Audi sets all-time U.S. October sales record with 14.5% increase, marking 22th consecutive month of record sales

Premium category vehicles (A8, A7, A6, and Q7) represent nearly 34.1% of October Audi customer deliveries

HERNDON, Va., Oct 31, 2012 - Audi today reported record-setting October sales of 11,708 new vehicles representing a 14.5% increase above the previous record set in October of last year. October also stands as the 22th consecutive month of record U.S. performance by the brand with the four rings.

Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (the Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) equal 34.1% of total October sales further demonstrating the brand’s upward mobility in the luxury sector. This was a 36% increase of premium vehicles sold. October sales momentum benefitted strongly from robust demand for the progressive Audi A8 and the technologically advanced Audi A6. The A8 generated a 54.7% sales increase for the month, powered by strong demand for the new S8 performance model. The A6 sales increased by 36.6% for the month and posted a 96.8% year-to-date gain when compared to the January-October period of 2011.

Consumer interest in the efficient and sporty A3 contributed to a 59.7% increase in sales in October, while the redesigned Audi A4 contributed a 20.6% increase in sales. The Audi Q7 also performed favorably with an increase of 42.7% for the month of October.

“The newly launched models in our performance lines – the Audi S6, S7, S8 and RS 5 – have been huge success stories by virtually selling out shortly after hitting showrooms,” said Mark Del Rosso, Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “It’s clear that premium car buyers are excited about the new generation of cars at the top of our lineup with the Audi A6, A7, A8 and Q7 models constituting 71% of our sales gain in October.”

Highlights:

• October 2012 ranks as the best October in Audi of America history
  
• For the record-setting month of October 2012, five Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 20% or more, including the Audi A3, the Audi A4, the Audi A8 and the Q7 models.
  
• Sales mix for Audi S models finished the month at 15% for the S4 and 41.3% for the S5/ RS 5
  
• Audi A3 sales up 59.7% compared to October 2011; YTD sales grew 17.9% compared to previous period.
  
• Audi A4 sales up 20.6% compared to October 2011; YTD sales grew 8.2% compared to previous period.
  
• Sales of Audi A6 increased 36.6% compared to October 2011; YTD sales up 96.8% compared to previous period.
  
• Sales of Audi A7 increased 17.3% compared to October 2011; YTD sales up 47.7% compared to previous period.
  
• Sales of Audi A8 increased 54.7% compared to October 2011; YTD sales have equaled the previous period.
  
• Sales mix for Audi TDI clean diesel models finish the month at 44.5% for the A3 TDI and 28.5% for Q7 TDI
  
• Audi Certified pre-owned sales of 2,663 vehicles sold amounted to the second-best October in Audi history, despite the reduced inventory of available models for the program.
  

VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS OCTOBER SALES

- Company reports 34,311 units delivered, a 22.4 percent increase for the month of October-

• Best October since 1972 with 34,311 units sold and a 22.4 percent increase over the prior year and a 35.6 percent increase year-to-date

• Best year-to-date since 1973

• 26 consecutive months of year-on-year growth

• Best October ever for Passat and Tiguan with 8,355 and 2,752 units sold respectively

• Jetta Sedan achieved sales of 11,253 units

• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 24 percent of sales in October

Herndon, VA, Nov 1, 2012 - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 34,311 units sold in October, a 22.4 percent increase over prior year sales, a 35.6 percent year-to-date increase and the best October since 1972. In just 10 months of sales, this marks the best calendar year since 1973.

“In the wake of the East coast disaster, we would like to express our thoughts and concern for all affected,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “In light of the difficult aftermath of hurricane Sandy, the Volkswagen of America Foundation is providing aid in the form of a donation to the American Red Cross in order to help with the relief efforts. Despite over 25 percent of our dealers being impacted by the severe storm conditions, Volkswagen was able to increase sales by over 20 percent and deliver the best October in nearly 40 years – a testament to the resilience and strength of our dealer body.”

The Volkswagen of America Foundation announced yesterday that it would make an immediate donation of $500,000 to the American Red Cross for Hurricane Sandy relief to provide support for affected areas across the northeast. The donation will help cover costs of shelter, food, recovery and other assistance to families affected by the storm. Additionally, Volkswagen will provide matching funds to any employee donations made to the American Red Cross or the organization of their choosing.

The Volkswagen Passat, which was recently added to Consumer Reports recommended list, continues its successful year with 8,355 units sold in October.

Jetta sedan, including the enthusiast GLI model, remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 11,253 while Jetta SportWagen totaled 2,223. The Jetta turbo hybrid, which will go on sale later this year, recently achieved a Land Speed Record at Bonneville, posting 187 mph, a record speed for hybrid vehicles.

The Beetle continues to gain momentum with 2,439 units sold. The Beetle convertible will make its debut later this month at the Los Angeles Auto Show.

Golf/GTI/Golf R had total sales of 2,914 units. The Tiguan sold 2,752 units, the best October ever for the vehicle, while the Volkswagen Touareg sold 965 units, a 33.1 percent increase.

Volkswagen continued sales success with its TDI models, the Passat, Tiguan and Golf all had the best year-to-date sales ever with 75,779 TDIs sold, a 29.9 percent increase year-to-date.

• Ford October small car sales total 25,493 vehicles – the company’s strongest October small car sales in 11 years – with a 54 percent increase year over year
  
• Escape compact utility sales increased 4 percent for the month; 19,832 Escape sales mark best October sales since 2001
  
• In its first full month on sale, C-MAX sells 3,182 vehicles
  
• F-Series posts its best October sales since 2004, providing its 15th consecutive year-over-year monthly sales increase; sales totaled 56,497 pickups – an 8 percent increase
  
• U.S. sales at the Ford Motor Company total 168,456 vehicles in October, unchanged from a year ago; retail sales up 2 percent compared to last year
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Nov. 1, 2012 – Ford total U.S. sales grew across the portfolio in October, with cars up 2 percent, utilities up 2 percent, F-Series pickups up 8 percent and Econoline and Transit Connect sales up 19 and 22 percent, respectively.

“Our commitment to deliver a fuel-efficient lineup of cars, utilities and trucks is winning over customers and helping grow our retail sales,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Our fuel-efficient and capable full-size pickups delivered our strongest October sales results since 2004 – an F-Series record year – and we surpassed our own expectations for the first full month of C-MAX Hybrid sales.”

Focus, all-new C-MAX Hybrid and Fiesta sales totaled 25,493 vehicles in October, Ford’s best October small car sales month since 2001 and a 54 percent increase year over year.

October Escape sales increased 4 percent, with 19,832 vehicles sold. Escape is on-pace for another record sales year in 2012, aiming to surpass 2011 record sales of 254,293 vehicles.

America’s best-selling vehicle, Ford F-Series, sold a total of 56,497 vehicles during the month of October. This not only represents an 8 percent increase over last year but also the 15th straight month of sales increases for F-Series.

Ford sold 168,456 total vehicles in October, unchanged from a year ago. Retail sales were up 2 percent compared to last year.

• Best October sales since 2007
  
• 31st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Chrysler, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in October compared with same month a year ago
  
• FIAT brand sales up 89 percent in October; largest year-over-year percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand
  
• Both Fiat 500 and Fiat 500 Cabrio record sizeable sales gains
  
• Dodge brand sales up 20 percent; best October sales since 2007
  
• Dodge Dart earns 5-star safety rating from U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and 2012 Top Safety Pick from Insurance Institute for Highway Safety
  
• Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan and Dodge Journey full-size crossover set sales records for month of October
  
• Sales of the Dodge Charger muscle car increase 36 percent; best October sales since 2008
  
• Dodge Grand Caravan sales increase 49 percent; best sales since 2007
  
• Ram Truck brand sales up 17 percent compared with same month last year; best October sales since 2007
  
• Ram pickup truck sales up 20 percent versus same month a year ago
  
• New 2013 Ram 1500 wins ‘Truck of Texas,’ the highest honor in the Texas Auto Writers Association’s (TAWA) annual Texas Truck Rodeo
  
• Ram 1500 also named ‘Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas’ and ‘Luxury Pickup Truck of Texas’ for the Laramie Longhorn
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 5 percent; best October sales since 2007
  
• Chrysler 300 flagship sedan and Chrysler Town & Country minivan each post sales gains greater than 30 percent
  
• Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot each set sales records for month of October
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee sales up 8 percent versus same month last year; Captures ‘SUV of Texas’ award for third consecutive year at Texas Truck Rodeo
  
• Jeep Wrangler named ‘Mid-Size SUV of Texas’ for third year in a row at Texas Truck Rodeo
  
• Jeep Wrangler recognized as ‘Hottest 4x4 SUV’ at Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Nov 1, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 126,185 units, a 10 percent increase compared with sales in October 2011 (114,512 units), and the group’s best October sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in October compared with the same month a year ago. The FIAT brand’s 89 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. October marked Chrysler Group’s 31st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

“In spite of Hurricane Sandy, Chrysler Group posted its best October sales since 2007 and we achieved our 31st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Last month we also further demonstrated our disciplined approach to sales growth by posting a Q3 2012 operating profit of $706 million, an increase of 46 percent over Q3 2011.”

A diverse set of Chrysler Group models set records last month. The Fiat 500, with its considerable 89 percent sales increase, set a sales record for the month of October. The Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan, the Jeep® Wrangler and Jeep Patriot sport-utility vehicles, and the Dodge Journey full-size crossover all set sales records for the month of October.

Chrysler Group’s minivans each posted double-digit percentage sales increases in October. The Dodge Grand Caravan’s 49 percent sales gain represented the largest percentage increase of any Dodge brand model while sales of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 31 percent in October. The Ram 1500 pickup truck, Dodge Charger muscle car, and Chrysler 300 flagship sedan all had sizeable sales gains during the month.

Chrysler Group finished the month with an 83-days supply of inventory (404,122 units). U.S. industry sales figures for October are projected at an estimated 14.7 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

October 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

FIAT Brand

The Fiat 500 set a sales record for the month of October. It was the eighth-consecutive month this year in which the Fiat 500 has set a sales record, including an all-time sales record in September. Sales of the Fiat 500 hatchback were up 109 percent in October while the Fiat 500 Cabrio realized a 21 percent year-over-year sales increase. The first of the new Fiat 500 Turbo models began arriving in FIAT studios in October. For the driving enthusiast who wants a Fiat 500 Sport with more power and performance, the Fiat 500 Turbo answers the call with a new 135-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, dynamic styling, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes and unique sport-styled interior.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales were up 20 percent in October, the brand’s best October in five years and its 17th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Dodge brand sales of 40,611 units represented the largest sales volume of any Chrysler Group brand in October.

The Dodge Journey full-size crossover and the sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan each set a sales record for the month of October. Journey sales were up 18 percent compared with the same month a year ago. October marked the seventh month this year in which the Journey has set a sales record, including an all-time sales record in August. Dodge Avenger sales increased 7 percent versus the same month last year. The Avenger has set a sales record in six months so far this year, including an all-time sales record in April.

The all-new Dodge Dart, with its 10 standard-equipment air bags and one of the auto industry’s highest content-ratios of high-strength steel, earned two major safety accolades in October. The Dart was named a 2012 Top Safety Pick by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety and grabbed the 5-star safety rating from the U.S. National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, the regulatory agency’s highest grade. Sales of the Dart were up 4 percent in October compared with the previous month of September as the state-of-the-art compact sedan continues to build sales momentum.

Sales of the Dodge Grand Caravan, the brand’s volume leader for the month, were up a hefty 49 percent, the largest percentage sales gain of any Dodge brand model in October. It was the minivan’s 10th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best October sales in five years.

Ram Truck Brand

Ram Truck brand sales were up 17 percent in October compared with the same month last year. The Ram pickup truck, Chrysler Group’s volume leader, extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 30-consecutive months. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 20 percent in October compared with the same month a year ago. It was the pickup truck’s best October sales performance in six years. The Heavy Duty Ram trucks led the way, up 26 percent, while sales of the Light Duty Ram trucks increased 17 percent.

The new 2013 Ram 1500 with best-in-class fuel economy began arriving in dealerships across the country in October. During TAWA’s annual Texas Truck Rodeo in October, the Ram 1500 was named “Truck of Texas,” the group’s highest honor. The Ram 1500 also was named “Full-Size Pickup Truck of Texas” and was awarded “Luxury Pickup Truck of Texas” for the Laramie Longhorn model. Additionally, the Ram Truck brand was voted “Truck Line of Texas.” Judging by the 50 TAWA members occurred over two days of uncompromising on- and off-road vehicle evaluation. Consideration is given to everything from interior and exterior styling and off-road capability to the entrant’s overall utility, value and fuel efficiency.

The Ram Cargo Van posted a 145 percent sales increase in October compared with the same month a year ago.

Chrysler Brand

The Chrysler brand extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 16-consecutive months in October. Chrysler brand sales were up 5 percent, the brand’s best October sales in five years. Both the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan and Chrysler Town & Country minivan had strong October sales. Sales of the Chrysler 300 were up 40 percent compared with the same month last year, the full-size sedan’s 12th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Chrysler brand introduced the all-new Chrysler 300 Glacier Edition, featuring the market’s most fuel efficient AWD system, along with unique leather seats integrated with ballistic fabric for all-weather capabilities. And the Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Luxury Edition sedan arrives in showrooms during this fourth quarter, complementing and improving the 300 with unique features from multi-award winning menswear designer John Varvatos.

Sales of the Town & Country minivan were up 31 percent in October compared with the same month a year ago.

Jeep® Brand

Two Jeep models had a record-setting month in October. Sales of the Jeep Wrangler were up 14 percent, a sales record for the month of October. The Jeep Patriot, the best-priced compact SUV in America, posted an 18 percent increase, also establishing a sales record for the month of October and the largest sales gain of any of the Jeep brand models.

For the third consecutive year, the Jeep Grand Cherokee – already the most awarded SUV ever – captured the “SUV of Texas” award at TAWA’s Texas Truck Rodeo in October. Grand Cherokee sales were up 8 percent in October versus the same month last year. In addition, the Grand Cherokee was named “Full-Size SUV of Texas” and the ultra-premium Grand Cherokee Overland Summit retained its “Full-Size Luxury SUV of Texas” title. The rugged Wrangler was awarded “Mid-Size SUV of Texas” for the third year in a row.

For the third consecutive year, the Wrangler was recognized as the “Hottest 4x4 SUV” at the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA) trade show in October in Las Vegas.

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported its highest October sales in the United States since 2007, with deliveries up 5 percent versus a year ago to 195,764 vehicles. Year-over-year sales to retail customers were up 7 percent and sales to fleet customers were down 2 percent.

“GM had a solid October in a month that was marked by a devastating national tragedy,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. sales operations. “All of us at GM are deeply saddened by the loss of life and the extensive damage caused by the storms, but we’re really encouraged by the national and local response, which will speed the recovery.”

GM’s new cars had a standout performance in October.

“With new designs like the Chevrolet Spark, Buick Verano and Cadillac ATS, and a growing reputation for quality and good resale value, we are becoming an even more formidable competitor in every segment – not just traditional GM strongholds like trucks,” McNeil said.

Sales of GM passenger cars increased 15 percent in October compared with a year ago. Crossovers were up 3 percent and sales of full-size pickup trucks were up 8 percent.

• Passenger car sales were driven by a 37 percent increase in Cadillac car sales, a 27 percent increase in Buick car sales and a 12 percent increase in Chevrolet car sales.
  
• Combined sales of mini, small and compact cars were up 72 percent compared with a year ago, driven by strong Spark and Sonic sales and a 34 percent increase in Cruze sales. Chevrolet dealers also delivered a record 2,961 Volts.
  
• Crossover sales were driven by double-digit increases for the Cadillac SRX, GMC Acadia and GMC Terrain.
  
• Overall truck sales were down 2 percent, reflecting lower sales of the GMC and Chevrolet mid-size pickups, which have been discontinued, and large SUVs.
  

“Year over year, the light vehicle selling rate has increased for eight consecutive quarters without a tailwind from the residential housing sector, but that is starting to change,” said McNeil. “If these trends continue, housing may be the final piece of the puzzle that lifts sales above 15 million units on an annual basis just as GM prepares to launch even more new cars, crossovers and trucks.”

GM will replace 70 percent of its U.S. nameplates with redesigned or all-new vehicles over the course of 2012 - 2013. In anticipation of robust demand, GM has increased its year-end inventory target from the 650,000-unit range to 660,000 to 670,000 units. This change reflects higher planned stocks of new passenger cars. The truck inventory target is unchanged.

Jaguar Land Rover Reports U.S. Sales For September 2012

• Jaguar Land Rover North America U.S. sales increase 20 percent for September; best September since 2007
  
• Land Rover sales increase 33 percent for September driven by sales of Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque
  
• Jaguar begins dealership delivery of XJ 3.0 Liter V6 in October and XJ All Wheel Drive in December.
  

(MAHWAH, NJ) - October 2, 2012 – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported September 2012 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales for the month were 3,636 up 33 percent from 2,740 in 2011; Jaguar sales for the month were 1,004 down 10 percent from 1,111 in 2011; Jaguar Land Rover North America sales for the month were 4,640 up 20 percent from 3,851 in 2011. Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 18 percent year-to-date.

"Jaguar Land Rover had its best U.S. September sales since 2007 with an increase of 20 percent," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “The 2012 Model Year has delivered gains for the year for both Jaguar and Land Rover, a trend we expect to continue with the 2013 Model Year including the MY13 Jaguar XJ and updated Land Rover LR2.”

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Jaguar

Jaguar's U.S. sales for September, 2012 were down 10 percent, but are up 3 percent for the year to 9550 from 9,315. The volume leader for the year is the Jaguar XF with 4,380 sales, up 16 percent from 3,767 in 2011.

For MY13, Jaguar transforms its U.S. lineup, and dramatically expands U.S. market presence with addition of:

• Instinctive All Wheel Drive™ – Available on both the XF and XJ
  
• Supercharged 340hp V6 engines in the XF and XJ
  
• Turbocharged 240hp four cylinder engine available in the XF
  
• Eight Speed ZF® Automatic Transmissions on all XF and XJ models
  
• Auto Engine Stop/Start on select XF and XJ models
  

Jaguar's 2013 Model Year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the supercharged 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by the 240-hp 2.0 liter turbocharged four cylinder, supercharged 340-hp 3.0 liter V6 in rear wheel or all wheel drive configuration, the naturally-aspirated 385-hp 5.0 liter V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. Jaguar also offers its highest performance models ever, the 2013 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain. The Jaguar F-TYPE convertible will join the lineup in summer of 2013.

Land Rover

For the month of September, 2012, Land Rover sales were up 33 percent, driven by Range Rover Sport and Range Rover Evoque. The volume leader for September, 2012 was the Range Rover Sport with 1,514 units sold, up 23 percent from 1,232 in 2011. The all-new Range Rover Evoque, winner of the 2012 North American Truck of the Year, hit 559 units sold in September, 2012.

The All New 2013 MY Range Rover, featuring weight-saving aluminum architecture, goes on sale in December, 2012. For MY13, the Land Rover LR2 receives significant interior and exterior design updates, as well as a fuel efficient 240-hp Turbocharged four cylinder engine.

Land Rover's 2013 Model Year line-up features five models: The 240-hp 2.0 liter powered LR2; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. The newest model, the 2013 Range Rover Evoque has a starting price of $41,995* for the five-door, and $44,995* for the coupe and achieves 28 MPG** EPA highway and 20 MPG** EPA city.

HYUNDAI MOTOR AMERICA REPORTS RECORD SEPTEMBER SALES

• Seventh Straight Month Breaking the 60,000 Mark
  
• Best-Ever September Sale
  
• 25^th Consecutive Year-Over-Year Monthly Sales Increase
  

COSTA MESA, Calif., October 2, 2012 – Hyundai Motor America wrapped up the third quarter of 2012 setting multiple sales records including a record 60,025 sales for the month of September. Sales were up 15 percent for the month and up 10 percent for the first nine months of the year versus 2011.

“September was a very encouraging month for Hyundai as we avoided the traditional back-to-school sales decline and began to reap the benefits of a materially improved inventory situation on our core vehicle lines,” said Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of sales. “We’re well positioned for a strong fourth quarter as sales of the newly launched Elantra GT, Elantra Coupe, the all-new Azera and all-new Santa Fe continued at a brisk pace. Our fourth quarter production plan is up nearly 20 percent on a year-over-year basis.”

The all-new Azera and the Elantra family saw sales gains of a remarkable 1028 percent and 27 percent, respectively, over last September. The Tucson saw sales gains of 23 percent over the same period a year ago, and Veloster, the three-door coupe now available in both turbo and non-turbo models, continues to impress with a sales gain of 262 percent. Hyundai fleet sales and mix remained low at a nine percent mix for the month and year-to-date, among the lowest in the industry.

Hyundai achieved a corporate average fuel economy level of 37.4 (EPA estimated 28.3 MPG window label value) in September.

“With our improved inventory position driven by the addition of the third shift in September at our Alabama plant, and the improving availability of our all-new Georgia-built Santa Fe, we’re looking forward to higher dealer stock levels and strong sales results through year-end,” said John Krafcik president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America.

MITSUBISHI MOTORS REPORTS RECORD OUTLANDER SPORT SALES

CYPRESS, Calif. (October 2, 2012) – Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported September sales of the Outlander Sport that marked the highest total for a month in the two years the fuel-efficient crossover has been on the market.

Outlander Sport sales were 2,253 for the month, an increase of 49.0 percent compared to September 2011. The previous record monthly sales for Outlander Sport were 1,618 in March of this year.

“The Outlander Sport’s combination of fuel-efficiency, performance, and style, as highlighted in the ‘Unpretentious’ Outlander Sport marketing campaign, is obviously resonating with customers,” said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa.

Outlander Sport continues to be Mitsubishi’s top seller in the U.S. and began production in Normal, Illinois in July.

Overall Mitsubishi sales were 4,806 units, down 17.2 percent compared to September 2011. “Comparisons to last year’s total sales are still being slightly affected by some models that ended their production last year,” Yokozawa added. “Obviously, this effect will have a diminishing impact over the next few months.”

Honda Division sales up 29.3 percent, Acura sales up 43.5 percent

TORRANCE, Calif., Oct. 2, 2012 – American Honda today reported September 2012 U.S. sales of 117,211 units, an increase of 30.9 percent compared with September 2011. The Honda Division posted September 2012 sales of 102,845 units, an increase of 29.3 percent compared with September 2011. Acura’s U.S. September sales of 14,366 units increased 43.5 percent compared with September 2011.

