2026 Insider Car Buying Tips from Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat

Why Buy a Used Car Now: Understanding the Impact of Proposed Auto Tariffs on Vehicle Prices In the evolving landscape of the automotive industry, recent policy proposals have the potential to significantly influence both new and used car markets. One such development is President Donald Trump's announcement of a 25% tariff on imported vehicles and auto parts, set to take effect on April 3, 2025. This policy aims to bolster domestic manufacturing by imposing reciprocal tariffs on foreign goods. However, it also raises questions about the future pricing of vehicles, particularly in the used car market. Source:   CNN, New Your Post Anticipated Effects on New Car Prices The implementation of these tariffs is expected to lead to substantial increases in new car prices. Financial experts estimate that the average cost of an imported vehicle could rise by $5,000 to $10,000. This escalation is attributed to the additional costs manufacturers will incur due to the tariffs, which are likely to be passed on to consumers. The impact will be particularly pronounced for models that rely heavily on imported components or are entirely manufactured abroad. Source:   CBS, Reuters, Insider, New York Post Implications for the Used Car Market As new car prices climb, consumers may increasingly turn to the used car market as a more affordable alternative. This shift in demand is anticipated to drive up prices in the used car sector. According to industry analysts, used car prices could rise by thousands of dollars as a result of heightened demand. This trend mirrors past market behaviors where constraints in new car supply, such as during the pandemic-related semiconductor shortages, led to significant upticks in used car valuations. Source:   Investopedia.​ Expert Insights on Market Dynamics Industry experts have weighed in on the potential repercussions of the proposed tariffs: Mike Jackson, Chairman and CEO of AutoNation, the largest auto retailer in the U.S., has expressed concerns about the inflationary impact of the tariffs. He stated, "Automotive tariffs will make steel tariffs look like a company picnic. This will unleash a real trade war. The numbers are so much bigger. It will raise prices dramatically for consumers in the United States. It will be inflationary." Source:  Bloomberg, Spokesman Review, The Lewiston Tribune Peter Welch, President and CEO of the National Automobile Dealers Association (NADA), warned of "serious unintended consequences" of tariffs on imported autos and parts. He emphasized that such tariffs would hurt the auto industry, customers, and the economy as a whole, leading to higher prices and fewer choices for consumer. ​ Cody Lusk, President and CEO of the American International Automobile Dealers Association (AIADA), highlighted concerns over affordability and the broader economic impact on consumers and dealers. He noted that with the average price of a new vehicle now around $50,000, higher costs and rising interest rates are already squeezing consumer budgets. ​ Patrick Anderson, CEO of Anderson Economic Group, emphasized that "these are cost increases that cannot be hidden from the consumer," suggesting that substantial portions of the increased costs will be passed along to consumers or lead manufacturers to halt production of certain models. ​ Source:  CBS News, Potential Impact on Auto Repairs and Maintenance The tariffs are also expected to affect the cost of auto repairs and maintenance. Since many replacement parts are imported, a 25% tariff could lead to higher prices for components such as brake pads and batteries. Consequently, even consumers who choose to maintain their current vehicles may face increased expenses. Strategic Considerations for Consumers Given the anticipated price increases in both new and used car markets, consumers may need to reassess their purchasing strategies: Timing Purchases: Acquiring a used car before the full effect of the tariffs is realized could result in cost savings. As demand for used vehicles rises, prices are expected to follow suit.​ Evaluating Financing Options: With potential price hikes, exploring favorable financing options becomes crucial to mitigate the financial impact.​ Considering Vehicle Maintenance: Investing in comprehensive maintenance plans might be prudent to offset future repair costs, especially if parts prices increase due to tariffs.​ Conclusion The proposed 25% tariffs on imported vehicles and auto parts are poised to reshape the automotive market by increasing prices across both new and used car sectors. Consumers should stay informed about these developments and consider their timing and options carefully when making vehicle-related decisions. Engaging with reputable dealerships and financial advisors can provide valuable guidance during this period of market adjustment. Source:  CBS News, Market Watch, Insider

Few topics have sparked more debate among Ram owners than the transition from the legendary HEMI® V8 to the new Hurricane twin-turbo inline-six. Some drivers believe nothing can replace the sound and simplicity of a naturally aspirated V8. Others argue the Hurricane is a significant step forward in performance, efficiency, and modern engineering. Who's right?  The honest answer is...both. Each engine has strengths, and the best choice depends on how you drive, what you tow, and what matters most to you. About This Comparison Before we dive into horsepower and torque figures, it's worth explaining how we approached this comparison.  Choosing a truck is a major investment, and today's buyers rarely rely on manufacturer brochures alone. They watch long-term ownership videos, read independent automotive reviews, and spend hours browsing owner forums and enthusiast communities to learn from people who actually live with these trucks every day. To create this guide, we looked beyond factory specifications. We considered published engineering data, independent automotive testing, and the recurring themes discussed in public owner communities like reddit and enthusiast forums. Rather than highlighting a handful of individual opinions, we've summarized the experiences, questions, and concerns that consistently appear across many owner conversations. Every driver has different priorities, towing needs, maintenance habits, and driving conditions, so your experience may differ. Our goal isn't to declare a winner—it's to help you choose the engine that's right for you. Meet the Contenders The Legendary HEMI For more than two decades, the HEMI became one of the most recognizable truck engines in America. Owners appreciated: The unmistakable V8 exhaust note Proven long-term durability Strong towing performance Straightforward engineering Excellent aftermarket support For many Ram owners, the HEMI isn't just an engine. It's part of the truck's identity. The New Hurricane The Hurricane takes a completely different approach. Instead of relying on displacement, Ram engineers developed a twin-turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six designed to deliver more horsepower and substantially more torque than the outgoing V8. Owners appreciate: Stronger horsepower and torque Quick, confident acceleration Impressive low-end pulling power Better performance at higher elevations Modern engineering with improved efficiency On paper, it's clearly the stronger engine. The question many buyers ask is whether modern technology can earn the same trust the HEMI built over many years. What Truck Owners Are Saying One thing became clear while reviewing owner discussions across public truck communities.  