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VenSeattle

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Posts posted by VenSeattle

  1. Enclave and Acadia are doing very well... especially for being on the same showroom floor. The Outlook is suffering. The Traverse will just kill Outlook sales entirely.

    Buick Lucerne sales are down, but it outsold the Toyota Avalon, Genesis, Azera, Passat, Sable, and Chrysler 300 (all premium mid-to-large sedans). The Lucerne actually almost sold as much as the Ford Taurus and new-for-2009 Maxima... so, considering the market conditions, Lucerne is still holding its own pretty damn well.

    The LaCrosse replacement will debut and go on sale in a matter of months... no need to fret.

  2. Chrysler LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru July 2008
    
                                                       Month Sales        Vol %
                Brand                             Curr Yr       Pr Yr    Change
    
         CHRYSLER BRAND                          20,858       34,631      -40%
         JEEP BRAND                              22,705       37,355      -39%
         DODGE BRAND                             54,546       65,742      -17%
    ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
       TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC                        98,109      137,728      -29%

    Just ouch for Chrysler...

  3. What was it with them together? Poor Turd no one wants you anymore.

    Uhm... First two paragraphs of the press release state:

    TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS),

    U.S.A., Inc.

    , today reported July sales of 197,424 vehicles, a decrease of

    18.7 percent from last July

    , on a daily selling rate basis.

    The Toyota Division posted July sales of 175,242 units, a decrease of

    17.9 percent from last July. The Lexus Division reported July sales of

    22,182 units, a decrease of 24.6 percent from the year-ago month.

    They've always provided a combined percentage and a divisional break down1... no different from GM, Ford, Chrysler, etc... I decided to show the division percentages in the sub-titles for Honda, Toyota, and Nissan because of personal preference. TMS USA rides on the coat-tails of Lexus' superior quality, but the division is seeing dramatic sales declines in Europe, Japan, and the US.

  4. They should fire LaNeve along with Wagoner.

    Buick, Pontiac, GMC is not like one brand, if you have to advertise for all 3. Plus you have the Enclave and Acadia overlap. What they save from cutting brands is design and development costs and marketing costs. If they put Pontiac's whole budget into Chevy (better products, more advertising), they could sell 400,000 Malibus and 400,000 Cobalt/Cruzes per year.

    And a Malibu 4 cylinder is $2300 a year (EPA number on 15k miles) to fuel vs $3700 a year for a Silverado 5.3 liter. $1400 a year is a lot to someone making $40k a year or so.

    ------------------------------------------------

    Um, no. B-P-G all have division managers, marketing budgets, design budgets to figure out how to put a Pontiac grille on a Cobalt, etc.

    Honda and Acura don't overlap products: Saturn, Chevy, Buick and Pontiac all operate in the $20-30k range.

    :rolleyes: Buick-Pontiac-GMC in NA are a single division in the way Lincoln-Mercury are a single division. They share everything...

    Susan Docherty is currently the Division VP for Buick-Pontiac-GMC Channel.

    Russ Clark is the executive director of B-P-G product marketing.

    Brian Sweeney is currently the General Sales Manager for B-P-G.

    Cheryl Catton is currently the general director of advertising and promotions for B-P-G.

    Debbie Frakes is currently the communications Director for B-P-G.

    The three brands also use the same Ad agency -

    General Motors announces Buick-Pontiac-GMC ad agency consolidation

    Notice in the press release that Jim Bunnell was formerly the general manager of Buick-Pontiac-GMC. :scratchchin:

    A "brand" could still be phased out of the division though... but there are no longer internal survival struggles between the three brands because they use the same resources.

  5. FORD MOTOR COMPANY JULY 2008 U.S. SALES
    August 1, 2008 media.Ford.com
    Link to Press Release


    FORD FOCUS CONTINUES TO SURPRISE, OUTPACE SEGMENT

    - Ford Focus sales were up 16 percent in July and 26 percent year-to-date.
    - Total car sales up 8 percent.
    - Consistent with industry trends, crossover sales in July were down 8 percent, sport utilities were down 54 percent, and trucks and vans were down 18 percent.
    - Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales totaled 156,406 in July, down 13 percent.

    DEARBORN, Mich., August 1, 2008 – Ford’s redesigned Focus continues to surprise auto industry watchers and customers alike with strong sales, revenue growth, fuel economy and industry-first technology.

    While Ford and industry sales experienced a double-digit sales decline in July, Ford Focus sales climbed 16 percent versus a year ago. Year-to-date, Focus sales were up 26 percent, compared with industry-wide small car growth of approximately 9 percent.

    Focus has surprised in areas other than sales:

    Transaction prices – Year-to-date, Focus transaction prices have increased $750 per unit compared with a segment-average increase of $100. Customers are purchasing more equipment, including Ford SYNC, and higher series levels.
    Fuel Economy – In an independent test conducted by Edmunds.com called the Gas-Sipper Smackdown, Focus achieved 37.5 mpg on the highway. Focus has EPA highway fuel economy of 35 mpg – better than the smaller 2008 Honda Fit and 2009 Nissan Versa SL.
    Cool Technology – Focus was named one of Kelley Blue Book’s 10 Coolest New Cars Under $18,000 based on its safety, fuel economy, interior size, comfort, technology, fun-to-drive and the “decidedly subjective coolness factor.”
    “Focus continues to surprise and delight customers throughout the country, but the bombshell is in Texas, where Focus retail sales have almost doubled,” said Jim Farley, Ford, group vice president, Marketing and Communications. “If we can increase small car sales in Texas, we can increase them anywhere.” Year-to-date, Focus retail sales were up 91 percent in Texas and 46 percent nationwide.

    Total Ford, Lincoln and Mercury car sales were up 8 percent compared with a year ago. Consistent with industry trends, crossover vehicles – which include Ford Escape, Edge and Flex – were down 8 percent. Sport utility vehicles – such as Ford Explorer and Expedition – were down 54 percent, and trucks and vans – including Ford F-Series and Econoline – were down 18 percent.

    Overall, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle sales totaled 156,406 in July, down 13 percent versus a year ago; year-to-date sales totaled 1.265 million, also down 14 percent. Ford estimates industry-wide sales were down 11 percent year-to-date.

    “We expect the second half of 2008 will be more challenging than the first half as economic and credit conditions weaken,” said Farley.

    Ford’s full-year industry sales forecast is a range from 14.0 – 14.5 million vehicles (including medium and heavy trucks). The first half sales rate was approximately 15 million.
    Note: The sales data included in this release and the accompanying tables are based largely on data reported by dealers representing their sales to retail and fleet customers.

    About Ford Motor Company
    Ford Motor Company, a global automotive industry leader based in Dearborn, Mich., manufactures or distributes automobiles across six continents. With about 229,000 employees and about 90 plants worldwide, the company’s core and affiliated automotive brands include Ford, Lincoln, Mercury, Volvo and Mazda. The company provides financial services through Ford Motor Credit Company. For more information regarding Ford’s products, please visit our website at www.ford.com.



    Link to sales figures
  6. Chrysler LLC Statement
    Company's Second Quarter and Half Year Financial Performance

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release


    AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The following can be
    attributed to Ron Kolka, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial
    Officer, Chrysler LLC.

    "Chrysler LLC today announced that in spite of the severe economic and
    industry challenges, we continue to perform ahead of our financial plan for
    the second quarter and first half of 2008. The Company measures its
    financial performance against two primary financial metrics:
    Cash/Marketable Securities and EBITDA (earnings before interest, taxes,
    depreciation, amortization and restructuring charges). As of June 30, 2008,
    the Company had Cash/Marketable Securities of $11.7 billion, (including
    $2.3 billion in Restricted Cash and excluding $2.3 billion in VEBA*
    assets), well ahead of its plan and down slightly from year-end 2007. As
    well, for the six months ended June 30, 2008, Chrysler posted an EBITDA of
    approximately $1.1 billion, well ahead of plan.

    "The Company remains ahead of its financial plan due primarily to
    Chrysler's fast response to the deteriorating market conditions and its
    cost reduction initiatives launched in 2007, focused largely on
    restructuring its operations. Those efforts have kept the Company ahead of
    the overall market developments.

    "Chrysler's negative product mix, largely driven by trucks and SUVs,
    was off-set in the first half with a positive mix which includes the
    effects from substantially reduced fleet sales; the effects of new products
    -- the all-new Chrysler and Dodge minivans, Dodge Journey and Jeep Liberty
    and the elimination of unprofitable models (Chrysler PT Cruiser
    Convertible, Pacifica and Crossfire and the Dodge Magnum)."

