So What Is An American Made Car Now? 70% of Japanese Cars Sold in U.S. Are Built in North American Plants

In *my* mind, an "American car" is designed by GM, Ford, or Chrysler, and typically has those "for American buys" characteristics, which leave me so cold. Admittedly, this is my prejudice, and I have found exceptions to this, such as a Ford Focus I rented while visiting Ireland years ago. I was impressed for what it was.

Simple, an American built car is built by a company with corporate headquarters in the United States. That's what it has always meant. A Chevrolet built in Europe is still an Amarican car.

I am thrilled that other manufacturers have plants in North America. Both European and Asian builders are well represented. Just don't call them an American car.

No, Chrysler is based in Michigan. I see what you mean though about the way I worded it, and you are correct of course that a US manufacturer could still have a corporate HQ outside the US. Of course, the same applies to Nissan/Renault. Are they Japanese or French? I would call Nissan Japanese and Renault French, even though the same corporation owns them.

As far as where the plants are built, it is inmaterial to the question. VW makes cars all over the world, as does almost every other car maker. That doesn't change what "nationality" you consider the car to be.

I did a quick search and I see I am not entirely accurate about Nissan/Renault. I thought they had merged, but I see that isn't correct. It's more of a partnership, although they do have a single CEO over them both.

Perhaps Chrysler/Fiat is the only example, but I still feel the same way as to their "nationality". Chrysler is American and Fiat is French.

IMO a car brand's nationality is its original beginnings. Hence, a Jaguar is still British eventhough it is owned by Tata of India. I would refer to Jaguar as a British Brand rather than an Indian brand. Or a Honda Accord as a Japanese brand/car even if it is designed/built in USA.

American made does not equal American company...