Chrysler LLC today reported total September 2008 U.S. sales of 107,349 units, down 33 percent from the same period last year. Total September sales reflect a highly volatile economic environment, ongoing segment shifts and reduced fleet and lease volume. Sales for the month were supported by models such as the Dodge Journey, Dodge Grand Caravan, and Chrysler Town & Country, as well as competitive pricing and aggressive monthly payment offers. "The economy is going through a difficult restructuring, resulting in great uncertainty among consumers," Jim Press, Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President, said. “We are committed to supporting our customers with significant savings and innovative financing, and our dealers with new business solutions. Longer term, we all need to be investing in building a healthier automobile industry and be ready to compete when the economy strengthens.”
October Incentives
This month’s incentives provide consumers an opportunity to take advantage of the remaining 2008 model-year inventory at the best deals of the year. The incentive plan will focus on aggressive cash positions and discounted APR financing that drive lower monthly payments. For example on the remaining inventory of the 2008 model-year Dodge Ram, there are total manufacturer discounts up to $6,000 or 0 percent APR financing for 72 months with $1,000 cash back.
For returning lease customers, Chrysler will offer Lease Loyalty allowance of up to $750 toward a new retail purchase. For consumers interested in leasing through independent financial institutions, Chrysler offers Bonus Cash of up to $2,000 on select 2008 model-year vehicles.
September Sales Highlights
Chrysler LLC’s minivan sales continued to thrive in September based on their strong appeal as fuel efficient, multi-passenger vehicles. Compared with September sales in 2007, the Chrysler Town & Country achieved a 6 percent increase with sales of 9,229 units, and the Dodge Grand Caravan increased 6 percent with sales of 11,056 units. With more than 12 million minivans sold worldwide in their 25-year history, Chrysler and Dodge minivans still command 40 percent of the U.S. minivan market.
The mid-size Chrysler Sebring Convertible continues to resonate well in the market, achieving an 11 percent increase with 1,813 units in September.
Offering the versatility of a sport-utility vehicle (SUV) and the affordability and fuel efficiency of a compact car, the Dodge Caliber posted sales of 6,129 units, down 3 percent over last year's total of 6,348 units. However, when compared with August 2008 sales, the Caliber’s sales increased by 52 percent.
The all-new Dodge Journey continues to make its mark in the crossover segment offering best-in-class fuel economy (19 mpg city/25 mpg highway) and award-winning seven-passenger interior utility. The Dodge Journey reached 4,860 units, up 6 percent when compared with August 2008 sales.
The sell-down of 2008 Dodge Ram pickups has progressed and made way for the all-new 2009 model arriving at dealers in October. The 2009 model-year Dodge Ram offers a best-in-class combination of power and fuel efficiency with a base starting price of $22,170 (regular cab, includes destination).
The Company finished the month with 381,365 units of inventory, or a 85-day supply. As part of a planned reduction in manufacturing capacity, inventory is down 15 percent compared with September 2007 when it totaled 450,733 units.
See The Latest Photos In Our 2008 Paris Motor Show Gallery