Don’t Let the Tariff Talk Throw You
Lately, there’s been a lot of talk about tariffs. But here’s the real story: it’s mostly smoke, not fire. What we’re seeing is a signal, not a slowdown. The focus isn’t on limiting opportunity; it’s on building it, especially through increased domestic manufacturing and job growth here at home.
So, how should dealerships respond? By staying confident and tuned in to what’s happening, and by working with a partner who knows how to cut through the noise.
Early Sales Surge = Smart Shoppers + Fast-Moving Dealers
According to Cox Automotive, March and April were driven by customers eager to act, with sales reaching a seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) of 17.8 million and 17.3 million, respectively. That’s no fluke – shoppers moved fast, and dealerships across the country were ready.
May saw slightly lower numbers, a SAAR of 15.6 million, still strong. Volume was up slightly at 2.5 percent from May 2024, and relatively the same as April 2025 – even with a longer selling month, that’s continued positive traction.
What drove the action? A smart response to tariff news – shoppers moved with urgency, and stores met that demand with hustle.
Inventory Is Moving – That’s a Good Thing
With more vehicles heading off lots, it’s clear the market is active. U.S. inventory at the start of May stood at 2.49 million units, down from April and last year – but that’s not a warning sign. That’s what happens when demand is strong. Days’ supply is a healthy 66.
Shoppers are actively buying, and vehicles aren’t sitting on lots for long. That steady flow of traffic and turnover is exactly what every dealership aims for.
Dealers Are Already Ahead of the Curve
Strong Automotive tracks industry sentiment closely – and we’re not the only ones seeing opportunity. The Q2 Cox Automotive Dealer Sentiment Index, released last month, shows dealers recognized the burst of activity and responded with confidence. While the market may normalize slightly, this wave of momentum proves one thing: a strong digital strategy and proactive thinking yield results.
Tariffs? Not a Disruption – A Shift
The current conversation isn’t about shrinking the market – it’s about reshaping it. Tariffs are a tool to strengthen American manufacturing. In the meantime, consumer demand has shown it’s flexible and fast-moving. With Strong Automotive on your team, you can respond just as quickly.
We’re not waiting to see what happens next. We’re building campaigns that target buyers today, helping clients highlight their best inventory, and using real-time analytics to show what’s working and keep momentum strong.
Let’s Keep You Ahead
The message is simple: your store doesn’t need to react to headlines – you need to outpace them.
If shoppers are looking now, we’ll help them find you. If inventory is moving fast, we’ll help you focus on what’s moving next. And if the market shifts, we’ll be ready – so you can stay confident, competitive, and connected.
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John Paul Strong
John Paul Strong combines his two decades of automotive marketing experience with a team of more than 150 professionals as owner and CEO of Strong Automotive.