Honda

• Accord leads all Honda vehicles in September with 29,182 in sales posting a 56.6-percent gain compared to the year prior
  
• Civic gains 57.0 percent compared with September 2011 with 21,546 in sales
  
• CR-V sets a new September record with sales of 22,268, up 13.6 percent
  

“The all-new 2013 Accord hit dealerships in mid-September and our dealers are already seeing a significant increase in customer traffic surrounding the new model,” said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. “Combined with the strength of key models such as Civic, CR-V and Odyssey, Honda is once again firing on all cylinders as we enter fall.”

Acura

• RDX sets its 5th-consecutive record sales month with 2,938 units, up 119.9 percent compared to September 2011
  
• MDX retains the top-selling Acura title with sales of 4,692 units, up more than 60.4 percent from September 2011
  
• TL sedan sales up 29.1 percent from last year with 3,236 in monthly sales
  

“Acura’s core models of TL and MDX continue as a driving force for the brand,” said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. “Now, we have new products such as RDX setting monthly sales records and the ILX continuing to carve out a foothold as the gateway to our lineup.”

The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 25 days for September 2012 and 25 days for September 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 230 days for 2012 and 229 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

• Total MBUSA Posts Record Month at 25,980 up 8.7%
  
• smart Sets a Record, up 119.6%
  

October 02, 2012 - MONTVALE, N.J.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported record September sales of 23,156 for its Mercedes-Benz models, up 7%, delivering a record year-to-date total of 191,618 new vehicles to customers, up 12.7%.

Combined sales of Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, smart and Sprinter for the month totaled a record for MBUSA of 25,980, up 8.7% bringing the year-to-date total to 214,331 up 16.7%.

“We’re on our way to a record year with extraordinary momentum and demand outpacing supply,” stated Steve Cannon, president and CEO, MBUSA.

Mercedes-Benz sales for the month of September were led by the C-, E- and GLK-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand on the car side for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – took the lead with sales of 7,872, up 14.7%. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 4,826 and MBUSA’s restyled compact SUV, the GLK-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 3,206 up 65.8%. Additionally, the sporty SLK roadster sold 416 vehicles for the month, up 115.5%.

At the high end, the all-new iconic sixth generation 2013 SL roadster – which debuted in showrooms this past spring - posted sales of 621 yielding an increase of 826.9% and the SLS AMG supercar retailed at 37 for the month, up 48% over the same period last year.

On a year-to-date basis, top performers were the C-Class with 57,740, the E-Class with 44,796 and the M-Class with 27,098.

Sales of the high-performance AMG models were up 37.6% for the year at 5,024 compared to the 3,650 vehicles sold over the same time last year.

Sales of the company’s BlueTEC diesel models were up 28.5% for the year at 11,182 compared to the 8,700 diesels sold over the same period last year.

The company’s smart brand continued eleven consecutive months of sales increases with its highest month ever since MBUSA took over the brand last year. September sales of 1,030, a 119.6% jump for the month (compared to the 469 vehicles sold in September 2011) bring the year-to-date volume to 7,311, up 508.7% when compared to the 1,201 vehicles sold by MBUSA last year. When compared to the combined Penske and MBUSA sales year-to-date last year (3,757), sales are up 95%.

On the van side, Sprinter sold 1,794 vehicles in September, up .8% over last year and up 23.7% on a year-to-date basis.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 6,727 vehicles in September; an increase of 17.9% when compared to September 2011 (sales of 5,707 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 59,586 vehicles, an increase of 3.9% over the comparable period (with sales of 57,358 vehicles).

American Suzuki September 2012 Sales

BREA, Calif., Oct. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today reported September 2012 sales of 1,921 units. SX4 sales were up 1% year over year and continue to lead sales with a 2% year to date sales increase.

• Subaru continues ten month streak of month-over-month sales gains
  
• September sales 32% increase over 2011
  
• Year-to-date sales of 245,463 represent a 25 percent increase over 2011
  

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Oct. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported sales of 27,683 vehicles for the month of September, a 32 percent increase over September 2011. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 245,463, which represents an impressive 25.5 percent increase over prior year.

September sales for newly-refreshed Outback and Legacy models have increased 39 percent and 31 percent, respectively, over September 2011. Also, September sales for Impreza were up 211 percent over September 2011; year-to-date sales for Impreza have increased 155 percent.

"Subaru sales continue to rise because we have the right product, the right positioning and a strong retail network," saidThomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. "XV Crosstrek, the most fuel efficient crossover vehicle in America, has just arrived in showrooms and we know this vehicle will further fuel our sales growth this fall."

"With such strong September sales, Subaru is in an excellent position to exceed 300,000 units this year," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc.

Toyota Motor Sales Reports Increase In September Sales

TORRANCE, Calif., (Oct. 2, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported September 2012 sales results of 171,910 units, an increase of 41.5 percent compared to the same period last year on both a daily selling rate (DSR) and a raw volume basis, unadjusted for 25 selling days in both September 2012 and in September 2011.

The Toyota Division posted September total sales of 151,524 units, an increase of 42.3 percent on a DSR basis from September 2011. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were also up 42.3 percent from the year-ago month.

“The auto industry had another very encouraging month in September,” said Bill Fay, Toyota group vice president and general manager. “Our dealers got off to a great start over Labor Day weekend and that momentum carried through the rest of the month, as Camry continued to stretch its lead as the most popular car in America.”

The Lexus Division reported total sales of 20,386 units in September 2012, up 36.0 percent from September 2011 on both a DSR and raw volume basis compared to the same period last year.

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded combined monthly sales of 85,642 units, up 47.1 percent from September 2011. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid with combined sales of 34,252 units, and Corolla reported September sales of 23,026 units. The Prius family of vehicles posted September sales of 18,932 units.

Toyota Division light trucks recorded September sales of 65,882 units, an increase of 36.6 percent compared to the same month last year. Light truck sales were again led by the RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma mid-size pickup truck, with monthly sales of 13,796 and 12,176, respectively. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined monthly sales of 10,927 units, and the Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 9,338 units.

Scion posted September sales of 6,743 units, up 75.7 percent on a volume and DSR basis over September 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2,186, up 24.8 percent over the year-ago month, while the recently launched FR-S sports car reported sales of 1,133 units. The XD five-door urban subcompact posted September sales of 942 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle posted September sales of 1,799 units. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 683 units.

Lexus Division

Lexus reported passenger car sales of 12,020 units, up 35.7 percent from September 2011. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan and the first-ever ES Hybrid led Lexus passenger car sales with sales of 6,553 units, while the IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,248 units. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,195 units.

Lexus luxury utility vehicles recorded sales of 8,366 units, up 36.4 percent over September 2011. Lexus light truck sales were led by the RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined September sales of 7,046 units. The GX 460 mid-size luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 948 units, while the LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 372 units.

TMS Hybrids

TMS posted September hybrid vehicle sales of 26,747, an increase of 120.6 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted September sales of 23,110 hybrids, while Lexus Division reported sales of 3,637 hybrids for the month.

# # #

• Annual Sales Up 18.4 Percent for the Fastest-Growing Car Company in the U.S. Over the Last Five Years [1]
  

IRVINE, Calif., Oct. 2, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) is the fastest growing car company in the United States and the brand's unprecedented momentum reached new highs in September, achieving a record third quarter and the 25th consecutive month of record sales, reaching 48,105 units, a 35.1-percent increase over the same period in 2011. September once again saw KMA's U.S.-built* vehicles take the top sales honors. The Optima midsize sedan sold 14,304 units and the Sorento CUV enjoyed sales of 10,066 vehicles. The Soul accounted for 9,467 units sold, bolstered by the recent launch of the "Bringing Down the House" advertising campaign featuring the music-loving Kia hamsters and the dance anthem "In My Mind" (Axwell remix).

Lending credibility to the company's significant sales increases, Kia Motors Corporation enters the exclusive list of the "Top 100 Best Global Brands," according to the 2012 study released today by Interbrand, the world's largest brand consultancy agency. Kia's remarkable increase in brand value is now estimated at $4.1 billion, which firmly sets the automaker at 87th on the list. This is a 50 percent increase from last year's estimated brand value and far exceeds the average automotive brand value growth rate of only 11 percent for the year.

"Kia's product-led transformation – together with our successful marketing – have elevated Kia's reputation beyond our bedrock commitment to value," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "At Kia, we work to understand the needs and expectations of our customers and work to find new ways to enrich their lives, providing the Kia brand with powerful potential as more new products and technologies are set to arrive in the next 12 months."

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Oct. 2, 2012) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported September U.S. sales of 91,907 units versus 92,964 units a year earlier, down 1.1 percent. Nissan Division sales decreased 2.4 percent for the month at 82,462 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles were up 11.4 percent over the prior year, to 9,445 units.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

• Nissan Division posted sales of 82,462 units, down 2.4 percent from last September’s 84,485 units.
  
• Sales of the Nissan Rogue crossover rose 12.7 percent to 12,106 units, setting a new volume record for September.
  
• Pathfinder SUV sales rose 38.7 percent over a year ago, to 3,205 units, contributing to an overall rise in truck sales of 3.3 percent.
  
• Sales of the all-electric Nissan LEAF totaled 984 units, the highest volume for any month in the past 12 months.
  

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

• Infiniti today reported sales of 9,445 units for September, an increase of 11.4 percent from 8,479 units a year earlier.
  
• Infiniti FX sales of 1,659 marked an increase of 127.6 percent, with the luxury performance crossover showing an increase of 5.7 percent to 7,462 units for the year.
  
• Sales of the new Infiniti JX 7-passenger luxury crossover totaled 2,251 in September, and 14,353 units have been sold since deliveries began in March.
  
• Infiniti luxury crossovers and sport utility vehicles had an increase of 107 percent in September, and are up 63.6 percent for year.
  
• In total, Infiniti September sales were the best since 2007, and marked five straight months of double-digit increases.
  

NOTE: To ensure consistency in global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days. September had 25 selling days both in 2012 and 2011.

Porsche Reports September Sales up 26 Percent Over 2011

YTD sales increase of 10.37 percent

Atlanta – October 2, 2012 – Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced September 2012 sales of 2,736 vehicles. This compares to 2,170 vehicles sold last September, for an increase of 26.08 percent. For the year, Porsche has sold 25,015 cars in the U.S., a 10.37 percent increase over last September’s year-to-date sales of 22,664.

Sales of the Porsche Cayenne sport utility increased 47.3 percent for the month versus last September and the Panamera sport sedan was up 17.9 percent over the same period.

The Cayenne Diesel, which provides 406 lb.-ft of torque and a range of up to 765 miles on a tank of fuel, accounted for nearly 20 percent of Cayenne sales in September.

Porsche Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 871 for September 2012, a 22 percent increase over September 2011. Year-to-date, Porsche has sold 7,370 CPO models, an 11.7 percent increase versus 2011.

Audi sets all-time U.S. September sales record with 26.5% increase

Audi reports 21st consecutive month of record sales; premium category vehicles (A8, A7, A6, and Q7) represent 35.7% of September demand

HERNDON, Va., Oct 1, 2012 - Audi today reported its 21st consecutive month of record performance with sales of 12,302 new vehicles representing a 26.5% increase above the old mark set in September 2011.

Total Audi sales year-to-date increased 18.5% from last year, with September setting the record for the period January through September, with 100,694 vehicles sold. Audi already has exceeded 100,000 U.S. sales for the third time ever, and September 2012 stands as the third-best month of U.S. sales in Audi of America history.

Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (the Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) showed no signs of slowing down, with a 35.7% share of total September sales. Audi momentum benefitted strongly from robust demand for the technologically advanced Audi A6, generating a 83.7% sales increase for the month and a 107.5% increase year to date. Audi’s flagship vehicle, the Audi A8 sedan, is up 34.1% and the Audi Q7 luxury SUV also performed favorably with an astounding 94.6% increase for the month.

Sales of the updated Audi A4 combined with the new Audi allroad jumped 12.8% in September from a year earlier, while the product improvement for the Audi A5 helped boost its sales 25.6% for the month and 10.9% year-to-date. Furthering the U.S. position as a top market globally for Audi S model performance cars, sales of the Audi performance models accounted for 10.4% of the September’s sales mix.

“Our newly expanded lineup of S-model performance cars is delivering strong immediate results,” said Mark Del Rosso, Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “This fact, along with increasing demand for our refreshed core models, bodes well for record sales results by year-end and more gains into 2013.”

Highlights:

• September 2012 ranks as the best September in Audi of America history.

• Sales mix for Audi S models finished the month at 15.3% for the S4 and 35.5% for the S5/ RS 5.

• Audi A3 sales up 76.8% compared to September 2011; YTD sales grew 14.5% compared to previous period.

• Audi A4 sales up 12.8% compared to September 2011; YTD sales grew 10.9% compared to previous period.

• Audi A5 sales up 25.6% compared to September 2011; YTD sales grew 10.9% compared to previous period.

• Sales of Audi A6 increased 83.7% compared to September 2011; YTD sales up 107.5% compared to previous period.

• Sales of the Audi A8 increased 34.1% compared to September 2011.

• Sales of Audi Q7 increased 94.6% compared to September 2011; YTD sales up 8.5% compared to previous period.

• Sales mix for Audi TDI clean diesel models finish the month at 55.2% for the A3 TDI and 32.4% for Q7 TDI; sales of the Audi A3 TDI increased a solid 90.2% for the month.

• For the record-setting month of September 2012, four Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 20% or more, including the Audi A3, Audi A5, Audi A6, Audi A8, and Audi Q7 models.

• Audi Certified pre-owned sales of 2,799 vehicles marked a strong finish despite the reduced inventory of available models for the program.

BMW Group U.S. Reports September 2012 Sales

• BMW brand up 4.9 percent year-to-date
  
• MINI brand up 16.6 percent year-to-date, best September ever
  

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – October 2, 2012… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported September sales of 26,660 vehicles, an increase of 3.5 percent from the 25,749 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group is up 7.1 percent on sales of 234,928 in the first nine months of 2012 compared to 219,314 in the same period in 2011.

“The economic indicators and consumer confidence are showing improvement and the traffic in our showrooms is further encouraging our optimism for the fourth quarter of the year as the BMW new model ramp-up continues”, said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America, LLC. “The X1 in its first full month is largely sold out and MINI set another sales record; both are strong indicators of what’s to come.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 0.1 percent in September for a total of 21,761 compared to 21,750 vehicles sold in September, 2011. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 4.9 percent on sales of 186,397 compared to 177,679 sold in the first nine months of 2011.

In September, the X1 SAV in it full sales month, sold 1,570 units. Other best performing vehicles for the month include the 6 Series, up 80.2 percent to 609 units; and the X3 SAV, up 63.7 percent to 3,034 units.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles

In September, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 3.8 percent to 13,624 vehicles from the 13,129 vehicles sold in September 2011. January through September, BMW used vehicle sales are up 2.6 percent on volume of 122,575 compared to 119,424 in the same period of 2011.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported the best September ever with sales of 4,899 automobiles, an increase of 22.5 percent from the 3,999 sold in September, 2011. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 16.6 percent on volume of 48,531 compared to 41,635 in the first nine months of 2011.

- Best September since 1972 with 36,339 units sold and a 37.2 percent increase year-to-date -

• 25 consecutive months of year-on-year growth

• Best September ever for Passat and Tiguan with 9,500 and 2,202 units sold, respectively

• Best September for Beetle since 2003

• Best September for Golf since 2007

• Jetta Sedan achieved sales of 12,584 units

• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 23.9 percent of sales in September.

Herndon, VA, Oct 2, 2012 - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 36,339 units sold in September, a 34.4 percent increase over prior year sales, a 37.2 percent increase year-to-date and the best September since 1972.

“Tracking over a 37 percent increase year-to-date is a strong proof point that our products are on more shopping lists and gaining acceptance in the market,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “As we enter the fourth quarter of the year, we expect to continue our pattern of outperforming the industry.”

As Volkswagen positions itself for continued growth, supporting the dealers and their infrastructure is essential. The company will announce the launch of a dealer career recruiting website, www.vwdealercareers.com, creating a portal linking jobseekers to the over 600 VW dealers across the country. Available positions range widely from sales and service consultants to finance managers, with technicians being the most sought after candidates by VW dealers nationwide.

The Volkswagen Passat, which recently came in first place in Motor Trend’s 2012-2013 Midsize Sedan Comparison test, continued its successful year with 9,500 units sold in September. Earlier this month the Passat topped its best sales year ever in just nine months of the year.

Jetta sedan, including the enthusiast GLI model, remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 12,584 while Jetta SportWagen totaled 2,166. The Jetta turbo hybrid, which will go on sale this month, recently achieved a Land Speed Record at Bonneville, posting 185 mph, a record speed for hybrid vehicles.

The Beetle continues to gain momentum with 2,622 units sold. The Beetle TDI, sold 167 units, further highlighting customer demand for Volkswagen’s Clean Diesel TDI technology.

The Golf had sales of 3,250 units. The Tiguan sold 2,202 units, the best September ever for the vehicle, while the Volkswagen Touareg sold 828 units, a 26.2 percent increase.

• Best September sales since 2007
  
• 30th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Third-quarter sales up 13 percent versus same quarter a year ago
  
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in September compared with same month a year ago
  
• FIAT brand sets all-time sales record with 51 percent increase
  
• Both Fiat 500 and Fiat 500 Cabrio record sizeable sales gains
  
• Dodge brand sales up 18 percent; best September sales since 2007
  
• Sales of the all-new Dodge Dart up 72 percent compared with previous month as production ramp up continues in Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant
  
• Dodge Journey sales up 41 percent; sets sales record for month of September; named a Road & Travel ‘Top 10 Pick’ in its 2012 SUV Buyer’s Guide
  
• Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan sales up 89 percent; sets sales record for month of September
  
• Dodge Grand Caravan sales increase 32 percent; best sales since 2006
  
• Jeep brand sales increase 10 percent; best September sales since 2006
  
• Iconic Jeep Wrangler and Jeep Patriot compact sport-utility vehicle (SUV) each set sales records for month of September
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee sales up 19 percent compared with same month a year ago; best September sales since 2005
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 5 percent; best September sales since 2007
  
• Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan sets sales record for month of September
  
• Chrysler 300 flagship sedan posts best September sales since 2007
  
• Ram Truck brand sales up 4 percent compared with same month last year
  
• Ram Cargo Van sales up 223 percent versus same month a year ago
  
• Ram Truck brand unveils new 2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty pickups and 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab work trucks at Texas State Fair
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Oct 2, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 142,041 units, a 12 percent increase compared with sales in September 2011 (127,336 units), and the group’s best September sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and FIAT brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in September compared with the same month a year ago. The FIAT brand’s 51 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. September marked Chrysler Group’s 30th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

“Last month marked our 30th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases and our strongest September in five years,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Going forward with our current product line up, record low interest rates and a stable U.S. economy, we remain optimistic about the health of the U.S. new vehicle sales industry and our position in it.”

As the production ramp up of the all-new Dodge Dart compact sedan continues in the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant, Dart sales of 5,235 units were up a significant 72 percent in September compared with the previous month.

While the Dodge Dart continued its steady monthly sales climb, six Chrysler Group models set sales records in September. The Chrysler 200 and sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedans each set records for the month of September. The Avenger achieved its record with a sizeable 89 percent sales increase compared with the same month a year ago.

Two Jeep models – the Wrangler and Patriot – set September sales records, while a 51 percent increase earned the Fiat 500 an all-time sales record. In addition, the Dodge Journey set a sales record for the month of September demonstrating why it is the most versatile and affordable crossover in America. Sales of the Journey were up 41 percent in September compared with the same month last year.

Other standout models in September were the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee with sales up 19 percent, and the Dodge Grand Caravan with a sales gain of 32 percent.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 65-days supply of inventory (369,144 units). U.S. industry sales figures for September are projected at an estimated 14.9 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

September 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales were up 51 percent in September, the largest year-over-year percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand. The Fiat 500 set an all-time sales record in September. Sales of the Fiat 500 Cabrio were up 44 percent versus the same month last year, while the Fiat 500 recorded a 52 percent year-over-year sales gain. The Fiat 500 Turbo, the fourth model in the FIAT brand lineup, should begin hitting dealership showrooms this month touting a 135-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes, dynamic exterior design and sport-styled interior.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales were up 18 percent in September, the brand’s best September in five years and second best sales month this year. Dodge brand sales of 47,356 units represented the largest sales volume of any Chrysler Group brand in September.

Two Dodge brand models set sales records during the month. The Dodge Journey full-size crossover, with its 41 percent sales gain, established a sales record for the month of September and was one of Road & Travel Magazine’s top picks in the competitive crossover/SUV segment. The magazine named Journey one of its Top 10 vehicles in its 2012 SUV Buyer’s Guide.

The Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan set a sales record for the month of September with its considerable 89 percent sales gain, the largest percentage increase of any Dodge brand model. Sales of the Dodge Dart were up 72 percent in September, compared with the previous month of August, as the all-new compact sedan continues its steady monthly sales climb. The brand’s minivan offering, the Dodge Grand Caravan, turned in a solid 32 percent sales gain in September.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales increased 10 percent, the brand’s best September sales in six years and its 29th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Two Jeep models had record-setting sales in September. The Jeep Patriot, the best-priced compact SUV in America, logged a 42 percent increase, the largest sales gain of any of the Jeep models and a sales record for the month of September. The iconic Jeep Wrangler also set a sales record for the month of September with its 6 percent sales gain.

The Jeep Grand Cherokee, the brand’s flagship SUV, recorded a 19 percent sales gain and was the brand’s volume leader for the month. It was the Grand Cherokee’s best September in seven years. The Jeep brand announced in September that it is introducing this month the new Grand Cherokee Trailhawk and Wrangler Moab editions, both of which feature off-road equipment never before offered on a production Jeep vehicle.

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were up 5 percent, the brand’s best September sales in five years and its 15th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan contributed to the brand’s sales gain by setting a sales record for the month of September. Sales of the 200 were up 13 percent in September versus the same month last year. The Chrysler 200 has set a sales record every month this year, including an all-time sales record in March. Sales of the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan were up 7 percent, the full-size sedan’s best September in five years and 11th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Chrysler brand in September introduced the limited-production Chrysler 300C John Varvatos Limited Edition and the 300C John Varvatos Luxury Edition. Working hand-in-hand, John Varvatos’ signature fashion style combined with Chrysler designers styling expertise forged two 300 sedan models that embody the soul of “Imported from Detroit.”

Ram Truck Brand

The Ram pickup truck extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 29-consecutive months. Sales of the Ram pickup truck, Chrysler Group’s volume leader, were up 6 percent in September compared with the same month a year ago. It was the pickup truck’s best September sales performance since 2007. The Ram Cargo Van posted a 223 percent sales increase compared with the same month a year ago.

