Mitsubishi has become the latest automaker to announce a price increase as the industry grapples with the ripple effects of trade tariffs and inflationary pressures. Beginning tomorrow, the Japanese carmaker will implement an average price hike of 2.1% across its vehicle lineup.
The company attributes the increase to its “regular and ongoing review of pricing” designed to keep its models competitive within their respective segments. However, industry observers believe this move is a direct response to rising import tariffs, particularly the 25% levy on automotive imports first imposed under the Trump administration.
Notably, the price adjustment will not be applied retroactively and will exclude vehicles already on dealer lots—good news for buyers who act quickly.
The price revision will affect popular models such as the Outlander and Eclipse Cross. The Outlander, which currently starts at $29,645, will see its base price rise to approximately $30,268—an increase of $623. Meanwhile, the smaller Eclipse Cross will go from $26,545 to roughly $27,102, representing a $557 jump.
Although these changes may appear modest, they underscore a broader industry trend: manufacturers are increasingly passing on at least some of the cost burden from tariffs and supply chain challenges to consumers. Analysts suggest Mitsubishi may still be absorbing a significant portion of these costs, but further increases could loom if trade tensions persist.
Mitsubishi‘s pricing decision comes shortly after the company resumed vehicle deliveries to dealerships—a process that had been temporarily halted due to tariff complications. The resumption, coupled with the latest price adjustments, signals that Mitsubishi may no longer be expecting a swift resolution to ongoing trade disputes.
With this move, Mitsubishi joins a growing roster of automakers adjusting their pricing strategies. Ford recently raised prices by up to $2,000 on several of its Mexican-made models, including the Maverick, Bronco Sport, and Mustang Mach-E. Subaru has also bumped prices across most of its lineup, with increases ranging from $750 to $2,055. Even niche manufacturer Ineos has taken similar steps.
As the global automotive industry continues to adapt to an unpredictable economic and political landscape, consumers can likely expect more pricing changes in the months ahead.
Source: Reuters