According to J.D. Power and Associates, September new-vehicle retail sales are projected to come in at 842,400 units, which represents a seasonally adjusted annualized rate (SAAR) of 10.3 million units. This marks the first time the retail selling rate would be above 10 million units since the 10.8 million-unit rate in April. Retail transactions are the most accurate measurement of true underlying consumer demand for new vehicles.
“Coming off a solid Labor Day sale, retail sales exhibited unexpected strength in the second week of September, as the recovering inventory levels have helped to bring buyers back into the market,” said Jeff Schuster, executive director of global forecasting at J.D. Power and Associates. “However, incentive levels remain flat compared with August and the economy remains a concern, so the sales pace in the second half of the month is expected to give back some of the gains.”
Below find updated detailed information released by automakers on their September 2011 sales numbers:
–UPDATED: Chrysler Group LLC reported U.S. sales of 127,334, a 27% increase compared with sales in September 2010 (100,077 units), and the best September sales since 2007.
Chrysler Group’s 27% sales increase was driven by retail sales that were up 50%. Chrysler Group has beaten the average industry sales increase in eight of nine months this year.
Models that significantly contributed to the group’s 27% increase included the Chrysler 200 mid-size and Chrysler 300 full-size sedans, Jeep® Wrangler, Jeep Compass, Dodge Journey crossover, Ram pickup truck, and the Dodge Grand Caravan and Chrysler Town & Country minivans.
“Irrespective of the economy, strong products equal strong sales and with our retail sales up a whopping 50 % that is exactly what we have,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “September was also our 18th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth and we have now gained more retail market share than anyone else in the country. There is no double dip downturn going on around here.”
The Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, and Ram Truck brands all posted sales increases in September. The Ram Truck brand’s 42% sales increase led the way with the largest percentage gain of all the brands. The Chrysler brand logged its best sales month since August 2008 and best September sales since 2007.
The Ram Truck brand had its best September since 2007. Sales of the Ram pickup truck were up 45%, its best sales month of the year and best September since 2007.
Chrysler Group finished the month with a 54-day supply of inventory (277,278 units). U.S. industry sales figures for September are projected at an estimated 13.2 million SAAR.
September 2011 U.S. Sales Highlights by Brand
Chrysler Brand:
In September, the Chrysler brand posted its best sales month since August 2008 and its best September sales since 2007. The brand’s 36% increase was driven by Chrysler 200, Chrysler 300, and Chrysler Town & Country sales gains.
Sales of the Chrysler 200 mid-size sedan were up 87% compared with sales of its predecessor the same month a year ago. Chrysler 300 full-size sedan sales increased 50% versus the same month in 2010, and sales of the Chrysler Town & Country minivan were up 16% in September.
Ram Truck Brand
Ram Truck brand sales increased 42% in September, the largest percentage increase of any Chrysler Group brand. Ram pickup truck sales were up 45%, the best sales month of this year and the best September sales since 2007. Both the Light Duty and Heavy Duty pickup trucks, along with the Chassis Cab, logged double-digit %age sales gains in September.
Jeep® Brand
The Jeep brand’s 24% increase in September was driven in part by the new Jeep Compass. Sales of the Compass, now offering Trail Rated® 4×4 capability, were up 306%, the largest year-over-year %age sales gain of any Chrysler Group model in September. September marked the Jeep brand’s 17th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains and best September since 2007.
The Jeep Wrangler, the benchmark off-road vehicle, and the Jeep Liberty mid-size SUV each posted double-digit percentage sales increases. The Wrangler was the top-selling Jeep model in September, and was second only to the Ram pickup truck as the top-selling Chrysler Group model during the month. The Wrangler set a new sales record for the month of September.
Jeep Grand Cherokee sales are up 78% through September this year compared with the same nine-month period last year.
