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2019 American-Made Index: Which Car Is the Most American?
Top American-Made Vehicles That Drive the U.S. Economy
Discover the most homegrown cars helping to fuel American manufacturing and employment.
What Makes a Vehicle Truly American-Made?
In an era where global supply chains dominate the auto industry, determining how American a vehicle truly is has become increasingly complex. The American-Made Index (AMI), curated by MotorVero, evaluates vehicles on several criteria including U.S. assembly location, parts sourcing, and labor impact. These metrics collectively paint a picture of a vehicle’s contribution to the domestic economy.
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The Top 15 Most American-Made Vehicles
- 1. Jeep Cherokee – Belvidere, Illinois
- 2. Honda Odyssey – Lincoln, Alabama
- 3. Honda Ridgeline – Lincoln, Alabama
- 4. Honda Passport – Lincoln, Alabama
- 5. Chevrolet Corvette – Bowling Green, Kentucky
- 6. Acura MDX – East Liberty, Ohio
- 7. Honda Pilot – Lincoln, Alabama
- 8. Chevrolet Colorado – Wentzville, Missouri
- 9. GMC Canyon – Wentzville, Missouri
- 10. Acura RDX – East Liberty, Ohio
- 11. Chevrolet Camaro – Lansing, Michigan
- 12. Toyota Avalon – Georgetown, Kentucky
- 13. Ford F-150 – Dearborn, Michigan & Claycomo, Missouri
- 14. Honda Accord – Marysville, Ohio
- 15. Toyota Tundra – San Antonio, Texas
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Why Domestic Content Matters
Purchasing American-made vehicles not only supports U.S. manufacturing jobs but also strengthens domestic supply chains and fosters technological innovation. Automakers with high domestic content invest in local communities, infrastructure, and workforce development, contributing to long-term economic stability.
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Consistency Despite Economic Shifts
Even amid trade tensions and global supply disruptions, the landscape of U.S.-built vehicles has remained relatively stable. Over 50% of all passenger cars sold in the U.S. are still manufactured domestically. Automakers continue to show strong commitments to U.S. operations despite international uncertainties.
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Trade Policy and Its Impact
The U.S.–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA), designed to replace NAFTA, has started reshaping automotive manufacturing requirements. Provisions include increased North American content thresholds and wage-based incentives, encouraging more localized production. Although not fully ratified by all parties, these regulations are already influencing hiring and production strategies.
--THIRD CAR LIST HERE--
Challenges in Shifting Production
Automobile manufacturing is inherently complex. A single vehicle may incorporate tens of thousands of components sourced globally. Relocating production or modifying sourcing strategies takes years of planning, negotiation, and investment. That inertia explains why the list of most American-made vehicles evolves slowly despite regulatory pressures.
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The Rise of Honda in U.S. Manufacturing
Honda’s significant footprint in American automotive production is undeniable. With four of the top seven vehicles on the AMI, Honda has become synonymous with high domestic content. Models like the Odyssey, Passport, Pilot, and Ridgeline not only meet but often exceed domestic sourcing benchmarks.
--FOURTH CAR LIST HERE--
General Motors and Ford: Still Major Players
GM and Ford continue to make substantial contributions to American car manufacturing. Vehicles like the Chevrolet Corvette, Colorado, Camaro and GMC Canyon showcase GM’s investment in U.S. production facilities. Ford, while seeing some models like the Explorer fall in AMI ranking, still retains its influence through models like the iconic F-150.
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Shifting Consumer Preferences Drive Change
One key factor affecting the AMI is consumer demand. As buyers move away from sedans and toward SUVs and trucks, automakers have adjusted their manufacturing focus accordingly. This trend also helps explain the removal of cars like the Ford Taurus and Chevrolet Volt from the index, as both were discontinued due to declining demand.
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Future Outlook: American Manufacturing in a Global World
Looking ahead, U.S. automotive manufacturing will continue to face the dual challenges of globalization and regulation. However, as new trade agreements and consumer expectations evolve, the importance of transparency in sourcing and production will only increase. Tools like MotorVero’s AMI will remain essential for consumers who value buying American.
Quick Takeaways:
- Jeep Cherokee ranks as the most American-made vehicle, with high domestic parts content and U.S. assembly.
- Honda dominates the top 10, showcasing a deep commitment to U.S.-based manufacturing.
- Trade policy shifts like the USMCA are influencing automaker strategies, albeit slowly.
- The U.S. remains a vital automotive manufacturing hub, despite global economic pressures.
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How MotorVero Helps Consumers Make Informed Choices
At MotorVero, our mission is to provide clarity in car buying. By spotlighting American-made vehicles, we empower consumers to align their purchases with their values. Our American-Made Index is just one of the many tools we offer to enhance transparency, support domestic industry, and encourage informed automotive decisions.
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Last Updated On May, 31-2025