Big changes are coming to America’s car market—and they’re hitting fast. Starting April 2nd, a new 25% import tariff will take effect on cars and parts built outside the U.S. That means many of the vehicles we’ve grown to love—whether they’re from Toyota, Mazda, BMW, or even Chevy—are about to get more expensive.
So, what does that mean for you, the car buyer, commuter, or gearhead? If half the cars sold in the U.S. are imported, then half the car lot might be due for a serious price jump. Whether you’re due for a new ride or just love talking cars, now’s a good time to ask: what’s your favorite American-made car?
What’s Actually Going On?
President Donald Trump announced that a 25% tariff will hit imported vehicles and parts starting April 2. The idea is to bring car manufacturing back to the U.S. by making it more expensive for companies to rely on overseas plants and suppliers.
Supporters say this could help rebuild American manufacturing. Critics warn it’ll raise prices and limit options. Either way, shoppers are about to feel it.
Here’s the kicker: even many “American” brands—like Ford and Chevrolet—have models built abroad. At the same time, “foreign” companies like Toyota and Honda actually build many of their vehicles right here in the U.S.
How This Affects You?
Right now, about 16 million new cars are sold in America each year. Roughly half are imported.
That means millions of cars could get a hefty markup, not to mention parts and repairs. A fender for your Toyota? More expensive. Brake parts for your German-made BMW? Also, more expensive.
Even if your next car is technically made here, if it relies on parts sourced globally, expect some trickle-down effects in pricing.
Should You Switch to a U.S.-Made Car?
Not a bad idea.
Thankfully, there are plenty of American-made cars out there—from powerful muscle cars and slick EVs to affordable sedans and crossovers. And you might be surprised by how many popular models are actually made in places like Ohio, Kentucky, and Alabama.
Let’s break down some of the best American-made options you can get right now.
Compact & Reliable Daily Drivers
Honda Accord – Marysville, Ohio
The Accord has been assembled in Ohio for decades. It’s practical, comfortable, and consistently reliable. Just because it wears a Honda badge doesn’t mean it’s not American-built.
Toyota Camry – Georgetown, Kentucky
Another top-seller that gets the red-white-and-blue treatment. Toyota’s Kentucky plant pumps out hundreds of thousands of Camrys each year.
Hyundai Santa Fe – Montgomery, Alabama
Yep, even Hyundai is in on the action. The Santa Fe is made in Alabama and offers solid value for families or commuters.
Muscle & Performance
Chevrolet Corvette – Bowling Green, Kentucky
Mid-engine, head-turning, and 100% American. The new Corvette brings Ferrari vibes at half the price—and it’s all made in Kentucky.
Cadillac CT5-V Blackwing – Lansing, Michigan
A supercharged V8 sedan with raw power and luxury styling. Cadillac proves that American performance isn’t dead—it’s just been hiding in Lansing.
Dodge Charger/Challenger – Moving to the U.S. soon
Though built in Canada for years, Dodge is shifting more production stateside. These models still represent American muscle to the core.
Electric and Future-Forward
Tesla Model 3/Y – Fremont, California & Austin, Texas
Tesla’s mainstay models are made right here. They’re sleek, fast, and tech-packed. No tariff woes here.
Ford F-150 Lightning – Dearborn, Michigan
An all-electric version of America’s favorite truck. Built tough in Michigan with all the torque and utility you expect.
Rivian R1T – Normal, Illinois
This electric adventure truck is made in Illinois and making waves. Stylish, capable, and proudly American.
SUVs & Crossovers Built in the U.S.
Jeep Grand Cherokee – Detroit, Michigan
Jeep’s roots go deep in American soil, and the Grand Cherokee continues that tradition with rugged charm and solid build quality.
Volkswagen ID.4 – Chattanooga, Tennessee
Another twist: VW’s electric SUV is built in Tennessee. It’s a compact EV crossover with German engineering and U.S. assembly.
Fun-to-Drive Compacts
Acura Integra Type S – Marysville, Ohio
Sporty, aggressive, and precision-built. The Integra Type S offers a manual transmission and some serious handling chops—all built in Ohio.
Toyota Corolla – Blue Springs, Mississippi
The Corolla might be known for being safe and sensible, but it’s also American-assembled and one of the most reliable cars ever made.
How to Tell Where a Car Is Made
Check the VIN: If it starts with 1, 4, or 5, the vehicle was assembled in the U.S.
Look at the window sticker: It lists the percentage of U.S./Canadian parts and final assembly location.
Ask your dealer: They’ll know which models are built domestically and which aren’t.
What About Used Cars?
Good news—tariffs only apply to new imports. That means buying a used vehicle, even one that was originally built overseas, could help you avoid the extra costs.
You also won’t face as much of a parts shortage, since the used car market tends to lag behind new inventory disruptions.
Tips for Buying Smart Right Now
- Act before April – If you’re considering a car that might be hit by tariffs, shop before prices jump.
- Consider U.S.-assembled models – Plenty of great options are made in America, even from foreign brands.
- Watch incentives – Manufacturers may offer deals to help offset pricing shifts.
- Look at used – You might find better value and less pricing drama in the pre-owned market.
- Plan for repairs – If you own an imported car, check part availability and pricing—especially for common repairs.
So… What’s Your Favorite American-Made Car?
Do you dream of tearing up the streets in a Corvette? Cruising smooth in a Kentucky-built Camry? Or going full electric in a Tesla Model Y?
Drop your pick in the comments. We’d love to hear what American-made car you admire most—whether it’s for style, speed, comfort, or simply nostalgia.
Let’s celebrate the cars that are built right here at home. Even in a shifting market, there’s still pride—and plenty of performance—rolling off assembly lines across the country.
