Trump revs up debate about American cars' unpopularity in Japan

US blames trade barriers while others highlight size, efficiency and price

The Grand Cherokee, made by Jeep, a U.S. manufacturer owned by multinational Stellantis: In February, the company said a limited edition version of the luxury SUV would be the last to be released in Japan, as it is ending right-hand drive production of the model. © AP

YUICHI SHIGA

April 24, 2025 14:52 JST

TOKYO -- U.S. car manufacturers' failure to win a significant share of the Japanese auto market has come under renewed scrutiny as tariff negotiations highlight long-standing tensions over access and regulation.

President Donald Trump insists that nontariff barriers hobble American manufacturers. But Japanese commentators say that size, efficiency and price better explain why U.S. brands are little seen on Japan's roads.