The Ram Truck brand unveiled the new 2013 Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty pickups and 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab work trucks at the Texas State Fair in September. The Ram Truck brand now offers the most capable heavy-duty pickups in the segment – the new 2013 Ram Heavy Duty line features best-in-class towing and best-in-class Gross Combined Weight Rating (GCWR). Ram 2500 and 3500 Heavy Duty trucks also add new features, including an all-new interior, next-generation Uconnect Access, Powernet, new frames and new suspension. The new 2013 Ram Heavy Duty further solidifies the long list of leadership claims, including best-in-class total cost of ownership.

The 2013 Ram 3500, 4500 and 5500 Chassis Cab truck is the pinnacle of capability. Engineered and designed for extreme daily work, the Ram Chassis Cabs are products of a demanding environment and direct customer input. Ram’s halo truck line focuses on best-in-class capability and best-in-class total cost of ownership, a leading concern among business owners.

• Ford small car sales totaled 24,628 vehicles in September – the company’s best U.S. small car sales since 2002 and a 73 percent increase year-over-year
  
• Escape compact utility sales increased 14 percent for the month; 23,148 Escape sales mark best-ever September sales
  
• F-Series produces its 14th consecutive year-over-year sales increase in September, reaching its best September since 2007; total sales were 55,077 pickups – a 1 percent increase
  
• Ford Motor Company U.S. sales total 174,976 vehicles in September, unchanged from a year ago; retail sales up 4 percent compared to last year
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Oct. 2, 2012 – Ford delivered U.S. sales gains across its vehicle portfolio in September, with cars up 2 percent, utilities up 9 percent, and F-Series trucks up 1 percent.

“As more buyers look for new vehicles across the country, Ford is ready with our strongest lineup ever of fuel-efficient cars, utilities and full-size pickups,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Fuel economy remains one of the most important features customers want most today, and Ford is answering the call with five vehicles that deliver 40 mpg or better – with another three on the way by year-end.”

Ford sales of Focus, C-MAX and Fiesta totaled 24,628 vehicles in September, representing Ford’s best September for small car sales in 10 years. Focus sales were up 91 percent, while the all-new C-MAX began sales last month.

Escape had its best-ever September sales, with 23,148 vehicles sold, representing a 14 percent increase versus last year’s record sales. Escape is on pace to surpass last year’s record sales of 254,293 vehicles for the full year.

Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling vehicle, sold a total of 55,077 pickups during September truck month – a 1 percent increase compared to last year – providing its 14th straight month of sales increases.

September U.S. total sales at Ford Motor Company were unchanged from last year and up 4 percent for retail sales. Total car sales are up 2 percent, total utilities up 9 percent, and total trucks down 8 percent – with stronger F-Series, E-Series and Transit Connect sales being offset by the discontinuation of Ranger.

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported its highest September U.S. sales since 2008: 210,245 vehicles, up 1.5 percent compared with a year ago. New products helped drive a 29 percent increase in passenger car sales. Sales of GM’s mini, small and compact cars alone were up a combined 97 percent, and all GM brands increased their retail sales.

“Passenger cars have been the launch point for a broad and deep GM product offensive,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president of U.S. sales operations. “Auto sales will continue to be a bright spot for the U.S. economy, which is particularly good news for GM as we walk into an even stronger cadence of new products in 2013 and 2014.”

GM has moved aggressively to replace existing vehicles with better designs, more technology and improved fuel economy. At the same time, GM is entering growth segments and offering new entry points for each brand. Seventy percent of GM nameplates will be all new or redesigned in 2012 and 2013.

September’s car sales increase reflected a strong start for the new Chevrolet Spark and Cadillac XTS, continued strong sales of the Buick Verano, Chevrolet Cruze and Chevrolet Sonic, and a second consecutive sales record for the Chevrolet Volt. September also marked the first deliveries of the all-new Cadillac ATS.

The GMC Terrain and Acadia crossovers had strong months as well, with sales up 8 percent and 16 percent, respectively. This helped drive a 3 percent increase for all GM crossovers versus a year ago.

Truck sales were down 20 percent due to a 46 percent year-over-year reduction in fleet sales due to the timing of customer deliveries. In the large pickup segment, GM’s total sales were down 12 percent and fleet sales were down 56 percent. However, GM reduced its large pickup inventories by approximately 8,600 units compared with August, and earned average transaction prices more than $2,300 per unit above a year ago with the lowest incentive spending in the industry, according to J.D. Power PIN data.

TORRANCE, Calif.

American Honda today reported August 2012 U.S. sales of 131,321 units, an increase of 59.5 percent compared with August 2011 (an increase of 53.6 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted August 2012 sales of 115,675 units, an increase of 57.9 percent compared with August 2011. Acura's U.S. August sales of 15,646 units increased 72.8 percent compared with August 2011.

Honda

Honda division posts strong August sales of 115,675, best August sales in two years

• Accord posted its second best sales month of the year at 34,848 units, up 89 percent; Civic sales up 106 percent with 24,897 units sold
  
• CR-V continues sales success at 23,877 units, up more than 44 percent
  
• Odyssey sales up more than 61 percent from August 2011, with 12,750 units sold in August
  

"It's clear that demand for Honda products continues to be strong, and we're on track to post our best yearly sales results in four years," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "Honda is finishing the summer on a high note, and there's more to come as we build momentum toward the fall launch of the all-new 2013 Accord."

Acura

• RDX sets its 4th-consecutive record sales month with 2,926 units, up 156.9 percent compared to August 2011
  
• MDX remains the top-selling Acura vehicle with sales of 5,549 units, up 77.5 percent from August 2011
  
• The TL was Acura's best-selling sedan with sales of 3,201, up 33.2 percent
  

"Acura sales continue to show great upward momentum, led by our strong light truck lineup," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "The all-new 2013 Acura RDX is a hit with buyers thanks to its increased comfort, utility and power, along with class-leading fuel economy."

*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 27 days for August 2012 and 26 days for August 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 205 days for 2012 and 204 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

August 2012 Sales Chart

TORRANCE, Calif. (Sept. 4, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported August 2012 sales results of 188,520 units, an increase of 40.2 percent compared to the same period last year on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw volume basis, unadjusted for 27 selling days in August 2012 compared to 26 selling days in August 2011, TMS sales were up 45.6 percent from the year-ago month.

The Toyota Division posted total August sales of 164,283 units, an increase of 42.0 percent on a DSR basis from August 2011. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were up 47.5 percent from the year-ago month.

“The auto industry continued to outperform the general economy in August,” said Bill Fay, Toyota group vice president and general manager. “The driving force behind our growth continues to be strong consumer response to the new models we’ve launched over the past twelve months and the added value those vehicles represent.”

The Lexus Division reported total sales of 24,237 units in August 2012, up 28.9 percent from August 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Lexus Division sales were up 33.9 percent compared to the same period last year.

“Virtually every Lexus model enjoyed a significant sales increase in August,” said Tim Morrison, Lexus vice president of sales and dealer development. “With a strong Labor Day weekend, and our newly launched products leading the way, the momentum continues into September.”

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded combined monthly sales of 93,083 units, up 47.2 percent from August 2011. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid with combined sales of 36,720 units, and Corolla reported August sales of 24,311 units. The Prius family of vehicles posted August sales of 21,111 units.

Toyota Division light trucks recorded August sales of 71,200 units, an increase of 47.9 percent compared to the same month last year. Light truck sales were again led by the RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma mid-size pickup truck, with monthly sales of 15,685 and 12,193, respectively. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined sales of 11,441 units, and the Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 11,347 units.

Scion posted August sales of 7,722 units, up 111.6 percent on a volume basis over August 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2,378 units, up 113.5 percent, while the newly launched FR-S sports car reported sales of 1,913 units. The XD five-door urban subcompact posted sales of 1,004 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle posted August sales of 1,879 units. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 548 units.

Lexus Division

Lexus reported passenger car sales of 14,024 units, up 35.7 percent from August 2011. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan and the first-ever ES Hybrid led Lexus passenger car sales with combined sales of 7,557 units, while the IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,369 units. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,472 units.

Lexus luxury utility vehicles recorded sales of 10,213 units, up 31.4 percent over August 2011. Lexus light truck sales were led by the RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined August sales of 8,628 units. The GX 460 mid-size luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 1,071 units, while the LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 514 units.

TMS Hybrids

TMS posted August sales of 28,960 hybrid vehicles, an increase of 110.1 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted August sales of 25,400 hybrids, while Lexus Division reported sales of 3,560 hybrids for the month.

• Best August sales since 2007
  
• 29th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in August compared with same month a year ago
  
• FIAT brand sets all-time sales record with 34 percent increase
  
• FIAT brand introduces the new 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo, the fourth model in U.S. product lineup
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 25 percent; best August sales since 2007
  
• Chrysler 300 flagship sedan records 65 percent increase; best August sales since 2007
  
• Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan sets sales record for month of August
  
• Chrysler Town & Country posts 30 percent sales increase; best August since 2006
  
• Ram Truck brand sales up 18 percent compared with same month last year
  
• Ram pickup truck sales up 19 percent in August as Light Duty, Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab models post sales gains
  
• Best Ram pickup truck August sales since 2007
  
• Dodge brand sales up 13 percent; best August sales since 2005
  
• Sales of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart up 294 percent compared with previous month as production ramp up continues in the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant
  
• Dodge Journey full-size crossover sets an all-time sales record
  
• Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan and Dodge Challenger muscle car set sales records for month of August
  
• Dodge Grand Caravan sales up 35 percent; best August sales since 2005
  
• Jeep brand sales increase 5 percent in August; best August since 2003
  
• Jeep Wrangler sets sales record for month of August
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee sales up 13 percent compared with same month a year ago; best August sales since 2006
  
• Chrysler Group’s revamped product lineup and extensive quality investments make it the most improved automaker in Strategic Vision’s 2012 Total Quality Index study
  
• Dodge Charger, Jeep Grand Cherokee and Fiat 500 win Strategic Vision 2012 Total Quality Awards
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee, Dodge Charger and Dodge Challenger win AutoPacific’s 2012 Ideal Vehicle Awards based on owners’ ratings of their 2012 cars and trucks
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Sep 4, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 148,472 units, a 14 percent increase compared with sales in August 2011 (130,120 units), and the group’s best August sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck and Fiat brands each recorded year-over- year sales gains in August compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat brand’s 34 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. August marked Chrysler Group’s 29th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

The Dodge brand produced three record-setting models while registering the largest sales volume of any Chrysler Group brand in August. The Dodge Journey full-size crossover, the most versatile and affordable crossover in America, set an all-time sales record while the sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan and Dodge Challenger muscle car each set a sales record for the month of August.

The FIAT, Chrysler and Jeep brands also produced record-setting models in August. The Fiat 500 set an all-time sales record with its 34 percent sales gain while the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan and the Jeep Wrangler established sales records for the month of August.

“Our Iron Man streak continued last month as we posted our 29th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Our hard work over the past few years is starting to pay some dividends in our sales growth, quality awards and profitability. Not to mention, an incredibly resilient U.S. new vehicle sales industry doesn’t hurt either.”

Chrysler Group’s 14 percent increase in August was driven in part by sales of the all-new Dodge Dart compact sedan (3,045 units). Dart sales were up 294 percent in August compared with the previous month of July, as the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant continues to ramp up Dart production.

The Chrysler 300 flagship sedan, with its substantial 65 percent increase, contributed to Chrysler Group’s August increase, as did the Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans, each posting double-digit percentage gains for the month. The Jeep Grand Cherokee, with a 13 percent hike, had its best August in six years while the Ram pickup truck extended its lengthy streak of consecutive year-over-year sales gains with a 19 percent increase in August.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 66-days supply of inventory (362,407 units). U.S. industry sales figures for August are projected at an estimated 14.6 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

August 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales, up 34 percent compared with the same month a year ago, were an all-time sales record in August. Sales of the Fiat 500 Cabrio were up 37 percent versus the same month last year, while the Fiat 500 Abarth, the ultimate high-performance small car, recorded a 22 percent increase compared with sales during the previous month of July. The Fiat 500 was one of three Chrysler Group models to rank highest in their segment in Strategic Vision’s 2012 Total Quality Index in August. The Fiat 500 was ranked first in the Small Car segment.

The FIAT Brand introduced the new 2013 Fiat 500 Turbo in August, the fourth model in the expanding FIAT brand product lineup and one of the most affordable turbo-charged vehicles in America. The Fiat 500 Turbo features a 135-horsepower 1.4-liter MultiAir® Turbo engine, sport-tuned suspension, track-proven brakes, dynamic exterior design and sport-styled interior. The new Fiat 500 Turbo answers the call for enthusiasts who are drawn to the Italian style of the Fiat 500 but want more power and performance for their daily drive.

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were up 25 percent, the brand’s best August sales in five years and its 14th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Sales of the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan were up 65 percent, the full-size sedan’s best August sales in five years. The Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan contributed to the brand’s sales gain by setting a sales record for the month of August. The Chrysler Town & Country minivan, which offers families versatility, luxury, and convenience at a value, logged a double-digit sales increase, its best August sales in six years and second best sales month this year.

Ram Truck Brand

The Ram pickup truck extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 28-consecutive months in August. Sales of the Ram pickup truck, Chrysler Group’s volume leader, were up 19 percent in August compared with the same month a year ago. It was the pickup truck’s best August sales performance since 2007. Of the Ram 1500 sales, the regular cab pickups posted the largest percentage sales increase in August, while the crew cab trucks led in volume. The Ram Light Duty, Heavy Duty and Chassis Cab pickup trucks posted year-over-year sales increases in August. The Ram Cargo Van posted a 53 percent sales increase compared with the previous month of July.

The Ram Truck brand, which recorded its best August sales in four years, introduced its new 2013 Ram 1500 to the automotive media in August underscoring the model’s best-in-class fuel economy, state-of-the-art technology, and class-exclusive features. Production of the Ram begins this month and is expected to arrive in dealer showrooms in October.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales increased 13 percent, the brand’s best August sales since 2005 and its second best sales month this year. Dodge brand sales of 47,348 units represented the largest sales volume of any Chrysler Group brand in August. Sales of the all-new Dodge Dart compact sedan soared 294 percent in its third month of sales. As Dart production continues to ramp up in the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant, a full, multifaceted marketing campaign will launch this month, following the 90-second “How to Change Cars Forever” commercial that debuted in July.

As sales of the new Dart heat up, three Dodge models set sales records in August. The Dodge Journey, the most versatile and affordable crossover in America, set an all-time sales record with its hefty 58 percent increase in August. The sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan and Dodge Challenger muscle car each set sales records for month of August. Not to be outdone by the passenger cars, the Dodge Grand Caravan had its best August in seven years. In fact, the Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans each logged double-digit sales increases in August.

The Dodge Charger took home a Strategic Vision 2012 Total Quality Award in the Large Car segment, complementing its 30 percent sales increase in August, while the Dodge brand was cited as the most improved brand in the industry.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 5 percent, the brand’s best August sales in nine years and its 28th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep Wrangler, the brand’s volume leader in August, set a sales record for the month of August. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the most awarded SUV ever, were up 13 percent, its best August sales in six years. Sales of the Jeep Liberty were up 15 percent in August compared with the same month last year. It was the Liberty’s best August since 2006.

The Grand Cherokee won a Total Quality Award in the Medium SUV segment from Strategic Vision in August. Strategic Vision’s Total Quality Index reflects all aspects of buying, owning and driving a vehicle as a holistic measure, and encompasses positive and negative experiences including reliability, driving excitement, emotional attachment and overall sales and service satisfaction.

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported August sales of 240,520 vehicles in the United States, up 10 percent compared with a year ago. GM increased its sales to retail customers by 11 percent, making August its best retail month of the year. Sales to fleet customers were up 6 percent compared with a year ago. All four GM brands posted higher total and retail sales.

Thanks in part to extensive national advertising during the Olympic Games, Chevrolet passenger car sales were up 25 percent, with the Spark, Sonic, Cruze and Volt all posting their best-ever monthly sales. In addition, the Chevrolet Equinox set an August record behind its 22 percent year-over-year sales increase.

“The single message Chevrolet communicated this summer was ‘confidence’ and it rang true with customers when they saw how our product lineup is being transformed,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president of U.S. sales operations. “All four of our brands are building momentum behind new products so we’re very well positioned as the economy continues to slowly improve.”

Other sales highlights for August include an 11 percent year over year increase in Cadillac sales driven by strong demand for the SRX crossover, the Escalade and the new XTS large sedan. Buick sales increased 12 percent on the strength of the Verano, which has seen nine back-to-back monthly sales increases. Buick recorded its best retail sales since September 2007. GMC sales were up 4 percent, following a 35 percent reduction in fleet sales. GMC Acadia sales rose 26 percent in August and GMC Terrain sales were up 16 percent.

GM is in the midst of an aggressive rollout of new products in the United States. Some 70 percent of GM nameplates will be redesigned or all new over the course of 2012 and 2013, with the four-cylinder 2013 Chevrolet Malibu and the 2013 Cadillac ATS reaching the market now.

The redesigned Malibu arriving in dealerships will replace depleted stocks of 2012 models. The compact Cadillac ATS sport sedan is the brand’s second all-new sedan this year and it will compete in the highest volume luxury segment in the United States.

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 4, 2012 – Ford Motor Company’s U.S. total sales increased 13 percent in August compared with last year – and 19 percent for retail sales – with gains in cars, utilities and trucks.

“As fuel prices rose again during August, we saw growing numbers of people gravitate toward our fuel-efficient vehicles – cars, utilities and trucks,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Customers increasingly value savings at the pump, and Ford is answering the call with a full family of vehicles with leading fuel efficiency and the power to choose which vehicle best meets their needs.”

Ford also added a third crew at the Louisville Assembly Plant in August to support demand for the new Escape small utility – the fastest-turning vehicle in Ford’s U.S. lineup. Escape posted its best August sales results ever, with a 37 percent gain versus last year, with 28,188 vehicles sold.

Explorer posted its best August sales results since 2006, with 13,168 vehicles sold.

Ford passenger car sales were up 7 percent in August, including 35 percent in retail sales. Fusion posted a sixth consecutive monthly sales record, with best-ever August sales totaling 21,690 vehicles – a 21 percent increase over last year. Focus sales totaled 19,073 vehicles, a 35 percent increase versus last year. Mustang posted a 12 percent increase, with 6,387 vehicles sold.

Sales of Ford trucks increased 6 percent in August. America’s best-selling vehicle, the Ford F-Series, reported sales of 58,201 vehicles – 19 percent increase year-over-year – for its 13th straight month of sales increases and its best sales month of 2012. EcoBoost-equipped F-150s surpassed the 200,000 sales threshold in August.

In addition, Ford is announcing its fourth-quarter North American production plan. The company plans to build 725,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter, up 7 percent (50,000 vehicles) from the fourth quarter of 2011. The company also said it will be slightly below its previous third quarter 2012 North American production guidance of 690,000 vehicles, with one month of production left in the quarter.

smart up 138.5%, Sprinter up 27.2% for the Month; Total MBUSA at 22,294 up 5.8%

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported July sales of 19,311 for its Mercedes-Benz models, delivering a record year-to-date total of 147,905 new vehicles to customers, up 13.8%.

August 01, 2012

MONTVALE, N.J.

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported July sales of 19,311 for its Mercedes-Benz models, delivering a record year-to-date total of 147,905 new vehicles to customers, up 13.8%.

Combined sales of Mercedes-Benz passenger vehicles, smart and Sprinter of the month totaled 22,294, up 5.8% bringing an MBUSA year-to-date total of 164,912, up 18.6%

Mercedes-Benz sales for the month of July were led by the C-, E- and GL-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand on the car side for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – took the lead with sales of 5,663, up 24.4%. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 5,089 and MBUSA’s largest SUV, the GL-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 2,494, up 32%.

At the high end, the all-new iconic sixth generation 2013 SL roadster – which debuted in showrooms this past spring - posted sales of 449 yielding an increase of 382.8% and the flagship coupe, the CL, sold 39 vehicles for an increase of 62.5%. The SLS AMG supercar retailed at 59 for the month, up 20.4% over the same period last year.

On a year-to-date basis, top performers were the C-Class with 43,349, the E-Class with 35,455 and the M-Class with 22,416.

Monthly sales of the high-performance AMG models were 457, up 11.7% versus July 2011 (409) and up 54.3% year to date.

Sales of the company’s BlueTEC diesel models were up 45% for the year at 9,957 compared to the 6,866 diesels sold over the same time last year.

The company’s smart brand continued nine consecutive months of sales increases with July sales of 780 , a 138.5% jump for the month (compared to the 327 vehicles sold in July 2011) bringing the year-to-date volume to 5,528 up 1,590.5%

On the van side, sales of Sprinter vans saw another best-ever sales month in July with 2,203 – up 27.2% over last year and up 30% on a year-to-date basis.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 6,519 vehicles in July; an increase of 10.6% when compared to July 2011 (sales of 5,895 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 45,938 vehicles, an increase of 0.4% over the comparable period (with sales of 45,750 vehicles).

Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 14 percent for July; up 16 percent year-to-date.

Land Rover sales increase 18 percent for July driven by sales of Range Rover Sport; brand up 21 percent year-to-date

Jaguar sales increase 3 percent for July; Jaguar XJ up 9 percent

August 1, 2012 (MAHWAH, NJ) – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported July 2012 sales: Land Rover sales for the month were 3,320 up 18 percent from 2,811 in 2011; Jaguar sales for the month were 1,011 up 3 percent from 984 in 2011; Jaguar Land Rover North America sales for the month were 4,331 up 14 percent from 3,795 units in 2011. Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 16 percent year-to-date.

"Jaguar Land Rover’s July U.S. sales this month were up 14 percent," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “We are pleased to have seen continued sales growth from both brands and are poised for success as we begin introducing a strong vehicle line up with our 13 MY product offerings.”

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

For the month of July, 2012, Land Rover sales were up 18 percent continuing the momentum established over the last two years. The volume leader for July, 2012 was the Range Rover Sport with 1,212 units sold, up 4 percent from 1,160 in 2011. The all-new Range Rover Evoque, winner of the 2012 North American Truck of the Year, hit 621 units sold in July, 2012.

Land Rover's 2012 Model Year line-up features four models: The 230-hp 3.2 liter I6 powered LR2; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. The Model Year 12 Range Rover Evoque luxury compact SUV went on sale in October. The 2012 Range Rover Evoque has a starting price of $43,995* for the five-door, and $44,995* for the coupe and achieves 28 MPG** EPA highway and 18 MPG** EPA city.

