Tariffs Loom, But Shoppers Still Have Options: Cars.com Releases Its 2025 Affordability Report

Core Insights - Cars.com has released its 2025 Affordability Report, highlighting the best value new cars available to consumers in a changing market [1] - The report indicates that pending 25% tariffs on vehicles assembled outside the U.S. could significantly impact vehicle prices, with potential increases of $3,000 to $10,000 [2][3] - Current average new vehicle prices have remained steady at around $49,000, but are expected to rise if tariffs take effect as planned on April 3 [2] Industry Impact - The automotive industry is facing pressure from potential tariffs, which could lead consumers to act quickly to secure better deals [3] - Imports accounted for approximately 50% of U.S. vehicle sales in 2024, affecting even American-branded models [3] - Automakers like Ford, Hyundai, and Kia have increased their U.S.-based inventory by over 25% year over year in response to these market conditions [3] Best Value Vehicles - Cars.com identified the best value vehicles for model year 2025 based on price, safety features, fuel economy, and one-year fuel costs [4] - The report emphasizes vehicles made in the U.S. as potentially protected from rising tariff-related costs [4] - The best value vehicles by segment include: - Subcompact Car: Nissan Versa (SV) - Compact Car: Nissan Sentra (S) - Subcompact SUV: Chevrolet Trax (LS with Driver Confidence Package) - Compact SUV: Ford Escape (Active) - Mid-Size SUV: Kia Sorento (LX) - Compact Pickup Truck: Ford Maverick (XL with 2.5-liter hybrid engine) - Mid-Size Pickup Truck: Nissan Frontier (S 4x2 King Cab) - Full-Size Pickup Truck: Ford F-150 (XL 4x2 SuperCab) - Electric Vehicle: Hyundai Ioniq 6 (SE Long Range) [5]