According to Edmunds.com Senior Analyst Jessica Caldwell, February 2012 was the highest SAAR the auto industry has seen since February 2008, which Caldwell mentioned was the last leap year. Caldwell said in a sales conference call this week the February 2012 SAAR should come in somewhere around 15 million units and sales are up 16% from February 2011 and up 25.9% from January 2012.  A trend Caldwell said she is starting to see in the industry and expects to continue throughout the year is the release of the pent up demand from consumers. The credit market is getting better, the economy news is positive and the mild weather are some reasons for why Caldwell thinks consumers are starting to feel comfortable about purchasing a vehicle.

Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 133,521 units, a 40% increase compared with sales in February 2011 (95,102 units), and the group’s best February sales since 2008. Senior Analyst Michelle Krebs said: “Chrysler’s sales performance continues to be nothing short of phenomenal.  Its sales were up 40 percent from a year ago, not only outpacing the industry but surpassing projections. Chrysler’s sales increase was delivered despite a hefty 24-percent decline in incentives compared with a year ago. Higher sales and lower incentives spending will prove to be a winning combination when Chrysler reports financial results.”

On GM and Ford February 2012 sales Krebs said: “What a difference four years makes and a change in product lines make for General Motors and Ford.  In 2008, when gas prices spiked, GM did not have competitive small fuel-efficient cars, but with today’s rising gas prices, GM sales of the fuel-efficient Chevrolet Sonic and Chevrolet Cruze are soaring, carrying the brand and the company. At Ford, the revised Focus has taken off with a triple-digit increase over a year ago for its best year in more than a decade.”

The luxury brand battle was still on in February with BMW coming in at number one, helped by sales of the all-new 3 Series. Krebs said: “The wealthy seem to be feeling even more confident than the general public, based on luxury vehicle sales in February. Virtually every luxury automaker reported a sales gain in February compared with a year ago, and many reported hefty double-digit increases. Even Ford’s struggling Lincoln division had higher sales, though General Motor’s Cadillac, in the midst of a makeover, did not. The same economic factors that impact all consumers and encourage them to buy cars are exponential with wealthy buyers, who likely are very weary of the recession and are ready to spend. Plus, wealthy people are more invested in the stock market which has been soaring to levels not seen since pre-recession. The luxury segment also seems to have gotten a boost from having new entries which, as usual, resonated with the trend-conscious buyers that constitute the segment. The new BMW 3 Series, which only went on sale in mid-month, got off a fast start, with sales up 66 percent to more than 8,100 units sold. Lexus’ newly launched GS posted an outrageous 587-percent gain, albeit on a relatively small volume of 2,396 vehicles.”

Below find updated detailed information released by automakers on their February 2012 sales numbers:

–UPDATED: Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 133,521 units, a 40% increase compared with sales in February 2011 (95,102 units), and the group’s best February sales since 2008.

• Best February sales in four years
• February marks the 23rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains
• Ninth-consecutive month of sales gains of at least 20%
• Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge and Ram Truck brands each post sales increases in February versus same month a year ago
• FIAT brand has its best sales month since launch; sales up 69% in February versus previous month
• Chrysler brand sales up 114%; highest percentage sales increase of all Chrysler Group brands and best February in four years
• New Chrysler 300 and 200 sedans each post triple-digit year-over-year sales gains
• Sales of Chrysler 300 flagship sedan up 480% compared with same month last year; best sales month since March 2008
• Chrysler Town & Country and Dodge Grand Caravan minivans each post double-digit sales growth
• Jeep brand sales up 30%; best February sales in five years
• All Jeep brand models post double-digit percentage sales gains
• Jeep Grand Cherokee logs its best February sales in six years with 47% increase
• Dodge brand sales increase 27%; best February since 2008 and ninth-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth
• All six Dodge models in production post double-digit sales gains
• Dodge Challenger muscle car and Dodge Journey full-size crossover set new February sales records
• Ram pickup truck sales up 21%; best February sales in four years
• Ram Truck brand reveals its new top-of-the-line Ram Laramie Limited at Chicago Auto Show
• Chrysler 300 and Dodge Charger achieve five-star vehicle safety score from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA)
• Jeep Grand Cherokee and Dodge Durango share MotorWeek’s ‘Drivers’ Choice Award’ for Best Large Utility
• Jeep Wrangler earns Kelley Blue Book’s ‘Total Cost of Ownership Award’ for Mid-size Sport Utility
• Fiat 500 named ‘Best Car’ in Travel + Leisure Magazine’s eighth-annual Design Awards
• Chrysler 300 named as one of the ‘10 Best Family Cars of 2012’ by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com
  

Chrysler Group outpaced the industry in February with its 23rd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The company has beaten the industry average sales increase in each of the last 12 months. It was Chrysler Group’s ninth-consecutive month of sales gains of at least 20%.