    * Voluntary Employee Benefits Association

  7. Mazda Reports July 2008 Sales, Small Cars Lead the Way

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    MAZDA3 Continues Its Hot Streak, Reports Best July Ever

    IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations

    (MNAO) today reported July 2008 sales of 22,418 vehicles, a 13.3 percent

    decrease over last year. Year-to-date, Mazda reports 175,559 vehicles sold,

    down a slight 1.7 percent.

    "As fuel prices continue to rise and consumer confidence continues to

    slip, new-car buyers are honing their choices, deciding on the smaller,

    more fuel-efficient vehicles that a company like Mazda has always made,"

    said Jim O'Sullivan, President and CEO, MNAO. "We're in the enviable

    position of having trouble stocking enough MAZDA3s, MAZDA5s and MAZDA6s to

    meet this demand and this month's sales numbers reflect that."

    The fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive MAZDA3 continues as Mazda's sales

    leader, with sales up 1.9 percent totaling 11,782, its best July ever. The

    MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle posted a 39.7 percent increase versus last

    July, with 1,336 units sold. Year-to-date, MAZDA5 sales are up 43.7

    percent, proof-positive of consumers' changing tastes.

    The all-new 2009 MAZDA6 is expected to arrive in showrooms this week.

    With a larger body than the outgoing car, as well as more powerful -- and

    more fuel efficient -- engine choices, the 2009 MAZDA6 is sure to be a hit.

    Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best-ever July and

    third-best month in its history with sales of 1,796 vehicles, up 48 percent

    versus last year. MAZDA3 5-door posted its best sales month ever. On a

    year-to-date basis, MMdM reports 11,757 total sales, accounting for a 36

    percent increase versus last year.

    Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) reported sales of 7,996 units, up slightly (.08

    percent).

    Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations

    oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda

    vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through

    nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc.,

    located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and

    in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

    Month-To-Date                     Year-To-Date
                July   July          %   % MTD    July    July         %   % YTD
                2008   2007     Change    DSR     2008    2007    Change    DSR
    
        Mazda3 11,782 11,567      1.9%   (6.0)%  73,257  74,196   (1.3)%   (1.8)%
        Mazda5  1,336    956     39.7%    22.7%  13,313   9,265    43.7%    30.0%
        Mazda6  2,470  3,672   (32.7)%  (60.6)%  35,533  36,356   (2.3)%   (2.9)%
        MX-5
         Miata  1,182  1,187    (0.4)%   (8.5)%   8,331  10,790  (22.8)%  (30.2)%
        RX-8      355    654   (45.7)%  (99.0)%   2,236   3,954  (43.4)%  (77.8)%
        CX-7    2,356  3,868   (39.1)%  (77.3)%  18,330  24,323  (24.6)%  (33.4)%
        CX-9    1,965  2,158    (8.9)%  (18.6)%  15,188  11,476    32.3%    24.0%
        Tribute   879  1,575   (44.2)%  (93.5)%   8,455   6,221    35.9%    26.0%
        B-Series
         Truck     93    219   (57.5)% (154.3)%     916   1,837  (50.1)% (101.7)%
        MPV       -       (3) (100.0)%      N/A    -        119 (100.0)%      N/A
    
        Total
         Vehicles
    
        CARS   17,125 18,036    (5.1)%  (13.7)% 132,670 134,561   (1.4)%   (2.0)%
        TRUCKS  5,293  7,817   (32.3)%  (59.5)%  42,889  43,976   (2.5)%   (3.1)%
    
        TOTAL  22,418 25,853   (13.3)%  (24.5)% 175,559 178,537   (1.7)%   (2.3)%
    
    
        MEMO:
    
        IMPORT
         CAR   14,655 14,364      2.0%           97,137  98,205   (1.1)%
        IMPORT
         TRUCK  4,321  6,023   (28.3)%           33,518  35,918   (6.7)%
    
        IMPORT
         TOTAL 18,976 20,387    (6.9)%          130,655 134,123   (2.6)%
    
        DOMESTIC
         CAR    2,470  3,672   (32.7)%           35,533  36,356   (2.3)%
        DOMESTIC
         TRUCK    972  1,794   (45.8)%            9,371   8,058    16.3%
        DOMESTIC
         TOTALS 3,442  5,466   (37.0)%           44,904  44,414     1.1%
        Selling
         Days      27     25                        181     180
    
        Note:  MPV is a discontinued vehicle.

  8. Kia Motors America Announces Record July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    IRVINE, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today

    announced its best July ever with record sales of 28,021 units, an increase

    of 5.0 percent over the same period last year, and year-to-date sales of

    185,640 units, an increase of 2.5 percent over the same period last year.

    Sportage had its best month of the year with 4,035 units, a 6.2 percent

    increase over the same period last year, while Spectra had strong sales of

    5,910 units. Rio and Optima both had increases of 22.1 percent and 49.1

    percent respectively over the same period last year with 3,707 and 6,258

    units sold.

    "For the fourth month in a row Kia has achieved record sales, something

    rare for the auto industry in 2008," said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and

    CEO of KMA and Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG). "During this

    difficult economic time, consumers are looking for quality vehicles that

    are fuel efficient and offer great value -- for this they are heading to

    Kia dealerships."

    Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm

    of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a

    complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the

    United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record

    U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value,

    high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on

    producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline

    "The Power to Surprise."

    Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA."

    Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is

    available at its Web site -- http://www.kia.com. For media information,

    including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com.

    MONTH OF JULY                YEAR-TO-DATE
        Model            2008        2007             2008         2007
        Rio             3,707       3,035           24,668       19,275
        Spectra         5,910       5,773           48,867       42,927
        Optima          6,258       4,196           35,066       24,977
        Amanti            339         248            2,429        4,588
        Sportage        4,035       3,801           23,287       27,958
        Sorento         3,175       4,342           14,432       22,881
        Sedona          2,004       3,073           18,324       26,258
        Rondo           2,556       2,222           18,530       12,218
        Borrego            37         n/a               37          n/a
    
        Total          28,021      26,690          185,640      181,082

  9. Subaru July 2008 Sales Up

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    CHERRY HILL, N.J., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today

    reported July sales of 16,271 total units -- a 5% increase over the same

    month in 2007. The company posted total Year-to-Date sales of 110,366

    units, a 5% gain over YTD July 2007 (105,592 units).

    The Subaru Impreza posted its best July on record, and for the third

    straight month the 2009 Subaru Forester continued its strong sales launch,

    up an impressive 51 percent over the same period last year.

    "Subaru is positioned well for the current automotive climate," said

    Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America. "Our products

    give a great combination of economy and capability that has allowed us to

    grow our market share every month this year, and we now have our highest

    market share ever. Demand is high for Forester as consumers look for a

    capable, more efficient alternative to bigger SUVs, and the Impreza line

    continues to set records."

    "Subaru products represent the best all-around package in the auto

    industry and provide smart alternatives to traditional truck based SUVs,"

    said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president for Subaru of America. "In

    addition, the Subaru Outback, Forester and Tribeca models offer the

    customer all of the utility of an SUV, but with the fuel economy of a

    passenger car. Under the current market situation, Subaru products are in

    demand because of their AWD capability, utility, outstanding fuel economy,

    top safety pick designations by the IIHS, high resale values, significantly

    lower cost of ownership, and the fact that all Subaru products are built in

    environmentally friendly zero-landfill production plants in the U.S. and

    Japan," Doll added.

    For a complete sales chart and additional information about Subaru of

    America, Inc. and Subaru vehicles, visit our media website at

    http://www.media.subaru.com.

    About Subaru of America, Inc.

    Subaru of America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fuji Heavy

    Industries Ltd. of Japan. Headquartered in Cherry Hill, N.J., the company

    markets and distributes Subaru Symmetrical All-Wheel Drive vehicles, parts

    and accessories through a network of nearly 600 dealers across the United

    States. Subaru makes the best-selling All-Wheel Drive car sold in America

    based on R.L. Polk & Co. new vehicle retail registration statistics

    calendar year-end 2007. In addition, Subaru boasts the most fuel efficient

    line-up of all-wheel drive products sold in the market today based on

    Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) fuel economy standards. All Subaru

    products are manufactured in zero-landfill production plants and Subaru of

    Indiana Automotive Inc. is the only U.S. automobile production plant to be

    designated a backyard wildlife Habitat by the National Wildlife Federation.

    For additional information visit http://www.subaru.com.