Dodge Brand
The Dodge brand posted a 10% sales increase in September compared with the same month in 2010. The Dodge Grand Caravan, America’s best-selling minivan, and the Dodge Journey, America’s most versatile crossover, each posted double-digit %age sales increases in September. Sales of the Dodge Challenger, the iconic Dodge muscle car, and the sporty five-seat Dodge Nitro SUV, also contributed with sales gains in September. It was the Dodge brand’s best September sales since 2008.
September 2011 U.S. Sales Highlights:
- Chrysler brand sales (23,559 units) increased 36% in September versus the same month a year ago (17,348 units)
- Sales of the Chrysler 200 (8,709 units) were up 87% compared with sales of the model’s previous generation (4,651 units) in September a year ago
- Chrysler 300 sales (4,445 units) increased 50% in September versus the same month in 2010 (2,961 units)
- Sales of the Chrysler Town & Country were up 16% compared with September last year (9,001 units)
- Jeep brand sales (35,565 units) increased 24% versus the same month last year (28,603 units)
- Jeep Wrangler sales (11,388 units) were up 47% compared with September 2010 (7,765 units)
- Jeep Liberty sales (5,363 units) increased 10% versus September last year (4,865 units)
- Sales of the Jeep Compass (4,422 units) were up 306% compared with the same month a year ago (1,090 units)
- Jeep Patriot (3,812 units) posted a 5% year-over-year sales increase
- Dodge brand sales (40,073 units) were up 10% in September versus the same month a year ago (36,272 units)
- Dodge Challenger sales (3,328 units) increased 6% compared with the same month a year ago (3,138 units)
- Dodge Journey sales (5,402 units) were up 29% versus September 2010 (4,198 units)
- Dodge Grand Caravan sales (10,203 units) increased 27% compared with September 2010 (8,057 units)
- Dodge Nitro sales (2,255 units) were up 11% versus September 2010 (2,032 units)
- Ram Truck brand sales (25,364 units) increased 42% compared with the same month a year ago (17,854 units)
- Ram pickup truck sales were up 45% in September versus the same month last year (16,887 units)
- Chrysler Group truck sales (94,117 units) improved 33% compared with September 2010 (70,527 units)
- Chrysler Group car sales (33,217 units) were up 12% versus September 2010 (29,550 units)
–UPDATED: General Motors Co. reported total sales of 207,145 vehicles in September, a 2% increase compared with September 2010.
Retail deliveries were up 19% compared with the same month a year ago and accounted for 74% of GM sales. Deliveries to fleet customers increased 22%.
“For GM, all of the factors that say this is a good time to buy a new vehicle outweigh the bad news that appears to be slowing down the broader economic recovery,” said Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. Sales Operations. “We’re well positioned going forward because we have momentum and another wave of fuel-efficient passenger cars launching over the next several months at Chevrolet, Buick and Cadillac.”
In September, year-over-year passenger car sales increased 12%, crossover sales increased 7% and truck sales, which include full-size pickups and SUVs, increased 34%.
- Chevrolet : In September, its 12th month since going on sale, Cruze deliveries were 18,097 units, bringing its first full year of sales to 212,019 vehicles. Silverado sales increased 36%, Tahoe was up 63% and Equinox was up 33%.
- GMC : Sales have now increased for 24 consecutive months, year over year. Sierra sales were up 26%, Terrain sales were up 45 % and Yukon was up 45%.
- Cadillac : Combined sales of the Cadillac CTS sedan, coupe and wagon increased 24% compared with September 2010. In addition, the Cadillac SRX was up 22%. Cadillac reduced its fleet sales by 54%.
- Buick : September was the brand’s 24th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains, with the Regal continuing to build momentum with sales up 87%. Enclave, which began the transformation of Buick, increased its sales by 10%.
Month-end dealer inventory in the United States was 558,157 units. GM’s full-size truck inventory was 208,650 full-size pickup trucks, which equates to an 88-days supply. GM is on track to meet its target of ending 2011 with a full-size pickup inventory of about 200,000 units.
