April 2006 Sales: Chrysler Group

[VenSeattle]

Chrysler Group Reports April 2006 U.S. Sales Decline 4 Percent

• Strong April Sales of All-New Dodge Caliber Push Past 11,000 units; Days Supply Drops to 12 Days
• Chrysler Group Car Sales Increase 37 Percent on Sales Success of Dodge Caliber and Chrysler 300
• Chrysler 300 Sales Surpass 300,000 Units Since April 2004 Introduction; Fastest Chrysler Group Vehicle to Reach that Milestone

Auburn Hills, Mich., May 2, 2006- Against an exceptionally robust prior year comparison and in-line with overall industry performance, Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales for April 2006 of 190,095 units, a decrease of 4 percent (8 percent decrease unadjusted) over April 2005 sales of 206,546 units. All sales are being reported on a day-rate adjusted basis unless otherwise indicated.

"The Dodge Caliber helped to increase the company's car business 37 percent in April, continuing the legacy established by the Chrysler PT Cruiser and the Chrysler 300 of head-turning vehicle styling. The Dodge Caliber confirms that the Chrysler Group is a serious contender in the car market," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group Senior Vice President - Sales.

The strong global appeal of the all-new Dodge Caliber pushed monthly sales for the Dodge brand up 5 percent to 106,231 units, compared to April 2005 sales of 104,667. Sales of the all-new Dodge Caliber surged 78 percent over March 2006 sales to 11,236 units, marking the first month that the Dodge Caliber surpassed 11,000 unit sales. The popularity of the Dodge Caliber was reinforced in April as demonstrated by the average of 12 days supply of the vehicle on dealer lots.

The Dodge Charger posted sales of 9,662 units, an increase of 11 percent over March 2006 sales and the third best month of sales since its introduction in May 2005. The Dodge Sprinter continues to make headway with commercial customers. The Dodge Sprinter posted sales of 1,646 units, an increase of 8 percent over April 2005 sales of 1,585 units.

The flagship vehicle for the Chrysler brand, the Chrysler 300, posted sales of 12,804 units in April 2006, an increase of 4 percent over April 2005 sales of 12,837 units. In April, U.S. sales of the Chrysler 300 surpassed 300,000 units. Since its April 2004 introduction, the Chrysler 300 reached that milestone faster than any other Chrysler brand vehicle.

The Jeep® brand is aggressively expanding its vehicle lineup in 2006 with vehicles that offer exceptional fuel economy, numerous safety features and significant value. Beginning with the Jeep Commander last fall and continuing with the all-new Jeep Compass, the unique Jeep combines trademark Jeep features and performance with the high fuel efficiency demanded by consumers. Followed by the Jeep Patriot and anchored by the Fall arrival of the all-new Jeep Wrangler and four-door Jeep Wrangler Unlimited, the Jeep vehicle lineup will more than double from three to seven models.

For May, Chrysler Group announces the “0% is Back” incentive program on most Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge vehicles. Customers can choose from a variety of cash-back options ranging from $750 to $5,000 on selected models, or qualified customers can select 0% financing for 60 months on selected models through Chrysler Financial. The program runs through July 5.

“Gas prices and interest rates are challenging consumers’ spending habits and affecting everything from groceries and household goods to some sectors of automotive sales,” said Dilts. “By bringing successful, highly fuel efficient vehicles like the Dodge Caliber to market that address customer concerns, Chrysler Group can expand our leadership beyond those segments where we are strongest: minivans, trucks and SUVs. We have five vehicles on the way that are long on style and easy on gas that will be in the marketplace by the end of 2006.”

Chrysler Group finished the month with 586,263 units of inventory, or an 80-day supply.

DaimlerChrysler Corporation U.S.Sales Summary Thru April 2006

Link to Press release

[Intrepidation]

"Sales of the all-new Dodge Caliber surged 78 percent over March 2006 sales to 11,236 units, marking the first month that the Dodge Caliber surpassed 11,000 unit sales. The popularity of the Dodge Caliber was reinforced in April as demonstrated by the average of 12 days supply of the vehicle on dealer lots."

"The Dodge Charger posted sales of 9,662 units, an increase of 11 percent over March 2006 sales and the third best month of sales since its introduction in May 2005."

"The flagship vehicle for the Chrysler brand, the Chrysler 300, posted sales of 12,804 units in April 2006, an increase of 4 percent over April 2005 sales of 12,837 units. In April, U.S. sales of the Chrysler 300 surpassed 300,000 units. Since its April 2004 introduction, the Chrysler 300 reached that milestone faster than any other Chrysler brand vehicle."

LX car sales tapering off huh? Only the Magnum is down, which, being as it's w awagon and more of a niche vehicle, doesn't surprise me. Neither does the sales delcine of the Durango and Dakota. I'm surprised by the Stratus and Crossfire seeing a sales increase though. ALl in all, loks pretty good. Most of the slower selling models are so to be replaced by refreshes or redesigns, so that should really help sales (new Sebring/Avenger, Caravan, Durango, Wrangler, etc.).

[regfootball]

the commander is doing FINE!

Gas prices and interest rates are challenging consumers’ spending habits and affecting everything from groceries and household goods to some sectors of automotive sales,” said Dilts.

NO, REALLY? DUH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Matt276]

LX car sales tapering off huh? Only the Magnum is down, which, being as it's w awagon and more of a niche vehicle, doesn't surprise me. Neither does the sales delcine of the Durango and Dakota. I'm surprised by the Stratus and Crossfire seeing a sales increase though. ALl in all, loks pretty good. Most of the slower selling models are so to be replaced by refreshes or redesigns, so that should really help sales (new Sebring/Avenger, Caravan, Durango, Wrangler, etc.).

I don't think DCX is doing that good. Remember, rebates are highest of the industry, Trucks sales are down. Which means a lot less revenue. 34% to fleet and rental business. I would not be surprised that second quarter turn into a loss.