In February, every Chrysler Group model in production for more than 12 months posted a year-over-year sales gain. The Chrysler brand led the way with a solid 114% increase. The FIAT brand finished its first year of sales with its best month ever. Sales of the Fiat 500 were up 69% in February compared with the previous month.

“Our product portfolio now contains some of the most fuel-efficient vehicles in our company’s history driving our sales up 40 % in February,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “A few years ago higher fuel prices were a major threat to our total vehicle sales whereas today those higher prices have become far less of an issue. We now have 13 vehicles with an EPA-rated highway fuel economy of 25 miles per gallon or higher, and six of those vehicles get 31 mpg or higher.”

Another strong showing by its sedans fueled Chrysler Group’s 40% increase in February. The Chrysler 300 flagship sedan and Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan each posted triple-digit sales gains, while the Dodge Charger and Avenger sports sedans each logged healthy year-over-year increases. Sales of the Chrysler 300 were up 480% in February, the full-size sedan’s fourth-consecutive month with triple-digit gains.

Both the Jeep® and Dodge brands posted year-over-year sales increases in February. All five Jeep brand models posted double-digit percentage sales gains, led by the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s 47% increase. The three-row Dodge Durango SUV, the Dodge Journey full-size crossover and the Dodge Grand Caravan minivan each posted year-over-year sales gains in the double digits.

Ram pickup truck sales also were up 21% in February, the truck’s 22nd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 66-days supply of inventory (354,928 units). U.S. industry sales figures for February are projected at an estimated 14.9 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).

February 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand

Chrysler Brand

The Chrysler brand’s solid 114% sales increase in February represented the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand, the fifth-consecutive month that the brand has posted the largest sale gain within the group. February was the Chrysler brand’s eighth-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and its best sales month since May 2008.

Sales of both Chrysler sedans were up in February, as were Chrysler Town & Country minivan sales. The minivan had its best February in four years. The full-size Chrysler 300 sedan led the brand with a 480% increase in February compared with sales in the same month a year ago.
Jeep® Brand

Jeep brand sales increased 30% in February compared with the same month in 2011, the brand’s best February since 2007. February marked the brand’s 22nd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

All five Jeep brand models recorded double-digit sales gains in February, led by the Jeep Grand Cherokee’s 47% increase. It was the Grand Cherokee’s best February sales in six years.

Dodge Brand

Dodge brand sales increased 27% in February, the brand’s best sales performance in February since 2008 and its ninth-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth.

All six Dodge brand models in production posted sales gains, led by the Dodge Charger and Avenger sports sedans. The Charger just earned a five-star safety rating from NHTSA. The Dodge Challenger muscle car, with its 14% increase, set a new February sales record.

The full-size Dodge Journey crossover, with its 28% sales increase, also set a new February sales record. February was the Journey’s best sales month since December 2009. Dodge Grand Caravan sales were up 20%, the minivan’s best February sales in five years.

Sales of the three-row Dodge Durango SUV were up 26% in February.

Ram Truck Brand

Ram Truck brand, which launched a new luxury model last month, posted a 15 % sales increase in February compared with the same month a year ago. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 21 % in February, its best February sales since 2008 and its 22nd-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains. The Ram light-duty trucks led the way with a 21 % increase compared with the same month a year ago. Of the Ram light-duty truck sales, those with regular cabs posted the greatest percentage increase in February.

