Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 158,839 units in November 2002, up 10 percent from October 2002, though down 12 percent compared to November of 2001, when 173,361 vehicles were sold.

In November 2002, there were 26 selling days in November 2002, versus 25 days in November 2001.

Jeep® Liberty reported strong sales of 15,343 units for the month, up eight percent from October 2002 and one percent ahead of the November 2001 mark of 14,670. With 21,308 units sold, Jeep Grand Cherokee sales also improved, up 26 percent vs. October 2002 and three percent compared to November a year ago.

"In a month when the industry was reporting a sales decline, demand for the Jeep Liberty and Jeep Grand Cherokee was strong," added Dilts. "This is the time of year when the go-anywhere capability of a Jeep vehicle shines through.

"We just announced plans to introduce a diesel engine option into the U.S. market powertrain line-up for Liberty," added Dilts. "When it becomes available in the 2004 model year, we believe there will be solid demand for this powertrain, which should enable us to gain incremental sales."