5 Manufacturer Incentives That Could Save Car Buyers Thousands as Trump Tariffs Loom

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If you’ve been thinking about buying a new car, now might be the time to stop window shopping and start test driving.

With former President Donald Trump imposing a 25% tariff on cars and car parts that were imported into the United States, automakers are scrambling to move inventory before things get more expensive. That means potential savings for buyers right now through limited-time manufacturer incentives.

Here are five deals and discounts car manufacturers may be offering now that could help you beat the potential tariff price hikes.

1. Temporary Price Reductions

Car prices have already been sky-high for the last couple of years, but some manufacturers are finally cutting prices to keep things moving. For example, as President Trump’s new 25% tariff on all foreign auto imports takes effect, Ford is offering an employee-pricing plan, known as the A Plan, to shoppers on most of its 2024 and 2025 models through Jun. 2. 

2. Zero-Percent Financing for Up to 72 Months

Several automakers are rolling out interest-free financing offers for well-qualified buyers, which can lead to thousands in savings over the life of a loan.

For example, General Motors is offering zero-percent APR for 72 months on popular models like the Equinox EV, Blazer EV or Silverado EV. That’s six years of payments with zero interest, which could save you a good chunk of change if you’re planning to finance your next car.

3. Generous Trade-In Bonuses

If you’re driving an older car, now might be the perfect time to cash in. Many manufacturers and dealers are offering extra incentives for trade-ins, sometimes adding up to $2,000 or more on top of your vehicle’s market value.

And even if your car isn’t in perfect shape, some dealerships will still offer guaranteed minimums for trade-ins.

4. Loyalty and Conquest Programs

Loyalty incentives, which reward customers for sticking with the same brand, and conquest incentives, which encourage customers to switch from a competitor, are being used more aggressively to secure sales. These programs can save you anywhere from $500 to $2,000 on your purchase or lease. 

For example, Honda is offering loyalty bonuses of up to $1,000 on many of its CR-V and Accord models, and BMW is offering drivers of EVs and plug-in hybrids from competitive brands like Tesla and Mercedes a $1,000 conquest bonus if they switch to an i5, i7 or iX EV. 

5. Extended Lease Offers and Low Monthly Payments

Some manufacturers are extending lease deals with lower monthly payments, reduced due-at-signing costs, and more flexible terms. And many brands like Toyota and Subaru are promoting 24- to 36-month leases with monthly payments under $300, even on SUVs.

For example, Toyota is offering a lease on the Corolla Hybrid for $279 per month for 36 months with $3,999 due at signing, and the Subaru Outback is available at $299 per month for 36 months with $3,049 due upfront.

These deals are worth considering if you’re not ready to commit to a long-term purchase while the auto market remains shaky. Plus, leasing now could help you avoid potential sticker shock if tariffs push prices higher down the road.

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