Car tariffs are government-imposed taxes on imported vehicles and automotive parts. These charges are typically levied at the border, increasing the cost of bringing foreign-made cars into the United States. While tariffs on cars have existed for decades, their economic and political implications continue to evolve, especially in light of recent shifts in trade policy.
In 2025, the US government introduced new updates to its import regulations, sparking debates about car tariffs and their broader implications. For buyers and sellers, these changes could reshape everything from sticker prices to supply chains. As international manufacturers, domestic dealerships, and collectors adjust to this landscape, questions like “what car brands will be affected by tariffs?” and “will tariffs affect used car prices?” are becoming increasingly important.
This article explains how car tariffs may influence market prices, consumer behavior, and vehicle shipping decisions. It also explores how enclosed transport providers like Passport Transport can support individuals and businesses in navigating the evolving world of automotive imports.
Car tariffs are taxes imposed by a government on vehicles and auto parts imported from other countries. These tariffs on cars are typically calculated as a percentage of the total value of the vehicle or component and collected at the border when the goods enter the US market. Car tariffs apply to new vehicles, aftermarket parts, and, in some cases, even used vehicles from abroad.
In recent years, US tariff policy has seen notable changes. Following trade negotiations and supply chain disruptions throughout the early 2020s, the government began reevaluating its approach. As of 2025, updated import policies have introduced higher tariffs on specific vehicle categories, particularly those imported from countries with large automotive export sectors. This move has caused concern among automakers, dealers, and car buyers alike.
The primary purpose of tariffs is to protect domestic manufacturers from foreign competition by making imported products more expensive. In theory, this encourages consumers to buy American-made vehicles and stimulates local production. Tariffs are also used in broader trade negotiations, giving the US leverage in discussions with major auto-exporting nations like China, Germany, Japan, and South Korea.
However, as we’ll explore in the following sections, the ripple effects of these policies are far-reaching. Everything from showroom prices to the availability of certain brands and the logistics of getting a car from seller to buyer could be affected.
Not all brands are affected equally by car tariffs. The impact largely depends on the manufacturing location, regardless of the brand’s country of origin. In particular, tariffs on cars imported from Europe and Asia are drawing attention, especially after the 2025 import policy updates.
Luxury and performance brands such as BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, and Audi, which rely heavily on European production facilities, will likely increase costs. These brands could pass those costs on to US buyers through higher sticker prices.
Similarly, Japanese and Korean automakers like Toyota, Honda, Hyundai, and Kia may feel the impact depending on how much they source their inventory from overseas plants rather than US-based manufacturing.
Electric vehicles (EVs) are also in the spotlight. With China dominating the global EV supply chain, tariffs on electric cars and batteries imported from China could affect emerging brands like BYD, XPeng, and NIO, which are eyeing US market entry. Even established manufacturers like Tesla, which rely on parts from global suppliers, may feel the effects indirectly.
According to recent data from Visual Capitalist, many of the top-selling foreign car models in the US are assembled outside of North America. These vehicles face a higher cost burden under the new tariff structure, making them less price-competitive unless automakers adjust supply routes or absorb part of the cost.
Tariffs on imported vehicles don’t just affect the price of brand-new cars. They create a ripple effect across the entire automotive market, including used vehicles. When manufacturers and dealers face increased costs from tariffs on cars, those costs often get passed on to the consumer. That means buyers can expect higher prices not only on new imports, but also on models that compete in the same category.
For example, if tariffs make a new German SUV more expensive, demand may shift towards similar used models or Marican alternatives, driving up the prices in those segments. As new car prices rise, more buyers may be pushed into the used car market, tightening supply and putting further pressure on pricing.
So, will tariffs affect used car prices? In many cases, yes. Even if a used vehicle was manufactured years ago and already resides in the US, its market value can increase as the cost of new replacements climbs. According to Kelley Blue Book and Edmunds data from recent years, used car prices follow new car trends closely, especially when external forces like tariffs or supply chain shortages are at play.
Additional costs from imported parts can also drive up repair and maintenance expenses, making ownership more costly and affecting resale values. This is particularly relevant for cars that require foreign parts for routine service or restoration. Collectors and classic car buyers must consider this carefully.
For individuals or dealers shipping high-value or rare vehicles, working with an enclosed car transport provider ensures protection of that added value throughout the journey, especially in a market where replacement costs continue to rise.
Collector and luxury car buyers operate in a different space than everyday consumers, but they’re not immune to the effects of car tariffs. Tariffs on rare, vintage, or exotic imports can significantly increase acquisition costs for high-end enthusiasts, dealers, and museums.
Importing a classic Ferrari from Italy or a vintage Nissan Skyline from Japan was never cheap, but new tariff structures mean even steeper expenses. Because many collector cars require foreign-sourced parts for restoration or ongoing maintenance, these hidden costs can add up quickly. As a result, many collectors are reevaluating how and where they purchase vehicles.
For some, these changes are prompting a shift toward buying domestically available collector cars, while others are opting to act quickly before future tariffs tighten restrictions further. Either way, one consequence is clear: with higher value on the line, enclosed car transport has become more essential than ever.