Jaguar

Jaguar's U.S. sales for July, 2012 were up 3 percent to 1,011 units, from 984 in 2011. Sales for the Jaguar XJ were 421 units, up 9 percent from 387 in 2011. The volume leader for the month of July was the Jaguar XF with 485 sales, up 3 percent from 471 in 2011. Year-to-date, Jaguar sales are led by the Jaguar XF sports sedan, up 20 percent for the year versus 2011.

For the 2013 model year, Jaguar will offer new engine options and eight-speed automatic transmissions in the XF and XJ sedan lineups. New engine options include a powerful and fuel efficient 240 horsepower turbocharged 2-liter four cylinder engine for the Jaguar XF, and a 340 horsepower supercharged 3-liter V6 engine to both the Jaguar XJ and XF.

Jaguar has launched a new global brand direction and marketing campaign, themed "ALIVE,” which introduces the famed British brand to luxury consumers in a new modern context. The brand direction is driven by the belief that Jaguar makes the world's most instinctively rewarding performance cars.

The campaign, created with Spark 44, the international communications agency that's part-owned by Jaguar Land Rover, will feature print, TV, digital advertising and a new look that contemporizes the aesthetics of the brand at every customer touch point. The Jaguar brand will have new corporate identification and a new font, created exclusively for the brand. The dramatic alteration, including significant changes to the brand symbols of the “leaper” and “growler,” is the most extensive change Jaguar has made to its visual identification in 40 years.

Jaguar's 2012 Model Year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For 2012, Jaguar has added its highest performance model ever, the 2012 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain. The Jaguar F-TYPE will join the lineup in 2013.

BREA, CA, Aug. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ - American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today reported July 2012 sales of 2,266 units. Grand Vitara saw a 23% increase over July 2011 and continues a steady climb year over year, along with SX4s.

• Newly launched Elantra GT and Elantra Coupe push Elantra sales up 22 percent
  

COSTA MESA, Calif., August 1, 2012 – Hyundai Motor America announced an all-time July sales record of 62,021 units, up four percent over last year’s all-time July record and up 9.5 percent, year-to-date.

“July was another solid month for Hyundai with surging consumer demand dampened a bit by ongoing shortages of core products like Accent, Elantra, and Sonata. Our 27 day supply of vehicles is lowest of all brands and less than half of industry average inventory levels,” said Dave Zuchowski, executive vice president of sales. “This is a challenging situation in this hyper-competitive retail environment, so we are looking forward to August with great anticipation. Relief is definitely on the way with the first shipments of our all-new Santa Fe, built in West Point, Georgia, heading to dealers now and improved availability of recently launched and red hot Veloster Turbo, Elantra GT and Elantra Coupe.”

The all-new Azera continued its strong sales pace resulting in an incredible 578 percent gain over last July. The Elantra family and Tucson saw sales gains of 22 percent and 17 percent, respectively, over the same period a year ago. Hyundai fleet sales and mix remained relatively low at 12 percent mix for the month and a 9.7 percent mix year-to-date, among the lowest in the industry.

In keeping with its industry-leading fuel efficiency status, Hyundai achieved a corporate average fuel economy level of 37.1 (EPA estimated 28 MPG window label value) in July, while selling 23,517 vehicles (38 percent of total sales) with EPA estimated 40 MPG window label highway fuel economy ratings.

“With the imminent addition of the third shift at our plant in Alabama increasing Elantra and Sonata production, and the launch of the new Santa Fe in Georgia underway right now, we’ll be better able to meet demand for our core products in the coming months,” said John Krafcik president and CEO of Hyundai Motor America.

Toyota Motor Sales Reports Rise in July 2012 Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. (Aug. 1, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported July 2012 sales results of 164,898 units, an increase of 36.6 percent compared to the same period last year on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw volume basis, unadjusted for 24 selling days in July 2012 compared to 26 selling days in July 2011, TMS sales were up 26.1 percent from the year-ago month.

The Toyota Division posted July total sales of 146,663 units, an increase of 36.7 percent on a DSR basis from July 2011. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were up 26.1 percent from the year-ago month.

“Consumers are responding to Camry’s strong value and affordability proposition, taking advantage of long-term, low interest rate financing and low lease rates,” said Bill Fay, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager. "Leasing has gone mainstream. For instance the Camry, the best-selling car in America, is benefitting from strong residuals -- which allow for leases of less than $200 a month."

The Lexus Division reported total sales of 18,235 units in July 2012, up 35.9 percent from July 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Lexus Division sales were up 25.4 percent compared to the same period last year.

“Our new and redesigned models continue to drive our sales growth,” said Lexus Group vice president and general manager, Mark Templin. “With good availability of the new 2013 RX, and with the all-new ES and ES Hybrid arriving at dealers nationwide, customers will find a great selection in August during our Golden Opportunity Sales event."

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded combined monthly sales of 80,061 units, up 33.2 percent from July 2011. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid with combined sales of 29,913 units, and Corolla reported combined July sales of 23,640 units. The Prius family of vehicles posted July sales of 16,643 units.

Toyota Division light trucks recorded July sales of 66,602 units, an increase of 18.6 percent compared to the same month last year. Light truck sales were led by the RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma mid-size pickup truck, with monthly sales of 15,248 and 11,350, respectively. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined sales of 10,669 units, and the Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 9,176 units.

Scion posted July sales of 6,904 units, up 97.3 percent on a volume basis over July 2011. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 2,013, up 26.6 percent, while the newly launched FR-S sports car reported sales of 1,649 units. The XD five-door urban subcompact posted sales of 977 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle posted July sales of 1,708 units. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 557 units.

Lexus Division

Lexus reported passenger car sales of 9,759 units, up 22.4 percent from July 2011. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan led Lexus passenger car sales with sales of 3,759 units, while the IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,296 units. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,499 units.

Lexus luxury utility vehicles recorded sales of 8,476 units, up 29.1 percent over July 2011. Lexus light truck sales were led by the RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined July sales of 7,357 units. The GX 460 mid-size luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 813 units, while the LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 306 units.

TMS Hybrids

TMS posted July sales of 23,044 hybrid vehicles, an increase of 126 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted July sales of 20,309 hybrids, while Lexus Division reported sales of 2,735 hybrids for the month.

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported July 2012 sales of 4,194 units, down 47.4 percent compared to July 2011.

“Currently our sales are impacted by our models whose production was completed last summer,” said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. “This condition will continue for the remainder of the summer.”

Outlander Sport continues to be Mitsubishi’s top seller in the U.S., and production of the 2013 Outlander Sport began in Normal, Illinois in July. The vehicle will begin to become available at Mitsubishi dealerships in the U.S. by the end of this month.

• Retail sales up five percent year-to-date
  

ATLANTA, Aug. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced July 2012 sales of 2,803 vehicles. This compares to 2,768 vehicles sold last July, for an increase of one percent. For the year, Porsche has sold 19,253 cars in the U.S., a five percent increase over last year's sales of 18,310.

"Our all-new Boxster and 911 models continue to be in high-demand," said PCNA's President and CEO, Detlev von Platen. In fact, for the year, we've sold 46 percent more 911 sports cars this year than last year – a tribute to the success of the new, seventh-generation 911."

Porsche sold 359 Boxster models in July, a 77 percent increase over July 2011. July was the first full month in which Porsche offered the all-new, 2013 Boxster models.

Porsche's Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 775 for July 2012. Year-to-date, Porsche has sold 5,631 CPO models, a ten percent increase versus 2011. (5,142).

IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America's (KMA) record-setting momentum and growth continued last month with best-ever July sales of 48,074 units, a 5.6-percent increase over the same period last year. Kia's streak of consecutive year-over-year sales records now extends to a remarkable 23 months as the brand marches into the third quarter of 2012 well ahead of last year's all-time annual sales record pace. KMA's year-to-date sales are up 15.9 percent over 2011 due in large part to strong retail sales performances by the U.S.-built Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*, as well as the popular Soul urban passenger vehicle.

The high-volume month of July also witnessed the Optima and Soul gain recognition as two of the most appealing vehicles amongst new car buyers in J.D. Power and Associates' Automotive Performance, Execution and Layout (APEAL) Study.

"The story of Kia's extraordinary growth continues, and after capturing our 23rd straight monthly sales record, it is that of a brand which is moving forward on all fronts with significant strides in satisfying customers and building owner loyalty," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "Our model line is designed to meet and exceed the high expectations of discerning car buyers who want quality and tremendous value in one package, as evidenced by our latest accolades from two major J.D. Power and Associates' studies – IQS and APEAL. And with a number of fresh products coming in the year ahead, we are confident that Kia will continue to attract new customers to our showrooms going forward."

• Subaru year-to-date sales are up 23 percent
  

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Aug. 1, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record sales for the month of July of 25,183 vehicles, a 16 percent increase over July 2011. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 189,487 – an impressive 23 percent increase over prior year.

Month-over-month sales for the 36 MPG all-wheel drive Impreza doubled. The recently refreshed Outback – which is now available with new Eyesight driver assistance technology – saw a 10 percent sales increase over July 2011.

"Subaru products represent safety, value and reliability, which is exactly what customers are looking for in these turbulent economic times," said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. "We are pleased to continue our trend of double digit monthly sales increases, and July represents the eighth consecutive month Subaru has established monthly sales records. The arrival of the all-new XV Crosstrek is right around the corner so we expect to see continued momentum into the second half of the year."

"Subaru buyers continue to recognize the incredible value proposition of our vehicles," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "Our buyers are savvy shoppers with active lifestyles. When shoppers seek safety, durability and a spirited drive, the Subaru line-up of vehicles offers a no-compromise solution."

IRVINE, Calif. (August 1, 2012) - Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported July U.S. sales of 19,318 vehicles, representing a decrease of 7.0 percent versus last year. Year-to-date sales through July are up 13.9 percent (13.9 percent DSR) versus last year, with 163,115 vehicles sold.

Key July sales notes:

• In the U.S., since the addition of the Mazda CX-5 to the SKYACTIV TECHNOLOGY vehicle line-up, SKYACTIV vehicle sales have increased from 24.0 percent (February 2012) to 60.0 perecent of total vehicle sales for the month of July.
  
• MX-5 Miata continued to stay hot this Summer with an increase of 3.7 percent over July of 2011.
  

Honda division sales up 46.4 percent, Acura sales up 36.4 percent

08/01/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

American Honda today reported July 2012 U.S. sales of 116,944 units, an increase of 45.3 percent compared with July 2011 (an increase of 57.4 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted July 2012 sales of 104,119 units, an increase of 46.4 percent compared with July 2011. Acura’s U.S. July sales of 12,825 units increased 36.4 percent compared with July 2011.

Honda

• Honda division posts best seventh-month year-to-date sales total since 2008
  
• Accord sales pace strong at 28,639 units, up more than 70 percent; Civic sales up more than 78 percent with 25,004 units sold
  
• CR-V sets seventh consecutive monthly sales record with a new July record (20,554 units), up more than 47 percent from July 2011
  
• Odyssey sales up more than 88 percent from July 2011, with 11,953 units sold in July
  

"As our sales momentum continues to build through the summer, Honda is experiencing its best year-to-date sales in four years," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "With success growing along with inventory, it's wonderful to once again be able to meet the strong retail customer demand for our great Honda products."

Acura

• Continuing its sales success, the new RDX delivered another record sales month (2,664 units), up more than 142 percent from July 2011
  
• MDX remains the top selling Acura vehicle with sales of 4,288 units, up more than 24 percent from July 2011
  
• Gaining momentum in only its second full month of sales, the all-new ILX posted sales of 1,410 units
  

"With the MDX continuing its reign as the top seven-passenger luxury SUV, and the new RDX leading the compact luxury segment, Acura light trucks lead the way for the Acura brand," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With the ILX gaining its stride, Acura is sure to see robust sales increases for many months to come."

• BMW brand up 9.4 percent year-to-date
  
• MINI brand up 9.5 percent year-to-date, best July ever
  

Woodcliff Lake, NJ – August 1, 2012… The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 27,152 vehicles, an increase of 4 percent from the 26,120 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date, BMW Group is up 9.5 percent on sales of 185,715 in the first seven months of 2012 compared to 169,641 in the same period in 2011.

“High summer is typically a time for vacations rather than car buying which makes the July result satisfying, especially with the unsteady economy and the very short supply of new models in our dealerships,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America, LLC. “August will be the tightest month as we complete the model year transition, so we’re very much looking forward to September and Fall and the much stronger availability of our popular new models.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 0.5 percent in July for a total of 21,297 compared to 21,409 vehicles sold in July, 2011. Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 9.4 percent on sales of 147,801 compared to 135,114 sold in the first seven months of 2011.

In July, best performing vehicles included the 5 Series, up 32 percent to 5,700 units; and the 6 Series, up 50.5 percent to 843 units; and the 7 Series, up 158.9 percent to 1,696 units.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles

In July, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) decreased 5.9 percent to 12,658 vehicles from the 13,449 vehicles sold in July 2011. January through July, BMW used vehicle sales are up 2.1 percent on volume of 94,939 compared to 92,960 in the same period of 2011.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported the best July ever with sales of 5,855 automobiles, an increase of 24.3 percent from the 4,711 sold in July 2011. Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 9.8 percent on volume of 37,914 compared to 34,527 in the first seven months of 2011.

FRANKLIN, Tenn. (Aug. 1, 2012) – Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported July U.S. sales of 98,341 units versus 84,601 units a year earlier, up 16.2 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 12.3 percent for the month at 86,722 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles were up 56.8 percent over the prior year, to 11,619 units.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

• Nissan Division posted sales of 86,722 units, up 12.3 percent from last July’s 77,191 units.
  
• Sales of the Nissan Altima achieved a July record of 26,602, up 24.7 percent from a year ago. July marked the first full month of sales for the all-new, 2013 Altima sedan.
  
• Nissan Rogue also achieved best-ever July sales, with 13,193 units marking a 17.2 percent increase over July 2011.
  
• Nissan’s car lineup posted overall strong sales, with cars collectively recording record July volume of 53,744 units, up 13.8 percent from a year ago.
  

“Sales of the all-new Altima sedan – the most innovative Altima ever - helped propel Nissan car sales to the best July on record at 53,744 cars sold,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “Initial reception of the all-new, 2013 Altima proved to be strong, with total Altima sales reaching 26,602 vehicles sold in July.”

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

• Infiniti today reported sales of 11,619 units for July, an increase of 56.8 percent from 7,410 units a year earlier.
  
• The Infiniti G Sedan, with sales of 6,078, had an increase of 88.8 percent versus last year, making it the best July in the sport sedan’s history.
  
• The brand’s all-new 7-passenger luxury crossover, the Infiniti JX, saw sales of 1,999 in July and a total of 9,724 units since it went on sale in late March.
  
• Overall, Infiniti had its best July in seven years.
  

• Best year-to-date sales since 1973, a 34.1 percent increase

• Best July ever for Passat with 9,007 units

• Jetta Sedan achieved sales of 11,666 units

• Best July ever for Tiguan, 2,966 units

• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 19.4 percent of sales in July.

Herndon, VA, Aug 1, 2012 - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 37,014 units sold in July, a 27.3 percent increase over prior year sales, a 34.1 percent increase year-to-date and the best July since 1973.

“Volkswagen has proven demand and enthusiasm for our products with over 37,000 units sold for the month, continuing the pace of double-digit sales growth for 2012,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “We’re pleased to see consumers embracing our strong lineup of award-winning, fuel-efficient, high-quality vehicles and we expect our growth to continue.”

The Volkswagen Passat continued its successful year with 9,007 units sold. The Passat, the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, continued its year of accolades by being awarded the most appealing midsize car in the J.D. Power and Associates APEAL Study. The Passat also was rated the Most Ideal Premium Mid-Size Car and received AutoPacific’s Vehicle Satisfaction Award in its class.

The Beetle continues to gain momentum with 2,839 units sold. In August, Volkswagen joins the Discovery Channel as presenting sponsor of Shark Week and will debut the “Volkswagen Beetle Shark Observation Cage,” a one-of-a-kind Beetle shark cage created to cruise the ocean floor. The design, construction and submersion of the Beetle shark cage will be unveiled for viewers in a series of three, one-minute segments during Shark Week programming.

Jetta sedan, including the enthusiast GLI model, remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 11,666, while Jetta SportWagen totaled 1,963. The Golf was recently rated the Most Ideal Compact Car according to a study by AutoPacific, had sales of 2,058 units. The Tiguan sold 2,966 units, the best July ever for the vehicle, while the Volkswagen Touareg sold 740 units, a 41 percent increase.

Audi reports 19th consecutive month of record sales; premium category vehicles (A8, A7, A6, and Q7) represents 30.4% of July demand

HERNDON, Va., Jul 31, 2012 - Audi established a new July record, with sales of 11,707 new vehicles representing a 28% increase above the old mark set in July 2011. The best July in the brand’s U.S. history also stands as the 19th consecutive month of record performance. The results for the first seven months of 2012 set a year-to-date record, as well.

Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (the Audi A8, Audi A7, Audi A6, and Audi Q7) jumped 20% to equal 30.4% of total July sales demonstrating the brand move upmarket in the luxury sector is continuing unabated. Audi sales momentum benefitted strongly from robust demand for the technologically advanced Audi A6, with the model.line generating a 66.8% sales increase for the month and a 123.8% increase year to date.

Availability of enhanced 2013 models allowed many best-selling Audi cars to hit their stride in dealerships nationwide. Interest in the thoroughly updated Audi A4 sent sales of that top-selling model line up 51.7% in July, while new models boosted Audi A5 sales 31.9% for the month and 6.6% year-to-date. The Audi Q5 also performed favorably with an increase of 10.0% for the month.

“Audi models exude emotion and innovation, and consumers are responding,” said Mark Del Rosso, Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “A record July kicks off a second half that will see the brand gain even more sales momentum.”

Highlights:

• July 2012 ranks as the best July in Audi of America history

• Audi A4 sales up 51.7% compared to July 2011; YTD sales grew 4.4% compared to previous period.

• Audi A5 sales up 31.9% compared to July 2011; YTD sales grew 6.6% compared to previous period.

• Sales of Audi A6 increased 66.8% compared to July 2011; YTD sales up 123.8% compared to previous period.

• Sales of Audi Q5 increased 10% compared to July 2011; YTD sales up 19.9% compared to previous period.

• Sales mix for Audi TDI clean diesel models finish the month at 46.2% for the A3 TDI and 25.9% for Q7 TDI; sales of the Audi A3 TDI increased a solid 28.3% for the month.

• For the record-setting month of July 2012, four Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 20% or more, including the Audi A3, the Audi A4, the Audi A5 and the Audi A6 models.

• Audi Certified pre-owned sales of 3,136 vehicles set a record as the second-best July despite the reduced inventory of available models for the program.

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America, Inc. and its U.S. dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. AUDI AG is among the most successful luxury automotive brands globally. Audi was a top-performing luxury brand in Europe during 2011, and broke all-time company sales records in the U.S. AUDI AG is planning to invest a total of EUR 13 billion over the period 2012 through 2016 on new products and technologies. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicle and business issues.

• Best July sales since 2007
  
• 28th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in July compared with same month a year ago
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 35 percent; best July sales since 2008
  
• Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan sets sales record for month of July
  
• Chrysler 300 flagship sedan posts 41 percent increase; best July sales since 2008
  
• Chrysler Town & Country minivan records double-digit sales gain and best July since 2006
  
• FIAT brand sales up 22 percent; sets sales record for month of July
  
• Ram pickup truck sales up 17 percent; best July sales since 2007
  
• Ram Truck brand has best July sales in four years
  
• Jeep brand sales up 7 percent; best July sales since 2005
  
• Jeep Liberty sales increase 34 percent; largest percentage increase of Jeep brand models
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee has best July sales in seven years
  
• Dodge brand sales up 6 percent; best July sales since 2005
  
• Production of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart ramping up with addition of third crew at Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant
  
• Dodge Journey full-size crossover sets sales record for the month of July
  
• Dodge Dart, Fiat 500 and Jeep Patriot named to Consumer Guide Automotive’s list of the ‘10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000’
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Aug 1, 2012 - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 126,089 units, a 13 percent increase compared with sales in July 2011 (112,026 units), and the group’s best July sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each posted sales increases in July compared with the same month a year ago. Chrysler Group recorded its 28th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains in July. The Chrysler brand led the way with its 35 percent sales gain, the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand in July.

“July was another solid month for Chrysler Group as we again demonstrated our disciplined and methodical approach to growing sales and profits,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “In July we recorded a 13 percent increase in sales and our 28th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth. In addition we also announced a second quarter modified operating profit of $755 million representing our highest quarterly profits in more than a decade.”

Chrysler Group’s 13 percent sales increase was driven in part by two models that set sales records for the month of July: the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan and the Dodge Journey full-size crossover. Sales of the award-winning Journey were up 69 percent, the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group model in July.

Also contributing to Chrysler Group’s July increase were the Ram pickup truck, the group’s volume leader, with its 17 percent sales increase, and the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan with a solid 41 percent gain. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the most awarded SUV ever, were up 22 percent while the Jeep Liberty mid-size SUV recorded a 34 percent sales increase, the largest year-over-year percentage sales gain of any Jeep model in July.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 65-days supply of inventory (341,699 units). U.S. industry sales figures for July are projected at an estimated 14 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

July 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were up 35 percent, the brand’s best July sales in four years and the largest year-over-year percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand in July. All three Chrysler brand models contributed to the sales gain by logging double-digit sales increases in July compared with the same month a year ago. The Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan was the brand’s volume leader, setting a sales record for the month of July with its 43 percent sales increase. The Chrysler Town & Country minivan rolled up a 25 percent sales gain, its best July since 2006, while the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan, with a strong 41 percent gain, recorded its best July sales since 2008.

FIAT Brand

FIAT brand sales, up 22 percent compared with the same month a year ago, set a sales record for the month of July. The Fiat 500 Cabrio did particularly well with a triple-digit percentage sales increase in July versus the same month in 2011. The editors at Consumer Guide Automotive named the Fiat 500 to its annual list of the “10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000.” Editors at the publication test drove and evaluated each new car with a base U.S. Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) under $18,000. The 2012 Fiat 500 topped this annual list.

