So, You Think You Drive An American Car

Considering how much of our economy is based on the sale of automobiles, and how many jobs are directly related to automotive production, you'd think we would all want to "Drive American Made."

But that's actually much harder to do than you think. Depending on your needs and tastes, the choices may be limited.

According to Car & Driver Magazine, nearly 8 million cars and trucks rolled off American assembly lines in 2011. (see—"Domestic Bliss: A Graphic Representation of What's Really "Made In America")

See also: "Camry Edges Out F-150 For 'Most American'"

However, the gummint says at least 75% of a vehicle's parts (by value) must come from the US or Canada in order for a vehicle to considered "domestic." And if it's not domestic, well, then I guess it must be foreign. So just because your daily driver is among the 8 million assembled here, that don't mean it's "Made in USA."

So, what meets or exceeds the 75% benchmark?
Of currently available vehicles, pretty much anything that has the "Jeep" nameplate on it—they're still cranking them out in Toledo, OH. The Chevrolet Malibu also qualifies (barely) as does the Buick Verano, Ford Focus and Dodge Dakota. The "Most American" of the American builts is Ford's Explorer at 85%. The least is the Ford Fusion / Lincoln MKZ at 20% (Made In Mexico). Chevy's much touted Volt is only 40% American. So if GM, Ford and Chrysler aren't topping the list, who is? According to C&D's chart, it's Toyota followed closely by Honda.

What's the future of auto production in the US?

Take a few minutes and watch this video—then decide.