Two perspectives can produce different lists when you look at the same issue.
According to Cars.com, the Toyota Camry was the most American-made car that anyone can purchase in 2016. however, claims that Chevrolet Traverse and Buick Enclave are the only three vehicles in the US that can be purchased. Which report is correct? It all depends on how you define “American made”.
Cars.com states that a model must contain at least 75 percent domestic parts to be eligible for the American-Made Index. Eight vehicles are eligible this year. Below the Camry, the following are the rankings: Honda Accord Toyota Sienna Honda Odyssey Honda Pilot Chevrolet Traverse, GMC Acadia and Buick Enclave.
Cars.com evaluates each vehicle on a model by model basis. The report counts the vehicles by checking where they are assembled, how many domestic parts are used, and the U.S. sales.
American University’s Kogod School of Business has another study that places General Motors’ three crossovers on top. There are 17 other models from General Motors in the top 10. The Honda Accord is fifth, while other Honda and Toyota products are tied for eighth. Kogod considers the location of an automaker’s headquarters, assembly location, R&D location, and source of parts to determine the vehicle’s “Americanness”.
Cars.com acknowledges that “in today’s global economy there’s no easy method to determine just how American an automobile is.” These disparate results prove that statement’s truth. Both lists and the results are not accurate. They simply offer two perspectives on the same subject. Cars.com emphasizes the importance of American workers and success in showrooms. Kogod, on the other hand, places more emphasis on whether profits remain in the U.S. once a model is sold.