Nissan phases out select dealer programs, the Ram 1500 Express returns, what tariff relief really covers

Hey everyone. SET YOUR REMINDERS…

Today’s the day auto retail gets its own talk show—with Daily Dealer Live kicking off at 1 PM ET.

No scripts. No fluff. No corporate spin.

Just real talk, with Sam D’Arc and Uli de’ Martino behind the mic, and a guest list that’s absolutely stacked.

Streaming on all CDG channels. See you there.

— CDG

Welcome to the Daily Dealer a concise rundown of the most important automotive industry headlines that matter to car dealers, automakers, and industry insiders.

41.1% of consumers say they’re less likely to trade in after tariff news:

And the reason is simple—most of these consumers aren’t confident they can afford a replacement.

As a result, many dealers are getting more aggressive with sourcing off the street and in the service drive.

(Data source: CDG Consumer Snapshot Survey Q2)

And in a stretched-out trade cycle, Nick says fixed ops becomes the sweet spot…

1. Nissan is phasing out select dealer incentive programs ahead of major retail reset

Nissan is scrapping several long-running incentive programs ahead of a full retail reset under “Nissan One,” launching June 3.

And this overhaul includes eliminating or reshaping the Quality Growth Program (QGP), Retail Development Fund (RDF), and Invest in the Best (IITB). Complimentary maintenance on ICE and future EV models is also being phased out.

The goal: fewer programs, fewer strings, and a sharper focus on throughput and dealer profitability.

Big picture: Nissan says the new structure is built to simplify operations and rebuild trust, with incentives that actually help move metal.

(Go deeper: 4 min. read)

Want insider knowledge on the most up to date trends in auto retail?

The Haig Report® is auto retail's longest-published and most-trusted quarterly report tracking trends and their impact on dealership values. Since 2014, this report has delivered analysis on dealership performance, market trends, and franchise valuations—offering a clear view of opportunities and challenges in automotive retail.

Join the leaders in the industry who rely on the Haig Report® for:

• Exclusive insights into dealership values and valuation trends

• Franchise insights and outlooks on brand desirability

• Market trends to help you make informed business decisions

• The only report to publish blue sky values every quarter.

Looking to grow your portfolio or explore dealership investments? Join our exclusive buyer and investor database—scan the QR code above or visit haigpartners.com/buyerdatabase.

2. The Ram 1500 Express returns more affordable than expected

Ram is bringing back the budget truck play with the 2026 Ram 1500 Express—starting at $44,495 and filling the hole the Classic left behind.

It’s built on the current-gen platform, comes standard with safety tech, and offers an optional 420-hp Hurricane upgrade for just $1,695. Serious value in a segment where price matters most.

As CEO Tim Kuniskis put it: “We got our ass kicked.” Now, this is Ram’s response.

For dealers: it’s a much-needed answer to sticker shock—and a shot to stay competitive under the $50K line.

(Go deeper: 2 min. read)

3. Tracking impact of auto tariff relief is no easy feat

Tariff relief is here—but it’s limited, and only applies to U.S.-built vehicles from April 2025 to April 2027.

An S&P Global report shows automakers can claim up to 3.75% in import offsets—but only with detailed part traceability.

Regardless, Anderson Economic Group says many vehicles will see $2K–$12K in added cost, especially imports like the G-Wagon and Mach-E.

Bottom line: MSRPs are holding for now, but pricing pressure is building—and the relief won’t hit everyone equally.

(Go deeper: 4 min. read)

Thanks for reading everyone.

— CDG

Want to advertise with CDG? Click here.

Want to be considered as a guest on the CDG podcast? Right this way.

Want to pitch a story for the newsletter? Share it here.