European automakers, already struggling with tepid economic growth at home and looming Chinese competition, on Thursday decried the U.S. import tax on cars as a new, heavy burden that would hurt companies and consumers on both sides of the Atlantic.

President Donald Trump’s 25% tariffs on autos not made in the U.S. and certain auto parts will send ripple effects through an industry that is already being pummeled by steel and aluminum import duties and on-again,