    Model                                 2008 July       % v 2007
    
        Total Impreza                           4,430           +19%
    
        Total Legacy                            1,748            -9%
    
        Total Outback                           3,746           -15%
        (incl. Legacy Wagon)
    
        Total Forester                          5,559           +51%
    
        Total Tribeca                             788           -53%
    
        Total                                  16,271            +5%

  10. Hyundai Motor America Reports July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America

    today announced sales of 40,703 for the month of July, a 6.5 percent

    decrease over the same period last year.

    "Although Accent and Elantra sales continued their upward trend with

    increases of 96 percent and 31 percent respectively over the same period

    last year, we experienced an overall slow down for the month of July," said

    Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of national sales.

    "We are encouraged going forward, however, due to the fact we have recently

    opened a new four-cylinder engine plant in Montgomery, Alabama, allowing us

    to shift our engine mix for future product. We also expect greater

    availability of our more-fuel efficient vehicles in the months to come and

    the demand for our new rear-wheel drive Genesis to continue to rise."

    All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai

    Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a

    10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-

    bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-

    year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

    Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a

    subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed

    throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and

    serviced through almost 800 dealerships nationwide.

    CARLINE        JULY/2008      JULY/2007       CY2008         CY2007
    
        ACCENT           6,740          3,435         34,924         22,361
        SONATA          11,409         14,802         77,336         82,460
        ELANTRA         10,454          7,982         72,432         57,914
        TIBURON          1,102          1,573          6,069          8,968
        SANTA FE         6,868          7,567         44,278         51,939
        AZERA              808          1,407         12,251         13,946
        TUCSON           1,521          3,452         13,268         23,802
        ENTOURAGE          482          1,544          3,514         13,490
        VERACRUZ           700          1,749          7,048          5,226
        GENESIS            619              0            649              0
        TOTAL           40,703         43,511        271,769        280,106

  11. Mitsubishi Motors Reports July Sales
    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release


    CYPRESS, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors today
    announced total July 2008 sales of 9,644.


    -- Galant sales were 2,286, up 30.6 percent compared to July 2007.
    Calendar year-to-date Galant sales are 3.4 percent ahead of
    January-July 2007.
    -- Last month was the best July for Galant sales in three years.
    -- Eclipse coupe sales were 1,910, up 35.6 percent compared to July 2007.
    -- Endeavor mid-size SUV sales were 764, up 22.6 percent compared to
    July 2007.
    -- Lancer Evolution sales were 357, up 141.2 percent compared to
    July 2007, and up 7.9 percent calendar-year-to-date.
    -- Total Mitsubishi car sales for July were 7,527, up 8.6 percent.
    Consistent with the industry trend for the month, total sales of all
    Mitsubishi vehicles were off 6.8 percent compared to July 2007, but
    were up 28.7 percent compared to last month (June 2008).
    Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc., (MMNA) is responsible for all
    manufacturing, finance, sales, marketing, research and development
    operations for Mitsubishi Motors in the United States. MMNA sells coupes,
    convertibles, sedans, sport utility vehicles, and light trucks through a
    network of approximately 480 dealers. For more information, contact the
    Mitsubishi Motors News Bureau at (888) 560-6672 or visit
    media.mitsubishicars.com.
  12. Audi of America Reports July Sales
    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/
    Link to Press Release



    - Audi expects to increase market share despite a decrease in month-to-month sales
    - CPO sales are up again
    - Audi A3, A6, A8 sales up

    HERNDON, Va., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi of America, Inc. announced
    today auto sales for the month of July totaling 6,804, a decrease of 4.5%
    from last year's figures, yet the brand expects to gain market share based
    on better overall performance versus the luxury segment average. Audi
    Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales continued to grow with another
    record-setting month; compared with last year's July figures, CPO sales
    rose to 2,669 units, an increase of 21.2%.

    "Despite the negative pace of sales across the industry, Audi continues
    to outperform the market," said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice
    president, Audi of America. "There's been positive consumer reaction to our
    products, and there is a growing enthusiasm for the forthcoming launch of
    the all-new A4. In addition to the beautiful vehicles and the excellent
    technology, I think consumers are finding that Audi offers a portfolio of
    German-engineered vehicles that deliver strong fuel economy performance."

    Nationwide, Audi sales of three models were up, demonstrating continued
    excitement around the brand, which has seen consistent movement throughout
    2008: sales of the A3 jumped by 30.5%, and the A6 and A8 grew 14% and 2%,
    respectively.

    Audi continues to impress industry analysts and other third-party
    industry watchers. J.D. Power and Associates', the respected industry
    organization that measures, among other things, quality within the auto
    industry, recently noted that Audi posted the greatest ranking improvement
    in initial quality during the 2008 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey.

    To date, Audi has sold 51,827 vehicles in 2008, a 1.9% decrease over
    the previous year; CPO sales for 2008 total 20,940, an increase of 38.7%
    over 2007.

    ABOUT AUDI OF AMERICA

    Audi of America, Inc. offers a line of luxury vehicles that include the
    Audi A3 sport compact; the sporty A4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models; the
    high performance S4 sedan, Avant and Cabriolet models, the high-revving RS
    4 sport sedan and Cabriolet; the all new A5 Coupe with FSI direct injection
    technology; the S5 Coupe with 354 hp; the design-leading A6 sedan and
    Avant; the V-10 powered high performance S6 sedan; the Audi Q7 performance
    SUV; the new all-aluminum Audi A8 and A8L; the new S8 with V10 power; the
    all-new 2008 TT Coupe and Roadster models; and the all-new, all-aluminum
    R8, one of the most exclusive mid-engine sports cars in the world. Upcoming
    Audi vehicle launches in the USA include the updated A3 with quattro
    all-wheel drive (Sept. 2008), all-new A4 sedan/Avant (Sept. 2008), TTS
    coupe and Roadster (end 2008), Audi Q7 3.0 TDI (Q1 2009), and Audi Q5 (Q1
    2009). For more information, please visit http://www.audiusa.com or
    http://www.audiusanews.com.




    AUDI US SNAPSHOT                                -----YEAR TO DATE-----
                           July-08   July-07  Yr/Yr %  July-08   July-07   Yr/Yr %
                           actual    actual   change    YTD       YTD     change
                                                       actual    actual
        A3                   646      495     30.5 %   3,015     3,941    -23.5 %
        A4/S4/RS 4         3,479    3,497     -0.5 %  26,770    25,205      6.2 %
        A5/S5                394      n/a      n/a     2,754       n/a      n/a
        A6/S6                929      815     14.0 %   6,653     6,829     -2.6 %
        A8/S8                205      201      2.0 %   1,633     2,119    -22.9 %
        TT                   300      458    -34.5 %   2,825     2,110     33.9 %
        R8                    50      n/a      n/a       365       n/a      n/a
        Audi Q7              801    1,661    -51.8 %   7,812    12,634    -38.2 %
        Total Audi Sales   6,804    7,127     -4.5 %  51,827    52,838     -1.9 %

  13. Volkswagen Reports July 2008 Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    HERNDON, Va., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today

    announced July 2008 sales of 20,442 units, a 4.0 percent increase over the

    July 2007 sales of 19,653 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008

    Volkswagen sales are 1.1 percent ahead of 2007 sales through July.

    "We're pleased with our July sales results," said Mark Barnes, COO,

    Volkswagen of America, Inc. "For Volkswagen to be ahead of last year's

    sales in this tough economy reflects the strength of our brand. Our new

    products launching later this year are sure to give us even greater

    momentum."

    The GTI, the original pocket rocket, posted its best sales month since

    March of 2006, with July sales of 1,619 units, up 31.4 percent over last

    July. Volkswagen's innovative coupe-convertible-sunroof Eos continues to be

    a summertime top-seller with sales of 1,363 units, up 14.6 percent over

    last July.

    About Volkswagen of America, Inc.

    Volkswagen of America, Inc. recently announced Electronic Stabilization

    Program (ESP) as standard equipment on all its 2009 model year vehicles. As

    a result, Volkswagen is one of the only original equipment manufacturers to

    offer an electronic stabilization control system on its entire product line

    - ahead of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration's (NHTSA)

    deadline requiring stabilization systems in the 2012 model year vehicles.

    Volkswagen's ESP technology works in conjunction with anti-lock brakes and

    helps reduce loss of control, rollovers and other types of crashes. NHTSA

    predicts nearly 10,000 lives could be saved each year if all vehicles had

    stabilization systems as standard equipment.