This isn't really an argument about horsepower.  It's an argument about philosophy. Why Many Owners Still Love the HEMI One theme appeared repeatedly.  Owners trust what they know. Many describe the HEMI as proven, predictable, easy to understand, built for long-term ownership.  For buyers who keep trucks ten or fifteen years, mechanical simplicity remains important. Another recurring opinion centers on emotion. The sound, the idle, and the rumble when accelerating onto the highway.  Many owners simply enjoy driving a V8. For them, that's part of owning a truck. Why Hurricane Owners Are Winning People Over Owners who have actually driven the Hurricane often describe something unexpected. They expected to miss the V8. Instead, many came away impressed by how effortless the truck feels.  Common observations include noticeably quicker acceleration, stronger passing power, excellent highway performance, smooth towing, and impressive low-end torque.  Many describe it as feeling more like a modern diesel than a traditional gasoline V6. That's high praise among truck enthusiasts. Performance This is where the Hurricane clearly shines. It delivers more horsepower, more torque, stronger acceleration, passing slower traffic requires less effort and merging onto interstates feels more confident.  At higher elevations, turbocharging also helps maintain performance that naturally aspirated engines gradually lose. Performance Winner Hurricane Engine Horsepower Torque 5.7L HEMI V8 (eTorque) 395 hp 410 lb-ft 3.0L Hurricane SO Standard Output 420 hp 469 lb-ft 3.0L Hurricane High Output 540 hp 521 lb-ft Towing Both engines are excellent towing platforms.  The HEMI has years of proven experience pulling campers, utility trailers, boats, and equipment. The Hurricane's additional torque gives it impressive pulling power, particularly during acceleration and climbing grades. For most buyers, either engine will comfortably handle everyday towing duties. Winner Tie Fuel Economy While fuel economy depends on driving habits and truck configuration, many owners report modest improvements with the Hurricane during normal commuting and highway driving.  Heavy towing naturally reduces fuel economy regardless of engine choice.  Drivers who spend much of their week commuting may appreciate the Hurricane's added efficiency. Winner Hurricane Maintenance This topic generates plenty of discussion.  Owners appreciate the HEMI because independent mechanics know it well, replacement parts are widely available, and the engine has accumulated millions of real-world miles. The Hurricane introduces turbochargers, additional plumbing, and more sophisticated engine management.  Some buyers view that as increased complexity.  Others point out that modern turbocharged engines have become common throughout the automotive industry.  Only years of long-term ownership will fully answer questions about durability. Current Advantage HEMI for long-term track record The Heart vs. The Head This may be the simplest way to explain the debate. Buy with your heart... Choose the HEMI if you love: classic V8 sound mechanical simplicity proven reliability traditional truck character owning a piece of Ram history Buy with your head... Choose the Hurricane if you value: stronger acceleration more horsepower more torque improved fuel economy modern engineering higher towing performance Neither decision is wrong. They're simply different priorities. Which Engine Fits Your Lifestyle? Here are some of the opinions that we found online ... Daily Commuter The Hurricane's extra efficiency and responsive acceleration make daily driving enjoyable. Weekend Warrior Dealership Employee:  Either engine performs exceptionally well.  Your preference will likely come down to driving feel. Performance Enthusiast The Hurricane delivers stronger numbers nearly across the board. Quick Comparison Category Hurricane HEMI Horsepower ★★★★★ ★★★★☆ Torque ★★★★★ ★★★★☆ Acceleration ★★★★★ ★★★★☆ Fuel Economy ★★★★☆ ★★★☆☆ Proven Reliability ★★★☆☆ ★★★★★ Traditional Truck Feel ★★★☆☆ ★★★★★ Modern Technology ★★★★★ ★★★☆☆ Long-Term Owner Confidence ★★★★☆ ★★★★★ Frequently Asked Questions Is the Hurricane replacing the HEMI? Ram originally positioned the Hurricane as its next-generation truck engine. However, continued customer demand for the HEMI has led Ram to bring V8-powered models back into portions of its lineup, giving buyers more choice. Is the Hurricane more powerful? Yes. The Hurricane produces more horsepower and torque than the outgoing 5.7L HEMI, resulting in stronger acceleration and improved passing performance. Is the HEMI more reliable? The HEMI benefits from a long history of real-world use, giving buyers confidence in its durability. The Hurricane is newer, so it hasn't yet accumulated the same decades of ownership history. Which engine should I buy? If you value proven reliability, V8 sound, and traditional truck character, the HEMI remains a compelling choice. If you prioritize performance, torque, efficiency, and modern engineering, the Hurricane is difficult to ignore. The Bottom Line The debate between the Hurricane and the HEMI isn't likely to end anytime soon—and that's because both engines have earned loyal supporters for different reasons.  The HEMI represents decades of proven performance, unmistakable character, and a reputation that many truck owners trust without hesitation. The Hurricane represents the next generation of Ram engineering, delivering impressive horsepower, abundant torque, and a level of performance that has surprised even many longtime V8 enthusiasts. If your heart says V8, you'll probably never stop smiling behind the wheel of a HEMI.  If your head says modern performance, stronger acceleration, and improved efficiency, the Hurricane deserves a serious look. Fortunately, today's Ram buyers don't have to rely on internet debates alone.  The best comparison happens behind the wheel. At Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, we'll help you compare available Ram 1500 models, explain the differences between the Hurricane and HEMI powertrains, answer your questions, and arrange a test drive so you can decide which truck feels right for your lifestyle.