February 2012 U.S. Sales Highlights

• Chrysler brand sales (27,008 units) increased 114% in February versus the same month a year ago (12,628 units)
• Sales of the Chrysler 200 (9,717 units) were up 315% compared with the same month last year (2,342 units)
• Chrysler 300 sales (7,670 units) improved 480% versus February 2011 (1,323 units)
• Chrysler Town & Country sales (9,621 units) were up 22% compared with the same month a year ago (7,904 units)
• Jeep brand sales (37,312 units) increased 30% versus February 2011 (28,619 units)
• Jeep Wrangler sales (9,319 units) improved 22% compared with the same month last year (7,636 units)
• Jeep Liberty sales (7,369 units) increased 25% versus February sales a year ago (5,896 units)
• Sales of the Jeep Compass (2,780 units) were up 23% compared with the same month in 2011 (2,267 units)
• Sales of the Jeep Patriot (5,120 units) improved 23% versus February 2011 (4,153 units)
• Jeep Grand Cherokee sales (12,724 units) were up 47% compared with the same month a year ago (8,667 units)
• Dodge brand sales (42,692 units) increased 27% in February versus the same month a year ago (33,561 units)
• Dodge Avenger sales (6,570 units) improved 89% compared with February last year (3,477 units)
• Dodge Charger sales (7,324 units) increased 124% versus the same month a year ago (3,263 units)
• Dodge Challenger (3,669 units) set a new February record
• Dodge Journey (6,248 units) set a new February record
• Sales of the Dodge Durango (3,435 units) were up 26% compared with the same month a year ago (2,731 units)
• Ram pickup truck sales (22,595 units) improved 21% versus February 2011 (18,644 units)

–UPDATED: Ford Motor Company posted a 14% increase in February U.S. sales versus year-ago levels, with 179,119 vehicles sold; retail sales increased 19%. The Ford brand was up 14%, while Lincoln posted a 16% increase versus year-ago levels.

• Ford Motor Company U.S. sales increased 14% in February compared to February 2011 with 179,119 vehicles sold; retail sales increased 19%
• Focus sales totaled 23,350 vehicles in February, representing its strongest February sales performance since 2000; Escape also set a best-ever February sales record
• February F-Series sales totaled 47,273 pickups, up 26%. V6 engines comprised 57% of F-150 retail sales in February; EcoBoost accounted for 43% of mix
• Ford announces second quarter North American production plan

Download Full Sales Release (With Tables)

“Sales momentum built as February unfolded, with higher fuel prices driving consumer demand for more fuel-efficient vehicles in the second half of the month,” said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. Marketing, Sales and Service. “Customers are recognizing Ford for investing in new cars, utilities and trucks with strong fuel economy, especially Focus, Escape and EcoBoost-powered vehicles.”

Ford Motor Company’s car sales were up 16% in February, with Focus contributing 40% to the company’s total vehicle growth – more than any other vehicle. Utilities gained 5%, with Escape setting a best-ever February sales record with 18,666 vehicles sold. Escape has had two consecutive best-ever sales months in January and February – its strongest-ever start to a year.

America’s top-selling vehicle for 30 years, the Ford F-Series posted a 26% increase, totaling 47,273 pickups.

Ford Motor Company’s North American production plan is to build 730,000 vehicles in the second quarter of 2012, up 3% (20,000 vehicles) compared with the second quarter 2011. First quarter production (675,000 vehicles) is unchanged from the previous forecast.

–UPDATED: General Motors Co. reported total sales of 209,306 vehicles in February, up 1.1% compared with the company’s very strong February 2011 results.

“Chevrolet’s 6% sales increase, which was driven by new models, as well as a stronger economy, helped GM exceed last February’s remarkably strong result,” said Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations.  “It’s an affirmation of our progress.  We are continuing to execute the same disciplined sales strategy that was the key to our success in 2011.”

Industrywide, February light vehicle sales will top 1.1 million units, thanks to stronger employment and credit availability, an improving housing market and the recovery in consumer sentiment, he added.

“Commercial sales are a good barometer for the economy,” Johnson said.  “GM’s commercial deliveries increased 35% in February, driven by strong sales of heavy-duty pickups.”

Year-over-year sales of the Chevrolet Silverado HD and GMC Sierra HD were up 28% and 20%, respectively.  Other sales highlights for February include double-digit sales increases for the Buick LaCrosse, which features the 36-mpg eAssist powertrain as standard equipment, the Chevrolet Equinox and Camaro, and the GMC Terrain.

Chevrolet passenger car sales were up 13%.  The all-new Chevrolet Sonic had its best month ever, with sales of 7,900 units.  Chevrolet Cruze exceeded 20,000 units for the sixth time, marking its sixth-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.  GM’s small and compact car portfolio, which now includes the Chevrolet Sonic, Cruze and Volt, and the new Buick Verano, were up a combined 43% versus February 2011.

GM’s year-over-year incentive spending, expressed as a percentage of average transaction prices, was down 3.5 percentage points to 9.5% in February, according to J.D. Power PIN estimates.  Incentive spending was down about one-half point from January.

–UPDATED: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc. reported monthly sales results of 159,423 units in February. With 25 selling days in 2012—versus 24 selling days in February 2011—sales increased 7.9% over the year-ago month on a daily selling rate basis (DSR) and 12.4% on an unadjusted raw volume basis.

