American Cars Built Outside The U.S.

For as long as automotive production has existed, there’s been a debate over foreign and domestic models. Which one is better? Frankly, we’ll leave that answer up to you. But there are more Americans nowadays who would rather buy a Toyota over a Buick. A decision that probably came after several failed attempts of owning poorly-made American cars in the past. Even some foreign vehicles have become American icons, like the Volkswagen Beetle in the late 60s and 70s. What’s more to say than Americans do love the performance and stylish versatility of non-domestic brands. It’s the reason why these vehicles top the list of most popular cars in America year after year.

Conversely, it’s hard not to liken the nostalgia that American cars offer. If you’re a classic car fanatic, you’ve probably owned an American car or two in your lifetime. Some enthusiast even believe these type of vehicles are built better than foreign models. While we all have our reasons on why you should or shouldn’t buy American cars, some drivers will be surprised to learn there are a number of American prodigies being manufactured outside of the U.S.

Before we unveil our list, it’s important to note one thing. Car production happens in various locations throughout the world. However, the main production of these models, in particular, are outside their home origin.

Here’s our list of American cars produced outside the U.S.

The truth of car manufacturing is this: American cars are manufactured outside the border, and many foreign models are produced inside the States. These days, just because you assume its domestically made, doesn’t mean it’s true. The following list will show how production, specifically of American brands, has evolved outside the United States for decades.

Chrysler Pacifica

We continually rank the Chrysler Pacifica as one of the best minivans on the market for its reliable engine, sleek interior luxury, and smooth ride. Its production, however, takes place at the Chrysler plant in Ontario, Canada. In fact, the Chrysler plant has been producing minivans there since the 1980s.

Buick Regal

Besides Ford, there are not many automakers that scream American-made like Buick. Although its brand image lacks in consumer appeal, this automaker has held on for decades while other automakers have excelled. Their production in recent years has transitioned to overseas. For example, the manufacture of the Buick Regal, one of the more popular sedans, is in both Europe and Canada.

Chevrolet Trax

This subcompact crossover SUV is similar to the Honda HR-V and Toyota C-HR, built to satisfy the budget restraints of SUV shoppers. While Chevrolet introduced the Trax back in 2015, its production has mainly taken place in Mexico.

Dodge Challenger

The Challenger is perhaps the most surprising on our list. While its early years of production are notoriously American-made, that’s not the case anymore. With the introduction of the LX platform, Brampton, Canada has been the manufacturing location for this model along with its smaller counterpart, the Dodge Charger. It’s construct is a mixture of parts from Mercedes imports and Hemi V8 engines built in Mexico. The Challenger, therefore, is a true combination of countries rather than all-American build in 2022.

Final thoughts on American cars manufactured outside the border

As shown in this list, neighboring countries, specifically Canada and Mexico, have played a major role in the supply of domestic vehicles. It just goes to show it doesn’t matter so much where the vehicle is produced, its origins lie in automotive history. These days, it makes sense for automakers to outsource for financial reasons. However, consumers should know an American car doesn’t always mean “American-made”.