Tariffs and What This Means for Auto Loan Financing

Recent policy changes have proposed a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and parts, potentially raising prices significantly. Experts suggest that if you’re in the market for a new car and find one you like, it’s wise to buy it right away. These tariffs could push prices higher, often by thousands of dollars, according to a new analysis. Estimates for the impact range from $3,500 to $12,000 or more per vehicle. Prices could start to change quickly, potentially within one to two weeks after the tariffs take effect.

Top 10 Cars under $30k

Finding a fuel-efficient car under $30,000 is a smart money move. Here are some models worth considering under or around that price point, known for being fuel-efficient and worth considering:

Volkswagen Jetta

Starts at $22,495 MSRP* and gets an estimated 29 city / 39 highway MPG. It offers German engineering without the higher cost of other popular German brands.

Toyota Camry (Hybrid)

The 2025 model starts at $28,700 MSRP*. It’s known for being dependable and gets an impressive 53 city / 50 highway MPG.

Subaru Legacy

Starting at $26,380 MSRP*, it offers 27 city / 35 highway MPG and was named a Top Safety Pick by the IIHS. It comes with all-wheel drive, which can affect fuel efficiency when active.

Ford Escape

This SUV option starts at $29,895 MSRP*. The Escape Active model with a 1.5-liter EcoBoost engine gets 42 city / 36 highway MPG.

Honda Civic

The 2025 sedan has an MSRP of $24,250*. It’s fuel-efficient with 32 city / 40 highway MPG and was one of the best-selling cars in 2022.

Hyundai Elantra

With an MSRP of $22,125*, this sedan is noted for being budget-friendly and gets an estimated 32 city / 41 highway MPG.

Kia Forte / K4

The 2024 Forte had a low MSRP of $19,990*, with the LX model getting 30 city / 41 highway MPG. For 2025, it’s replaced by the Kia K4, which has an MSRP of $25,145*.

Chevy Trailblazer

This small SUV starts at $23,100 MSRP* and offers an estimated 29 city / 33 highway MPG.

Mitsubishi Mirage

One of the most affordable vehicles available, the 2024 Mirage has an MSRP of $16,695*. It gets 36 city / 43 highway MPG.

Toyota Prius

An early hybrid option, the Prius is still affordable with an MSRP of $28,350*. It offers outstanding fuel efficiency with 57 city / 56 highway MPG.

Here to help put you in the Driver’s Seat with Auto Loan Financing Options

Purchasing a car is a huge investment. Considering one of these fuel-efficient cars under $30k can help you cut fuel costs year after year. With the added factor of potential tariff-related price increases looming, exploring your options sooner rather than later could be a wise financial decision. Still experiencing sticker shock? Check out our article listing the Top 10 cars under $25k.

Ready to make waves and get into one of these awesome cars before those potential tariff price hikes hit? Securing your financing now is a smart move. At RadiFi, we’re here to help guide you through the process, making it easy to get the loan you need. We can even help you Refi with RadiFi if you have an existing car loan elsewhere. Plus, for a limited time, you might be able to take advantage of our $350 cash back promotion on auto loans. Let’s work together to get you on the road confidently. Apply today!

*All costs listed are for illustration purposes only. You’ll need to check auto loan prices with your local auto dealership. RadiFi Credit Union does not sell cars. We support local businesses by offering financing opportunities to qualified buyers.