Led by sales of the all-new 2012 Camry and Camry Hybrid and the Prius family, the Toyota Division recorded February sales of 142,745 units, an increase of 7% over a year ago. The Lexus Division reported sales of 16,678 units, up 15.9% over last February.

“Fuel economy remains top of mind for consumers, and they’re responding to Toyota’s lineup, which is the most fuel efficient in the industry,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc. “Camry sales continue to surge, and Prius, Yaris and Scion all posted double digit gains in February. We expect that high gas prices will continue to be a top purchase consideration for consumers, which bodes well for Toyota’s continued growth in 2012.”

Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars posted sales of 89,325 units, up 15.1% over February 2011. Camry and Camry Hybrid led passenger cars with total sales of 34,542 units, an increase of 21.9 % over the year-ago month. The Prius family increased 46 % with combined sales of 20,589 units. Corolla reported February sales of 22,148 units. Yaris recorded monthly sales of 3,611 units, increasing 78.1% over a year ago, and Avalon reported sales of 3,497 units, up 65.7% over the previous year.

Toyota Division light trucks recorded February sales of 53,420 units, a decrease of 4.2% year-over-year. The RAV4 compact SUV led light trucks with monthly sales of 12,677 units. Tacoma reported sales of 10,662 units, an increase of 29.9% year-over-year. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined sales of 8,155 units for the month.

Scion posted February sales of 4,938 units, increasing 20.2% over a year ago. The tC sports coupe led the way with February sales of 1,648 units, while the xB urban utility vehicle recorded sales of 1,608 units, up 4.7 % over the year-ago month. The all-new iQ premium micro-subcompact posted sales of 864 units, followed by the xD five-door urban subcompact with 818 units.

Lexus Division
Lexus reported passenger car sales of 9,800 units, up 58.8% over February 2011. The ES entry luxury sedan led Lexus passenger car sales with 2,997 units, an increase of 10.7%. The GS and GS hybrid recorded combined sales of 2,396 units, up 559.1% over a year ago. The IS luxury sports sedan reported sales of 2,095 units for February. The CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted sales of 1,640 units.

Lexus luxury utility vehicles reported sales of 6,878 units, a decrease of 16.3% year-over-year. The RX and RX hybrid posted combined monthly sales of 5,792 units, while the LX recorded sales of 383 units, up 34.7% over a year ago.

TMS Hybrids
TMS posted February sales of 27,458 hybrid vehicles, an increase of 60.1%. Toyota Division recorded monthly sales of 24,813 hybrids, up 56.3% year-over-year. Lexus Division reported sales of 2,645 hybrids, increasing 107.8% compared to the same period last year.

–UPDATED: Volkswagen of America, Inc. (VWoA) reported 30,577 units sold in February, a 42.5% increase over prior year sales and best February since 1973.

• Best February sales results since 1973 with 30,577 units sold –
• Passat named Top Family Car by Kelley Blue Book’s KBB.com amidst sales momentum
• February sales total 30,577 units, a 42.5% increase over prior year sales
• Passat, the 2012 Motor Trend Car of the Year, sold 8,189 units its best month since August 2001
• Tiguan sold 2,280 units, its best February ever
• Jetta sedan achieved 11,694 units, up 11.4% versus the prior year
• High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 21.3% of sales in February, up 54.6% versus the prior month

“February’s strong sales of 30,577 units and back-to-back record months reflects the increasing consumer confidence in the marketplace and strong interest for our products,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen Group of America, Inc. “With escalating fuel prices, we anticipate increased demand for our full-range of fuel efficient vehicles, particularly our TDI Clean Diesel models, to continue into the spring selling season.”

The Passat, recently named the #1 Family Car for 2012 by Kelley Blue Book’s kbb.com, continues to be a success in the competitive mid-size sedan segment with 8,189 units for the month of February.

Jetta sedan remains the volume leader for Volkswagen with sales totaling 11,694, its best February ever.

The 2012 Beetle sold 1,303 units. The TDI Clean Diesel Coupe was unveiled this month at the Chicago Auto Show; it will go on sale late summer 2012.

The Tiguan continued strong sales with 2,280 units sold, marking the best February ever. The Touareg vehicles saw an increase in sales with 65.1% with 723 units sold.

Volkswagen’s high-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 21.3% of sales in February, a 54.6% increase versus the prior month.

