quincey also made it clear that taste still leads.

“At the end of the day, taste is the most important factor. While some consumers may trade taste for function, most still prioritize flavor,” he added.

Coca-Cola appears open to evolving, but only as fast as consumers demand it.

Bottom line?
Coca-Cola’s decision to bring back Diet Cherry Coke blends nostalgia with strategy — and proves that even amid changing trends, legacy drinks like Diet Coke still have a place in today’s market.