With the U.S.-imposed tariffs and Canada’s retaliatory tariffs in the air, the automotive industry is at a risky position. These tariffs are running supply chains, delaying production, and increasing the price of various cars. The vehicles that were affordable before could become unattainable overnight due to these factors. With base price hikes and additional costs on imported parts, their future looks pretty unpredictable. Here are 25 affordable cars that could become unattainable overnight because of tariffs:
Chevrolet Trax
The Chevrolet Trax is assembled in South Korea, but would become unattainable overnight because of tariffs. It faces a 25% tariff from North America, which hikes up the cost from $21,000 to $27,000 in current times. As a top-selling subcompact SUV, its affordability is key for budget buyers, which now seems very unlikely.
Nissan Sentra
Due to the tariffs, the price of the Nissan Sentra could increase by around $4,000-$5,000. Built in Mexico, this vehicle faces a 25% tariff, which increases its price and erodes its value proposition. Mexico’s significant role in U.S. auto imports means supply chain disruptions are likely.
Hyundai Kona
One of the best subcompact crossovers in the market, the Hyundai Kona suffers from the looming effects of tariffs. Tariffs could push the price into the $30,000 range, aligning it with larger SUVs where it may not deliver enough value. Assembled in South Korea, the reliance on the United States and Canadian markets amplifies the impact.
Kia Soul
The Kia Soul was previously an excellent car for budget buyers who could attain one for around $22,000. However, its affordability is eroding as tariffs are increasing the base price and component costs. With imported parts comprising 40–60% of even U.S.-built cars, additional costs compound the issue.
Honda HR-V
The ideal car for city landscapes and daily commutes, the Honda HR-V is assembled in Mexico. This compact SUV’s affordability drives strong sales, but tariffs are enhancing its price. Since the vehicle is no longer affordable, consumers will search for different models in the used market.
Toyota Corolla
A famous compact sedan and a reliable choice for all families, the Toyota Corolla is one of a kind. A favourite of many drivers, this vehicle is built in both the United States and Japan. The iconic sedan’s affordability is crucial for new buyers, but it will now cost them significantly more. The base trim, which previously cost $22,000, will now cost approximately $26,000.
Ford Maverick
The Ford Maverick, assembled in Mexico, faces a 25% tariff, which raises its price by $4,000 to $7,000. Small businesses and industries use this compact truck for a wide variety of purposes. Apart from the price increases, consumers also fear that some crucial safety and tech features might be removed.
Jeep Compass
Delivering on both comfort and durability, the Jeep Compass is a brilliant compact SUV. The price of this vehicle pre tariff was about $26,000 which is likely to rise $5,000 additionally due to tariffs. Consumers could no longer obtain an off-road and user-friendly compact SUV for under $30,000, making it unattainable for budget-friendly buyers.
Chevrolet Trailblazer
The Chevrolet Trailblazer could become unattainable overnight due to tariffs and shifting market strategies. Since the vehicle is assembled in South Korea, its increased price won’t draw any more customers. As the company explores options to reduce cross-border tariffs, the reliance on the U.S. market significantly increases risks.
Subaru Forester
Since Subaru manufactures its vehicles in Japan, the cost of the Forester will likely increase by $6,000. This compact SUV’s value and reliability attract families, but tariffs could make this unattainable overnight. The Subaru Forester, with its symmetrical all-wheel drive, which costs $27,000, will now cost $33,000.
Mazda CX-5
Powered by a Skyactiv-G 2.5-liter engine, the Mazda CX-5 is affordable and is very reliable. Nonetheless, the 25% tariffs have taken a toll on it since most of the vehicles are produced in Japan. While this brand has made efforts to mitigate the effects, a surge in costs may render the CX-5 unattainable for many consumers.
Toyota RAV4
While the Toyota RAV4 is manufactured in North America and is free from the tariffs, the plug-in hybrid variant is not. The hybrid variant is produced in Japan and is affected by the tariffs. This includes tariffs on the batteries and other components, leading to price increases and making it unattainable overnight.
