Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 170,614 units in February 2003, a four percent decline compared with February 2002, when sales totaled 178,642 units. February sales mark a 38 percent increase when compared with January 2003 levels.
"Although much of the industry was adversely affected last month by the sluggish economy, snow storms in the east, and concerns about a possible military conflict, the latest sales results show that consumers are willing to get back into the market when great product and value are available," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Sales.
"We plan to continue to build on the strength of our 'Best Values in America' sales campaign because it provides a point of clarity for consumers," added Dilts. "The campaign combines our product, our warranty and incentive messages into one package that clearly offers the best car and truck values in the U.S. automotive market today."
Among the Chrysler Group's top performers in February was the Jeep(R) Liberty with sales of 11,832 units, an increase of three percent compared with February 2002. Dodge Durango sales were up three percent compared to last year with sales of 9,293 units, and the Dodge Dakota posted sales of 9,723 units, an increase of one percent compared to year-earlier levels.
DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S. Sales Summary Thru February 2003
Month Sales DR % Sales CYTD DR %
Model Curr Yr Pr Yr Change Curr Yr Pr Yr Change
Wrangler 3,894 3,908 0% 7,730 7,124 9%
Liberty 11,832 11,466 3% 22,445 22,286 1%
Grand Cherokee 14,040 17,592 -20% 24,556 31,132 -21%
JEEP BRAND 29,766 32,966 -10% 54,731 60,542 -10%
Selling Days 24 24 49 49
Finally, one of our readers filled us in with some info about why we're seeing 2004 models at Jeep dealerships already - it looks like the changes between the 2003 and 2004 model-year Jeeps are so few that no retooling will be necessary, so 2004 models are here early.