At Passport Transport, enclosed trailers are designed specifically for handling rare and irreplaceable vehicles with the care they deserve. Using secure, climate-controlled transport is a must for anyone importing a European classic or transporting a showroom-quality luxury model from port to garage.
If you’re a collector, dealer, or investor navigating today’s shifting market, you can get a quote or contact Passport Transport for personalized assistance with enclosed auto shipping.
As car tariffs drive up vehicle prices, especially for imported, luxury, and collector models, secure and insured transportation becomes a bigger priority than ever. Higher sticker prices and limited availability mean buyers and sellers can’t afford risks when moving these assets across the country or from ports of entry.
This is where logistics takes center stage. With rising values tied to both new and used imports, more individuals are turning to enclosed car transport as the gold standard for safe, damage-free vehicle shipping. Unlike open carriers, enclosed trailers offer protection from weather, road debris, and environmental wear, factors that can be especially costly for high-value or irreplaceable vehicles.
For a dealership bringing in inventory from overseas, a collector coordinating a cross-country trade, or a buyer protecting a recent import investment, enclosed transport reduces risk and enhances peace of mind. And with car tariffs adding financial weight to each transaction, the margin for error gets smaller.
Passport Transport specializes in handling delicate, high-value loads with care, precision, and industry-leading experience. From vintage classics to brand-new imports, every vehicle is shipped with full insurance coverage and expert handling. The company’s enclosed carriers are equipped for maximum protection, making them a trusted partner in a tariffsensitive market.
For those looking to keep their investment secure during transit, you can easily get a quote or contact Passport Transport to discuss custom logistics solutions.
With car tariffs reshaping the landscape of automotive pricing and import logistics, both buyers and sellers need to adjust their strategies. Dealerships, auction houses, and collectors must account for rising costs and stay ahead of evolving regulations and supply chain challenges.
For dealerships, this might mean reassessing inventory sourcing, favoring vehicles assembled in tariff-exempt countries, or exploring domestic alternatives. Auction buyers and collectors may want to act swiftly before additional policy changes drive prices higher or reduce the availability of specific makes and models. It’s also wise to research what car brands will be affected by tariffs to plan future purchases more strategically.
Another key step is to lock in high-quality transportation early. As vehicle values rise, especially for rare or imported cars, there’s increased demand for secure, white-glove shipping services. Booking enclosed car transport in advance ensures your vehicle is protected from physical damage and delays due to limited carrier availability.
Passport Transport is uniquely positioned to support these needs. With decades of experience in enclosed auto shipping, the company works closely with dealerships, collectors, and individual buyers to deliver tailored, fully-insured transport solutions. When you want to move a single luxury coupe or coordinate a multi-vehicle auction shipment, their team ensures careful handling every step of the way.
In a market where rising car tariffs are inflating the value of imported and specialty vehicles, how you ship your car is just as important as how you buy it. That’s where Passport Transport stands out as a trusted partner for buyers, sellers, and collectors alike.
With decades of experience in transporting rare, exotic, and classic vehicles, Passport Transport specializes in enclosed car transport that makes protection and precision a priority. Their custom-built trailers shield high-value vehicles from weather, road debris, and unnecessary handling, delivering peace of mind with every shipment.
As tariff-related costs increase, so does the need for insured, white-glove logistics. Passport Transport offers nationwide, door-to-door service, eliminating the hassle of terminal drop-offs or third-party handoffs. Your vehicle is always in expert hands, whether you’re moving a freshly imported luxury sedan from the port or sending a vintage race car to auction.
Car tariffs are government-imposed taxes on vehicles and auto parts imported from other countries. They are designed to protect domestic manufacturers by making foreign-made cars more expensive, and are also used as tools in trade negotiations.
Yes, luxury and performance brands such as Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Porsche, and Audi are more likely to be affected because many of their vehicles are manufactured overseas. These models often face higher import duties due to their country of origin and price point.
Used car prices often rise alongside new car prices. As tariffs increase the cost of new imports, more buyers shift to the used market, tightening supply and pushing prices up. So, if you’re wondering whether tariffs will affect used car prices, the answer is likely yes.
Brands that rely on international production are the most vulnerable. This includes many European and Asian automakers like BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda. For EVs, Chinese brands like BYD and NIO may also see impacts due to battery and part tariffs.
Tariffs themselves don’t directly raise transport rates, but the increased value of vehicles means more buyers are opting for high-end, enclosed shipping to protect their investment. Booking early and choosing a provider with insured, door-to-door service, like Passport Transport, can help manage overall costs.
Enclosed auto transport shields your vehicle from weather, road debris, and prying eyes. It’s the preferred method for shipping classic, luxury, or imported vehicles, especially in a market where car tariffs have increased the stakes. Companies like Passport Transport offer secure, insured transport built specifically for high-value and delicate vehicles.
With over 55 years of trusted service, Passport Transport is the leader in enclosed auto shipping. We’re committed to delivering your vehicle safely, securely, and on time – every time. Get your free quote today and ship with confidence.
Copyright © 2025 Passport Transport. All Rights Reserved.