    Founded in 1955, Volkswagen of America, Inc. is headquartered in

    Herndon, Virginia. It is a subsidiary of Volkswagen AG, headquartered in

    Wolfsburg, Germany. Volkswagen is one of the world's largest producers of

    passenger cars and Europe's largest automaker. Volkswagen sells the Rabbit,

    New Beetle, New Beetle convertible, GTI, Jetta, GLI, Passat, Passat wagon,

    Eos, and Touareg through approximately 600 independent U.S. dealers. Visit

    Volkswagen of America online at http://www.vw.com .

    VW-US Snapshot                                 ------ YEAR-TO-DATE -------
                                                        July-08  July-07
                             July-08  July-07  Yr/Yr %    YTD      YTD    Yr/Yr %
                             Actual   Actual   change    Actual   Actual  change
        New Beetle - Coupe    1,514   1,417      6.8 %   9,747    9,466     3.0 %
              - Convertible   1,204   1,402    -14.1 %   8,052    8,531    -5.6 %
            Total New Beetle  2,718   2,819     -3.6 %  17,799   17,997    -1.1 %
        Jetta Sdn             8,906   8,057     10.5 %  55,019   58,030    -5.2 %
           SportWagen           339     -        0.0 %     614      -
                 Total Jetta  9,245   8,057     14.7 %  55,633   58,030    -4.1 %
        Eos                   1,363   1,189     14.6 %   9,629    7,814    23.2 %
        Golf                    -       -        N/A       -         21  -100.0 %
        Rabbit                2,036   2,521    -19.2 %  13,831   14,679    -5.8 %
        GTI                   1,619   1,232     31.4 %   7,991    9,002   -11.2 %
        R32                     234      39    500.0 %   2,437       39  6148.7 %
            Total Golf/Rabbit
             /GTI/R32         3,889   3,792             24,259   23,741     2.2 %
        Passat Sdn            1,501   2,759    -45.6 %  17,680   18,105    -2.3 %
              Wgn               476     459      3.7 %   4,089    4,221    -3.1 %
                Total Passat  1,977   3,218    -38.6 %  21,769   22,326    -2.5 %
    
        Phaeton                 -       -        N/A       -         17  -100.0 %
        Touareg                 404     578    -30.1 %   4,308    4,608    -6.5 %
        Tiguan                  846     -        N/A     2,569      -       N/A
                      TOTAL  20,442  19,653      4.0 % 135,966  134,533     1.1 %
    
    
    
    
    SOURCE Volkswagen of America, Inc.

  14. Mercedes-Benz Reports 11.6 Percent Increase for July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    MBUSA Records Best Year-to-Date Sales on Record

    MONTVALE, N.J., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today

    reported sales of 20,733 new vehicles for July 2008, an 11.6 percent

    increase over last July. This brings the year-to-date total to 140,012

    units, marking a 2.3 percent increase over the same period last year and

    setting the new record for MBUSA year-to-date sales.

    Both the volume-leading C-Class and highly acclaimed E-Class model

    lines posted gains of 45.4 percent and 53 percent increases respectively.

    Other highlights for July sales include an 8.9 percent sales increase in

    CLK-Class coupes and cabriolets, and an impressive 28.1 percent increase

    for the full-sized GL-Class SUV. As a group, sales of Mercedes-Benz

    passenger cars rose 17.8 percent for the month (15,239 vs. 12,936 units).

    Compared to the first seven months of 2007, the popularity of the

    C-Class was demonstrated through a 37.9 percent sales increase with 43,603

    units sold. Overall as a group, year-to-date sales of Mercedes-Benz

    passenger cars rose by 3.5 percent (100,398 vs. 97,022 units). Year-to-date

    increases were also recorded in the Mercedes-Benz SUV segment with a 0.7

    percent gain in full-sized GL-Class sales and an 11.9 percent gain in

    M-Class sales.

    Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program,

    MBUSA marked a 17.2 percent increase for July sales with 5,175 vehicles

    sold, bringing year-to-date sales to a total of 36,533 units, an increase

    of 19.9 percent over the same period in 2007.

    Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is

    responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz

    products in the United States. In 2007, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales

    record of 253,433 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in

    its history and achieving 14 consecutive years of sales growth.

    MERCEDES-BENZ USA
                                  Sales -- July 2008
    
        Model        July '08  July '07  Monthly %  YTD 2008  YTD 2007  Yearly %
    
        C-CLASS         6,241     4,291      45.4%    43,603    31,619     37.9%
    
        E-CLASS         4,938     3,227      53.0%    25,101    25,473     -1.5%
    
        S-CLASS         1,577     2,521     -37.4%    11,216    15,070    -25.6%
    
        CL-CLASS          220       344     -36.0%     1,723     2,043    -15.7%
    
        SL-CLASS          501       551      -9.1%     3,902     3,918     -0.4%
    
        CLK-CLASS         872       801       8.9%     7,165     9,009    -20.5%
    
        SLK-CLASS         439       531     -17.3%     3,508     5,145    -31.8%
    
        CLS-CLASS         451       670     -32.7%     4,180     4,745    -11.9%
    
        R-CLASS           750     1,031     -27.3%     5,534     7,866    -29.6%
    
        M-CLASS         2,691     3,015     -10.7%    20,087    17,950     11.9%
    
        GL-CLASS        1,989     1,553      28.1%    13,439    13,342      0.7%
    
        G-CLASS            64        51      25.5%       554       646    -14.2%
    
        GRAND TOTAL    20,733    18,586      11.6%   140,012   136,826      2.3%

  15. Daimler AG Reports a 25 Percent Increase for the Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. for July 2008

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    - Total of 23,292 Units of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division Sold in U.S.

    - Mercedes-Benz USA Records 12 Percent Sales Growth for the Month with

    20,733 New Vehicles Sold

    - smart USA Records 2,559 Sales in July

    NEW YORK, Aug. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Daimler AG (NYSE: DAI) today

    reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division (Mercedes-Benz and smart

    combined) of 23,292 units in the U.S. for July 2008. All sales figures in

    this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.

    Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported sales of 20,733 new vehicles

    for July 2008, a 12 percent increase over last July. This brings the

    year-to-date sales total for MBUSA to 140,012 units, marking the best

    year-to-date sales for the period in the company's history. The most

    significant gains for the month were in the C-Class and E-Class passenger

    cars (45 percent and 38 percent respectively), while year-to-date growth

    was achieved in the M-Class and GL-Class line-up of SUVs (12 percent and 1

    percent respectively).

    Sales for the smart fortwo remain strong with deliveries totaling 2,559

    for the month of July. This brings the year-to-date total to an incredible

    13,958 units in a little more than six months of being offered in the US

    market. The vehicle is attracting an overwhelming number of buyers who want

    a solution to high gas prices, a reduced environmental footprint and

    increased urban mobility on congested city streets -- all in a package

    that's fun to drive. The fortwo offers a powerful combination of

    outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety, environmental friendliness

    and low cost of ownership. There are currently 69 smart centers open in 31

    states.

    Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced later

    today in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.

    Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. Sales Summary Through July 2008
    
                                 Month Sales      %         Sales CYTD         %
                              Curr Yr   Pr Yr   Change   Curr Yr    Pr Yr   Change
    
        Mercedes-Benz USA     20,733   18,586    11.6    140,012   136,826    2.3
    
        smart USA              2,559      n/a*    n/a*    13,958       n/a*   n/a*
    
        Mercedes-Benz USA /
         smart USA combined   23,292   18,586*   25.3*   153,970   136,826*  12.5*
    
        * smart sales in the U.S. started in mid January 2008
    
        Further information on Daimler is available on the internet at
    http://www.media.daimler.com

  16. Nissan North America Announces July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    NASHVILLE, Tenn., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Nissan North

    America, Inc. (NNA) (Nasdaq: NSANY) today reported sales for July of 95,319

    units versus 87,877 units a year ago, an increase of 8.5 percent. Sales of

    Nissan Division vehicles increased 9.9 percent, while sales of Infiniti

    vehicles decreased by 2.9 percent.

    NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

    -- Nissan vehicles saw sales of 86,070 units in July compared with July

    2007's 78,351 units sold, a 9.9 percent increase.

    -- Nissan's Versa subcompact posted strong sales of 8,701 units, up

    14.4 percent.

    -- Nissan's Sentra posted a 16.0 percent increase with sales of 10,977

    units.

    -- Sales of Nissan cars combined for 49,863 units, an increase of 4.8

    percent from the prior year, while truck sales increased 17.7 percent to

    36,207 units.

    INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

    -- Infiniti sales for July declined to 9,249 units from 9,526, a

    decrease of 2.9 percent.

    -- Sales of the G37 Coupe totaled 1,583 units, an increase of 45.0

    percent over July 2007.

