Few reasons : 1. Higher government regulations. This includes safety as well as emission regulations. 2. Actual implementation of those regulations. In many c

Few reasons : 1. Higher government regulations. This includes safety as well as emission regulations. 2. Actual implementation of those regulations. In many countries as I know regulations are routinely ignored and bribes are paid to keep quiet. 3. Contrary to what others might tell you American cars tend to be far more robust than most other countries. This is because Americans drive more and over longer distances and far too often. 4. There is no market for cheap cars in USA. That Lada 4x4 will not sell in USA at all with its mere 1.6L engine and 90 Mph max speed. Of course if Lada had to slightly rebrand and market its car as "non-road vehicle" they might sell for the $7000k. Mahindra from India did the same and they have been selling their mini jeep for <$10k.