GM continues to expect that the full-year U.S. vehicle sales will be in the low end of our 13.0 million – 13.5 million unit range, given seasonally strong sales and the fact that some of the company’s domestic and Japanese competitors have largely resolved their production issues.
Sales Highlights |
Sept. 2011 Total Sales (vehicles) |
Total Change vs. Sept. 2010 |
Sept. 2011 Retail Sales vs. Sept. 2010 |
CYTD Total Sales (vehicles) |
CYTD Total Sales Change vs. 2010 |
CYTD Retail Sales Change vs. 2010 |
Chevrolet |
147,611 |
21.5% |
21.3% |
1,353,943 |
15.2% |
22.6% |
GMC |
33,194 |
27.7% |
22.4% |
294,947 |
27.1% |
23.0% |
Buick |
13,599 |
5.6% |
4.3% |
140,092 |
22.9% |
24.1% |
Cadillac |
12,741 |
1.0% |
11.2% |
113,190 |
7.8% |
16.2% |
Total |
207,145 |
19.8% |
19.1% |
1,902,172 |
16.9% |
22.3% |
Inventory |
Units @ Sept. 30, 2011 |
Days Supply (selling days adjusted) |
Units @ Aug. 31, 2011 |
Days Supply (selling days adjusted) |
All Vehicles |
558,157 |
67 |
556,884 |
66 |
Full-size Pickups |
208,650 |
88 |
212,520 |
107
|
–UPDATED: Ford Motor Company: Driven by a 35% increase in Ford brand utilities and a 15% gain in Ford truck sales, Ford Motor Company’s September sales totaled 175,199, up 9% versus last year.
“Ford continues to deliver strong sales results in a dynamic marketplace with a broad portfolio of fuel-efficient, high-quality products,” said Ken Czubay, vice president, U.S. Marketing Sales and Service. “This is further proof that Ford is offering the vehicles – with the fuel economy and technologies – that people truly want and value.”
Ford Brand Utilities: Up 35%
Ford brand utilities had their best September sales month since 2004. Sales totaled 48,798 for the month, delivering year-to-date sales of 425,910 utilities. As the best-selling utility brand in America, Ford utility sales are up 30% through September.
Ford Escape, America’s best-selling utility, set a September sales record with 20,225 vehicles sold, up 41% versus a year ago. Escape has set monthly sales records seven out of nine months this year. Year to date, Escape sales totaled 187,850, up 32%.
Explorer sales in September totaled 11,336, up 204% versus a year ago. Through September, Explorer sales totaled 96,957, representing a 126% increase versus 2010.
The 2012 Explorer has an EPA-estimated highway fuel economy rating of 28 mpg when equipped with the new 2.0-liter EcoBoost engine. Explorer on the highway now beats Honda Pilot and Jeep Grand Cherokee by 5 mpg, Chevrolet Traverse by 4 mpg and Toyota Highlander by 3 mpg.
Monthly Edge sales of 11,680 vehicles ran close to September 2010’s record sales of 12,815 vehicles.
“The utility segment continues to expand and has changed dramatically over the years,” Czubay said. “Ford’s continued success in this segment demonstrates our ability to constantly adapt to customers’ changing needs, providing them the fuel economy they want and the functionality they need.”
Ford Brand Cars: Fusion Has a Record September
Fusion sales totaled 19,510 vehicles last month, up 23%, making it a record September for Ford’s midsize sedan. Fusion has set monthly sales records 11 of the last 12 months. Fiesta sales totaled 3,967, up 30% versus a year ago.
Ford brand cars totaled 530,230 through September, up 19% versus the same period a year ago – more than doubling the industry sales growth of passenger cars for the same period.
Ford Brand Trucks: Up 15%
Ford total truck sales were 15% higher in September than a year ago, with 73,225 trucks sold, representing the best sales month of the year and Ford’s best September for F-Series sales since 2007. Year to date, truck sales are up 9%, with total sales of 582,769.
F-Series sales surpassed the 50,000 mark in September, with 54,410 pickups sold. F-Series is the first industry nameplate to break through the 400,000 mark this year, with 416,388 pickups sold through September.