    -- The all-new FX luxury crossover posted an increase of 19.2 percent

    with 1,729 units.

    NNA INFORMATION

    -- Combined sales for Nissan and Infiniti of 95,319 units, compared

    with last July's sales of 87,877 units, marking an increase of 8.5 percent.

    -- To ensure consistency in our global sales reporting, Nissan North

    America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis,

    unadjusted for the number of selling days in the month. This July had 26

    selling days in the month, while July 2007 had 24 selling days.

    In North America, NNA's operations include automotive styling,

    engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing,

    distribution and manufacturing. More information on NNA and the complete

    line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at

    http://www.nissannews.com .

    NISSAN DIVISION SALES
                                July    July   Monthly   CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
                                2008    2007  % Change   2008     2007    % Change
        Nissan Division Total  86,070  78,351    9.9   546,522  549,935     -0.6
        Versa                   8,701   7,609   14.4    54,326   45,411     19.6
        Sentra                 10,977   9,461   16.0    70,081   66,540      5.3
        Altima                 24,429  24,464   -0.1   182,435  164,717     10.8
        Maxima                  4,814   4,503    6.9    26,134   30,010    -12.9
        350Z                      795   1,556  -48.9     7,372    12,536   -41.2
        GTR                       147      NA     NA       147        NA      NA
        Total Car              49,863  47,593    4.8   340,495  319,214      6.7
        Frontier                6,627   5,331   24.3    30,199   39,379    -23.3
        Titan                   3,972   5,708  -30.4    21,157   38,781    -45.4
        Xterra                  4,898   4,170   17.5    20,137   29,957    -32.8
        Pathfinder              4,711   4,931   -4.5    21,777   35,178    -38.1
        Armada                  1,699   2,218  -23.4    10,328   18,298    -43.6
        Rogue                   6,525      NA     NA    43,359       NA       NA
        Murano                  4,765   5,793  -17.7    46,539   50,868     -8.5
        Quest                   3,010   2,607   15.5    12,531   18,260    -31.4
        Total Truck            36,207  30,758   17.7   206,027  230,721    -10.7
        North American
         Produced              73,838  71,002    4.0   449,105  486,531     -7.7
        Car                    48,921  46,037    6.3   332,976  306,678      8.6
        Truck                  24,917  24,965   -0.2   116,129  179,853    -35.4
        Import                 12,232   7,349   66.4    97,417   63,404     53.6
        Car                       942   1,556  -39.5     7,519   12,536    -40.0
        Truck                  11,290   5,793   94.9    89,898   50,868     76.7
    
    
        INFINITI DIVISION SALES
                                 July   July   Monthly   CYTD    CYTD     CYTD
                                 2008   2007  % Change   2008    2007   % Change
        Infiniti Division Total  9,249  9,526   -2.9    71,118  73,322    -3.0
        G Sedan                  3,304  4,046   -18.3   28,208  33,291   -15.3
        G Coupe                  1,583  1,092    45.0   13,239   7,666    72.7
        M                          970  1,674   -42.1    9,747  13,376   -27.1
        Q45                         NA     NA      NA        0      20      NA
        QX56                       551  1,263   -56.4    5,146   6,457   -20.3
        EX                       1,112     NA      NA    7,365      NA      NA
        FX                       1,729  1,450    19.2    7,414  12,510   -40.7
        Total Car                5,857  6,813   -14.0   51,193  54,354    -5.8
        Total Truck              3,392  2,713    25.0   19,925  18,968     5.0
    
    
        COMBINED NISSAN AND INFINITI SALES
                              July    July   Monthly    CYTD      CYTD     CYTD
                              2008    2007  % Change    2008      2007   % Change
        TOTAL VEHICLE        95,319  87,877    8.5     617,640  623,257   -0.9
        Total Car            55,720  54,406    2.4     391,688  373,568    4.9
        Total Truck          39,599  33,471   18.3     225,952  249,689   -9.5
        Selling Days             26      24                179      178
    
        *All numbers include Hawaii.
    
    SOURCE Nissan North America, Inc.

  17. BMW Group Reports July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    BMW Group US sales (BMW and MINI combined) up 2.2 percent in July.

    WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group in the U.S.

    (BMW and MINI combined) reported July sales of 28,977 vehicles, an increase

    of 2.2 percent over the 28,364 vehicles sold in July 2007. The BMW Group

    also reported its year-to-date sales volume of 186,890 vehicles, down 3.0

    percent compared to 192,702 vehicles in the same period of 2007.

    BMW Brand Sales

    Sales of BMW brand vehicles dropped slightly by 1.6 percent to 23,914

    compared to 24,295 units in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date BMW

    brand sales are down 8 percent to 155,427 vehicles, compared to 168,874

    vehicles sold in first seven months of 2007.

    "While we see the premium segment being affected by the same economic

    conditions as the mainstream market, there continue to be less dramatic

    consequences in this segment," said Jim O'Donnell, President of BMW of

    North America, LLC, commenting on BMW brand sales. "Buyers of our vehicles

    are still shopping and purchasing but are even more discerning to choose

    for long-term quality and value. In light of our corporate results

    announced today, we are going to strengthen our focus on profitability over

    the next 12 to 18 months by keeping the supply of vehicles in close

    alignment with demand, which in turn increases our pricing flexibility and

    brand value. Actions we are already taking include shifting our customer

    programs in our dealerships to achieve a more equitable balance of retail

    financing to leasing, further emphasizing the benefits of our four-year

    free maintenance program, and further developing our Certified Pre-Owned

    business to aid residual values."

    BMW Automobile Sales

    BMW's automobile sales are up 0.9 percent in July to 19,261 versus

    19,083 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales are down 7.3

    percent, to 122,783 automobiles compared to 132,478 in the same period of

    2007.

    BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

    Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles decreased by 10.7 percent in July

    to 4,653 vehicles versus 5,212 sold last July. Year-to-date, sales of BMW

    Sports Activity Vehicles are down 10.3 percent, to 32,644 vehicles compared

    to the 36,396 sold in the first seven months of 2007.

    MINI Brand Sales

    In July MINI USA reported sales of 5,063 automobiles, a strong increase

    of 24.4 percent, from the 4,069 cars sold in July 2007. Year-to-date, the

    division reports sales of 31,463 automobiles, an increase of 32 percent,

    compared to the 23,828 cars reported in the first seven months of 2007.

    "Again this month, we continue to watch a very large movement from

    larger to smaller vehicles. From the increased traffic in our dealerships,

    we are seeing desires to downsize but not downscale," said Jim McDowell,

    Vice-President MINI USA. "Over the last month, our MINI sales have also

    seen on average $4-5,000 of options in a typical sale. Therefore, at least

    in the premium end of the small car market, small size is not equating to

    small dollar sales."

    Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, July 2008
    
                               July     July       %      YTD       YTD        %
                               2008     2007              2008      2007
    
        BMW brand             23,914   24,295    -1.6   155,427   168,874    -8.0
    
         BMW passenger cars   19,261   19,083     0.9   122,783   132,478    -7.3
    
         BMW light trucks
         (SAVs)                4,653    5,212   -10.7    32,644    36,396   -10.3
    
        MINI brand             5,063    4,069    24.4    31,463    23,828    32.0
    
        TOTAL Group           28,977   28,364     2.2   186,890   192,702    -3.0

    BMW Certified Pre-Owned

    Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles reached its best July ever.

    Sales are up 11.4 percent, to 7,998 vehicles versus 7,178 vehicles reported

    last July. Year-to-date, CPO sales are up 21 percent, to 59,984 over the

    49,562 reported in the same period in 2007.

    BMW Group In America

    BMW of North America, LLC has been present in the United States since

    1975. Rolls-Royce Motor Cars NA, LLC began distributing vehicles in 2003.

    The BMW Group in the United States has grown to include marketing, sales,

    and financial service organizations for the BMW brand of motor vehicles,

    including motorcycles, the MINI brand, and the Rolls-Royce brand of Motor

    Cars; DesignworksUSA, an industrial design firm in California; a technology

    office in Silicon Valley and various other operations throughout the

    country. BMW Manufacturing Co., LLC in South Carolina is part of BMW

    Group's global manufacturing network and is the exclusive manufacturing

    plant for all Z4 models, X5 Sports Activity Vehicles and X6 Sports Activity

    Coupes. The BMW Group sales organization is represented in the U.S. through

    networks of 338 BMW passenger car centers, 335 BMW Sports Activity Vehicle

    centers, 142 BMW motorcycle retailers, 82 MINI passenger car dealers, and

    30 Rolls-Royce Motor Car dealers. BMW (US) Holding Corp., the BMW Group's

    sales headquarters for North, Central and South America, is located in

    Woodcliff Lake, New Jersey.

