Potential retaliatory tariffs on imported vehicles and components may significantly increase costs for Canadian consumers. These economic measures could affect vehicles from various markets, including Mexico and South Korea, and those impacted by U.S. trade policies. The price increases would impact various vehicles, from mainstream models to premium brands. Here are 23 vehicles you may want to buy before they come with a luxury tax disguised as patriotism.
Toyota RAV4
Let’s begin with Canada’s best-selling SUV. Assembled in Japan and Canada, many trims—especially the coveted RAV4 Prime plug-in hybrid—are imported. With Japan being a top target in proposed tariff talks, models arriving from overseas could face steep levies. The RAV4 Prime, already priced around $50,000 before incentives, could see $3,000–$7,000 increases depending on tariff rates, logistics, and currency shifts. Plus, Canadians bought over 70,000 RAV4s in 2023. That’s almost as many as there are maple syrup jokes in parliament.
Honda CR-V
If proposed tariffs on imported vehicles go into effect, the Honda CR-V could see a hefty price hike, potentially several thousand dollars. Why? The CR-V sold in Canada is primarily manufactured in Alliston, Ontario, but many of its components, such as engines and transmissions, come from U.S. and Japanese plants. A tariff regime on foreign parts or retaliatory duties could increase production costs significantly.
Ford Maverick
This compact pickup from Ford is built in Hermosillo, Mexico. The Maverick was Canada’s best-selling compact truck in 2023, lauded for its hybrid powertrain and sub-7L/100 km fuel economy. But that value equation collapses if a $5,000–$10,000 price hike hits the window sticker. And don’t forget: unlike full-size trucks built in the U.S. or Canada, the Maverick is particularly vulnerable since it lacks a domestic assembly alternative.
Chevrolet Equinox
The Equinox is another victim of geographic roulette—built in Ingersoll, Ontario, and Mexico. Tariffs of 10–25% on imported vehicles or parts (as previously proposed during trade spats) would either get passed on to consumers or force GM to shift production — both costly scenarios. For instance, a 25% tariff on a $35,000 Equinox could inflate the sticker price by over $8,000 after factoring in cascading supply chain costs.
BMW 3 Series
Built primarily in Germany (specifically, Munich and Regensburg), the 3 Series would be directly affected by a steep tariff hike, potentially adding thousands to its MSRP. In 2024, a base 330i xDrive already starts around $57,000. With a hypothetical 10–25% tariff, similar to those proposed in past U.S. trade skirmishes, that price could balloon by $5,000 to $12,000, not counting knock-on effects like increased financing costs or insurance premiums.
Toyota Tacoma
If tariffs hit Japanese-built vehicles, expect the Toyota Tacoma to get pricier—like, “I-should-have-bought-it-last-year” pricier. While most Tacomas for North America are built in Toyota’s plant in San Antonio, Texas, many, exceptionally high trims like the TRD Pro, are assembled in Baja California and Guanajuato, Mexico. That makes them prime candidates for new tariffs targeting non-domestic imports. Also, according to the American Automotive Policy Council, proposed tariffs could reach up to 25%, potentially tacking on $6,000–$8,000 to the price of a fully loaded Tacoma (currently hovering around $55,000).
Hyundai Tucson
The Tucson is a Korean darling with international roots, built in Korea and Alabama. Hyundai Canada has previously acknowledged that trade restrictions could disrupt pricing and supply chains. And since the Tucson competes in the price-sensitive compact SUV segment against domestic rivals like the Ford Escape and Chevrolet Equinox (largely North American-built), any hike could nudge shoppers elsewhere. So, unless Hyundai rapidly expands North American production (currently centered in Alabama, but not yet covering the Tucson), sticker shock may soon be part of the Tucson experience.
Kia Sportage
Cousin to the Tucson, the Sportage is often shipped from South Korea: same story, same wallet pain. Prices could balloon by $3,500–$5,500, depending on your trim and drivetrain. This compact SUV is a hot seller in Canada thanks to its spacious interior, peppy hybrid option, and solid reliability ratings. Also, according to DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, Kia is one of the fastest-growing brands in Canada, and the Sportage plays a massive role in that. Plus, on the bright side, you’ll greatly appreciate that heated steering wheel after freezing from sticker shock.
Volkswagen Jetta
Volkswagen builds the Jetta in—you guessed it—Mexico. This compact sedan starts at a budget-friendly $24,595 in 2025, but a 10% to 25% tariff (a range floated in previous trade tensions) could raise the cost by $2,500 to $6,000 or more. That’s no small potatoes for a car known for its affordable German engineering. The Jetta’s popularity hinges on its value-for-money proposition, and slapping thousands onto its sticker could send buyers scrambling to Japanese or Korean alternatives. That “German precision” may soon come with a “North American inflation” surcharge.
Nissan Sentra
While some Sentras are built in Tennessee, a chunk of Canadian stock is imported from Mexico. Expect price hikes of $2,000–$3,500. Sentra + Tariff = Same price as a base Altima. This price bump might discourage potential buyers or push them toward other brands. As Nissan Sentra’s popularity continues to rise due to its fuel efficiency, comfort, and affordability, an increase in cost would likely reduce its competitive edge against other compact sedans from brands like Toyota or Honda.
Chevrolet Blazer
Another SUV coming out of Mexico, the Chevy Blazer, isn’t exactly budget-tier already. This midsize crossover is known for its bold design and excellent driving dynamics, with a 2.0L turbocharged engine or a 3.6L V6 option. The Blazer also offers tech-forward features like a 10-inch infotainment display, Apple CarPlay, and Android Auto. Add a tariff, which could cost you $4,000–$6,000 more.