Honda Civic Sedan
With some of the best safety features and a balanced performance, the Honda Civic Sedan is an excellent choice for buyers. While this vehicle is not manufactured in a single location, various components are bound to be affected. These include the transmissions, brakes, and others, which may increase the price overnight.
Hyundai Venue
The Hyundai Venue, manufactured in South Korea, is subject to a 25% tariff, which would increase costs by $4,000–$5,000. Byers are drawn towards this for its exhilarating performance and cutting-edge tech, which may no longer be attainable. Overnight, this budget SUV could become out of reach, limiting options for cost-conscious drivers.
Kia Forte
The Kia Forte, which was priced at around $20,000 at its base, will now see a nearly $5,000 increase. Produced in Mexico, the Kia Forte faces a 25% tariff, thus increasing its prices across all trims. The cost of essential materials, such as steel and aluminum, has been escalating and will continue to do so.
Volkswagen Taos
Powered by a 1.5-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Volkswagen Taos delivers impressive performance. Its budget-friendly SUV status appeals to young families and budget-friendly buyers. Volkswagen’s manufacturing facility in Puebla, Mexico, is particularly affected, which can add up to $6,000.
Buick Encore GX
At an affordable price of only $26,000, the Buick Encore GX could become unattainable due to tariffs. Since this vehicle is built in South Korea, it will face the wrath of the tariffs and additional imported tariffs. The prices increase the cost for General Motors, the parent company of Buick, leading to higher prices for consumers.
Chevrolet Equinox
The Chevrolet Equinox has already seen a $2,000 increase in its base price this year, positioning it at $26,000. This will further increase due to the tariffs since most of Chevrolet’s vehicles are assembled in Mexico. The new cost will be around $30,000–$33,000, making it unattainable for many.
Dodge Hornet
The Dodge Hornet is produced in Italy and will likely witness a $5,000 increase due to tariffs. These tariffs are anticipated to raise production costs for Stellantis, the parent company of Dodge. A favourite among buyers due to its performance and sporty styling, this compact SUV might become unattainable overnight.
Nissan Kicks
The Nissan Kicks is likely to experience a price increase due to recent U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles. Built in Mexico, this vehicle is powered by a 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine paired with Nissan’s Xtronic Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). Nissan’s reliance on Mexican production risks supply chain delays, potentially leading to sudden price spikes.
Hyundai Tucson
Available in hybrid, gasoline and diesel options, the Hyundai Tucson is capable of seating up to 5 passengers. Its stylish design and affordability appeal to millennials, but tariffs could push it into a higher price bracket. With the tariffs, the vehicle could cost up to $30,000, a $6,000 increase from its base price.
Kia Seltos
Punctuated by a multitude of features, the Kia Seltos seamlessly blends performance and technology. Produced in South Korea, its dependence on U.S. markets risks price increases and inventory issues. With few sub-$30,000 domestic SUVs available, the Kia Seltos might be overlooked in favor of other affordable options.
Toyota Corolla Cross
Manufactured in Japan, the Toyota Corolla Cross faces higher import costs, which could make it unattainable. Tariffs could incentivize Toyota to either localize its production or seek alternative markets for assembly. Adding $4,000–$6,000 to its cost, the tariffs will have a significant impact on the supply chain as a whole.
Mazda CX-30
The Mazda CX-30 offers a smooth and comfortable ride, thanks to its standard all-wheel drive on all trims. Since this vehicle is assembled in both Japan and Mexico, it is subject to the tariffs. Tariffs on auto parts will also increase, including the cost of components such as engines and infotainment systems.
Mitsubishi Outlander Sport
Amidst this tariff war, the Mitsubishi Outlander Sport, which was $24,000, could easily increase up to $30,000. Low sales volumes and slim margins may lead Mitsubishi to discontinue the model. From production delays to reduced component quality, this model could become unattainable overnight.
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