UPDATE: On April 2, 2025, President Donald J. Trump declared a national emergency, triggering sweeping global tariffs aimed at enhancing domestic production and reducing the trade deficit. This urgent move includes a 25% tariff on foreign vehicles, impacting consumers across the nation.
As consumers brace for potential price hikes of between $5,000 and $15,000 per vehicle, the latest report from Consumer Reports highlights six American-built vehicles that could help buyers avoid these tariffs. The implications of these tariffs are massive, with fears of inflation and recession looming large over the economy.
In his announcement, Trump proclaimed Liberation Day as a pivotal moment for American industry, stating, “This will forever be remembered as the day America’s destiny was reclaimed.” However, the immediate concern for many consumers and businesses is how these tariffs will affect their wallets and the broader economy.
Consumer Reports, a trusted source for unbiased vehicle assessments, has compiled a list of top cars, SUVs, and trucks assembled in the U.S. that may be exempt from these tariffs. This list offers a glimmer of hope for those looking to navigate the changing automotive landscape amid rising costs.
Here are the top six vehicles identified by Consumer Reports that may remain “tariff proof”:
1. **Toyota Corolla 2025**
– **Price**: $22,325 – $28,190
– **MPG**: Overall 36 / Highway 51
– Assembled in Blue Springs, Mississippi, this small car remains a cost-effective choice.
2. **Toyota Corolla Cross Hybrid 2025**
– **Price**: $28,395 – $31,580
– **MPG**: Overall 41 / Highway 47
– Manufactured at Toyota’s facility in Huntsville, Alabama, this hybrid stands out for its fuel efficiency.
3. **Honda CR-V 2025**
– **Price**: $30,100 – $50,000
– **MPG**: Overall 26 / Highway 33
– Now produced in Indiana and Ohio, the CR-V has shifted production from Canada to the U.S. to adapt to the new tariff landscape.
4. **Toyota RAV4 Hybrid 2025**
– **Price**: $28,850 – $40,205
– **MPG**: Overall 37 / Highway 41
– Some models are assembled in Kentucky, making them a viable option for consumers wanting to avoid tariffs.
5. **Acura RDX 2025**
– **Price**: $44,700 – $54,450
– **MPG**: Overall 22 / Highway 30
– This luxury compact SUV is manufactured at Honda’s East Liberty Plant in Ohio.
6. **Honda Ridgeline 2025**
– **Price**: $40,150 – $46,750
– **MPG**: Overall 20 / Highway 29
– Exclusively produced in Lincoln, Alabama, this pickup offers utility without the tariff burden.
As consumers look for ways to navigate this new economic reality, understanding where vehicles are built becomes crucial. The easiest way to check if a vehicle is tariff-exempt is to look at the sticker inside the driver’s side door, which indicates the vehicle’s final assembly location.
The introduction of “The Big Beautiful Bill” adds further incentives for buyers, offering tax credits on loan interest of up to $10,000 per year through 2028. This legislation aims to bolster American-made vehicle sales during this tumultuous time.
The stakes are high as the automotive industry adjusts to these tariffs. Consumers are advised to stay informed and make strategic choices to avoid falling victim to rising costs. The situation is developing rapidly, and it’s clear that smart purchasing decisions can help mitigate the impact of these sweeping tariffs.
For those looking to maximize their vehicle investment amid these changes, Consumer Reports provides valuable insights that can guide purchasing decisions in this uncertain economic landscape. Stay tuned for updates as the situation unfolds.