–UPDATED: Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) reported record February U.S. sales of 106,731 units versus 92,370 units a year earlier, marking an increase of 15.5% over last February’s record total. Nissan Division sales increased 17.1% over last year, also establishing a new February record. Sales of Infiniti vehicles increased 1% over the prior year.

NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

• Nissan Division posted a record February with 97,492 sales, an increase of 17.1% over the old record of 83,226 units set in 2011.
• Altima sales remained strong, setting a new February record with 32,953 deliveries, up 58.4% over the prior year. In April, Nissan will unveil the all-new, fifth generation Altima at the New York International Auto Show. A preview image and video of the 2013 Altima, which goes on sale this Summer, was released today at http://nissannews.com/pressrelease/3285/1/all-new-2013-nissan-altima-coming-soon.
• Nissan Rogue also set a new February record with 13,423 units, up 17.5%.
• Sales of Nissan’s trucks continued to grow, with Frontier, Titan, Xterra and Pathfinder posting year-on-year sales increases.

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

• Infiniti delivered 9,239 vehicles in February, an increase of 1% versus 9,144 a year earlier.
• Sales of the Infiniti QX luxury utility hit a new February high at 1,162, up 28.8% over last year.
• Infiniti G Sedan sales were up 7.2% to 4,334 deliveries in February.

“Nissan’s momentum throughout the lineup continues to drive our growth and record February sales,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “Another strong month for Nissan Altima demonstrates that consumers are increasingly turning to Nissan for quality and reliability in the midsize car segment.”

NOTE: To ensure consistency in global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-%age basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days. February 2012 had 25 selling days, while February 2011 had 24.

–UPDATED: The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported February sales of 26,184 vehicles, an increase of 31.5% from the 19,919 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago.

• Best February in 5 years for BMW brand – sales up 29.2%
• Best February ever for MINI brand – sales up 42.2%

“The surge in consumer confidence and the launch of the new BMW 3 Series combined to produce the strongest February results since the record set in 2007,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America.  “I fully expect the momentum for both BMW and MINI to continue as our new model launch program accelerates in the coming months.”

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 29.2% in February for a total of 21,204 compared to 16,416 vehicles sold in February, 2011.

The BMW 3 Series – including the all-new 3 Series Sedan on sale since mid-February – is up 66.3% to 8,103 units in February.  Other best performing vehicles in February include the 6 Series, up 399.1% to 529 units and the X3 SAV, up 42.5% to 2,831 units.  The BMW SAV segment (X3, X5, X6) continues growing with sales up 30.2% from the previous February.

BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles

In February, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) increased 4.6% to 13,375 vehicles from the 12,791 vehicles sold in February 2011.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported sales of 4,980 automobiles in February, an increase of 42.2% from the 3,503 sold in February 2011. The all-new MINI Roadster went on sale at the end of February.

–UPDATED: Hyundai Motor America announced all-time record February sales of 51,151 units, up 18% versus 2011.

• Total sales up 18%, retail sales up 29%
• Veloster sales nearly double over January
• 40% achieve 40 MPG highway
• All-time record 37.7 mpg CAFE level

“February business was surprisingly strong for Hyundai,” said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America’s executive vice president, national sales.  “Although we continue to deal with tight vehicle supply across the country, our core vehicles — Sonata, Elantra and Accent — all saw healthy double digit sales increases for the month.  Additionally, combined sales of our premium Genesis/Equus models were up five % over last year, setting all-time records in premium segment retail market share.”

Overall retail sales through dealerships rose 29% from last February.  Sonata, Elantra and Accent total sales increases were 11%, 12% and 29%, respectively.  Fleet mix remains low at eight percent as the focus remains on retail customers.

“Our marketing investments in the Super Bowl and Academy Awards have once again delivered strong consumer demand across our lineup,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America’s president and CEO. “Even in the face of strong new competitors, Sonata and Elantra led the mid-size and compact segments in shopping interest at mid-month, according to data from Compete.”

SALES-WEIGHTED FUEL ECONOMY

Hyundai achieved a corporate average fuel economy level of 37.7 MPG (28.3 MPG label value) in February, one full MPG higher than January, while selling 20,302 vehicles (40% of total sales) with 40 MPG window label highway fuel economy ratings.  That’s up from 35.2 MPG in February 2011, a seven percent increase.  “With fuel prices over $4/gallon in much of the country, consumers continue to find a lot to like across Hyundai’s industry-leading fuel-efficient lineup,” said Krafcik.  “Our plants are hard at work doing all they can to meet the extraordinary demand we’re seeing, especially for Accent, Veloster, Elantra, and Sonata.”

