Tariffs Ignite a 12% Surge in Japanese Car Sales in the U.S.

New data from the automotive sector revealed that four major Japanese automakers — Toyota Motor, Honda Motor, Subaru, and Mazda Motor — collectively sold approximately 464,000 vehicles in the U.S. market during April 2025, marking a significant 11.8% increase compared to the same month last year. The surge was driven by a wave of early purchases ahead of the implementation of additional tariffs on imported vehicles.

According to reports cited by Japan Today, much of the spike was fueled by consumer expectations of imminent price increases, prompting buyers to rush into purchasing, particularly hybrid models and sport utility vehicles (SUVs).

It is noted that Toyota and Honda rely to varying degrees on imports from Japan to meet U.S. demand, with Subaru exporting about 50% and Mazda 70% of their U.S.-sold vehicles from Japan, while Toyota imports over 20% and Honda less than 1%.

Looming Fears of a Slowdown Despite Current Gains

While automakers welcomed the temporary sales boost, analysts warn that the U.S. car market could soon face a sharp decline in demand, as early purchasing may weigh on future sales — especially amid ongoing uncertainties surrounding the trade negotiations between Japan and the U.S..

Specifically, Toyota’s U.S. sales rose by 10% to approximately 233,000 vehicles, driven by strong demand for the hybrid "Camry" model. Honda recorded even stronger growth of 18.1%, powered by sales of its hybrid CR-V model. Meanwhile, Subaru experienced a modest 0.3% gain supported by its "Crosstrek" model, while Mazda saw a 21% jump thanks to the strong performance of its CX-90 model.

These figures illustrate how trade and political decisions can swiftly reshape market dynamics, compelling companies to carefully reassess their strategies to navigate an increasingly volatile economic environment.