    Information about BMW Group products is available to consumers via the

    Internet at:

    http://www.bmwgroupna.com

    http://www.bmwusa.com

    http://www.bmwmotorcycles.com

    http://www.miniusa.com

    http://www.rolls-roycemotorcars.com

    Journalist note: Information about the BMW Group and its products is

    available to journalists on-line at the BMW Group PressClub at the

    following address: http://www.press.bmwgroup.com. Broadcast quality video footage

    is available via The NewsMarket at http://www.thenewsmarket.com.

    Sales BMW of North America, LLC, July 2008
    
                                                           YTD      YTD
                               July 08 July 07     %     July 08  July 07     %
    
        1 Series                 1,326       0          7,427.00        0
        3 Series                11,303  11,568   -2.3%    71,211   84,571  -15.8%
        Z4 Roadster and Coupe      459     844  -45.6%     4,116    5,420  -24.1%
        5 Series                 4,525   4,859   -6.9%    27,621   28,667   -3.6%
        6 Series                   642     723  -11.2%     4,218    5,190  -18.7%
        7 Series                 1,006   1,089   -7.6%     8,190    8,630   -5.1%
        BMW passenger cars      19,261  19,083    0.9%   122,783  132,478   -7.3%
    
        X3                       1,646   2,900  -43.2%    11,257   16,926  -33.5%
        X5                       2,597   2,312   12.3%    18,967   19,470   -2.6%
        X6                         410       0             2,420        0
        BMW light trucks (SAVs)  4,653   5,212  -10.7%    32,644   36,396  -10.3%
        BMW brand               23,914  24,295   -1.6%   155,427  168,874   -8.0%
    
        Cooper /S Hardtop        3,261   3,161    3.2%    21,335   19,016   12.2%
        Cooper /S Convertible      588     908  -35.2%     4,040    4,812  -16.0%
        Cooper /S Clubman        1,214       0             6,088        0
        MINI brand               5,063   4,069   24.4%    31,463   23,828   32.0%
    
        TOTAL BMW of North
         America, LLC           28,977  28,364    2.2%   186,890  192,702   -3.0%

  18. Chrysler LLC Reports July 2008 U.S. Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    - Chrysler Town & Country up 24 percent in July; drives total minivan sales

    5 percent higher; considered fuel-efficient alternative

    - Fuel-efficient Jeep® Patriot is a true success in the market

    - Dodge Ram performance improves versus previous month's sales

    - Dodge Avenger sedan continues strong performance

    - All-new Dodge Challenger SRT8® hits the streets with excitement

    AUBURN HILLS, Mich., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Chrysler LLC today reported

    total July 2008 U.S. sales of 98,109 units, which is 29 percent below the

    same period last year. Total July sales reflect a continued contraction of

    the market of pickup trucks and SUV sales and reductions in fleet sales.

    The company's recently completed 'Let's Refuel America $2.99 Gas Guarantee'

    promotion boosted showroom traffic and helped sales of Chrysler's newest

    highly fuel-efficient vehicles throughout the three-month program period.

    All sales figures are reported as unadjusted.

    "We are writing a new chapter in the auto industry story as customers,

    dealers and companies adjust to a changing environment," Jim Press,

    Chrysler LLC Vice Chairman and President, said. "There are many changes

    taking place that give us at the new Chrysler cause for optimism. In the

    short term, our 2009 model year vehicles with value packages will soon be

    arriving in dealerships, and our August incentive packages are the best

    deals of the year, helping to make owning as affordable as leasing. Within

    the product lineup, our leadership in minivans is well-timed as consumers

    look for fuel-efficient alternatives to larger SUVs. Two new fuel-saving

    hybrid SUVs, the Dodge Durango and Chrysler Aspen, will be soon hitting the

    streets. The Dodge Journey and Jeep Patriot are gaining more customers on

    the appeal of fuel efficiency and affordability. And the success of cars

    like the Dodge Avenger, Charger and Challenger shows that customers still

    want their cars to stand out from the crowd. Lastly, this fall we come to

    market with our best new pickup truck ever -- the 2009 Dodge Ram."

    July Highlights

    The Chrysler Town & Country posted a 24 percent increase with 8,070

    sales versus July 2007 sales of 6,513 units. With room for seven

    passengers, and the industry-exclusive Swivel 'n Go™ seating system, the

    Chrysler Town & Country could be considered as a fuel-efficient alternative

    to a full-sized SUV. Town & Country sales in July helped drive total

    minivan sales up 5 percent. Total long-wheel-base minivan retail sales

    increased 21 percent in July.

    The Jeep® Patriot continues to gain traction in the market, offering

    excellent fuel economy, interior flexibility and utility at a great value.

    Total sales of 3,451 were up 4 percent versus last year due to consumer

    interest in the company's most fuel-efficient vehicles. Additionally, Jeep

    Patriot 2008 year-to-date sales increased 119 percent, with 40,135 total

    sales when compared with July 2007 year-to-date sales of 18,286 units.

    Response to sales promotions of the Dodge Ram helped lesson the impact

    of slow pickup truck demand. Dodge Ram pickup sales were down 27 percent

    (21,328 units) versus 2007 sales of 29,312, but sales increased 32 percent

    when compared with June 2008 sales of 16,149 units.

    The Dodge Avenger sedan continued with good performance with 4,318

    units sold, up 2 percent when compared with July 2007 sales of 4,213.

    The highly anticipated all-new Dodge Challenger SRT8® hit the streets

    in July with excitement and solid sales results (2,895 units sold). The

    return of the iconic Dodge Challenger combines unmistakable design cues

    reminiscent of the original Challenger with world-class performance making

    it the hottest vehicle on the streets this summer. In total, 3,990 Dodge

    Challengers have been delivered to customers.

    The Company finished the month with 409,331 units of inventory, or a

    108-day supply. As part of a planned reduction in manufacturing and

    capacity, inventory is down 12 percent compared with July 2007 when it

    totaled 464,875 units.

    About Chrysler LLC

    Chrysler LLC, headquartered in Auburn Hills, Mich., produces Chrysler,

    Jeep®, Dodge and Mopar® brand vehicles and products. Total sales

    worldwide in 2007 were 2.68 million vehicles. Sales outside of North

    America were the highest in a decade with an increase of 15 percent from

    2006. The Company's product lineup features some of the world's most

    recognizable vehicles, including the Chrysler 300, Jeep Wrangler and Dodge

    Charger.

    Chrysler LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru July 2008
    
                                                       Month Sales        Vol %
                Model                             Curr Yr       Pr Yr    Change
    
        Sebring                                    3,816        5,515      -31%
        300                                        3,818        9,009      -58%
        Crossfire                                    197        1,165      -83%
        PT Cruiser                                 3,297        7,113      -54%
        Aspen                                      1,213        2,216      -45%
        Pacifica                                     447        3,100      -86%
        Town & Country                             8,070        6,513       24%
          CHRYSLER BRAND                          20,858       34,631      -40%
        Compass                                    1,401        2,591      -46%
        Patriot                                    3,451        3,317        4%
        Wrangler                                   6,093        8,829      -31%
        Liberty                                    3,766        6,534      -42%
        Grand Cherokee                             5,239       10,101      -48%
        Commander                                  2,755        5,983      -54%
          JEEP BRAND                              22,705       37,355      -39%
        Caliber                                    4,807        5,305       -9%
        Avenger                                    4,318        4,213        2%
        Charger                                    5,475        6,407      -15%
        Challenger                                 2,895            0        0%
        Viper                                         88           74       19%
        Magnum                                       345        1,639      -79%
        Dakota                                     2,593        3,413      -24%
        Ram P/U                                   21,328       29,312      -27%
        Journey                                    3,449            0        0%
        Caravan                                    6,115        6,945      -12%
        Durango                                      384        2,472      -84%
        Nitro                                      1,651        4,602      -64%
        Sprinter                                   1,098        1,360      -19%
          DODGE BRAND                             54,546       65,742      -17%
    
        TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC                        98,109      137,728      -29%
    
                  TOTAL CAR                       25,839       34,680      -25%
                  TOTAL TRUCK                     72,270      103,048      -30%
    
    
    
                   Chrysler LLC U.S. Sales Summary Thru July 2008
    
                                                       Sales CYTD         Vol %
                Model                             Curr Yr       Pr Yr    Change
    