–UPDATED: Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported February sales of 19,679 vehicles, a 21.7% improvement over February 2011 and the highest February volume on record with strong sales across all model lines to brand new customers.  On a year-to-date basis, the 41,398 vehicles sold represent a 23.8% increase.

The company reported sales increases over virtually all its model lines from the entry point to the high-end.  “With all of our new model launches over the past year bringing new buyers to Mercedes-Benz and prompting our loyal owners to reinvest in the brand, we’re ideally positioned to take advantage of the strengthening market,” said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of MBUSA.

Sales for the month of February were led by the C-, E-, and M-Class model lines.  The sporty C-Class – the gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – took the lead with sales of 5,240 up 17.0% over February 2011.  The 9th generation E-Class came in right behind with sales of 4,206 and MBUSA’s top-selling SUV, the M-Class, rounded out the top three with sales of 3,408, up 77.1% compared to February 2011.

Other strong performers were the company’s flagship S-Class which saw its sales increase by 20.3%, the new CLS up 411.2%, and the SLK roadster which increased 108.8% over February 2011.

Amidst rising gas prices, diesel sales increased to 1,415, up 81.9% over the same period last year (778).

The company’s smart brand continued four consecutive months of sales increases versus last year with February sales of 769 vehicles, a 58.9% jump for the month (compared to the 484 vehicles sold in February 2011).  The February volume is the highest on record for smart since MBUSA assumed responsibility in July 2011.

On the van side, sales of Sprinter Vans also saw strong sales in February with sales of 830– up 16.6% over last year.

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,985 vehicles in February; a 2.2% increase when compared to February 2011 (sales of 5,859 vehicles).  On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 12,930 vehicles, an increase of 5.1% over the comparable period (with sales of 12,302).

About Mercedes-Benz USA

Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA), headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service for all Mercedes-Benz and Maybach products in the United States.  MBUSA offers drivers the most diverse line-up in the luxury segment with 12 model lines ranging from the sporty C-Class to the flagship S-Class sedans and the SLS AMG supercar.

MBUSA is also responsible for the distribution, marketing and customer service of Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans in the US.  More information on MBUSA and its products can be found at www.mbusa.com and www.mbsprinterusa.com.

–UPDATED: American Honda Motor Co., Inc., reported February 2012 monthly new-vehicle sales of 110,157, an increase of 7.8 % over February 2011, based on the daily selling rate*. The Honda Division posted February 2012 sales of 98,899, an increase of 8.8% year-over-year.

In its second full month of sales, the all-new Honda CR-V eclipsed its previous February record with sales of 24,759, up 24.5 % over last year’s total of 19,096 units. The all-new Civic continued to build momentum with sales of 27,087, up an impressive 36% compared to February 2011.The Accord posted January sales of 20,702, down 6.3% from the same period last year.

“The ultimate arbiter of a vehicle’s success is how customers vote with their purchase decision, and customers are voting for Civic,” said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. “On top of the strong consumer support for the new Civic, we’re seeing tremendous demand for the all-new CR-V.”

The Acura Division’s February sales totaled 11,258, up 0.1% compared to February 2011, with two models registering strong sales increases. Sales of the TL sedan reached 3,211, up 26% from the same period last year, while TSX sales set a new February record of 3,373, a year-over-year increase of 15.9%.

*The daily selling rate (DSR) is calculated with 25 days for February 2012 and 24 days for February 2011. Year-to-date, the DSR is calculated with 49 days for 2012 and 48 days for 2011. All %ages reflect DSR.

For more information about Honda vehicles, please visit www.automobiles.honda.com. For media inquiries please visit www.hondanews.com. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com. For media inquiries please visit www.acuranews.com.

–UPDATED: Kia Motors America (KMA) announced the brand’s best ever February sales of 45,038 units, a 37.3% increase over the same period in 2011.  Year-to-date sales are up 32.9% on the strength of popular vehicles such as the built-in-the-U.S.(1) Optima midsize sedan and the Soul urban passenger vehicle, which led February sales with 11,558 and 10,876 units sold, respectively.  Kia continues to be one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S., and the February sales total marks the brand’s 18th straight monthly sales record.

