Chrysler Canada sales jump 12%

Chrysler has regained its sales momentum in Canada, with sales of 13,822 units – up 12% from December 2008. Retail sales rose 26% while fleet sales dropped. Larger vehicles led the way, with increased minivan, Journey, Ram, and Jeep sales.

Minivan sales rose 75% from December 2008; Chrysler sold three out of four minivans in Canada in December. The Dodge Grand Caravan remains one of Canada’s top five nameplates with over 40,000 sold in 2009.

Ram pickup sales rose 30% over December 2008, with 2,553 sales.

The Dodge Journey completed the year by securing the title of No.1 selling crossover in Canada, outselling more than 30 competitive nameplates.

Sales of Jeep® brand vehicles gained 2% in December, led by the Jeep Grand Cherokee (up 22%) and the Jeep Patriot.

Reid Bigland, President and CEO of Chrysler Canada, said, “We expect 2010 to be strong, as our all-new and refreshed vehicles start hitting the dealer showrooms. By the end of the year, 75% of our product portfolio will have received a major overhaul, and we think Canadians will be blown away by what they see from us.”