        Sebring                                   51,838        54,561       -5%
        300                                       43,832        72,004      -39%
        Crossfire                                  1,291         7,417      -83%
        PT Cruiser                                36,127        60,305      -40%
        Aspen                                     14,446        14,994       -4%
        Pacifica                                   4,642        35,463      -87%
        Town & Country                            75,876        81,615       -7%
          CHRYSLER BRAND                         228,052       326,359      -30%
        Compass                                   19,794        24,796      -20%
        Patriot                                   40,135        18,286      119%
        Wrangler                                  52,536        74,480      -29%
        Liberty                                   44,676        56,648      -21%
        Grand Cherokee                            48,032        70,562      -32%
        Commander                                 19,068        39,725      -52%
          JEEP BRAND                             224,241       284,497      -21%
        Caliber                                   63,918        64,684       -1%
        Avenger                                   45,771        44,841        2%
        Charger                                   64,000        72,379      -12%
        Challenger                                 3,990             0        0%
        Viper                                        682           323      111%
        Magnum                                     6,594        17,627      -63%
        Dakota                                    19,972        32,568      -39%
        Ram P/U                                  150,272       214,569      -30%
        Journey                                   26,180             0        0%
        Caravan                                   81,920       110,507      -26%
        Durango                                   15,293        31,377      -51%
        Nitro                                     25,549        41,814      -39%
        Sprinter                                   9,501         7,798       22%
          DODGE BRAND                            513,642       639,965      -20%
    
        TOTAL CHRYSLER LLC                       965,935     1,250,821      -23%
    
                  TOTAL CAR                      282,986       343,887      -18%
                  TOTAL TRUCK                    682,949       906,934      -25%

  19. American Honda Reports July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    Fit sets another all-time sales record; Honda car sales rise 6.7% for July

    record

    TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor Co., Inc.

    posted July total vehicle sales of 138,744, a daily-selling-rate basis*

    decline of 9.2 percent compared to July 2007 results.

    Honda Division posted July sales of 125,916, a decline of 8.2 percent

    versus July 2007. The Fit sold an all-time record of 12,266, up 78.5

    percent. Civic Hybrid broke its previous July record, set in 2006, with

    sales up 27.4 percent to 3,440, while the Accord increased 2.8 percent to

    41,382.

    "The uncertainties in the market have been quite profound in the past

    few weeks," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales for

    American Honda. "We are adjusting our production to meet the rapidly

    changing needs of buyers and are confident these changes will provide the

    needed inventory as we move forward."

    Honda total car sales of 82,976 increased by 6.7 percent to achieve a

    new July record. Honda light truck sales saw a decrease of 27.8 percent to

    42,940.

    The Acura Division posted sales of 12,828, a decrease of 17.7 percent*

    compared to July 2007. The division's all-new TSX continues to perform well

    with July sales up 15.9 percent to 3,474.

    *The daily selling rate is calculated with 26 days for July 2008 and 24

    days for 2007. All percentages reflect the daily selling rate.

    For more information or downloadable high-resolution images of Honda

    and Acura vehicles, please visit http://www.hondanews.com. Consumer

    information is available at http://www.honda.com.

    American Honda Vehicle Sales For July 2008
                                    Month-to-Date              Year-to-Date
                                July      July   DSR**    July     July    DSR**
                                2008      2007   % Chg.   2008     2007    % Chg.
        American Honda Total   138,744  141,049   -9.2%  937,102  907,978    2.6%
           Total Car Sales      90,943   79,804    5.2%  587,302  514,364   13.5%
           Total Truck Sales    47,801   61,245  -28.0%  349,800  393,614  -11.6%
              Honda Total Car
               Sales            82,976   71,755    6.7%  535,311  454,085   17.2%
              Honda Total
               Truck Sales      42,940   54,913  -27.8%  311,049  347,972  -11.1%
              Acura Total Car
               Sales             7,967    8,049   -8.6%   51,991   60,279  -14.2%
              Acura Total
               Truck Sales       4,861    6,332  -29.1%   38,751   45,642  -15.6%
        Domestic Car Sales *    63,115   66,365  -12.2%  432,371  416,660    3.2%
           Honda Division       59,154   61,644  -11.4%  404,729  380,904    5.7%
           Acura Division        3,961    4,721  -22.6%   27,642   35,756  -23.1%
        Domestic Truck Sales *  39,036   43,906  -17.9%  272,906  278,525   -2.6%
           Honda Division       34,175   37,574  -16.0%  234,155  232,883    0.0%
           Acura Division        4,861    6,332  -29.1%   38,751   45,642  -15.6%
        Import Car Sales        27,828   13,439   91.1%  154,931   97,704   57.7%
           Honda Division       23,822   10,111  117.5%  130,582   73,181   77.4%
           Acura Division        4,006    3,328   11.1%   24,349   24,523   -1.3%
        Import Truck Sales       8,765   17,339  -53.3%   76,894  115,089  -33.6%
           Honda Division        8,765   17,339  -53.3%   76,894  115,089  -33.6%
        MODEL BREAKOUTS BY DIVISION
        Honda Division Total   125,916  126,668   -8.2%  846,360  802,057    4.9%
           Fit                  12,266    6,343   78.5%   52,053   30,112   71.9%
           Accord *             41,382   37,142    2.8%  247,244  219,488   12.0%
             Memo: Accord
              Hybrid                 3      260  -98.9%      194    2,304  -91.6%
           Civic *              29,125   27,852   -3.5%  234,086  201,652   15.4%
             Memo: Civic
              Hybrid             3,440    2,493   27.4%   22,472   19,634   13.8%
           S2000                   201      418  -55.6%    1,920    2,820  -32.3%
           Insight                   0        0                0        3
           FCX                       0        0                6       10  -40.3%
           FCX Clarity               2                         2
           Odyssey *            13,123   14,141  -14.3%   85,712   94,479   -9.8%
           Pilot *               7,486   13,136  -47.4%   62,962   79,768  -21.5%
           CR-V *               17,419   20,083  -19.9%  122,230  124,262   -2.2%
           Element *             2,250    2,912  -28.7%   18,084   22,803  -21.1%
           Ridgeline             2,662    4,641  -47.1%   22,061   26,660  -17.7%
        Acura Division Total    12,828   14,381  -17.7%   90,742  105,921  -14.8%
           RSX                       0        2                1      293  -99.7%
           TL *                  3,961    4,721  -22.6%   27,642   35,756  -23.1%
           TSX                   3,474    2,767   15.9%   21,157   20,188    4.2%
           RL                      532      558  -12.0%    3,191    4,040  -21.5%
           MDX *                 3,477    4,949  -35.1%   28,039   31,976  -12.8%
           RDX *                 1,384    1,383   -7.6%   10,712   13,666  -22.1%
        Selling Days                26       24              179      178
           * Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced
             parts.
          ** Daily Selling Rate

  20. Toyota Reports July Sales

    Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/

    Link to Press Release

    TORRANCE, Calif., Aug. 1 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS),

    U.S.A., Inc., today reported July sales of 197,424 vehicles, a decrease of

    18.7 percent from last July, on a daily selling rate basis.

    The Toyota Division posted July sales of 175,242 units, a decrease of

    17.9 percent from last July. The Lexus Division reported July sales of

    22,182 units, a decrease of 24.6 percent from the year-ago month.

    Toyota Division

    Toyota Division passenger cars recorded July sales of 114,880 units,

    down 5.4 percent from the same period last year. Passenger-car sales were

    led by Camry and Camry Hybrid, which posted combined sales of 42,131 units.

    Camry Hybrid reported July sales of 2,645 units. Corolla recorded sales of

    34,438 units for the month, up seven percent over July 2007. With limited

    availability, the Prius mid-size gas-electric hybrid posted July sales of

    14,785 units. Yaris reported July sales of 8,620 units.

    "Having the industry's most fuel-efficient lineup is of value to us so

    long as we have the right product mix in our showrooms," said TMS President

    Jim Lentz. "That's why we're accelerating production of 4-cylinder models

    and quickly responding to market conditions with repurposed U.S. plants and

    plans for a U.S.-built Prius."

    Toyota Division light trucks recorded July sales of 60,362 units, down

    34.3 percent from July 2007. Light truck sales were led by the Tundra full-

    size pickup with July sales of 13,413 units. The Tacoma mid-size pickup

    reported sales of 11,662 units for the month. Highlander and Highlander

    Hybrid posted combined sales of 6,763 units in July. The Highlander Hybrid

    gas-electric mid-size SUV reported July sales of 1,371 units, up five

    percent over last July. Sequoia posted sales of 2,823 units for the month,

    up 50.4 percent over the same period last year.

