Volkswagen Freezes U.S. Vehicle Prices Through May Amid Tariff Concerns

Volkswagen has announced it will keep U.S. vehicle prices steady through the end of May despite a new 25% auto import tariff, joining other automakers like Hyundai and Ford in temporarily freezing prices or offering discounts to reassure consumers. This move comes amid concerns that tariffs will push up car prices, leading to a surge in sales as shoppers try to secure deals before potential increases. Ford has warned it may raise prices on vehicles produced starting in May if no tariff relief is provided, while Stellantis and Toyota are delaying price hikes until at least the end of April. Volkswagen clarified that earlier reports of an immediate 'import fee' were misinterpretations, and the company is monitoring the policy environment closely. Auto executives have cautioned that if tariffs persist, higher costs will eventually be passed on to consumers once current inventories run out. President Trump has suggested possible tariff relief for automakers shifting production to the U.S., but no concrete exemptions have been finalized.