what cars are made in usa

When you’re in the market for a new vehicle, you might be thinking about supporting jobs and manufacturing close to home. The “American-made” label on a car can feel good, but it’s often more complex than it seems. A car assembled in the USA can have parts from all over the world, and a foreign brand might be built in an American factory. If you’re wondering what cars are made in usa, you’re not alone, and the answer might surprise you.

A Guide to What Cars Are Made in USA

Many of the vehicles we consider all-American are indeed assembled right here. The Detroit “Big Three”—Ford, General Motors (GM), and Stellantis (formerly Chrysler)—have massive manufacturing footprints across the country. You’ll find popular models like the Ford F-Series trucks in Kentucky and Michigan, the Chevrolet Colorado in Missouri, and the Jeep Wrangler in Ohio. However, numerous cars from international brands are also built in the US. Honda, Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz all operate major assembly plants, primarily in the South and Midwest, building millions of cars for the domestic and global market.

Beyond the Assembly Line: What “Made in America” Really Means

Simply being assembled in the US is one thing, but a car’s domestic content is another. This refers to the percentage of parts that come from the US and Canada. Organizations like Cars.com publish an annual “American-Made Index” that ranks vehicles based on these factors, along with the location of final assembly and the workforce involved. This index often reveals that the most “American” car might be a Toyota or a Honda, based on its high domestic parts content and US-based manufacturing. It’s a helpful tool for looking beyond the brand name.

Why Buying a US-Assembled Car Matters

Choosing a vehicle built in an American factory has a direct positive impact. It supports the thousands of workers in those plants and the countless more in the supply chain, from parts manufacturers to logistics companies. This investment helps sustain local communities and contributes to the national economy. Furthermore, having production close to the point of sale can sometimes lead to more efficient distribution and quicker access to specific models and features you might be looking for.

Ultimately, the landscape of auto manufacturing is truly global, but America remains a powerhouse of production. By looking at both the final assembly location and the domestic parts content, you can make an informed choice that aligns with your desire to support the US economy while finding the perfect vehicle for your needs.