After years of declining relevance in North America, Buick finally saw a major sales resurgence in Q1 2025, boasting a 39% year-over-year increase thanks to fresh redesigns and an aggressive pricing strategy. But just as things were looking up for the brand, a wave of new U.S. tariffs on imported vehicles from China and Korea may throw a wrench into Buick’s plans—putting their entire U.S. growth trajectory in jeopardy.
Backed by General Motors, Buick was making headlines for all the right reasons earlier this year:
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+39% increase in U.S. sales in Q1 2025
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Popular models like the Envision, Encore GX, and the all-new Envista led the charge
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A blend of modern design, affordability, and tech-savvy features resonated with younger buyers
Buick’s strategy relied on importing competitively priced vehicles from China and South Korea, enabling the brand to offer luxury-inspired features at sub-luxury prices.
That strategy is now under fire. The U.S. government has introduced steep tariffs of up to 47.5% on vehicles imported from China, and 27.5% on vehicles from South Korea—two of Buick’s key production regions.
Key Implications:
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Buick’s Envista crossover, currently made in China, could face a price hike of $4,000–$6,000
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Encore GX and Envision pricing may also be impacted depending on the production origin
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Dealers may struggle to move inventory as price-sensitive shoppers look elsewhere
Auto analysts predict that dealers may cancel orders, incentives will shrink, and leasing will become less attractive due to increased vehicle costs.
While General Motors has yet to officially comment, insiders suggest that GM may shift production locations or reduce allocations to the U.S. altogether. This could lead to:
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Fewer Buicks on dealership lots
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Longer wait times for popular trims
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A reversal of Q1 momentum just when the brand had begun to trend upward
Industry strategist Alex Tovey warns:
“Buick had finally aligned its design, pricing, and marketing to today’s buyer. These tariffs could unravel all of that overnight.”
This isn’t just a Buick problem. Brands that depend on global production and competitive pricing—like Hyundai, Kia, and Mazda—may also suffer under the new tariff policy. But Buick stands out due to its unique positioning: a luxury-lite brand that depends heavily on overseas manufacturing.
If you’re in the market for a Buick SUV or crossover, this may be the time to act. Dealers may offer pre-tariff inventory at a discount—but once those vehicles are gone, prices could spike.
Smart Buyer Tips:
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Ask your local Buick dealership about build origin
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Get quotes on current inventory before price changes kick in
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Watch out for lease deals expiring early or being revised