Canada has eased some counter-tariffs to reopen trade talks with the U.S., but tariffs on U.S.-built vehicles remain in place. Early in the year, Canadian importers stockpiled U.S. vehicles ahead of the tariffs, with March imports more than doubling January’s levels. However, after tariffs took effect on April 9, 2025, U.S. imports dropped sharply and have continued to decline, while imports from other countries—especially Mexico—rose significantly, with June values nearly doubling January’s.
Automakers have since relied on pre-tariff U.S. inventory, but this has now largely run out, raising uncertainty about future sourcing. Despite these shifts, consumer vehicle prices have stayed stable, with only a modest 3.9% year-over-year increase in August 2025. According to DAC’s Andrew King, the direction of tariffs remains unclear, but market logistics and pricing will likely keep adjusting until a resolution is reached.
U.S. Gas Prices Edge Higher but Expected to Fall Below $3 This Fall
As of September 22, 2025, the national average gas price rose by 2.2 cents to $3.14 per gallon, though it is unchanged from a month ago and 1.8 cents lower than last year.
Wholesale Used-Vehicle Prices Hold Steady in September as EV Demand Bolsters Market
Wholesale used-vehicle prices remained mostly stable in early September, with the Manheim Used Vehicle Value Index inching up from 207.4 to 207.5—a negligible 0.0% change from August, though still 2.2% higher year-over-year. Seasonal adjustments muted the gains, but non-adjusted prices rose 0.3% compared to last month and 2.3% annually. Historically, September prices typically dip by 0.3%, so this year’s early-month strength stands out. Cox Automotive’s Jeremy Robb noted that wholesale values continue to defy traditional depreciation patterns as retail and wholesale demand remain firm. EV sales are a key driver, with robust demand and values supported by the approaching expiration of EV tax incentives at the end of September. Wholesale supply has held steady at 25 days, slightly tighter than historical norms.