Ram Truck Brand

The Ram pickup truck, Chrysler Group’s volume leader, extended its streak of year-over-year sales gains to 27-consecutive months in July. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 17 percent in July compared with the same month a year ago. It was the pickup truck’s best July sales performance since 2007. Of the Ram 1500 sales, the regular cab pickups posted the largest percentage sales increase in July, while the crew cab trucks led in volume. The Ram Truck brand, which posted its best July sales in four years, continues to grow sales with its 2012 models while preparing to launch the all-new 2013 Ram 1500 with its best-in-class fuel economy, state-of-the-art technology, and class-exclusive features. Ram Truck dealers are expected to begin ordering the new Ram early this month with production slated to begin in September.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 7 percent, the brand’s best July sales since 2005, and its 27th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the most awarded SUV ever, were up 22 percent, its best July sales in seven years. Jeep Liberty sales were up 34 percent, the largest percentage increase of all Jeep models in July. Sales of the Jeep Patriot were up 28 percent in July. Editors at Consumer Guide Automotive named the Patriot to its “10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000” list in July. The Jeep Compass compact SUV had its best sales month of this year.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales increased 6 percent in July, the brand’s best July sales since 2005. The Dodge Journey full-size crossover set a sales record for the month of July. With its 69 percent sales increase, the Journey, the most versatile and affordable crossover in America, turned in the largest year-over-year percentage sales increase of any Chrysler Group model in July. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact car is beginning to arrive in dealership showrooms in greater numbers across the country. Sales of the Dart were up 282 percent in July compared with its first month of sales in June. Production of the Dart continues to ramp up with the addition of third crew at the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant. The Dart was one of three Chrysler Group models that made Consumer Guide Automotive’s annual list of the “10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000.”

Ford Fusion Achieves Best-Ever July Sales, Explorer Best July Sales in Six Years, F-Series Gains for 12th Straight Month

• Ford Fusion sales increase 21 percent – the best July ever – with 23,326 vehicles sold
  
• Explorer posts best July sales since 2006 with 11,313 vehicles sold
  
• F-Series sales total 49,314 vehicles, marking 12 straight months of monthly sales gains
  
• Ford Motor Company’s July U.S. sales totaled 173,966 – a 4 percent decline due to lower fleet sales; July retail sales grow 2 percent compared with last year
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Aug. 1, 2012 – Ford Motor Company’s U.S. retail sales increased 2 percent in July versus year-ago levels, driven by strong retail customer demand for fuel-efficient vehicles.

Fusion exceeded its best-ever July sales record last month, with 23,326 vehicles sold. Mustang sales increased 8 percent versus last year, with 7,371 vehicles sold, representing its third straight month of sales gains since 2013 models started arriving in dealerships.

Explorer sales totaled 11,313 vehicles in July – its best-ever July sales result since 2006.

Ford F-Series, America’s best-selling vehicle, reported its 12th straight month of sales increases, with 49,314 F-Series sold. EcoBoost-equipped F-150s made up 42 percent of retail sales in July.

Overall, Ford Motor Company sales were down 4 percent in July due to lower fleet sales. Fleet sales were down 16 percent. Retail sales were up 2 percent.

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported July U.S. sales of 201,237 vehicles, down 6 percent compared with a year ago. Sales to retail customers declined 3 percent. Sales to rental fleet customers declined 41 percent, in line with the company’s previous guidance.

In July, Cadillac sales were up 21 percent thanks to strong across-the-board results for the CTS, Escalade, SRX and the all-new XTS.

“Cadillac hit a home run and our newest Chevrolets and Buicks are performing very well,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “Signs of a housing recovery and good news on consumer confidence and household income should help keep the light vehicle selling rate in the 14-million range and drive seasonally higher truck sales as we move toward fall.”

All of GM newest vehicles performed well in July. Buick Verano sales were 4,235 units and have increased each month since the car launched in December 2011. Chevrolet Sonic sales were 6,278 units and it has been the retail sales leader in its segment since April 2012. In addition, Chevrolet Spark deliveries were 1,460 in its first month on sale.

GM’s combined retail sales of mini- , small, and compact cars were up 41 percent year over year. Retail passenger car sales in total were up 3 percent, crossover sales were up 2 percent and truck sales were down 12 percent.

Two all-new vehicles – the 2013 Chevrolet Malibu four-cylinder and Cadillac ATS – are now in production. Vehicles launching later this year include the Buick Verano Turbo, Buick Enclave, Chevrolet Malibu Turbo, Chevrolet Traverse and GMC Acadia.

GM said last month that sales to rental customers would be down sharply in July because planned deliveries occurred earlier in the year compared with 2011. GM’s commercial fleet sales were up 41 percent, the 28^th consecutive monthly increase. Strong police vehicle deliveries to state and local agencies helped drive a 115 percent increase in government sales. Total fleet sales were down 15 percent.

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported June 2012 sales, including 1,461 sales of the Outlander Sport CUV. This marks a 13 percent increase compared to June of 2011. Year-to-date sales of Outlander Sport are up 2.6 percent.

"We're pleased that U.S. consumers are confirming our strategy of focusing on fuel-efficient models like this stylish crossover," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. "We'll begin U.S. production of this popular model this month in Normal, Illinois."

Mitsubishi had good news on the high-performance front, as well. Sales of the Lancer Evolution continue to grow, with an increase of more than 31 percent in June. Lancer Evolution sales are up more than 35 percent year to date.

Sales of the Galant sedan were up 116 percent for the month and are up 3.1 percent year to date.

"Our overall sales volume will continue to be impacted by our models that have not been in production since summer 2011," Yokozawa added. Total Mitsubishi June sales were 34 percent below the level of sales in June 2011, but sales of models currently in production were up 10.2 percent.

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR JUNE 2012

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 2 percent for June; up 16 percent year-to-date.

• Land Rover sales increase 14 percent for June on continued strength of Range Rover Evoque; Brand up 21 percent year-to-date

• Jaguar XF up 3 percent for June, 2012; Jaguar sales up 1 percent year-to-date

JULY 3, 2012 (MAHWAH, NJ) – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported June 2012 sales: Land Rover sales for the month were 3,602 up 14 percent from 3,152 in 2011; Jaguar sales for the month were 1,030 down 26 percent from 1,389 in 2011; Jaguar Land Rover North America sales for the month were 4,632 up 2 percent from 4,541 units in 2011. For the first half of 2012, Jaguar Land Rover North America is up 16 percent.

"Jaguar Land Rover’s June U.S. sales this year were up two percent as we begin transition into a very important MY13 for both brands," said Andy Goss, President, Jaguar Land Rover North America. “We are pleased to complete the first half of the year with sales growth from both Jaguar and Land Rover brands in the United States.”

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

For the month of June, 2012, Land Rover sales were up 14 percent continuing the momentum established over the last two years. The volume leader for June, 2012 was the Range Rover Sport with 1,235 units sold, on par with 1,233 in 2011. For the year, Range Rover Sport is up 3 percent. The all-new Range Rover Evoque, winner of the 2012 North American Truck of the Year, hit 663 units sold in June, 2012. For the first half of 2012 Land Rover in the United States reached 20,991 units up 21 percent.

Land Rover's 2012 Model Year line-up features four models: The 230-hp 3.2 liter I6 powered LR2; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. The Model Year 12 Range Rover Evoque luxury compact SUV went on sale in October. The 2012 Range Rover Evoque has a starting price of $43,995* for the five-door, and $44,995* for the coupe and achieves 28 MPG** EPA highway and 18 MPG** EPA city.

Jaguar

Jaguar's U.S. sales for June, 2012 were down 26 percent to 1,030 units, from 1,389 in 2011. For the first half of the year of 2012, Jaguar U.S. sales are 6,506 units up 1 percent from 6,410 in 2011. The volume leader for the month of June was the Jaguar XF with 489 sales, up 3 percent from 476 in 2012. Year-to-date, Jaguar sales are led by the Jaguar XF sports sedan, up 24 percent for the year versus 2011.

For the 2013 model year, Jaguar will offer new engine options and eight-speed automatic transmissions in the XF and XJ sedan lineups. New engine options include a powerful and fuel efficient 240 horsepower turbocharged 2-liter four cylinder engine for the Jaguar XF, and a 340 horsepower supercharged 3-liter V6 engine to both the Jaguar XJ and XF.

Jaguar has launched a new global brand direction and marketing campaign, themed "ALIVE,” which introduces the famed British brand to luxury consumers in a new modern context. The brand direction is driven by the belief that Jaguar makes the world's most instinctively rewarding performance cars.

The campaign, created with Spark 44, the international communications agency that's part-owned by Jaguar Land Rover, will feature print, TV, digital advertising and a new look that contemporizes the aesthetics of the brand at every customer touch point. The Jaguar brand will have new corporate identification and a new font, created exclusively for the brand. The dramatic alteration, including significant changes to the brand symbols of the “leaper” and “growler,” is the most extensive change Jaguar has made to its visual identification in 40 years.

Jaguar's 2012 Model Year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For 2012, Jaguar has added its highest performance model ever, the 2012 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain. The Jaguar F-TYPE will join the lineup in 2013.

VOLVO ANNOUNCES JUNE SALES

ROCKLEIGH, N.J. (July 3, 2012) - Volvo Cars of North America, LLC, (VCNA) reported U.S. sales of 7,107 units, a 0.1 percent increase from June 2011. Year-to-date sales are down 4.6 percent over the first half of 2011.

The top seller for the month was the award-winning S60 sports sedan with 2,649 units sold, followed by the XC60 with 1,626 units sold, a 20.5 percent increase from June 2011.

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MBUSA POSTS RECORD SALES ACROSS

ALL THREE BRANDS IN JUNE

“Best Ever” Months for Mercedes-Benz at 22,231,

smart at 1,017, Sprinter at 2,140

MONTVALE, N.J. – Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported combined sales of 25,388 with “Best Ever” months for its Mercedes-Benz, smart and Sprinter model lines. The 12.5% increase for the month brings the year-to-date total to 142,619, up 20.8 % and making this MBUSA’s highest first-half on record.

Mercedes-Benz models posted June sales of 22,231, a 7.6 % improvement over June 2011, delivering a year-to-date total of 128,595 new vehicles to customers, up 15.9%.

“This marks a historic milestone for Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. market. Not only did we post all-time record sales across all three business units in June, we achieved our highest half-year sales in our 47-year history,” said Steve Cannon President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz USA today.

Sales for the month of June were led by the C-, E- and M-Class model lines. The sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand on the car side for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – took the lead with sales of 6,506. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 5,589 and MBUSA’s top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 2,891.

At the high end, the all-new iconic sixth generation 2013 SL roadster - debuting in showrooms last month - posted sales of 346 yielding an increase of 217.4% and the SLS AMG supercar retailed 86 for the month, up 377.8% over the same period last year.

On a year-to-date basis, top performers again were the C-Class with 37,686, the E-Class with 30,366 and the M-Class with 20,626.Monthly sales of the high-performance AMG models were 515, up 75.2% versus June 2011 (385) and up 62.4% year to date.Sales of the company’s BlueTEC diesel models were also up 50.3% for the year at 8,945 compared to the 5,953 diesels sold over the same time last year.

On the one-year anniversary of the smart brand coming under the MBUSA umbrella, sales of the model line achieved the highest reported volume since August of 2009. June sales of 1,017 vehicles represent a 208% jump for the month (compared to the 330 vehicles sold in June 2011), bringing the year-to-date volume to 4,748, up 86%.

On the van side, sales of Sprinter vans also saw best-ever sales in June with 2,140 – up 12% over last year and up 30.7% on a year-to-date basis.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 6,593 vehicles in June; an increase of 2.9% when compared to June 2011 (sales of 6,410 vehicles). On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 39,419 vehicles, a decrease of 1.1% over the comparable period (with sales of 39,855 vehicles).

BMW Group U.S. Reports June 2012 Sales

BMW brand up 11.3 percent year-to-date

MINI brand up 7.5 percent, new year-to-date record

VOLKSWAGEN REPORTS 34.2% SALES INCREASE IN JUNE

- Brand ends first half of 2012 with 208,725 and 35.4 percent increase -

• First half 2012 up 35.4 percent with 208,725 units sold and 38,170 for the month, marking the best June and best first half since 1973

• Passat sales reach over 10,000 units for the fourth consecutive month, with 10,252 sold

• Best June sales for Tiguan with 2,885 units sold

• Beetle sales of 2,914 marked the best June since 2002

• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 19.2 percent of sales in June, up 21.5 percent versus the prior year

Herndon, VA - Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 38,170 units sold in June, a 34.2 percent increase over prior year sales, 35.4 percent increase year-to-date and the best June and best first half since 1973.

“Selling over 200,000 vehicles in the first half of the year is a significant accomplishment for Volkswagen and a strong sign that our broad range of high-quality vehicles are continuing to gain acceptance by pundits and consumers,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “As we prepare for the second half of the year, we are confident that the foundations we’ve put in place will continue to bear fruit.”

The 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, the Volkswagen Passat sold 10,252 units, marking four months of sales over 10,000 units. The Passat TDI was recently named the winner of Edmunds.com’s 40 MPG challenge beating out 6 other sedans tested; the Passat averaged 43 mpg in city driving and 51.7 mpg on the highway portion of the test route.

In addition to receiving numerous product awards for vehicle quality, value and performance, the Volkswagen brand received a number of accolades this year, including Strategic Vision’s #1 Brand for Total Value Index; the CLIO Award for Global Advertiser of the Year and Rutgers University’s Gold Edison Green Award.

Jetta sedan, including the enthusiast GLI model, remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 11,598, while Jetta SportWagen totaled 2,006.

The Beetle continues to gain momentum with 2,914 units sold, while Golf sales totaled 4,092 units. This also marks the best June ever for Tiguan, selling 2,885 units. The Volkswagen Touareg sold 794 units.

AMERICAN SUZUKI JUNE 2012 SALES UP 1 PERCENT

American Suzuki Motor Corporation (ASMC) today reported June 2012 sales of 2,299 units, up

1 percent from last year. This is the second consecutive month of year over year sales growth

fueled by a competitive 0% APR program on all models, which will continue into July. June’s

sales increase was led by a 5 percent sales increase of the multipurpose SX4 Crossover and

spirited Sedan. Grand Vitara sales remained steady with a 2 percent increase over June 2011.

Note: No sales chart was made available at the time of this posting.

KIA MOTORS AMERICA COMPLETES BEST FIRST HALF SALES IN COMPANY HISTORY WITH RECORD JUNE PERFORMANCE

Fastest-Growing Car Company in the U.S.1 Breaks 150,000 Quarterly Sales Mark for First Time in Q2 and Achieves 22nd Consecutive Monthly Sales Record

IRVINE, Calif., July 3, 2012 - Kia Motors America's (KMA) unprecedented momentum and growth reached new heights last month with best-ever June sales of 51,326 units, a 13.9-percent increase over the same period last year, contributing to the brand's best quarter ever of 150,647 units – topping more than 150,000 units in a three month period for the first time. Kia's streak of consecutive monthly sales records extended to 22 months, and the brand's historic second quarter performance capped off the best first half in company history with year-to-date sales up 17.8 percent.

The record-setting June sales were highlighted by continued healthy demand for the brand's two U.S.-built* products – the Optima midsize sedan and Sorento CUV built at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) – with Optima surpassing the 70,000 unit mark. Consumers also continued to turn to Kia for fuel efficient vehicle choices such as the Soul urban passenger vehicle, which was honored as a segment winner in the 2012 J.D. Power and Associates Initial Quality Study (IQS) in June. In total, Kia vehicles that achieve more than 30 mpg on the highway2 accounted for 78 percent of June sales.

"Kia has been setting one sales record after another for nearly two years, and the ongoing popularity of our two U.S.-built products as well as the Soul have attracted new customers to our showrooms and dramatically raised awareness, perception and consideration for the brand in a very short period of time," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "Kia offers discerning shoppers a standout combination of world-class design and quality, outstanding fuel efficiency, advanced technologies and tremendous value, and with more new products arriving in the next year, we will continue to draw new customers into our showrooms to look at Kia for the first time."

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking . Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds two of the company's best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan*. Kia's valueand technology-laden lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Key June sales notes:

• In response to global demand far outstripping expectations for Mazda's SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY,Mazda Motor Corporation has announced it will double production capacity of the state-of-the-art powertrain at its engine plant in Hiroshima, Japan.
  
• In the U.S., Mazda's total SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY vehicle sales for June (comprised of CX-5 and certain models of Mazda3) account for 55 percent of the company's total sales for the month.
  
• Mazda3 had its best June since 2008 with 8,835 vehicles sold. In particular, the SKYACTIV-equipped model represented 73.6 percent of Mazda3 vehicles sold for the month.
  
• The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 is proving to be a popular choice as the award-winning compact crossover SUV remains one of the fastest-turning vehicles in the industry, with many dealers reporting more customers than inventory. In its fourth full month of sales, 4,551 CX-5s were sold in June, representing a 15.0 percent increase from last month.
  
• As summer heats up, the Mazda MX-5 had its best June since 2008 with 659 vehicles sold.
  

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported June sales of 2,084 vehicles, up 5.0 percent versus June of last year.

American Honda Reports June Auto Sales: 48-Percent Surge Nets Best June Sales Since 2008; Honda CR-V and Acura RDX Set Best-Ever June Records

Honda division sales up 45 percent, Acura sales up 76 percent

07/03/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

American Honda today reported June 2012 U.S. sales of 124,808 units, an increase of 48.8 percent compared with June 2011 (an increase of 43.3 percent based on the daily selling rate*). The Honda Division posted June 2012 sales of 109,438 units, an increase of 45.6 percent compared with June 2011. Acura's U.S. June sales of 15,370 units increased 76.5 percent compared with June 2011.

Honda

- CR-V sets sixth-consecutive monthly sales record with a new June record (23,282 units), up more than 50 percent from June 2011

- Accord sales top 28,000 units, up more than 80 percent from June 2011

- Exceptional month for core Honda products (Accord, Civic, CR-V) with sales up more than 50 percent from last June for each model

"With robust inventories and great customer demand, it feels good to be back in the race," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "The strong performance of our core models, including another record-breaking month for the CR-V, demonstrates the fundamental competitiveness of Honda products."

Acura

- Total Acura sales of 15,370 units were up 76.5 percent over June 2011, the best June sales since 2007

- The new RDX continued its sales success with another record sales month (3,090 units), up 189.3 percent. In May, the RDX was the best-selling compact luxury SUV and is expected to retain that position for June

- Acura light trucks posted a best-ever June result of 8,278 units, up 82.1 percent from last year

- Both the TL and TSX enjoyed substantial sales increases over June 2011, up 47.1 percent and 43.9 percent respectively. With national advertising just starting in June, the all-new ILX has begun to build both inventory and awareness, posting June sales of 1,081 units

"The weather may be too hot in many parts of the country, but Acura sales are continuing to heat up," said Jeff Conrad, vice president of Acura sales. "With our light trucks setting records and our volume sedans showing major increases, it's going to be a great summer for Acura."

*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 27 days for June 2012 and 26 days for June 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 154 days for 2012 and 152 days for 2011. All other percentages in release are unadjusted; see table for adjusted DSR figures.

Subaru of America, Inc. Breaks June Sales Record

-- June marks seventh consecutive month of sales gains for the brand

-- June sales increase 40 percent over prior month

-- Subaru year-to-date sales are up 24 percent

CHERRY HILL, N.J., July 3, 2012 -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record sales for June 2012 of 27,702 vehicles, a 40 percent gain over June 2011. The company also reported year-to-date sales of 164,304 – a 24 percent gain over prior year.

June sales for the all-new 2012 Impreza continue to climb. Sales for the 36 MPG all-wheel drive Impreza are up 146 percent over June 2011. Outback and Legacy models also enjoyed 17 and 12 percent month-over-month gains, respectively.

"Subaru is celebrating the half-year mark with another month of consecutive sales gains," said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc. "Our brand is poised for a record-breaking summer and another record-breaking year."

"Consumers value reliability, safety, fuel efficiency and performance; car shoppers are turning to Subaru because we deliver on those values," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "A seventh consecutive month of sales gains clearly indicates that our line-up of sedans and crossover vehicles – and our new BRZ sports car – are hitting the sweet spot for consumers."

Toyota Sales Increase More Than 60 Percent in June 2012

TORRANCE, Calif. (July 3, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported June 2012 sales results of 177,795 units, an increase of 54.3 percent compared to the same period last year on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis. On a raw volume basis, unadjusted for 27 selling days in June 2012 compared to 26 selling days in June 2011, TMS sales were up 60.3 percent from the year-ago month.

The Toyota Division posted June total sales of 157,773 units, an increase of 51.7 percent on a DSR basis from June 2011. On a raw volume basis, Toyota Division sales were up 57.5 percent from the year-ago month.

For the first half of the year, TMS reported sales of 1,046,096 units. With 154 selling days in the first half of 2012, compared to 152 selling days during the first half of 2011, sales were up 27.0 percent on a DSR basis from the same period last year. On a raw volume basis, unadjusted for two extra selling days in 2012, sales were up 28.7 percent during the first half of the year.

“June and first-half year sales were driven by consumer interest in our new models including the Prius c, the newest member of the Prius family, and the Camry, the best-selling car in America," said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A. "We expect to see continued stability in the automotive market during the second half of 2012 thanks to pent-up demand, low interest rates and a continued influx of new products."

The Lexus Division reported total sales of 20,022 units in June 2012, up 79.0 percent from June 2011 on a DSR basis. Volume-wise, Lexus Division sales were up 85.9 percent compared to the same period last year.

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded combined monthly sales of 90,079 units, up 68.1 percent from June 2011. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid with combined sales of 32,107 units, and Corolla reported combined June sales of 26,647 units. The Prius family of vehicles posted June sales of 19,150 units.

Toyota Division light trucks recorded June sales of 67,694 units, an increase of 34.3 percent compared to the same month last year. Light truck sales were led by the RAV4 compact SUV and Tacoma mid-size pickup truck, with monthly sales of 15,129 and 11,864 respectively. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined sales of 10,379 units, and the Tundra full-size pickup reported sales of 8,693 unit.

Scion posted June sales of 8,400 units, up of 134.1 percent over June 2011. The newly launched FR-S sports car led the way with sales of 2,684. The tC sports coupe reported sales of 2,128 units, flat year-over-year. The XD five-door urban subcompact posted sales of 1,017 units, and the xB urban utility vehicle posted June sales of 1,869 units. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted monthly sales of 702 units.

Lexus Division

Lexus reported passenger car sales of 10,247 units, up 99.7 percent from June 2011. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan led Lexus passenger car sales with sales of 3,780 units, while the IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,572 units. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted 1,387 units.

Lexus luxury utility vehicles recorded sales of 9,775 units, up 61.4 percent over June 2011. Lexus light truck sales were led by the RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined June sales of 8,641 units. The GX 460 mid-size luxury utility vehicle reported sales of 808 units, while the LX luxury utility vehicle recorded sales of 326 units.

TMS Hybrids

TMS posted June sales of 25,776 hybrid vehicles, an increase of 335.2 percent compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted June sales of 23,105 hybrids, while Lexus Division reported sales of 2,671 hybrids for the month.

