While the global giants scramble to readjust supply chains and lawyer up, GMC already had a wildcard parked in the driveway: the Yukon AT4 Ultimate with Super Cruise. Built in Texas, powered by a good ol’ American 6.2-liter V8, and specced for full-size utility and luxury, this SUV sidesteps the tariff chaos entirely—and might just be the first vehicle to turn trade policy into a competitive edge.

What exactly are Tariffs 2.0?

Trump’s revised policy isn’t just about punishment. It’s a carrot-and-stick model: imports still face a stiff 25% duty, but U.S.-built vehicles with domestic components now qualify for rebates, tax credits, and a peculiar clause that prevents being taxed twice on metal content. Vehicles that meet the criteria could receive up to 3.75% back on their retail price in the first year alone. That’s nearly $3,600 on a $96,000 Yukon—enough to fund a lavish family road trip or, more likely, undercut imported rivals at the dealership.

So what makes the Yukon so special?

Let’s start with what it isn’t: imported, tariff-laden, or half-committed to local production. Unlike many “American” vehicles built in Mexico or stitched together with foreign powertrains, the Yukon is as red-blooded as SUVs come. Its engine, drivetrain, and final assembly all take place in the U.S.—which means buyers aren’t footing the bill for geopolitical gamesmanship.

Under the hood, you get 420 horsepower and 8,400 pounds of towing capacity. On the tech side, there’s Super Cruise—GM’s semi-autonomous hands-free driving system, now fully functional on thousands of miles of mapped roads. Add massaging seats, a 16.8-inch infotainment system, and 18-speaker Bose audio, and you have something that doesn’t just feel like luxury—it is luxury. Just cleverly disguised in camo cladding and political foresight.

Who didn’t get the memo?

Here’s where things get brutal. Take the Toyota RAV4 XLE, built in Japan. A $4,400 tariff hike could push it out of the “affordable” zone. The Mercedes-Benz E-Class? Expect a $9,000 premium. Even some American-assembled vehicles aren’t safe: the BMW X5, built in South Carolina, still faces tariffs on its German engine—resulting in an estimated $2,000 bump. Suddenly, “assembled in the U.S.” doesn’t mean much if the parts arrive in a Lufthansa crate.

Is this policy brilliant—or just chaos?

There’s something rather Shakespearean about it all. Automakers who offshored to save a buck now find themselves outfoxed by a 5,500-pound GMC with massage chairs. It’s less about nationalism and more about strategy. GM didn’t bet on patriotism—they bet on policy foresight. In doing so, they turned the Yukon from a capable SUV into a tariff-proof weapon.

The net effect? Domestic automakers who invested in U.S. plants look smart. Those with global supply webs look exposed. Expect prices on imported models to rise sharply in the short term, while U.S.-built vehicles like the Yukon remain steady—or even slightly discounted, thanks to those sweet manufacturing credits.

Should buyers act now?

In a word, yes. If you’re in the market for a full-size SUV that hauls a trailer, drives itself on the highway, and won’t be collateral damage in the latest trade war, the Yukon AT4 Ultimate makes a compelling case. And as more automakers scramble to meet the new guidelines, expect vehicle availability and pricing to fluctuate.

Is this a long-term trend?

Likely. In three years, expect a reshuffling of global production footprints. More factories in Tennessee. Fewer final assemblies in Tokyo. Brands that cling to global supply chains may be forced to justify ballooning MSRPs. Meanwhile, GM and other forward-thinkers will keep smiling through quarterly earnings.

Bottom line: The Yukon didn’t just weather Tariffs 2.0—it exploited them. In an era of geopolitical posturing and shifting rules, building at home isn’t just patriotic—it’s pragmatic. And GMC didn’t need a policy memo to see this one coming.

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The post Tariffs 2.0 Are Here — And the Yukon Just Beat the System appeared first on ROI TV.

Historical Background

Prior to 1984, Social Security benefits were exempt from federal income taxes. This changed with the Social Security Amendments of 1983, signed into law by President Ronald Reagan. The amendments introduced taxation on up to 50% of Social Security benefits for individuals and couples whose income exceeded certain thresholds. In 1993, legislation expanded this taxation, allowing up to 85% of benefits to be taxable for higher-income beneficiaries. Notably, the income thresholds established in the 1980s have not been adjusted for inflation, leading to a larger portion of beneficiaries being taxed over time.

ssa.gov

Current Impact

As of 2025, individuals with combined income over $25,000 and couples over $32,000 may have up to 50% of their Social Security benefits taxed; this increases to 85% for individuals above $34,000 and couples above $44,000. The lack of inflation adjustment means more retirees are subject to these taxes, impacting their financial stability. In 2023, taxation of benefits contributed approximately $50.7 billion to Social Security’s trust funds, accounting for 3.8% of its total income.

crsreports.congress.gov

Proposed Changes

Recent legislative efforts aim to alleviate the tax burden on Social Security recipients. The Senior Citizens Tax Elimination Act, reintroduced by Representatives Thomas Massie and Daniel Webster, proposes ending federal income taxes on Social Security benefits. While this could increase retirees’ income, analyses suggest it may reduce federal revenues by $1.5 trillion over the next decade and accelerate the depletion of Social Security’s trust fund from 2034 to 2032.

newsnationnow.com

Additionally, President Donald Trump has advocated for the elimination of these taxes, aligning with his campaign promises. However, concerns arise regarding the potential exacerbation of Social Security’s funding challenges. Experts emphasize the need for comprehensive reforms to ensure the program’s solvency while addressing beneficiaries’ needs.

reuters.com

Conclusion

The taxation of Social Security benefits remains a complex issue, balancing the financial needs of retirees with the sustainability of the program. As discussions continue, it’s essential for individuals to stay informed and consider how potential changes may affect their retirement planning.

All writings are for educational and entertainment purposes only and does not provide investment or financial advice of any kind.

The post President Trump Wants to Eliminate Taxes on Social Security appeared first on ROI TV.