The 2025 New York auto show delivered something few expected: a dose of old-school relevance. Led by headline debuts from Subaru, Hyundai, and Kia, the show generated fresh news while U.S. consumers eyed prices amid tariff uncertainty. Below is a quick look at the major announcements, new models, and real-time retail reactions shaping this year’s event.
Subaru and Hyundai Steal the Spotlight With Bold New Models
Subaru made waves by unveiling the seventh-generation Outback, trading its wagon-like image for boxier styling and a taller roofline. The new Outback promises more interior space—34.6 cubic feet, up by two—and greater practicality, underscoring its place as America’s best-selling midsize crossover. Subaru also introduced its second U.S. electric vehicle: the 2026 Trailseeker, a two-row crossover boasting 260 miles of range. The Solterra, Subaru’s first EV, gets major updates for power, design, and in-cabin tech to compete better in the compact crossover segment.
Hyundai showcased the 2026 Palisade, a three-row SUV offering expanded room, improved range, and two new powertrains—including a hybrid—cementing its focus on versatility and efficiency.
Kia Bets on Entry-Level With New EV4 Sedan and K4 Hatch
Kia doubled down on the small-car market, unveiling the all-electric EV4 compact sedan and a new hatchback variant of the gasoline-powered K4. Both models aim to open new entry points for electric and combustion buyers in an increasingly competitive landscape.
Consumer Sentiment: Tariffs and Price Fears Take Center Stage
A new survey from Santander Holdings USA captured the growing anxiety among American car buyers as tariffs loom. Of roughly 2,200 middle-income respondents ($53,000–$161,000/year), about a third plan to buy a vehicle within the next year. Over half said they’re more likely to buy in the next three months out of fear that prices will rise.
At the dealership level, Michigan’s LaFontaine Automotive Group set up a tariff task force to respond to shifting policies, monitoring White House updates that change by the hour. Despite the volatility, spokesman Max Muncey confirmed: “One thing LaFontaine isn’t doing is raising prices.”
The Takeaway: Old-School Auto Shows Still Matter
Against a backdrop of tariff jitters and economic pressure, the 2025 New York auto show proved that live automotive events still have power to move markets and capture attention. Big product debuts and candid insights into buyer behavior offered a reminder: in a digital age, there’s still room for the drama and excitement of the showroom floor.