“Kia’s record-breaking sales momentum has continued in 2012, and one of our key growth enablers has been the success and efficiency of our first U.S. manufacturing plant, Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG), which produced its 500,000th vehicle in February, just over two years since opening its doors,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG.  “A new top-of-the-line Optima will begin production at KMMG in just a few weeks, and the Optima Limited will once again showcase Kia’s unique ability to redefine value with its world-class design, turbocharged performance and a number of premium features and amenities while remaining true to our core philosophy of offering consumers quality, outstanding fuel efficiency, advanced safety features and new technologies.”

Kia’s Unprecedented Growth

Kia Motors is the one of the world’s fastest moving global automotive brands; from 2009-2011 Kia launched more new vehicles in the U.S. than any other automaker, and under the guidance of chief design officer Peter Schreyer earned a reputation as an industry leader in automotive styling.  Kia Motors America’s full line of fuel-efficient and fun-to-drive cars and CUVs has earned critical acclaim and dramatically increased consumer awareness, perception and consideration for the brand.  In 2011, KMA recorded its 17th consecutive year of market share growth, thanks in part to the largest increase of any major brand in perceived quality(2) and the industry’s highest brand loyalty ranking(3).  Kia’s U.S.-based manufacturing facility in West Point, Georgia – KMMG – is responsible for the creation of more than 10,000 plant and supplier jobs and builds the company’s two best-selling vehicles in the U.S. – the Sorento CUV and Optima midsize sedan(4).  Kia’s value- and technology-laden 2012 model year lineup also includes the Sportage compact CUV, Soul urban passenger vehicle, Optima Hybrid, Forte compact sedan, Forte 5-door compact hatchback, Forte Koup two-door coupe, all-new Rio and Rio 5-door sub-compacts and Sedona minivan.

–UPDATED: Subaru of America, Inc. reported record sales for February 2012 totaling 25,374 vehicles, a 17% gain over February 2011.  The company also reported year-to-date sales of 25,374, a 19% gain over prior year.

• February marks third consecutive month of record sales for the brand.
• Impreza, Legacy and Outback models also shatter previous month sales records.

“January and February sales represent the best start to a calendar year in Subaru history,” said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and COO, Subaru of America, Inc.  “We are coming off of record-breaking sales in 2011 and thrilled to see this trend continue into 2012.”

The all-new Impreza was up 12% in February and recorded the best month in its history.  Legacy and Outback also celebrated record-breaking monthly sales and double-digit gains over February 2011.

“We have seen tremendous growth in models such as Outback and Legacy, as well as the newly-introduced 2012 Impreza,” said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president of sales, Subaru of America, Inc.  “We anticipate similar momentum throughout the year as we launch the new BRZ sports car and XV Crosstrek, an exciting new small crossover vehicle.”

“Another month of historic sales is a true testament to consumer demand for our product.  This demand also means we are well-positioned for another record sales year,” added Doll.

–UPDATED: Porsche Cars North America, Inc. (PCNA), importer and distributor of Porsche sports cars, Cayenne SUVs and the Panamera four-door sports sedan line-up in the United States, today announced February 2012 sales of 2,149 vehicles.  The sales compare to 2019 vehicles sold last year – a 6.4% increase.

“We are extremely pleased with our February results, although we are still in the initial stage of launching the new-generation 911 and are awaiting the arrival of the all-new Boxster, which has its world premiere at next week’s Geneva Motor Show,” said President and CEO, Detlev von Platen. “We are confident that we can turn up our sales momentum a notch or two in the coming months.”

Porsche sold 858 911 models, an increase of 111.8%. Panamera sales were up 16.6% to 511, both compared to the same period last year. Because of limited supply and low dealer inventory Cayenne sales were 659 units compared to 936 in February of last year.

For the month of February 2012, Porsche’s Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 693, compared to 650 last year – a 6.6% increase.

–UPDATED: Audi of America, Inc. reported its 14th straight record-setting month of sales with 8,531 luxury vehicles sold in February 2012. The results surpassed the prior February record set in 2011 by 778 vehicles. Closing in on a promising first quarter, year-over-year vehicle sales increased 10% over February 2011, and recorded 14.9% year-to-date growth compared to 2011.

• New vehicle sales up 10% vs. February 2011, and an increase of 14.9% YTD growth compared to 2011
• Sales propelled by demand for top two premium categories, representing more than 25% of the sales mix, and strong TDI® clean diesel sales
• Certified Pre-Owned sales of 2,865 vehicles marks second-best February on record, an increase of 11.2% over the same period in 2011

“Audi continues to lead the high-end sector of the luxury car market in the U.S. Our superior lineup boasts the most technologically advanced and exceptionally engineered vehicles that Audi has ever produced,” said Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen. “We are optimistic that Audi is on track to make 2012 another banner year for the company.”

