Chrysler sales up vs. February, down from 2009

Chrysler Group announced promising March sales results, posting a 10% increase compared with February 2010. New and improved vehicles had both month-over-month and year-over-year sales increases.

“New products like the 2010 Ram Heavy Duty pickup truck and Dodge Caliber with an all-new interior are resonating with consumers, resulting in increasing sales,” said Fred Diaz, President and Chief Executive Officer – Ram Truck Brand and Lead Executive for the Sales Organization. “Consumer confidence indicators are up this month and traffic in dealership showrooms continues to grow.” (Stay tuned for an interview with Mr. Diaz.)

Total U.S. sales for March 2010 were 92,623 units, a decrease of 8% compared with March 2009 (101,001 units) and an increase of 10% compared with last month (84,449 units). Chrysler Group finished the month with a 58-day supply (207,510 units) of inventory, a 41% decline compared with March 2009.

Diaz pointed out, “Last year at this time, the old company was buying market share with high incentives in an effort to stave off bankruptcy; this year consumers are purchasing our products for the quality, value and industry-leading features.”

Ram Heavy Duty pickup truck sales increased 20% from March 2009 and 56% from February.
Chrysler Town & Country and Chrysler Sebring had year-over-year and month-over-month increases
Jeep® sales increased year to year and month to month
Dodge Challenger gained 36% over March 2009 and 50% over February 2010.
Dodge Caliber, newly revised, increased 30% over last month