Infiniti U.S. Sales Up 66% in June- Luxury automaker reports best June sales since 2007 -

FRANKIN, Tenn. - Infiniti today reported U.S. sales of 10,436 units for the month of June, an increase of 66.1 percent versus 6,282 units a year earlier. Calendar year-to-date Infiniti sales of 54,377 vehicles are up 15 percent compared to the 47,268 units sold during the same period last year.

Highlights of Infiniti's sales performance for June include:

• Sales of the Infiniti G Sedan for the month were up 48.5 percent to 3,923 units, which was the model's best June since 2007.
  
• Infiniti M Line sales of 815 units represented a 24.8 percent increase, while the Infiniti QX full-size luxury SUV was up 24.4 percent to 1,044 units, its best performance in five years.
  
• The all-new Infiniti JX 7-passenger luxury crossover, introduced this March, continued its strong launch with 2,428 units sold in June.
  
• Overall, this was Infiniti's best June sales performance since 2007.
  

"June was a great month for Infiniti, with increased sales of practically every one of our lines and the Infiniti JX 7-passenger luxury crossover adding incremental volume," said Ben Poore, vice president of Infiniti Americas. "We expect our sales growth to continue in July, as retailers continue to build inventory of the Infiniti JX, and we begin our Limited Engagement Summer Event."

Nissan North America Sales Increase 28.2% in June

- Nissan Division achieves record June sales -

FRANKLIN, Tenn. - Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported June U.S. sales of 92,237 units versus 71,940 units a year earlier, up 28.2 percent. Nissan Division sales increased 24.6 percent for the month at 81,801 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles were up 66.1 percent over the prior year, to 10,436 units.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

• Nissan Division posted 81,801 sales, a June record and up 24.6 percent from last June's 65,659 units.
  
• Nissan Juke sales of 3,101 units represented an increase of 52.7 percent from the prior year, a June record.
  
• Nissan Rogue also achieved best-ever June sales, with 10,999 units marking a 46.8 percent increase over June 2011.
  
• Nissan Altima sales of 21,812 increased 11.7 percent from year-ago.
  
• All vehicles in Nissan's truck, SUV and crossover lineup posted sales increases, with trucks collectively posting a 38 percent rise in June from a year ago.
  

"Nissan's sales increase of almost 25 percent in June was driven by double-digit gains for the majority of models across our lineup," said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. "We expect our momentum to continue into July, the first full month of sales for our all-new 2013 Nissan Altima, which is our most innovative mid-size sedan ever."

Audi sets all-time U.S. monthly sales record with 26% gain in June

<p>Audi today announced it sold more vehicles in June 2012 than in any month since entering the U.S. market 42 years ago.

The new all-time monthly U.S. sales record of 12,664 vehicles sold in June beat the prior record of 12,655 vehicles sold in December 2011. June 2012 sales increased 26% over June 2011. The just concluded month also marks the 18th consecutive monthly sales record for the brand, as well as the highest sales numbers registered for the first half of any year at 65,158 in the January to June period. Year-to-date 2012 sales through June represented a 16.5% gain.

Audi executives expressed confidence that sales for all of 2012 will set a new annual record, topping the 117,561 sales mark set last year.

“Our long-term strategy has been to relentlessly achieve realistic levels of sales based on the most advanced lineup in the luxury car market,” said Mark Del Rosso, Chief Operating Officer, Audi of America. “The best is yet to come for this year as new, or substantially updated, models representing about 60% of our sales volume are only now reaching dealerships in the U.S.”

Sales of Audi premium category vehicles (A8, A7, A6, and Q7) jumped 51% YTD and represented 29.1% of total June sales. Overall, sales improvements shown by Audi in the top tiers of the luxury sector accounted for 40% of the Audi June gain.

June sales of the new technologically advanced Audi A6 ranked as the best month ever for the sedan with a 226.8% sales increase for the month and a 140% increase year-to-date. Audi luxury SUV performance was led by an increase in sales of the Audi Q5, with a 60.7% jump in June, and a 21.6% year-to-date gain. The Audi A3 also performed favorably with an increase of 45.5% for the month.

Highlights

• June 2012 sets the all-time single month sales record in Audi of America history; the 18th consecutive month of unprecedented sales and the all-time YTD record total sales for the January through June period.
  
• Audi A6 sales soared 226.8% compared to June 2011; YTD sales grew 140% compared to previous period.
  
• Audi A7 YTD sales increased 113.3%, compared to previous period.
  
• Sales of Audi Q5 jumped 60.7% compared to June 2011; YTD sales up 21.6% compared to previous period.
  
• Audi A3 sales remained strong with an increase of 45.5%, compared to June 2011.
  
• Sales of Audi TDI models remained strong with clean diesel models making up 64.8 percent of overall Audi A3 models (402 June sales) and 37.1 percent of overall Audi Q7 sales (255 June sales).
  
• For the record-setting month of June 2012, four Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 20% or more, including the Audi A3, the Audi A6, the Audi A8, and the Audi Q5 models.
  
• Audi Certified pre-owned sales remained strong, despite the reduced inventory of available models for the program. As a result, 2012 year-to-date Audi CPO sales of 18,339 were 2.7 percent below the record pace set in in the first half of 2011.
  

GM Reports June U.S. Sales up 16 percent

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported June sales of 248,750 vehicles in the United States, up 16 percent year over year and the company’s highest sales since September 2008. Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac all reported double-digit increases.

“Across the board, June was a strong month for GM,” said Kurt McNeil, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “The combination of new products, available credit, lower fuel prices and modest economic growth was a stronger influence on consumer behavior than economic and political uncertainty."

For the month, GM passenger car sales were up 12 percent year over year, thanks to a 32 percent increase in Chevrolet Malibu sales and a 21 percent increase in Buick LaCrosse sales.

Combined sales of all seven Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac crossovers were up 30 percent versus a year ago.

Truck sales were up 11 percent, with all pickup, van and SUV segments up year over year.

Retail deliveries were up 8 percent year over year. Fleet deliveries were up 36 percent versus a year ago due in part to the timing of customer deliveries. In July, fleet volumes and mix are expected be down month over month and year over year.

GM’s newest vehicles continue to perform well. Sales of the Buick Verano were 4,091 in June, and have increased each month since the car launched in December 2011. Chevrolet Sonic sales were 6,785 units and it is the retail sales leader in its segment. The new Cadillac XTS began arriving in showrooms in June, and dealers delivered more than 750 vehicles. Over the course of 2012 and 2013, 70 percent of GM’s nameplates will be all-new or redesigned.

Ford Motor Company June and Year-to-Date Sales Up 7%; Escape Sales Best Ever, While Fusion Posts June Record

• 
  Ford Motor Company’s year-to-date U.S. sales through June increase 7 percent, totaling 1.14 million vehicles; June sales increase 7 percent from last year at 207,759 vehicles sold
  
• 
  Ford Escape sales increase 28 percent – the vehicle’s best month ever; the all-new 2013 Escape is selling on dealer lots in less than five days
  
• 
  Ford Fusion sales in June increase 17 percent – the best June sales performance ever
  
• 
  Ford Explorer sales up 35 percent in June and 15 percent year to date
  
• 
  Ford F-Series sales top 50,000 – the best June sales performance in five years, with 55,025 pickups sold
  

DEARBORN, Mich., July 3, 2012 – Ford Motor Company’s U.S. sales are up 7 percent so far this year, with 1.14 million vehicles sold. June sales also increased 7 percent from last year, with 207,759 vehicles sold.

Ford sales are increasing across the company’s lineup – with cars up 3 percent, utilities up 9 percent and trucks up 9 percent year to date.

In June, the Ford Escape set an any-month record – with sales up 28 percent – while the Ford Fusion set a record for June. Ford Explorer sales were up 35 percent from last year, and F-Series sales are up 11 percent and topped 50,000 for the first June in five years.

“June was a good month for Ford and a particularly strong month for vehicles like Escape, Fusion, Explorer and F-Series,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “The new 2013 Escape also is off to a very strong start, with vehicles selling on dealer lots in less than five days – even topping the strong start of the new Explorer in 2010.”

Fusion has posted four months in a row of sales records, including its best June result ever with 24,433 vehicles sold – a 17 percent increase from last year. In the first half of this year, Fusion sales are up over last year’s record first half by 4 percent, with 136,849 vehicles sold.

Other sales milestones in June: Explorer sales are up 35 percent; Edge sales are up 6 percent; and America’s top-selling vehicle for 30 years, the F-Series, sold 55,025 pickups. F-Series remains America’s number one selling vehicle in the first half of 2012.

Chrysler Group LLC Reports June 2012 U.S. Sales Increased 20 Percent; Best June Sales in Five Years

• Best June sales since 2007
  
• 27th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Second-quarter sales up 24 percent versus same period last year
  
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each post sales increases in June compared with same month a year ago
  
• FIAT brand sets sales record for fifth-consecutive month
  
• First-half FIAT brand sales surpass total sales in 2011
  
• All-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact car begins arriving in dealership showrooms
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 63 percent; best June sales since 2008
  
• Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan sets sales record for month of June
  
• Chrysler 300 flagship sedan posts lofty 179 percent increase; best June sales in five years
  
• Chrysler Town & Country minivan logs double-digit sales gain
  
• Jeep brand sales up 23 percent; best June sales since 2007
  
• Jeep Wrangler sales up 28 percent; sets all-time sales record
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee has best June sales since 2005
  
• Ram pickup truck sales up 12 percent; best June sales since 2007
  
• Dodge brand sales up 2 percent; best June sales since 2007
  
• Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan sales up 68 percent; sets sales record for month of June
  
• Dodge Challenger muscle car sets sales record for month of June
  
• Dodge Journey full-size crossover logs 49 percent increase; sets sales record for month of June
  
• Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com names all-new 2013 Dodge Dart and 2012 Fiat 500 to its ‘10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000’ list
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 and Chrysler 300 SRT8 make Robb Report’s ‘Best of the Best: 2012’ list
  
• Edmunds.com and Parents magazine select 2012 Dodge Durango among the ‘Best Family Cars of 2012’
  

July 3, 2012 , Auburn Hills, Mich. - Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 144,811 units, a 20 percent increase compared with sales in June 2011 (120,394 units), and the group’s best June sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram Truck, and FIAT brands each posted sales increases in June compared with the same month a year ago. Chrysler Group recorded its 27th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains in June. Chrysler Group’s second-quarter sales were up 24 percent versus the same period last year.

The FIAT brand set a sales record for the fifth-consecutive month and the brand’s 122 percent year-over-year sales gain was the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand in June. More Fiat 500 vehicles were sold during the first six months of this year than during all of 2011.

The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact car has started to arrive in dealership showrooms across the country. The first sales of the highly-anticipated Dart are included in the June sales table. More than 1,000 Dodge dealers, eager to drive their first Dodge Dart back to their dealerships, converged on 12 “Dart Drive Away” events held around the country, some traveling distances greater than 500 miles to attend.

“June was another solid month for the Chrysler Group with U.S. sales up 20 percent and second-quarter sales increasing 24 percent compared with the same period in 2011,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “June also marked our 27th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth. Continuous improvement remains a key focus at Chrysler as we have steadily increased sales, improved quality, added production and created jobs.”

As the Fiat 500 was setting its June sales record, five other Chrysler Group models also posted record sales. For the third time in the last 12 months, the iconic Jeep Wrangler set an all-time monthly sales record. The Dodge brand had three record setters in June. The sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedan, the Dodge Challenger muscle car, and the Dodge Journey full-size crossover each set a sales record for the month of June. Rounding out the month’s pacesetters, the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan set a sales record for the month of June.

Also contributing to Chrysler Group’s 20 percent increase was the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan with a convincing 179 percent gain. The Chrysler Town & Country minivan and Jeep Grand Cherokee each logged sales increases of more than 30 percent while the Ram pickup truck, with its 12 percent increase, recorded its 26th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and best June since 2007.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 67-days supply of inventory (358,260 units). U.S. industry sales figures for June are projected at an estimated 14.4 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

June 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

FIAT Brand

The FIAT brand continued its record-setting pace in June with another monthly sales record. The brand has now strung together five-consecutive months of record-setting monthly sales. FIAT brand sales were up 122 percent in June compared with the same month a year ago, the largest year-over-year sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand. FIAT brand sales (20,706 units) in the first half of this year have already surpassed sales during all of 2011. Sales of the Fiat 500 began in the U.S. in March last year.

The Fiat 500 took home two awards in June. The Fiat 500 Cabrio by Gucci won “Best Small Convertible of the Year” at the “Topless in Miami” convertible event held last month by the Southern Automotive Media Association (SAMA). More than 60 journalists attended this annual event. Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com editors named the Fiat 500 as one of their “10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.”

Chrysler Brand

Chrysler brand sales were up 63 percent in June, the brand’s best June sales in four years and 12th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. All three Chrysler models contributed to the brand’s sound sales performance led by the Chrysler 300’s 179 percent increase, the flagship sedan’s best June sales since 2007. The Chrysler 300’s triple-digit sales gain was the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group model in June. Sales of the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, the brand’s volume leader for the month, and the Chrysler Town & Country minivan each turned in double-digit sales increases in June. The 200 set a sales record for the month of June. The Chrysler 300 SRT8 last month made Robb Report’s “Best of the Best: 2012” list in the sedan category.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 23 percent, the brand’s best June sales since 2007, and its 26th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Jeep Wrangler continued its torrid sales pace setting a monthly sales record in June, the third time during the last 12 months that this iconic SUV has established an all-time sales record. Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee, the most awarded SUV ever, were up 39 percent, its best June sales since 2005. Jeep Liberty sales increased a healthy 50 percent, the mid-size SUV’s best June sales since 2007 and best sales month this year.

The international luxury lifestyle magazine Robb Report recently selected the Jeep Grand Cherokee SRT8 as one of the top performers in its annual “Car of the Year” competition, ranking the high-performance SUV at number nine amongst new vehicles from around the world. The Grand Cherokee SRT8 also was chosen by the magazine for the “Best of the Best: 2012” list in the SUV category. Robb Report readers were among the judges who joined the magazine’s editors and writers in driving, evaluating and ranking the “Car of the Year” and “Best of the Best” vehicles based on interior design, layout, amenities and luxury features.

Ram Truck Brand

The Ram pickup truck, Chrysler Group’s volume leader, continued on its sales roll with a 12 percent increase in June compared with the same month a year ago. It was the pickup truck’s 26th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best June since 2007. The Ram 1500 pickup led the way with an 18 percent increase. Of the Ram 1500 sales, the regular cab pickups posted the largest percentage sales increase in June, while the quad cab trucks led in volume. The highly-versatile Ram Cargo Van, designed for small businesses and commercial fleets, posted a 272 percent increase in June compared with sales in the previous month of May. The Ram Truck brand posted its best June sales since 2007.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales increased 2 percent in June, the brand’s best June sales since 2007 and its 13th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth. Dodge dealers in June began selling the first of the all-new 2013 Dodge Dart compact cars to arrive at their dealerships. Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com placed the Dart at the top of its list of the “10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000.” The Dart, the first Chrysler Group vehicle built on FIAT architecture, blends Alfa Romeo DNA with Dodge’s passion for performance and style, resulting in a groundbreaking vehicle that delivers features and benefits never before found in a compact car, all starting at $15,995 while offering up to 41 mpg highway.

Three Dodge vehicles – the Avenger, Challenger, and Journey – set sales records for the month of June. Sales of the Avenger mid-size sedan were up 68 percent, the largest year-over-year percentage sales increase of any Dodge model in June. The Dodge Journey full-size crossover turned in a robust sales performance as well. Journey sales were up 49 percent compared to the same month a year ago.

Edmunds.com and Parents magazine have selected the 2012 Dodge Durango among the “Best Family Cars of 2012.” This marks the 10th industry award for the Durango, including “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) and “Full-size SUV of Texas” by the Texas Auto Writers Association (TAWA).

Chrysler Group LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru June 2012

HERNDON, VA--Feb. 1, 2012 -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 27,209 units sold in January, a 47.9 percent increase over prior year sales.

"We ended 2011 strong and are seeing the momentum continue into 2012 with a 47.9 percent increase, demonstrating our growth strategy continues to take root," said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. "With the today's release of our much-anticipated Game Day ad, 'The Dog Strikes Back,' our relentless focus on the core pillars of the business, and a full line-up of new and refreshed vehicles, Volkswagen is off to a strong start in 2012."

The Passat continues to gain steam with 6,318 units for the month of January 2012. The strong demand has created a need for increased employment at the Chattanooga plant. Volkswagen will be hiring 200 additional employees, bringing the total employees to 2,700.

Jetta sedan remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 9,564, slightly down from last year's record sales.

The 2012 Beetle, the feature of the upcoming game day ad, sold 1,401 units.

The Touareg vehicles saw an increase in sales with 68 percent and the Tiguan increased 50 percent, marking the best January ever.

Volkswagen's high-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 17.6 percent of sales in January, a 30.2 percent increase over 2011

Volkswagen January 2012 Sales Data

Ford Motor Company U.S. Sales Increase 7 Percent in January; Focus, Escape, Explorer Drive Growth

• Ford Motor Company U.S. sales in January totaled 136,710 vehicles, a 7 percent gain compared with January 2011; retail sales increased 8 percent
  
• Focus contributed to 30 percent of Ford Motor Company sales growth in January, more than any other vehicle in the Ford product lineup. Focus sales were 14,400 vehicles, up 60 percent – the best January Focus sales performance since 2003
  
• F-Series sales of 38,493 vehicles, up 8 percent. Ford has more than 75 percent share of the retail V6 full-size pickup market and most fuel-efficient full line of pickups on the market
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Feb. 1, 2012 – Ford Motor Company U.S. sales totaled 136,710 vehicles in January, a 7 percent increase versus year-old levels. The Ford brand totaled 131,589 vehicles in January, making it the best January sales month for the Ford brand since 2008.

“January started off with solid sales versus year-ago levels,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Ford saw the same solid month, with smaller vehicles in higher demand. Escape continued its record-setting run, and Focus set the pace for car sales in California, Texas and the Southeast.”

Ford brand grew small car, utility and truck sales in January versus a year ago. Focus small car and Escape utility combined provided 49 percent of Ford Motor Company volume growth in January. With 17,259 Escape vehicles sold, it was another best-ever January for Escape, topping last January by 24 percent. Sales of the Ford Explorer totaled 9,966, a 36 percent gain versus strong year-ago results.

The Ford F-Series, America’s top-selling vehicle for the past 30 years posted January sales of 38,493 vehicles, representing an 8 percent increase. EcoBoost-equipped F-150s represented 42 percent of retail sales in January, providing Ford a retail F-150 V6 engine mix (EcoBoost V6 and Ford’s 3.7-liter V6) of 54 percent for the month.

January 2012 Ford Sales Data

• For 2011, car and truck sales climb 10 percent and 15 percent respectively
  

2012 Suzuki Auto Product Line

Suzuki is proud to offer the most affordable all-wheel-drive lineup available in the U.S. and maintains a versatile array of vehicles, including the spirited SX4 Sport sedan, multipurpose five-door SX4 Crossover, SX4 SportBack hot hatch, refined Grand Vitara compact SUV, award-winning Equator pickup truck and performance-oriented Kizashi Sport. Every vehicle in the line provides Suzuki’s standout virtues of durability, leading-edge style and high-content at a competitive price. All 2012 Suzuki automobiles are backed by America’s #1 Warranty: a 100,000-mile/seven-year, fully transferable, zero-deductible powertrain limited warranty.

Suzuki America December 2011 Sales Chart

BMW Group Achieves Second Best Sales Year Ever in the U.S.

• BMW is the 2011 Premium Segment Leader
  
• MINI reports best December and best ever U.S. sales year
  

Woodcliff Lake, NJ - January 5, 2012… In 2011, the BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) achieved its best sales since the record year of 2007 retailing 305,418 vehicles, up 14.9 percent compared to the 265,757 vehicles sold in 2010. BMW Group reported December sales of 32,545 vehicles, an increase of 17.9% from the 27,600 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago.

“BMW Group sales momentum has been increasing all year and this new burst of consumer confidence filled our dealer showrooms putting both BMW and MINI over the top,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “I have great confidence that 2012 will be even better especially with the all-new BMW 3 Series arriving in the U.S. in February with more new and refreshed models coming in the months after.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 15.3% in December for a total of 26,834 compared to 23,280 vehicles sold in December, 2010. For the year, BMW brand sales were up 12.6% to 247,907 vehicles compared to 220,113 sold 2010.

For 2011, best performing vehicles included the 5 Series, up 30.4 percent to 51,491 units; the 6 Series, up 61.4 percent to 3,903 units; the X3, up 357.5 percent to 27,793 units and the X5 up 13.3 percent to 40,547 units. Overall, the BMW Sports Activity Vehicle (SAV) segment (X3, X5, X6) continued to show incredible growth with sales up 54.9 percent for the year to 74,532 units compared to 48,108 in 2010. SAV sales combined with its all-wheel-drive (AWD) passenger cars have made BMW the best selling manufacturer of premium AWD vehicles in the U.S. in 2011.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles

In December, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) totaled 16,264, an increase of 3.5% from the 15,714 sold in December 2010. In 2011, BMW pre-owned once again was leader in its segment. December proved to be the second best month ever and 2011 was the third best year ever for BMW pre-owned.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported sales of 5,711 automobiles in December, up 32.2% from the 4,320 sold in December 2010. For the year 2011, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 26% on volume of 57,511 compared to 45,644 sold in 2010.

“MINI’s record setting sales results in 2011 prove that small is a success in its own right even without the prodding of rising fuel prices,” said Jim McDowell, Vice President – MINI USA. “Our U.S. customers have found they can have a great motoring experience even while enjoying strong fuel economy and a smaller footprint. Motor On!”

BMW Group NA December 2011 Sales Chart

JAGUAR LAND ROVER REPORTS U.S. SALES FOR DECEMBER AND 2011

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 11 percent for 2011 as company surpasses 50,000 units in United States for first time since 2007

• Land Rover brand increases 20 percent for 2011, has best year since 2007

• Land Rover LR4, Range Rover Evoque, Range Rover Sport and Range Rover all drive annual gains

• Jaguar XJ sales increase 22 percent for 2011

• Jaguar Land Rover North America sales increase 20 percent for December 2011

• Land Rover sales increase 28 percent for December 2011; best December since 2007

JANUARY 4, 2012 MAHWAH, NJ – Jaguar Land Rover North America today reported full year 2011 sales: Land Rover sales for the year were 38,099 up 20 percent from 31,864 in 2010; Jaguar sales for the year were 12,276 down 8 percent from 13,340 in 2010; Jaguar Land Rover North America sales for the year were 50,375; up11 percent from 45,204 units in 2010. 2011 is the best year for JLRNA since 2007.

