My guess is that it's the result of the business model of Laguna. Some companies, Grizzly probably being the most prominent example, behave more like consumer products companies than like traditional tool makers. Maybe they have more savvy business people in charge. In any case, that way of looking at a particular product would involve profitability and consumer enthusiasm. If sales volume is low and therefore, the net profit is low, a product might be discontinued. Some consumers are attracted by the shiny new object, and an older product might be deemphasized or discontinued so the marketing people can promote the latest whizbang model.
As has been said, if your lathe works well for you, be pleased with it, be proud of it, make good stuff on it. The rest is smoke and mirrors.