    Scion posted July sales of 11,906 units. The xB urban utility vehicle

    led the way with July sales of 5,081 units. The tC sports coupe posted July

    sales of 4,787 units. The xD reported sales of 2,038 units for the month.

    Lexus Division

    Lexus passenger cars reported July sales of 13,219 units, a decrease of

    27.2 percent from July 2007. Passenger-car sales were led by the ES entry

    luxury sedan with July sales of 5,563 units. The IS entry luxury sport

    sedan reported combined sales of 4,750 units. The LS flagship luxury sedan

    reported combined sales of 1,466 units. The GS luxury sport sedan reported

    combined July sales of 1,297 units.

    Lexus Division light trucks recorded July sales of 8,963 units, down

    20.3 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus sales were led by the RX luxury

    utility vehicle, which posted combined July sales of 7,101 units. The RX

    400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported July sales of 1,439 units. The

    LX 570 reported sales of 843 units, an increase of 277.7 percent versus the

    same period last year.

    TMS Hybrids

    TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 165,522 units. TMS

    posted July sales of 20,363 hybrid vehicles. Toyota Division recorded sales

    of 18,801 hybrids for the month. Lexus Division reported July sales of

    1,562 hybrids.

    There were 26 selling days this month, as compared to 24 selling days last

    July.

    TOYOTA RETAIL SALES
                              (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)
                                      July, 2008
    
                              -----CURRENT MONTH-----    --CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE--
                                                DSR %                        DSR %
                                2008     2007     CHG       2008       2007    CHG
    
        YARIS                  8,620    8,126    -2.1     73,300     54,648   33.4
        COROLLA               34,438   29,719     7.0    228,926    231,940   -1.9
        CAMRY                 42,131   41,514    -6.3    282,012    282,044   -0.6
        AVALON                 3,000    5,092   -45.6     27,438     42,614  -36.0
        PRIUS                 14,785   16,062   -15.0    106,225    110,565   -4.5
        SCION xA                   0      338  -100.0         39      9,204  -99.6
        SCION xB               5,081    5,073    -7.5     31,007     23,661   30.3
        SCION tC               4,787    6,229   -29.1     28,517     39,779  -28.7
        SCION xD               2,038        0       -     18,217          0      -
        TOTAL TOYOTA DIV.
         PASS. CAR           114,880  112,153    -5.4    795,682    794,459   -0.4
    
        ES                     5,563    6,909   -25.7     38,719     47,307  -18.6
        LS                     1,466    2,696   -49.8     13,020     20,268  -36.1
        SC                       143      304   -56.6      1,373      2,400  -43.1
        GS                     1,297    1,954   -38.7     10,356     13,122  -21.5
        IS                     4,750    4,892   -10.4     31,010     32,568   -5.3
        TOTAL LEXUS
         PASS. CAR            13,219   16,755   -27.2     94,478    115,665  -18.8
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         PASS. CAR           128,099  128,908    -8.3    890,160    910,124   -2.7
    
        SIENNA                 8,726   11,599   -30.6     74,996     84,948  -12.2
        RAV4                  12,006   14,494   -23.5     83,522    101,618  -18.3
        FJ CRUISER             1,577    4,128   -64.7     18,239     33,882  -46.5
        4RUNNER                3,107    6,676   -57.0     30,228     50,870  -40.9
        HIGHLANDER             6,763    8,858   -29.5     68,152     73,607   -7.9
        LAND CRUISER             285      163    61.4      2,772      1,408   95.8
        SEQUOIA                2,823    1,733    50.4     19,367     14,582   32.1
        TOTAL SUV             26,561   36,052   -32.0    222,280    275,967  -19.9
    
        4X2 TACOMA             6,438    8,279   -28.2     54,359     63,059  -14.3
        4X4 TACOMA             5,224    5,684   -15.2     41,371     43,366   -5.1
        TOTAL TACOMA          11,662   13,963   -22.9     95,730    106,425  -10.6
        TUNDRA                13,413   23,150   -46.5     89,929    105,990  -15.6
        TOTAL PICKUP          25,075   37,113   -37.6    185,659    212,415  -13.1
        TOTAL TOYOTA DIV.
         LT TRUCK             60,362   84,764   -34.3    482,935    573,330  -16.2
        LX                       843      206   277.7      5,021      1,751  185.1
        GX                     1,019    1,767   -46.8      9,783     12,273  -20.7
        RX                     7,101    8,413   -22.1     49,611     57,654  -14.4
        TOTAL LEXUS
         LIGHT TRUCK           8,963   10,386   -20.3     64,415     71,678  -10.6
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         LIGHT TRUCK          69,325   95,150   -32.7    547,350    645,008  -15.6
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA DIV.    175,242  196,917   -17.9  1,278,617  1,367,789   -7.0
        TOTAL LEXUS           22,182   27,141   -24.6    158,893    187,343  -15.7
    
        TOTAL TOYOTA         197,424  224,058   -18.7  1,437,510  1,555,132   -8.1
        MEMO:
        DOM. COROLLA          23,427   27,684   -21.9    188,494    209,346  -10.5
        DOM. CAMRY            41,595   36,880     4.1    276,326    235,424   16.7
        DOM. PICKUP           25,075   37,113   -37.6    185,659    212,415  -13.1
        DOM. RX                5,346    6,100   -19.1     35,202     41,498  -15.6
    
        SELLING DAYS              26       24                179        178
    
        TOYOTA DIV.
         IMPORT CAR           46,858   42,497     1.8    303,424    307,075   -1.7
        LEXUS IMPORT CAR      13,219   16,755   -27.2     94,478    115,665  -18.8
        TOYOTA DIV NA
         BUILT CARS           68,022   69,656    -9.9    492,258    487,384    0.4
        TOTAL TOYOTA CARS    128,099  128,908    -8.3    890,160    910,124   -2.7
    
        TOYOTA DIV. IMPORT
         LT TRUCK             23,738   34,319   -36.2    202,913    261,385  -22.8
        LEXUS IMPORT
         LT TRUCK              3,617    4,286   -22.1     29,213     30,180   -3.7
        TOYOTA DIV NA BUILT
         LT TRUCK             36,624   50,445   -33.0    280,022    311,945  -10.7
        LEXUS NA BUILT
         LT TRUCK              5,346    6,100   -19.1     35,202     41,498  -15.6
        TOTAL TOYOTA
         LT TRUCK             69,325   95,150   -32.7    547,350    645,008  -15.6
    
        SPORT UTILITY
         VEHICLES             33,947   42,310   -25.9    268,456    313,763  -14.9
           Memo: Lexus
            Sport Utility      8,963   10,386   -20.3     64,415     71,678  -10.6
    
        SMALL VANS             8,726   11,599   -30.6     74,996     84,948  -12.2
        PICKUPS               25,075   37,113   -37.6    185,659    212,415  -13.1
    
        * NORTH AMERICAN
         BUILT VEHICLES
        COROLLA               23,427   27,684   -21.9    188,494    209,346  -10.5
        CAMRY                 41,595   36,880     4.1    276,326    235,424   16.7
        AVALON                 3,000    5,092   -45.6     27,438     42,614  -36.0
        SIENNA                 8,726   11,599   -30.6     74,996     84,948  -12.2
        PICKUP                25,075   37,113   -37.6    185,659    212,415  -13.1
        SEQUOIA                2,823    1,733    50.4     19,367     14,582   32.1
        RX                     5,346    6,100   -19.1     35,202     41,498  -15.6
        TOTAL                109,992  126,201   -19.5    807,482    840,827   -4.5
        N.A. VEHICLES
         % OF TOTAL             55.7%    56.3%              56.2%      54.1%
    
        SELLING DAYS              26       24                179        178
        DSR = DAILY
         SELLING RATE

  21. I KNOW!!! It's difficult not to run out and buy one. I want a black on black 3LT Coupe. :drool:

    My partner nearly died when I mentioned a month ago that I'm starting to like the Corvette and wouldn't mind buying one...

    this. is. the. last. car. he. would. ever. picture. me. wanting. to. buy.

    He said he expected me to convert to Lexus before buying a Corvette or a Chevrolet for that matter... :lol:

    Maybe this is an onset of an early mid-life crisis. :unsure:

    I just don't want to call Allstate to find out what my insurance would be like...

  22. You can import every GM vehicle and it wouldn't make a difference in my opinion of GM and the product. As long as I like how it looks, performs how I expect, and it offers what I want... those are the only things that matter.

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