Jaguar Land Rover also reported December 2011 U.S. sales: Land Rover sales were 4743 units, 28 percent up from 3,695 units in December 2010; Jaguar sales were 1137 units, 3 percent down from 1,180 units in December 2010. Jaguar Land Rover North America December U.S. sales for both brands hit 5,880 units, a 20 percent increase from 4,875 in December 2010. December 2011 was the JLRNA's best December since 2007.

"2011 has turned out to be an important year of recovery for Jaguar Land Rover North America, and the industry overall, as well as a good platform for continued growth in 2012" said Andy Goss, President, JLRNA. "In North America, we have surpassed the 50,000 unit sales mark for the first time since 2007 indicating the strength of our brands and our business in this market. Congratulations go out to all our U.S. dealers and employees for this great result."

U.S. BRAND HIGHLIGHTS

Land Rover

Land Rover's U.S. sales for the year were up 21 percent driven by the growing appeal of the SUV lineup and improved business conditions. The volume leader for 2010 was the Range Rover Sport with 15,333 units sold, up 24 percent from 12,347 sales in 2010. The re-designed LR4 sold 7,983 units, up 12 percent from 7,122 units in 2010. The flagship Range Rover hit 9,761 sales, up 11 percent from 8,746 sales in 2010. The all-new Range Rover Evoque went on sale in October and sales totaled 2,244 in three months. The Range Rover Evoque has received more than 50 awards and recognitions, including Motor Trend’s 2012 Sport/Utility of the Year, Autoweek's "Best of Best" Truck, Road & Travel's International Truck of the Year,

Land Rover's 2012 Model Year line-up features four models: The 230-hp 3.2 liter I6 powered LR2; the LR4 powered by the 375-hp 5.0 liter V8; the Range Rover Sport and Range Rover, both available with the Naturally-aspirated 375-hp V8 and 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. The Model Year 12 Range Rover Evoque luxury compact SUV went on sale in October. The 2012 Range Rover Evoque has a starting price of $43,995* for the five-door, and $44,995* for the coupe and achieves 28 MPG** EPA highway and 18 MPG** EPA city.

Jaguar

Jaguar's U.S. sales for the year were down 8 percent to 12,276 units, from 13,340 in 2010. The volume leader for 2011 was the Jaguar XF with 5,303 sales. The Jaguar XJ hit 5,235 sales, up 22 percent from 4,278 sales in 2010. The Jaguar XK coupe and convertible had a stable year with 1,738 sales, down 18 percent from 2,137 in 2010. For the month of December, Jaguar XF sales were up 23 percent with 601 units sold from 489 in 2010.

Jaguar's 2012 Model Year line-up features three models: The Jaguar XJ luxury sedan, powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8; the Jaguar XF sports sedan powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, the 470-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 or, in the XFR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains; and the XK coupe and convertible sports cars powered by either the naturally-aspirated 385-hp V8, or for the XKR, the 510-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrains. For 2012, Jaguar has added its highest performance model ever, the 2012 Jaguar XKR-S coupe and convertible with a 550-hp supercharged 5.0 liter V8 powertrain.

Mitsubishi Motors Sales Were Up 41.9 Percent in 2011

Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) today reported December 2011 sales of 5,032 units, up 3.2 percent from December 2010. Mitsubishi's 2011 sales finished 41.9 percent more than sales in calendar year 2010. This marks Mitsubishi's highest full-year sales total since 2008.

"The combination of fuel efficiency and performance presented by products like the Outlander Sport, Lancer, and Mitsubishi i are definitely resonating with customers," said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. "We are pleased that more consumers are choosing Mitsubishi products as they are beginning to feel more confident in the economy."

The first retail sales of the all-new, all-electric Mitsubishi i began in December in California, Washington, Oregon and Hawaii. At the certified Mitsubishi i dealers in those four states, the Mitsubishi i is currently available for test drives.

In response to tremendous consumer interest, Mitsubishi has decided to bring forward the national rollout of the Mitsubishi i by 9 months. Therefore the Mitsubishi i will be available for customer test drives at i-certified Mitsubishi dealerships across the U.S. in March, and the Mitsubishi i will be available for customer purchase across the U.S. by summer 2012.

Customers can reduce their wait time by preordering the Mitsubishi i now at i-certified Mitsubishi dealerships or online at www.mitsubishicars.com.

Other December sales highlights:

• The Outlander Sport model had its best month since July with an increase of 57.8% compared to December 2010. Outlander Sport production at Mitsubishi's plant in Normal, Illinois, will begin later this year.
  
• Lancer sales were up 4.6 percent compared to December 2010.
  

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported 264,460 vehicles sold in 2011, representing the highest annual volume on record with a 17.5% increase over the 225,007 vehicles sold during the same period in 2010. On a month-to-date basis, 28,006 vehicles were sold in December, a 30.4% improvement over December 2010 (21,469).

The all-new sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – was the volume leader for the year with sales of 69,314, up 17.9% over its year-to-date volume in 2010. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 62,736, and the all-new versatile M-Class rounded out the top three with sales of 35,835. Total diesel units sold in 2011 numbered 14,358, an 85.2% increase over the same period last year.

For December, sales at the high-end continued strong as the 2012 CLS-Class posted an increase of 155.2% for the month. The company also sold 86 of its supercar -- the SLS AMG -- up 79.2% from December 2010, bringing its year-to-date sales to 722.

Separately, sales of Sprinter Vans also increased by 15.7% in December with sales of 1,595 – bringing a year-to-date total of 16,577 (up 93.7 % for the year).

Sales of the smart fortwo totaled 710 vehicles in December, up 24.6% for the month (compared to the 570 vehicles sold in December 2010). For the year, smart brand sales were 5,208 (compared to 5,927 sold in 2010).

Additionally, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 6,112 vehicles in December 2011, a decrease of 3.5%. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 74,571 vehicles, a decrease of 7.6% over the comparable period last year.

• Record 2011 Sales of 645,691 Up 20 Percent
  
• Sonata Achieves Top 5 Car Retail Sales Ranking with Over 200,000 Retail Sales
  

COSTA MESA, Calif., Jan. 4, 2012 – Hyundai Motor America today announced sales of 50,765 vehicles in December, a 13 percent total sales increase and 18 percent retail sales increase compared with the same record-setting period a year ago.

For the year, Hyundai sales were up 20 percent versus 2010 in total, with sales to retail customers up 29 percent. Sales to fleet accounts represented just 10 percent of total sales for 2011 and three percent for the month of December.

“We are encouraged by the present market fundamentals combined with consistent signals including brisk holiday selling that indicates a broader industry recovery,” said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America’s executive vice president of national sales. “We finished 2011 with solid momentum and much improved inventory levels and are enthusiastic about our prospects for 2012 as we continue to launch a broad array of new product entries.”

The Alabama-built Sonata and North American Car of the Year finalist Elantra both set full-year records with sales of 225,961 units (up 15 percent) and 186,361 (up 41 percent) respectively. The all-new Accent saw an incredible year-over-year sales increase of 91 percent for the month of December and finished the year up seven percent over 2010.

Hyundai’s premium models also performed well, with Genesis delivering 32,998 sales for the year, an increase of 13 percent over 2010, setting an all-time yearly record. In its very first year, Equus found 3,193 very satisfied owners, delivering over five percent market share of the premium sedan segment with residual values and J.D. Power APEAL ratings unsurpassed by Lexus, Mercedes-Benz, BMW, or Audi. Equus is powered by the 5.0L Tau GDI V8 429-horsepower engine, a 2011 Ward’s Ten Best engines winner.

“December was another record-setting month and 2011 a record-setting year for Hyundai,” said John Krafcik, president and CEO, Hyundai Motor America. “Hyundai sold a record 645,691 units this year, built over 420,000 cars right here in the U.S., and achieved an industry-leading 36.1 miles per gallon CAFÉ level doing it.

“Sonata’s retail sales performance in 2011 was a real highlight for us. Along with Camry, Accord, Civic, and possibly Altima, the Hyundai Sonata was one of only five cars in the entire industry with retail sales (excluding fleet) over 200,000 units. Consumers tell us they have segment-leading levels of satisfaction with the bold design and real-world fuel economy of the Sonata – this recipe has been extremely successful for all of our new Hyundai products.”

Hyundai Motor America December 2011 Sales Chart

Toyota Reports December 2011 and Year-End Sales

TORRANCE, Calif. (Jan. 4, 2012) – Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported December 2011 sales results of 178,131 units, flat compared to the same period last year on a daily selling rate (DSR) basis and raw volume basis.

Toyota Division reported December sales of 152,776 units, up 1.9 percent over 2010. Lexus Division reported sales of 25,355 units, down 8.0 percent from the year-ago month.

For the full year, TMS reported annual sales of 1,644,661 vehicles, down 7.0 percent from the same period in 2010 on a DSR basis, as inventory continued to recover from shortages due to the earthquake and tsunami in Japan. With 307 selling days in 2011 and 306 selling days in 2010, annual sales were down 6.7 percent on an unadjusted raw volume basis.

Toyota Division recorded year-end sales of 1,446,109 vehicles, a decrease of 6.1 percent from the prior year on a DSR basis and 5.7 percent on a volume basis. Lexus reported sales of 198,552 units in 2011, down 13.7 percent on a DSR basis from 2010. Volume-wise, Lexus Division year-end sales decreased 13.4 percent. Scion Division reported sales of 49,271 units for the year, up 7.5 percent over 2010 on a DSR basis and up 7.9 percent on a volume basis.

"We are encouraged by the strong close of 2011 as December was our best volume month of the year. We successfully launched several new vehicles, including the all-new Camry, which retained its number one position for the tenth straight year, along with the Prius v, which attracted new customers to the Toyota family," said Jim Lentz, president and chief operating officer, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. "We begin 2012 with high expectations fueled by a strengthening economy, increasing consumer confidence and the biggest surge of new and updated products in our history. We thank our customers, dealers and business partners for their continued support and loyalty."

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded December sales of 83,422 units, up 5.6 percent over the year-ago month, and year-end sales of 796,133 units, down 6.5 percent. Camry and Camry Hybrid led passenger cars in December with combined sales of 33,506 units, an increase of 8.7 percent.

Camry and Camry Hybrid also led passenger car sales for the year posting combined sales of 308,510 units. Corolla reported monthly sales of 21,009 units and annual sales of 240,259 units. The Prius family posted December sales of 17,004 units, up 8.7 percent compared to the year-ago month. For the year, Prius family recorded sales of 136,463 units. Avalon sales increased 20.0 percent with monthly sales of 3,230 units, and increased 1.6 percent with annual sales of 28,925 units.

Toyota Division light trucks reported December sales of 69,354 units, down 2.2 percent from the same period last year, with year-end sales of 649,976 units, a decrease of 5.5 percent. With monthly sales of 14,107, the RAV4 compact SUV led light truck sales for December 2011. For the year, light truck sales were also led by RAV4 with sales of 132,237 units. For the month, Highlander and Highlander Hybrid increased 4.5 percent with combined sales of 11,777. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined annual sales of 101,252 units, an increase of 9.6 percent. The Tundra full-size pickup recorded monthly sales of 9,042 units, and year-end sales of 82,908 units. The Tacoma mid-size pickup reported sales of 12,140 for December 2011, up 10.7 percent over last year. Annually, Tacoma recorded sales of 110,705 units for 2011. Sienna posted December sales of 11,564 units, an increase of 31.0 percent versus the year-ago month. For the year, Sienna recorded sales of 111,429 units, up 12.9 percent over 2010.

Scion reported December 2011 sales of 4,159 units, an increase of 5.1 percent, and annual sales of 49,271 units, up 7.5 percent over 2010. The Scion tC sports coupe recorded monthly sales of 1,587, and annual sales of 22,433 units, an increase of 47.5 percent. The xB urban utility vehicle recorded monthly sales of 1,587, and annual sales of 17,017 units. The x D posted sales of 880 units, up 6.8 percent over the year ago month, and 9,573 units for 2011.

Lexus Division

Lexus Division passenger cars reported December sales of 12,304 units, down 2.9 percent from December 2010, and year-end sales of 101,181 units, down 10.8 percent from 2010. For the month, the ES entry luxury sedan led Lexus passenger car sales of 4,882 units. The ES also led year-end sales with 40,873 units. The IS entry luxury sport sedan recorded combined monthly sales of 3,629 units and annual sales of 29,669 units. The CT entry luxury hybrid sedan recorded monthly sales 2,259 units and annual sales of 14,381 units.

Lexus Division light trucks reported December sales of 13,051 units, down 12.3 percent from the year-ago month, and year-end sales of 97,371 units, down 16.5 percent on a DSR basis over the previous year. The RX luxury utility vehicle led monthly and annual Lexus light truck sales with combined sales of 11,508 units and 82,595 units, respectively.

TMS Hybrids

In December, TMS posted sales of 23,172 hybrid vehicles, up 12.9 percent over December 2010. TMS hybrid sales in 2011 totaled 178,587 units.

Toyota Division posted December sales of 19,364 hybrids, up 8.7 percent, and year-end sales of 150,253 hybrid units. Lexus Division posted sales of 3,808 hybrids for the month and 28,334 units for the full year, up 7.7 percent over 2010.

*Unless otherwise noted, all percent change figures are reported on a daily selling rate basis.

American Honda Reports December Sales

Fit sets new monthly sales record; Odyssey and Pilot sales also increase

01/04/2012 - TORRANCE, Calif.

American Honda Motor Co., Inc., today reported December monthly new-vehicle sales of 105,230, a decrease of 18.8 percent on a daily selling-rate* basis. American Honda's 2011 annual vehicle sales totaled 1,147,285, a decrease of 7.1 percent compared to 2010.

The Honda Division's December monthly sales of 92,101 represented a decrease of 19.3 percent compared to 2010. Honda Division's 2011 annual sales of 1,023,986 decreased 6.9 percent compared to 2010. The three top-selling Honda models for 2011 were Accord, 235,625; Civic, 221,235; and CR-V, 218,373.

"As we eagerly close one of the most challenging years American Honda has weathered, we are well-positioned for a strong 2012," said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. "Although we still had low inventory in December, our production levels are now back to normal. The new year brings the promise of positive momentum with the all-new CR-V now on sale and a concept version of the ninth-generation 2013 Honda Accord Coupe to be unveiled next week at the North American International Auto Show."

Monthly Odyssey sales increased by 13.2 percent to 11,489, and Pilot sales increased 12.6 percent to 11,641. Additional models with monthly sales gains included Fit, up 5.7 percent to 5,138, setting a new December sales record, and Ridgeline with a sales increase of 21.2 percent to 1,468.

The Acura Division's year-end sales totaled 123,299, down 8.0 percent compared to 2010 results. December Acura sales totaled 13,129, a decrease of 15.2 percent. The MDX led the division with annual sales of 43,271, followed by the TL with sales of 31,237 and the TSX with sales of 30,935.

*The annual Daily Selling Rate (DSR) is calculated with 307 days for 2011 and 306 days for 2010. December 2011 and December 2010 both included 27 selling days. All percentages represent DSR.

Honda America December 2011 Sales Chart

KIA MOTORS' RECORD DECEMBER SALES INCREASE BY 42.5 PERCENT;

FAST-GROWING KIA ACHIEVES ALL-TIME BEST FULL-YEAR SALES AND MARKET SHARE IN 2011

Kia Surpassed 485,000 Annual Sales for the First Time and Gained U.S. Market Share for the 17th Consecutive Year; Soul Tops 100,000 Units for the First Time

IRVINE, Calif., January 4, 2012 - After surpassing its all-time best annual sales total in the first nine months of 2011, Kia Motors America (KMA) today reported record December sales of 43,390 units, a 42.5-percent increase over the same period in 2010, which contributed to the brand's best-ever full-year sales of 485,492 vehicles. Kia, one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S.¹, has achieved 16 straight monthly sales records, and 2011's 36.3-percent sales increase over 2010 far outpaced the industry. KMA's unprecedented gains follow an aggressive three-year sequence of new vehicle introductions that began with the Soul in 2009. In 2011, the popular urban passenger vehicle became KMA's second vehicle to exceed sales of 100,000 units. Kia's U.S.-built* products – Optima and Sorento – continued to be the brand's best performers for the third consecutive month, with Optima topping the sales chart for the first time since its introduction in late 2010. Kia's U.S. market share has risen for 17 straight years, including a 78-percent increase since 2008 to today's 3.8-percent².

"Kia is a much different company than just three years ago, and with one of the youngest and most acclaimed vehicle lineups in the industry, Kia's customer loyalty rate has dramatically improved and at the same time, more new car shoppers are looking at Kia than ever before as evidenced by our substantial sales and market share gains in 2011," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. "The Kia brand is built on a commitment to offering our customers high-quality, stylish, fun-to-drive and fuel efficient vehicles that are packed with the latest technologies, amenities and safety features, and we will continue to deliver on that promise in 2012 and into the future with the introduction of more new models."

Kia's Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is the one of the world's fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling. Kia Motors America's full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand. In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality³ and the industry's highest brand loyalty ranking⁴. Kia's U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company's two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan⁵. Kia's value and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

Kia Motors December 2011 Sales Chart

VOLKSWAGEN reports 26.3 percent inease in 2011 U.S. sales

December sales total 32,502, best December since 1972

• 2011 sales total 324,402 units, a 26.3 percent increase over prior year sales
  
• Best year in sales since 2002
  
• December sales total 32,502 units, a 36.2 percent increase over prior year sales and best December since 1972.
  
• Chattanooga-built Passat, finalist for North American Car of the Year, sold 22,779 units year-to-date, a 124 percent increase versus 2010; 6,884 units in December
  
• Jetta Sedan sales total12,422 units in December, a 54.5 percent increase versus 2010.
  
• 2012 Beetle achieved 1,530 units in December as production continues to ramp up
  
• Notable annual increases include: Golf up 22.8 percent, GTI up 22.6 percent, Eos up 12.6 percent and Touareg up 59.9 percent versus 2010.
  
• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 21.6 percent of sales in 2011 and 18.4 percent in December.
  

Herndon, Va. — Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) today reported 324,402 units sold in 2011, a 26.3 percent increase over prior year sales. December sales totaled 32,502, up 36.2 percent over 2010, marking the best December since 1972.

“December capped off a successful year of growth for Volkswagen of America,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “In addition to strong sales performance, in 2011 we opened an award-winning manufacturing facility in Chattanooga, Tenn., launched the all-new Beetle and Passat - which won the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year - and the brand made the biggest improvement in Sales Satisfaction in the industry. We look forward to carrying this momentum into 2012.”

The Chattanooga-built Passat, one of the three finalists for North American Car of the Year, outsold 2010’s volume by 124 percent selling 22,779 units, including 6,884 units for the month of December 2011.

Jetta sedan sales totaled 150,515 for 2011 a 54.5 percent increase over 2010; in December 12,422 units were sold marking an 18 percent increase.

The 2012 Beetle sold 5,626 units for the year, 1,530 for the month of December. GTI sales increased 22.6 percent for the year and 24.6 percent increase in December sales. The Touareg saw an increase in sales of 59.9 percent for the year and 38.6 percent for December.

Volkswagen’s high-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 21.6 percent of sales in 2011 and 18.4 percent in December.

Volkwagen December 2011 Sales Chart

-- Strong Demand Leads to Third Successive Sales Record for Subaru Brand --

-- Subaru Only Maker to Post Sales Increases for Four Consecutive Years --

December 2011 Marks Best-Ever Sales Month for Brand

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Jan 4, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported record vehicle sales for 2011 of 266,989. Subaru has now posted sales records in each of the past three years and Subaru is the only manufacturer in the US to have posted four successive years of sales growth.

The December sales total also marks Subaru's best-ever sales month, eclipsing the previous best month of August 2009 – the "Cash for Clunkers" month.

The 2011 achievement for Subaru is all the more remarkable considering the company had to contend with significant production delays caused by the tsunami and earthquake in Japan in March 2011. To respond to strong consumer demand for its latest products, and to make up for lost production, Subaru's parent company Fuji Heavy Industries increased vehicle manufacture in the second half of 2011 and the company is now producing more cars per month than at any time in its history.

Demand for the Subaru Legacy, Outback and Forester models continued to be strong in 2011 with Legacy and Outback setting individual records. The all-new 36 mpg Impreza began retail sales in November, boosting sales still further. With consumer demand so high, the company predicts a fourth record year in 2012 with sales likely to reach the milestone 300,000 mark.

Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc said, "We are thrilled to close 2011 with a third consecutive sales record for Subaru. We need to thank our retailers, distributors, our employees and of course the dedication and commitment of Fuji Heavy Industries staff for making these results possible. 2011 was the best year in our history, but with our production levels now running at their highest ever, and our best ever line-up in place, we are committed to another record-setting year in 2012."

"We are very pleased to welcome the 266,989 customers to the Subaru family," said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc. "With production now catching up to demand, our December sales show the potential for the Subaru brand for 2012. We delivered 34,000 cars in to dealers in December, beating our previous highest total by 5,000. Given how quickly our products are moving, we expect to reach another significant sales milestone in 2012."

Subaru December 2011 Sales Chart

IRVINE, Calif. (January 4, 2012) - Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported December U.S. sales of 22,353 vehicles, an increase of 4.1 percent versus last year. On a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis, Mazda's December 2011 sales also were up 4.1 percent. December 2011 represented Mazda's best December since 2007, the strong sales showing attributable to the launch of the company's innovative SKYACTIV-G engine and SKYACTIV-Drive and -MT transmissions in the 2012 Mazda3 compact sedan and 5-door hatch.

Closing out an up-and-down 2011 that saw consumers starting to return to showrooms, although still shopping as much as they were actually buying, Mazda's U.S. sales were up 9.1 percent over 2010, with 250,426 vehicles sold.

Key December sales notes:

- Mazda2 sales were up 60.9 percent, with 1,342 vehicles sold in December.

- Mazda5 sales were up 52.5 percent, with 1,206 vehicles sold.

- CX-9 crossover SUV sales were up 27.8 percent, with 4,206 vehicles sold. This represented the best-ever December for the award-winning three-row, seven-passenger CX-9.

- Mazda3 sales of 9,264 vehicles accounted for a 2.7 percent increase over last year. The new 2012 Mazda3 features Mazda's innovative SKYACTIV-G engine and SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission that achieves 40 MPG on the highway, all without sacrificing driving performance.

Rounding out December sales for the North American market, Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported its best-ever month with sales of 3,660 vehicles, accounting for a 10.0 percent increase versus last year. MMdM also celebrated its best-ever year in 2011 as sales surged 19.0 percent with 29,860 vehicles sold.

