Auto Industry Tariff Turmoil and the 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander reveiw

Buckle up for a deep dive into the automotive industry's latest battle with tariffs that could reshape how we buy and maintain our vehicles. Automakers and suppliers have formally urged the Trump administration to reconsider unpredictable tariff expansions, warning that these policies make investing in America increasingly difficult. The financial impact? A potential $4,600 price increase per vehicle within three years, according to the Center for Automotive Research—a sobering prospect when average new car prices already hover around $50,000.

The conversation takes a personal turn as we explore the emotional versus practical considerations of keeping older vehicles. One host shares the dilemma of his daughter's beloved 2007 Ford Focus with 185,000 miles—is the sentimental value worth the maintenance costs and logistics of storing it for occasional use? This sparks a broader discussion about how consumers might adapt to rising costs, including a potential revival of salvaging parts from junkyards as repair expenses climb due to tariff-affected components.

Our Toyota Grand Highlander Hybrid review showcases why this three-row SUV deserves attention despite its $52,610 starting price. With actual adults fitting comfortably in the third row (thanks to its six-inch length increase over the standard Highlander), impressive fuel economy averaging 29.7 mpg over 475 miles, and what we call "the best-looking front fascia" in Toyota's lineup, it delivers substantial value for families needing space without sacrificing efficiency. We also cover the latest automotive recalls, auction results from Hemmings, and an update on Tony Stewart's remarkable recovery after a 300+ mph NHRA crash.

Ready to join the conversation? Connect with us at info@inwheeltime.com or tune into our live broadcast every Saturday from 10 AM to noon Central Time on inwheeltime.com, YouTube, and Facebook for more automotive insights, reviews, and industry analysis.

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Chapters

• 0:00 Show Introduction
• 2:10 Auto Industry Tariff Troubles
• 6:06 Car Ownership Dilemmas
• 11:27 Weekly Recall Roundup
• 12:48 Sold Cars Auction Results
• 18:36 Tony Stewart NHRA Crash Update
• 21:38 2025 Toyota Grand Highlander Review
• 29:09 Show Wrap-Up