Chaos in the Auto Industry Due to Tariffs
Recent decisions by Trump to impose 'reciprocal tariffs' of 34% on China and 20% on the European Union have stirred chaos in the auto industry. These tariffs are expected to significantly affect the import of Chinese and European cars into the United States. While Trump describes it as the beginning of “the New Golden Age in America”, these tariffs could destabilize the global economy.
U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bassant has warned countries against retaliating with tariffs on their exports to the U.S., cautioning against escalation. However, China's government announced a retaliatory 34% tariff on all American imports starting April 10th. Canada has also responded with a 25% tariff on U.S. car imports.
Manufacturers Respond to Tariff Decisions
Many automakers have expressed concern about these decisions affecting supply chains and causing price hikes, which will ultimately burden employees or customers. Stellantis warned that these tariffs would disrupt production, forcing temporary shutdowns at factories in Mexico, affecting hundreds of workers in the U.S. and Canada. Volkswagen sees this move as weakening competitiveness and threatening long-term investments, potentially reducing jobs in integrated supply chains between North America and China.
The situation is ongoing, with manufacturers expected to respond further as more information about the tariffs emerges.
Subaru Unveils 2025 Forester Hybrid
Amidst grim tariff news, Subaru launched its new generation Forester with a completely redesigned look this week. The model includes many standard systems like driver assistance technologies and features a hybrid version using Toyota's renowned hybrid technology paired with Subaru's 2.5-liter boxer engine. This engine is coupled with an electric generator motor and an electric traction motor, delivering approximately 190 horsepower in total.
Subaru maintains its all-wheel-drive system and adds X-Mode for off-road driving. The hybrid system boasts excellent fuel efficiency per EPA estimates, achieving 14.9 km/l in the city, 14.5 km/l on highways, and averaging 14.9 km/l overall, providing a driving range of up to 935 kilometers before refueling.
Hyundai Ioniq 6 for 2026
Hyundai revealed its Ioniq 6 for 2026, including a sporty N version. The new design reminiscent of a Beetle features slim LED lights, a sharper coupe roofline, larger rear end, and redesigned taillights. Up front, quad front lights serve as daytime lights with the original headlights below them.
Hyundai stated that the N version will offer enhanced performance with dual electric motors compared to one in standard versions. Interior changes are minimal but include an altered horn button shape; larger modifications involve redesigning the center console with repositioned phone space and cup holders alongside wireless charging pad placement adjustments.
More details on the N version are expected by July.
Genesis X Gran Coupe and Convertible Concepts
Genesis teased us with stunning coupe and convertible models—X concept from 2021 and X Convertible from late 2022—in this spring's Seoul Motor Show unveiling two prototype cars inspired by them closer to reality than ever before. While earlier X prototypes were electric vehicles (EVs), these unique cars base themselves upon Genesis G90 sedan—a fact keen observers familiar with G90 can notice hinting that assembly took place at Genesis factory rather than design studio. Whether these cars become reality remains unknown; however, Genesis is preparing high-performance Magma sub-brand indicating plans extending beyond current SUVs sedans lineup into diverse offerings.
Final Edition Toyota GR Supra
Toyota GR Supra Final Edition for 2026 introduces mechanical dynamic upgrades enhancing performance stability notably featuring carbon fiber rear wing updated suspension improving cornering stability along reinforced underbody structure accompanied reprogrammed electric steering system achieving precise control . GT4 Style Pack option adds race-inspired touches such black Supra badge red mirror covers matte non-gloss color options . Interior focuses driver engagement offering leather Alcantara-clad seats red stitching belts elegant sporty accents granting vehicle comprehensive sporty identity worth owning.
Senior Writer The quest for automotive knowledge began as soon as the earliest memories. Various sources information, even questionable ones, have been explored including video games, television, magazines, or even internet forums. Still stuck in that rabbit hole.