In a very challenging market, Mazda Canada, Inc. (MCI) sold 4,868 vehicles in December, down 7.0 percent. For the year, MCI sold 69,186 vehicles, down 12.0 percent versus last year.

NISSAN NORTH AMERICA SALES INCREASE 7.7% FOR RECORD DECEMBER

- 2011 best-ever year for Nissan Div. up 17.3% on strength of Altima, Rogue, Versa -

Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported record December U.S. sales of 100,927 units versus 93,730 units a year earlier, an increase of 7.7 percent. Nissan Division sales also set a new December record, increasing 10.7 percent for the month to 89,937 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles 12.1 decreased percent from the prior year, to 10,990 units.

NNA finished the calendar year with 2011 sales totaling 1,042,534 units, with the Nissan Division seeing a record year with sales of 944,073 units and Infiniti closing the year with 98,461 deliveries.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

• Nissan vehicles posted record December sales with 89,937 units, an increase of 10.7 percent over the 81,228 units sold in December 2010.
  
• In 2011, Nissan vehicles achieved a record, with sales of 944,073 units a 17.3 percent increase over 2010.
  
• The Nissan Altima continues to rank among the best-selling cars in the United States, with 25,976 units in December marking an increase of 12.9 percent over the prior year. Altima sales totaled 268,981 in 2011, a 17.3 percent increase from 2010 deliveries.
  
• Versa, spurred by the all-new 2012 Versa Sedan, saw record yearly sales, totaling 99,730 for 2011.
  
• The Rogue crossover also delivered a December record, as well as a calendar year record, with sales of 12,286 units in December (up 18.6 percent) contributing to an annual total of 124,543 a 25.1 percent increase over last year.
  
• Nissan’s truck lineup showed significant gains over last December, up 27.5 percent led by Frontier (up 48.7 percent) and Murano (up 13.3 percent).
  
• Sales of the 100-percent electric Nissan LEAF totaled 954 units in December, with deliveries totaling 9,674 since the vehicle’s December 2010 U.S. debut. With sales exceeding 21,000 globally, the Nissan LEAF is the world’s best-selling electric car.
  

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

• Infiniti sales totaled 10,990 units for December, a decrease of 12.1 percent versus 12,502 a year earlier.
  
• Calendar year sales for Infiniti were down 4.8 percent, with sales totaling 98,461 units in 2011 versus 103,411 units in 2010.
  
• Infiniti QX sales of 1,735 showed an increase of 7.8 percent for December, its best month in more than seven years, and the full-size luxury SUV had an increase of 12.7 percent 13,428 units for the year.
  
• With sales of 5,399 in December, the Infiniti G Sedan had its best month in 2011, contributing to an increase of 5.1 percent for the year.
  

“Although 2011 had some unique challenges stemming from natural disasters in Japan and Thailand and uncertain economic conditions around the globe, Nissan managed the crisis better than most, allowing our lineup to gain momentum throughout the year,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Sales. “Strong consumer demand for vehicles like the Altima, Rogue, Versa and LEAF helped propel us to a record 2011. With new core Nissan models on the way, we expect 2012 to be even better.”

NOTE: To ensure consistency in global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days. December 2011 had 27 selling days, as did December 2010.

Strong Results Led by Demand for Cayenne and 911

ATLANTA -January 2, 2012 - Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced December 2011 sales of 1,834 vehicles and year-to-date sales of 29,023 vehicles. The year-to-date sales compare to 25,320 vehicles sold last year - a 15 percent increase.

"2011 represents a very positive step forward for Porsche and demonstrates the brand’s continued strength in the United States market," said Detlev von Platen, PCNA’s President and CEO. "We are confident we will build on this momentum moving forward into the new year with the launch of the 7th generation 911, a new Boxster and several other new products.”

Much of Porsche's 2011 sales success can be attributed to the continuing momentum of the Cayenne SUV. Sales of the Cayenne in the U.S. were 12,978 in 2011 compared to 8,343 in 2010 - a 56 percent increase.

Another highlight for Porsche last year was the continued success of the 911. With the all-new 911 Carrera and Carrera S due to go on sale in the United States February 4, 2012, sales of current models continue to be strong. Annual sales in 2011 were 6,016 compared to 5,735 in 2010, an increase of 5 percent.

Also in December, sales of Porsche's Approved Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) vehicles rose to 538 versus 533 during the same period in 2010. CPO total sales in 2011 were 8,323 compared to 7,298 in 2010.

Porsche USA December 2011 Sales Chart

Audi sets all-time U.S. sales record in 2011; brand expects momentum to continue into 2012

• December 2011 sales set all-time record with 12,655 vehicles sold, a 20% gain across the model line up

• 2011 marks the best year in Audi of America history, with 12 straight months of record-setting sales and 117,561 vehicles sold YTD

• Record-shattering 2011 sales propelled by demand for C- and D-segment vehicles, representing 34% of the sales mix, and strong TDI® clean diesel sales

Audi today announced record U.S. sales of 117,561 vehicles sold in 2011, eclipsing the prior record of 101,629 vehicles sold in 2010. Marking the best year Audi has ever enjoyed in the U.S. market, year-end sales increased 15.7% over 2010. December 2011 also set a new all-time monthly record, with 12,655 vehicles sold, a 20% increase over the same period last year.

“Another record year of sales reinforces the Audi position in the U.S. market, as consumers increasingly choose Audi over other luxury competitors,” said Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen. “In 2012, Audi will continue to capture a significant share of the premium luxury market with exceptionally engineered vehicles.”

December results were buoyed by strong performance in the C and D segments, with record December sales for the technologically advanced Audi A6, the design-forward Audi A7 and the flagship A8 sedan. A6 sales of 1,855 increased 124% over 2010, while sales of the A8 luxury sedan increased 35% to 678 vehicles sold. Sales of the all-new Audi A7 four-door coupe remained solid, with 887 vehicles sold in December.

Highlights:

• Best December ever, and best month ever, with 12,655 vehicles sold, a 20% increase over December 2010; December also marked the first month with over 12,000 vehicles sold in Audi of America history

• Record sales every month of 2011 for a total of 117,561 vehicles sold YTD, a 15.7% increase over last year

• A8 sales grew 275% YTD to 5,700 units sold in 2011

• A6 and A7 December sales marked the best month for both models in 2011

• C- and D-segment sales surged: 34% mix in December 2011 vs. 22% in December 2010

• The Audi TT continues its success, due mainly to strong sales of TT RS, with a 238% increase in December to 216 vehicles sold

• Demand for key models is exceptionally strong: days’ supply for Q5 and Q7 in single digits nationally

• TDI® mix remains very strong: 55% of total A3 sales YTD and 41% of total Q7 sales YTD were TDI clean diesel models

• December was a record month for Audi Certified pre-owned, surpassing the record in December 2007 of 2,889 sales, with 3,406 units sold; YTD sales set a new all-time annual record with a total of 37,259 units sold in 2011

Audi N.A. December 2011 Sales Chart

• Retail sales increase 45 percent; best monthly retail sales in four years
  
• Best total sales since May 2008
  
• Chrysler Group U.S. sales increase 26 percent in 2011, the largest percentage sales gain of any full-line manufacturer
  
• Chrysler Group U.S. market share grows 1.3 percentage points in 2011; largest share gain of any automaker
  
• December marks the 21st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
  
• Seventh-consecutive month of sales gains of at least 20 percent
  
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, and Ram Truck brands each post sales increases in December versus same month a year ago
  
• FIAT brand sales up 44 percent compared with sales in the previous month
  
• Jeep brand posts its best sales month since December 2007
  
• Jeep Grand Cherokee logs its best sales month in six years
  
• Jeep Wrangler sets new sales record for month of December; seventh-consecutive monthly sales record this year
  
• Jeep Compass posts 11-fold sales increase compared with the same month a year ago
  
• Chrysler brand sales up 83 percent; highest percentage sales increase of all Chrysler Group brands
  
• Best Chrysler brand sales since August 2008
  
• Sixth-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains for Chrysler brand
  
• New Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan sales up 661 percent compared with sales of its predecessor a year ago
  
• Chrysler 300 posts best sales month of the year; best December sales since 2007
  
• Dodge brand sales increase 28 percent; best December since 2007
  
• Seventh-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains for Dodge brand
  
• New Dodge Charger sales increase 227 percent compared with same month a year ago
  
• Ram pickup truck sales up 12 percent in December; best monthly sales since March 2008
  
• Ram 2500 Power Wagon named ‘2012 Pickup Truck of the Year’ by Four Wheeler magazine
  
• 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series introduced as the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler flagship sedan ever
  
• Dodge brand provides sneak peek of 2013 Dodge Dart, its all-new, state-of-the-art, four-door sedan in the compact car segment
  
• New 2012 Fiat 500 earns Men’s Journal magazine’s coveted ‘Gear of the Year’ award
  
• New 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon named ‘Four Wheeler of the Year’ by Four Wheeler magazine
  

Auburn Hills, Mich. , Jan 4, 2012 -

Chrysler Group LLC today reported U.S. sales of 138,019, a 37 percent increase compared with sales in December 2010 (100,702 units), the group’s best monthly sales since May 2008.

For the year, Chrysler Group sales totaled 1.37 million units, up 26 percent versus sales in 2010, the largest percentage sales gain of any full-line manufacturer. The Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, and Ram Truck brands each posted solid sales gains during 2011 compared with sales in 2010.

December marked Chrysler Group’s 21st-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and seventh-consecutive month of sales increases of at least 20 percent.

The group’s 37 percent December increase was driven in part by strong sales of the Chrysler 300 flagship sedan, Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan, Dodge Charger and Avenger sport sedans, Ram pickup truck, and the Jeep Grand Cherokee, Wrangler, and Compass.

“Chrysler Group finished a year of growth on a strong note with our December retail sales soaring 45 percent to our highest dealer retail sales in four years,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of US Sales. “Looking back, we were the fastest-growing automaker in the country, increasing our market share 1.3 percentage points during 2011.”

The Chrysler brand’s 83 percent increase, driven by surging sales of the Chrysler 300 and Chrysler 200 sedans, was the largest percentage sales gain of all the Chrysler Group brands and represents its best monthly sales since August 2008. The Jeep, Dodge, and Ram Truck brands each logged double-digit percentage sales gains in December, while the FIAT brand posted a 44 percent increase compared with the previous month of November.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 64-day supply of inventory (326,087 units). U.S. industry sales figures for December are projected at an estimated 14 million SAAR.

December 2011 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

Chrysler Brand

The Chrysler brand’s 83 percent sales increase in December represented the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand and its best monthly sales since August 2008. Brand sales were driven by the strong showing of its two sedans, the new 2012 Chrysler 300 full-size sedan and the mid-size 2012 Chrysler 200. Sales of the 200 were up a robust 661 percent in December, compared with sales of its predecessor the same month a year ago, while the 300 turned in a 242 percent sales gain.

The brand in December introduced the all-new 2012 Chrysler 300 Luxury Series, designed to be the most luxurious and fuel-efficient Chrysler flagship sedan ever. Arriving in the first quarter of 2012, the 300 Luxury Series combines ultra-premium leather – once limited to some of the most exotic Italian luxury cars – with world-class refinement and handling, state-of-the-art safety and connectivity features, and an eight-speed automatic transmission with the Pentastar® V-6 engine for 31 best-in-class highway miles per gallon.

Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales were up 41 percent in December, the brand’s best monthly sales performance since December 2007 and its 20th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The 2012 Jeep Wrangler, Grand Cherokee, and Compass significantly contributed to the brand’s 41 percent increase.

The Compass’ 1,035 percent sales gain in December was the largest of any Chrysler Group model in December. Wrangler, the most capable and recognized vehicle in the world, set a new sales record for the month of December; the model’s seventh-consecutive monthly sales record this year. Grand Cherokee sales were up 36 percent in December, its best sales month since December 2005.

The new 2012 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon – the most capable production vehicle on the planet – was named “Four Wheeler of the Year” by Four Wheeler magazine in December. The award is given annually by the editors of the opinion-leading off-road enthusiast magazine.

Dodge Brand

The Dodge brand posted a 28 percent sales increase in December compared with the same month in 2010. It was the brand’s seventh-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The 2012 Dodge Charger, America’s first domestic sport sedan to feature an eight-speed automatic transmission – delivering a best-in-class 31 mpg highway – led the brand with a 227 percent sales increase in December. It was the Charger’s best December sales since 2007.

The 2012 Dodge Avenger, America’s most affordable and most powerful mid-size sedan, and the 2012 Dodge Journey, the most affordable mid-size crossover in America, each posted double-digit percentage sales increases in December compared with the same month a year ago. The 2012 Dodge Durango, with its best-in-class capability, style, spaciousness, interior craftsmanship and driving dynamics, also contributed to the Dodge brand’s sales gain in December. Sales of the Durango full-size SUV were up 22 percent versus the previous month of November.

In December, the Dodge brand offered a sneak peek of the 2013 Dodge Dart, its all-new, state-of-the-art, four-door sedan that will compete in the compact car segment. The Dart is scheduled to be introduced Jan. 9 at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit.

Ram Truck Brand

The Ram Truck brand posted a 10 percent sales increase in December compared with the same month in 2010, its best monthly sales since August 2008. Ram pickup truck sales increased 12 percent in December, the model’s best sales month since March 2008. Both Light Duty and Heavy Duty trucks contributed to the increase. Despite the fluctuating gasoline prices during 2011, the Ram pickup truck logged a solid 23 percent sales increase for the year.

The editors of Four Wheeler magazine last month named the Ram 2500 Power Wagon “2012 Pickup Truck of the Year.” The Power Wagon beat the competition in a series of in-depth on- and off-road tests. Four Wheeler called out the Power Wagon’s versatility saying it was nearly unstoppable off-road yet still civilized enough to be driven daily.

December 2011 U.S. Sales Highlights

• Chrysler brand sales (23,974 units) increased 83 percent in December versus the same month a year ago (13,132 units)
  
• Sales of the Chrysler 200 (9,213 units) were up 661 percent compared with sales of the model’s previous generation (1,211 units) in December a year ago
  
• Chrysler 300 sales (5,142 units) increased 242 percent versus the same month in 2010 (1,503 units)
  
• Jeep brand sales (43,577 units) increased 41 percent compared with the same month last year (30,910 units)
  
• Jeep Wrangler sales (11,415 units) were up 39 percent versus December 2010 (8,227 units)
  
• Jeep Liberty sales (6,161 units) increased 23 percent compared with December sales a year ago (5,009 units)
  
• Sales of the Jeep Compass (4,255 units) were up 1,035 percent versus the same month in 2010 (375 units)
  
• Sales of the Jeep Grand Cherokee (17,346 units) increased 36 percent versus December a year ago (12,753 units)
  
• Dodge brand sales (41,548 units) were up 28 percent in December compared with the same month last year (32,390 units)
  
• Dodge Avenger sales (6,216 units) increased 77 percent versus December 2010 (3,510 units)
  
• Dodge Charger sales (7,211 units) were up 227 percent compared with the same month last year (2,205 units)
  
• Dodge Journey sales (4,710 units) were up 23 percent compared with the same month a year ago (3,830 units)
  
• Dodge Durango sales (4,806 units) were up 22 percent versus the previous month of November (3,947 units)
  
• Ram Truck brand sales (26,595 units) increased 10 percent versus December 2010 (24,270 units)
  
• Ram pickup truck sales (26,013 units) were up 12 percent compared with December 2010 (23,241 units)
  
• FIAT brand sales (2,325 units) were up 44 percent compared with the previous month of November (1,618 units)
  
• Chrysler Group truck sales (103,175 units) improved 19 percent compared with December 2010 (86,359 units)
  
• Chrysler Group car sales (34,844 units) were up 143 percent versus December last year (14,343 units)
  

Chrysler December 2011 Sales Chart

Sorted in order of total sales for the year.

General Motors - 234,351/2,503,820 Up 5% for the month; Up 14% for the year

Ford Motor Company -210,140 / 2,148,806 Up 10% for the month; Up 11% for the year

Toyota Motor Company - 178,131 / 1,644,661 Flat for the month; Down 7.0% for the year

Chrysler Group LLC - 138,019 / 1,369,114 Up 37% for the month; Up 26% for the year

Honda America - 105,230 / 1,147,285 Down 18.1% for the month; Down 7.1% for the year

Nissan North America - 100,927 / 1,042,534 Up 7.7% for the month; Up 14.7% for the year

Hyundai Motor America - 50,765 / 645,691 Up 13% for the month; Up 20% for the year

Kia Motors NA - 43,390 / 485,492 Up 42% for the month; Up 36.3% for the year

Volkswagen Group of America - 32,502 / 324,402 Up 36.2% for the month; Up 26.3 for the year

BMW Group - 32,545 / 305,418 Up 17.9% for the month; Up 14.9% for the year

Subaru of America - 33,701 / 266,989 Up 26.25% for the month; Up 1.2% for the year

Mercedes-Benz USA - 28,006 / 264,460 Up 30.4% for the month; Up 17.5% for the year

Mazda NA - 22,353 / 250,426 Up 4.1% for the month; Up 91% for the year

Audi of America - 12,655 / 117,561 Up 20% for the month; Up 15.7% for the year

Mitsubishi Motors NA - 5,032 / 79,020 Up 3.2% for the month; Up 41.9% for the year

Jaguar/Land Rover - 5,880 / 50,375 Up 20% for the month; Up 11% for the year

Porsche Cars North America - 1,834 / 29,023 Down 71% for the month; Up 15% for the year

American Suzuki - 2,566 / 26,619 Down 3% for the month; Up 11% for the year

Saab -

DETROIT – General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) today reported total U.S. sales of 234,351 vehicles in December, up 5 percent compared with December 2010. Sales for the calendar year were up 14 percent year over year to more than 2.5 million units and the company gained market share.

“GM’s balanced portfolio of fuel-efficient cars, trucks and crossovers helped us make the most of the U.S. economy’s slow but steady recovery in 2011,” said Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “Importantly, we were able to grow all four of our brands and reestablish Chevrolet as a force to be reckoned with in the passenger car business. This gives us a very solid foundation to compete in a market that we expect to keep growing.”

In December, retail deliveries were up 2 percent compared with a very strong December 2010, and accounted for 81 percent of GM sales. Deliveries to fleets were up 17 percent.

GM’s total passenger car sales for the month increased 12 percent. Crossover sales decreased 14 percent. Sales of trucks, which include full-size pickups, vans and SUVs increased 13 percent.

Highlights for the month include a 42 percent year-over-year increase in Chevrolet Sonic sales (compared with the Aveo), a 54 percent increase in Chevrolet Cruze sales, a 20 percent increase for the Chevrolet Camaro and a 13 percent increase for the Chevrolet Malibu. The Chevrolet Volt sold more than 1,500 units, making December its best month ever.

Other highlights include double-digit sales increases for the Cadillac SRX, Chevrolet Avalanche, Colorado, Silverado, Tahoe and Suburban, and the GMC Yukon XL. In addition, Chevrolet Equinox had its best sales month of the year in December.

GM ended December with about 580,000 units in dealer stock, including approximately 180,000 full-size pickup trucks, as planned.

GM expects full-year 2012 light vehicle sales to be in a range of 13.5 million to 14.0 million units. In previous years, GM’s forecasts were based on total vehicle sales, which included medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, or about 300,000 additional units.

“Over the course of the fourth quarter of 2011, clear signs emerged that U.S. consumers are more confident and that other underpinnings of our economy are either stable or slowly improving,” Johnson said. “When we add improving economic fundamentals to pent-up demand and an aging vehicle fleet, it’s now clear that auto sales should continue to grow in 2012, barring a shock to the system.”

General Motors Co. (NYSE:GM, TSX: GMM) and its partners produce vehicles in 30 countries, and the company has leadership positions in the world's largest and fastest-growing automotive markets. GM’s brands include Chevrolet and Cadillac, as well as Baojun, Buick, GMC, Holden, Isuzu, Jiefang, Opel, Vauxhall and Wuling. More information on the company and its subsidiaries, including OnStar, a global leader in vehicle safety, security and information services, can be found at http://www.gm.com.

General Motors December 2011 Sales Chart

2011 Ford Brand Sales up 17 Percent for the Year in U.S.; Fuel-Efficient Cars, Utilities, Trucks Drive Sales Gains

• U.S. sales of the Ford brand totaled 2,062,915 vehicles in 2011, sealing its first three-point market share gain over three consecutive years since 1970
  
• Ford brand small car sales were up 25 percent in 2011, with 244,291 vehicles sold, while utilities increased 31 percent with 579,626 sales. Ford sold 584,917 F-Series pickups in 2011, making it the best-selling truck for 35 consecutive years and the best-selling vehicle for 30 years
  
• Ford posts best December retail sales month since 2005; total company sales in December were up 10 percent
  
• Ford announces 2012 outlook for industry sales and economic growth
  

DEARBORN, Mich., Jan. 4, 2012 – Ford brand 2011 U.S. sales increased 17 percent, totaling 2,062,915 vehicles, sealing the brand’s first three-point market share gain over three consecutive years since 1970. Total Ford Motor Company sales for the year increased to 2,148,806 vehicles, up 11 percent for the year.

“The year finished on a high note, with industry sales momentum strengthening as the year came to a close,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “We saw Ford sales strengthen as well, posting our best December retail sales month since 2005 and closing the year as America’s best-selling brand.”

Small car, utilities and truck sales drove Ford’s marketplace performance in 2011. Small car sales were up 25 percent in 2011 with 244,291 cars sold.

Ford Fusion had a record year with 248,067 vehicles sold.

Ford brand utility sales totaled 579,626 vehicles in 2011, up 31 percent, making it the best-selling utility brand in America. Sales were paced by the Explorer, up 124 percent, with 135,704 sold, and record Escape sales of 254,293, up 33 percent for the year, including an all-time monthly sales record in December of 25,574 vehicles.

In December, Ford brand sales were 201,737, up 16 percent from a year earlier. Ford sold 68,278 F-Series pickups in December, representing its best December sales results since 2006. For the year, F-Series sales totaled 584,917 trucks, making it the only vehicle to break the 500,000 vehicle sales mark last year.

For 2012, Ford expects the global economy to expand in the 3 percent range, extending the global economic recovery to a third consecutive year. Global industry sales are projected to be in the range of 75 million to 85 million.

In the U.S., Ford expects the economy to expand 2 to 3 percent in 2012 and industry sales to be in the range of 13.5 million to 14.5 million.

Economies in Europe are tracking at different speeds. Ford expects industry sales in the European 19 markets to be in the range of 14.0 million to 15.0 million units in 2012.

December 2011 Ford Sales Chart