Honda HR-V
The Honda HR-V could see a significant price increase if tariffs are applied. The HR-V is a popular compact crossover that offers solid reliability, a well-designed interior, and excellent fuel economy, making it a favorite among city dwellers and adventure seekers alike. It’s assembled in Mexico, which means it could be hit with higher import tariffs if new trade policies take effect. These tariffs would likely increase the vehicle’s base price by thousands, affecting the overall affordability and value proposition.
Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30: a stylish, practical, small crossover that might make your wallet sweat more than you’d like if tariffs hit. This compact beauty, known for its peppy 2.5-liter engine and upscale interior, is like that friend who looks effortlessly cool at a party. But if those pesky tariffs come into play, the CX-30 could see a price hike of thousands of dollars. Why? It’s built in Japan, so additional import taxes would naturally flow to your purchase price.
BMW X5
Built in Spartanburg, South Carolina (hurrah for NAFTA, remember that?), but using many imported parts. Starting at around $66,000, any added 25% tariff could balloon your bill faster than a turbocharged 0–60 sprint. Why? Even though it’s made in the U.S., many components (engines, transmissions, electronics) are still imported from Germany. Globalization giveth, and tariffs taketh away.
Kia Forte
If you’ve been eyeing a Kia Forte for its mix of affordability and “I ’ ””m-a-responsible-adult” vibes, brace yourself—tariffs might just turn your budget-friendly ride into a wallet-weeping regret. The U.S. has threatened to impose tariffs of up to 25% on foreign-made vehicles and parts (including those shipped from South Korea, where your snazzy Forte is born). That could jack up the price of your sweet sedan by several thousand dollars—some estimates say $5,000 or more per vehicle.
Audi Q5
Audi’s bestselling SUV in Canada is built in—you guessed it—Mexico. With tariffs, buyers could face a $5,000–$7,500 hit. Yes, it’ll still have quattro. No, it won’t come with financial traction. Translation? You may soon need a second mortgage for your German luxury. So, if you’ve been dreaming of gliding silently in a Q5 plug-in hybrid, better buy now—or start practicing your “vroom” noises while pedaling a bike. Plus, with tariffs, your wallet won’t be driving in comfort anytime soon.
Mercedes-Benz GLC
With production scattered across Germany and other global plants, including Mexico, the GLC could take a wallop from multiple tariff angles. The GLC isn’t some low-end compact—it’s luxury on wheels, complete with turbocharged engines, plush interiors, and that three-pointed star that screams “I made it!” Yet with tariffs, even bragging rights have a markup. According to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, such tariffs could cost U.S. and Canadian consumers billions annually.
Toyota Corolla
Long thought of as the people’s car, the Corolla has complex production, including Japanese and U.S. plants. Hybrids and higher trims often come from abroad. According to the Center for Automotive Research, a 25% tariff on imported autos or parts (as once threatened in the U.S.) could hike prices by $5,000 or more per vehicle. Imagine paying luxury-car prices for your trusty beige commuter. Suddenly, those heated seats don’t feel so cozy. And no, the trunk still won’t close on a Costco bulk run.
Jeep Compass
Ah, the Jeep Compass — your trusty chariot of rugged charm and gas station loitering. But buckle up: if proposed auto tariffs go through, especially on imports from countries like Mexico (where many Compass models are built), this midsize SUV could cost you several thousand more. That’s not just your wallet crying — it’s a full-blown financial meltdown in the glovebox. Also, according to the Peterson Institute for International Economics, a 25% tariff on imported autos could hike vehicle prices by $4,000–$6,000.
Nissan Kicks
Thinking about buying a Nissan Kicks? Well, brace your wallet—if proposed tariffs on imported vehicles go through, this snappy little crossover might cost you thousands more. Built in Mexico, the Kicks is among many compact SUVs on the tariff chopping block. A 25% tariff (yes, twenty-five!) has been floated in the past, which could balloon the price of this budget-friendly ride by $5,000 or more. That’s enough to buy a lot of guac. In 2024, the Kicks started at around $22,000 in Canada.
Chevrolet Silverado 1500 (Certain Trims)
While many Silverados are built in Canada and the U.S., some trims come from Mexico, especially light-duty ones. A 2019 Centre for Automotive Research study predicted U.S. tariffs could boost average vehicle prices by $2,750, with trucks and SUVs hardest hit. The Silverado 1500, America’s driveway darling, isn’t immune. So, unless your wallet’s been doing squats, those tariffs could turn your truck dreams into expensive exhaust fumes.
Hyundai Elantra
Often built in Korea, the Elantra is a value mainstay for sedan buyers. With tariffs, even the base Essential trim might become financially “Advanced.” Expect $2,500–$4,500 more. Hyundai, known for its budget-friendly, feature-stuffed rides, might suddenly compete with BMWs for your wallet’s affection. Add in parts supply disruptions, increased insurance premiums, and a sprinkle of dealer markups, and boom—your “affordable” compact car now moonlights as a status symbol.
Mitsubishi Outlander
Thinking of buying a Mitsubishi Outlander? Brace your wallet—as the Outlander, built in Japan, is directly in the tariff crosshairs. A proposed 25% tariff on imported cars could spike its price by several thousand dollars (think: “goodbye ski trip, hello budget staycation”). Currently, the Outlander starts around $30,000. Add tariffs, and you could be looking at a price jump to $37,000 or more—to drive a Japanese crossover with seven seats and eco-mode.
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