Our team members are excited to share their favorite vehicles for 2026. We recently put together a fun “Favorite Vehicle” composite video featuring employees from the Scott McCorkle family of dealerships. Team members from Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat, along with colleagues across our organization, shared the vehicles they personally drive, enjoy, and trust. Because this video includes multiple Scott McCorkle dealerships, you may hear mentions of Toyota, Buick, GMC, or other brands alongside Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, and Fiat vehicles. For this article, we are focusing on the vehicles chosen by our Mount Airy CDJRF team members and why they believe these models stand out for strength, comfort, dependability, and everyday usability. Watch the full “Favorite Vehicle” video on the Mount Airy CDJRF YouTube channel, then read on to see why these vehicles continue to be employee favorites in 2026. Employee Favorites for 2026 Ram 2500 Diesel Recommended by: Dean Girgenti, General Manager Dean’s pick is the Ram 2500 Diesel, and it fits his lifestyle perfectly. He likes the way it sits high on the road and gives him confidence on his daily drive to the dealership. The ride feels solid and controlled, and the truck handles comfortably even at highway speeds. Dean describes himself as a truck person through and through, and for him, the Ram 2500 checks every box. It feels strong, capable, and well built, which is why he considers it the best of the best. Why Dean Loves the Ram 2500 Confident driving position Smooth and solid ride quality Powerful diesel performance Built for long-term use Ram 3500 Mega Cab Diesel and 2026 Jeep Wagoneer S Hybrid Recommended by: Jessica Manuel, Service Manager Jessica leads the service department and has years of hands-on experience working on Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram vehicles. Her recommendations carry real weight because she sees these vehicles every day from a maintenance and durability standpoint. For her own personal vehicle, Jessica prefers the Ram 3500 Mega Cab Diesel. She values its dependability and knows it is a sturdy, well-built truck designed to handle serious work. It is a truck she trusts completely. When recommending a vehicle to customers who want something modern and efficient, Jessica points to the all-new 2026 Jeep Wagoneer S Hybrid. She likes its sleek design, strong fuel efficiency, and the fact that it requires very little routine service compared to traditional gas vehicles. Why Jessica Recommends These Vehicles Ram 3500 Mega Cab offers proven durability and strength Diesel power built for long-term reliability Wagoneer S Hybrid delivers strong efficiency Lower service needs make it appealing for daily drivers 2026 Ram Rebel with the 6.7-liter Cummins Turbo Diesel Engine Recommended by: Spencer Easter, Sales Associate Spencer’s favorite is the 2026 Ram Rebel Cummins, and his choice is all about style, comfort, and capability. He loves the black-on-black look, including the leather interior with REBEL stitched into the rear seats. Every seat is leather, and the front seats are heated, cooled, and ventilated. One of Spencer’s favorite features is the remote start. On cold winter mornings, being able to start the truck before heading outside makes a big difference. He also appreciates the updated front-end design, which gives the truck a bold look on the road. The all-terrain tires paired with the silver trim give the Rebel a rugged but polished appearance that stands out without being overdone. Why the Ram Rebel Stands Out Black leather interior with Rebel detailing Heated, cooled, and ventilated front seats Remote start for cold mornings Bold front-end styling All-terrain tires with eye-catching trim Why These Picks Matter Whether you are looking for heavy-duty truck capability, daily driving comfort, modern efficiency, or standout style, these vehicles represent what our Mount Airy CDJRF team believes Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram do best. When the people who manage, sell, and service these vehicles every day choose them for themselves, it speaks volumes. Visit Mount Airy Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram Fiat today or browse our inventory online to find the vehicle that fits your lifestyle.