February results were buoyed by strong performance in the top two premium categories, with sales for the Audi A6 increasing 63.6% over 2011, and continued strong sales of 584 vehicles for the design-forward Audi A7, which was launched in the U.S. market in April 2011.

Other highlights include:

• February 2012 ranks as the best February in Audi of America history, eclipsing the previous record set last year.
• 2012 Audi A6 sales up 63.6%, compared to February 2011.
• Audi A3 sales up 21.5%, compared to February 2011.
• Sales of Audi Q5 increased 14%, compared to February 2011; Audi Q7 inventory extremely limited due to low supply.
• Audi TT sales up 15.2% vs. February 2011, boosted by increased demand for the Audi TT Coupe.
• Sales mix for Audi TDI clean diesel models finished the month at 53.9% for the A3 TDI on 253 TDI models sold, and 36.7% for the supply restricted Q7 TDI on 137 models sold.
• Audi Certified pre-owned sales of 2,865 vehicles mark an increase of 11.2%, compared to the same period in 2011; Southern and Western regions set new all-time records for February.
• For the record-setting month of February 2012, three Audi models recorded year-over-year sales increases of 15% or more, including the Audi A3, the Audi A6, and the Audi TT models.

NOTES:
– 2010 A4 numbers include Audi A4 sedan, Avant, and S4 models. 2009 A4 numbers include A4 cabriolet, which has been discontinued.
– 2010 A5 numbers include Audi A5 cabriolet and coupe’ and S5 cabriolet and coupe’
models. 2009 A5 numbers do not include the cabriolet models.
– A6 includes Audi A6 sedan, S6 sedan and A6 Avant models.
-All-new A7 model sales began in april 2011.
– 2010 A8 includes Audi A8 sedan, A8L sedan, and S8 sedan models. 2011 A8 includes Audi A8 sedan and A8L sedan.
– TT includes Audi TT coupe’ and TT roadster models.

–UPDATED: Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) reported strong February U.S. sales of 25,651 vehicles, representing an increase of 32.3% versus last year and best February total sales since 1994.  On a Daily Selling Rate (DSR) basis, Mazda’s February 2012 sales were up 27%.  Year-to-date sales through February are up 47.5% (44.5% DSR) versus last year, with 49,647 vehicles sold.

Key February sales notes:

• The all-new 2013 Mazda CX-5 small crossover SUV, named “2012 Crossover of the Year” from Autobytel, arrived at dealerships in the last week of February, registering 357 sales.  CX-5 is the first Mazda to fully encompass SKYACTIV® TECHNOLOGY, the brand’s engineering-focused philosophy toward improving all-around vehicle efficiency, and achieves the highest highway fuel economy (35 MPG) of any SUV in America.
• As fuel prices rise across the country, Mazda2 sales are up this month with 2,701 vehicles sold accounting for a 210.5% increase.
• Mazda3 sales of 11,275 vehicles accounted for a 39.6% increase over last year and its best monthly sales since July 2008.  The new 2012 Mazda3 features Mazda’s innovative SKYACTIV-G engine and SKYACTIV-Drive automatic transmission that achieves up to 40 MPG on the highway.
• Mazda 6 reported its best month since March 2008 with 5,101 vehicles sold, a 79.7% increase over last year.

Rounding out February sales for the North American market, Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) reported its best-ever February and 24th consecutive month with year over year growth, with sales of 2,210 vehicles, accounting for a 4% increase versus February of last year.  Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) sold 4,735 vehicles in February, up 14% compared to last February.

–UPDATED: Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) reported February 2012 sales increases for all of its core models: Outlander Sport, Outlander, and Lancer.  Overall Mitsubishi sales (4,736 units) decreased 31.3% from February 2011, due to models whose production has been completed or will be completed this year.

February sales highlights include:

• Outlander Sport sales were up 6.6% compared to February 2011 and are up 5.9% year to date.  Outlander Sport production in the U.S. at Mitsubishi’s Normal, Illinois plant will begin this summer.
• Outlander sales were up 17.8% compared to last February and have increased 10.2% year to date.
• Lancer sales were up 16.5% in February and have grown 5.3% year-to-date.
• Lancer Evolution sales increased 53.3% compared to the same month a year ago, and are up 33.1% for the year.

Please stay tuned for more February 2012 auto sales numbers as the automakers release them today.