EcoBoost-equipped F-150s had their best-ever sales month, and V6 engines continue to outsell V8s among F-150s, with Ford’s new 3.5-liter EcoBoost and 3.7-liter V6 engines representing 57% of F-150 retail sales in September.
–UPDATED: Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A. reported September sales of 121,451 units. With 25 selling days in September 2010 and 2011, sales were down 17.5% over the year-ago month on both a daily selling rate (DSR) and unadjusted raw volume basis.
Toyota Division recorded September sales of 106,456 vehicles, a decrease of 18.2% from the year-ago month. Lexus Division reported September sales of 14,995 units, a decrease of 11.5% from last year.
Through the third quarter, TMS reported sales of 1,194,524 vehicles, a decrease of 9.3% compared to the same period in 2010 on a DSR and unadjusted raw volume basis.
“In September, production in both North America and Japan returned to normal levels for the first time since the March 11 earthquake and tsunami. Our plants are now working overtime and dealer deliveries will continue to increase through the remainder of 2011. With the 2012 Camry launch off to a great start, the timing couldn’t be better,” said Bob Carter, Toyota Division group vice president and general manager, Toyota Motor Sales, USA, Inc. “It’s a tribute to the efficiency of our distribution system and our dealers that we were able to sell more than 121,000 vehicles in September despite 40% less availability than last year. That said, the worst is behind us and we expect to exceed year-ago sales levels beginning in October with continued growth throughout the fourth quarter.”
Toyota Division
Toyota Division passenger cars recorded sales of 58,237 units, a decrease of 19.3% from last September. The Camry and Camry Hybrid led passenger cars with combined monthly sales of 24,851 units. Corolla recorded sales of 16,147 units, and the Prius mid-size gas-electric hybrid reported sales of 9,325 units.
Toyota Division light trucks posted sales of 48,219 units in September, down 17% from the same period last year. The Sienna minivan led light trucks with sales of 8,975 units. The RAV4 compact SUV posted sales of 7,649 units, and the 4Runner SUV reported sales of 3,596 units, flat compared to the year-ago month. The Highlander and Highlander Hybrid reported combined sales of 7,544 units, while the Tundra full-size pickup and the Tacoma mid-size pickup posted sales of 6,695 and 8,180 units, respectively.
Scion posted September sales of 3,838 units, up 7.7% over September 2010. The tC sports coupe led the way with sales of 1,752 units, an increase of 78.6% year-over-year. The xB urban utility vehicle recorded sales of 1,415 units, and the xD reported sales of 671 units for the month.
Lexus Division
Lexus Division reported passenger car sales of 8,860 units, an increase of 8.9% over the year-ago month. The ES 350 entry luxury sedan led passenger cars with sales of 3,627 units, while the IS lineup reported combined sales of 2,539 units, up 3.8% compared to September 2010. The all-new CT 200h premium hybrid compact posted 1,444 units in its seventh month of sales.
Lexus Division light trucks recorded sales of 6,135 units, down 30.4 % from September 2010. The RX and RX Hybrid luxury utility vehicles led the segment with combined September sales of 5,003 units, and the GX 460 mid-sized luxury utility vehicle posted sales of 867 units.
TMS Hybrids
TMS posted September sales of 12,123 hybrid vehicles, a decrease of 18.5% compared to the same period last year. Toyota Division posted sales of 9,772 hybrids, while Lexus Division reported sales of 2,351 hybrids for the month, an increase of 27.1% over September 2010.
–UPDATED: American Honda Motor Co., Inc., posted September sales of 89,532 vehicles, a decrease of 8%, the company announced today. American Honda year-to-date sales reached 859,797, down 6.2% versus last year, based on the daily selling rate*.
Honda Division posted September sales of 79,522, a drop of 8.2% versus September 2010. Honda trucks posted sales of 41,375, an increase of 7% due to strong sales of the CR-V, Pilot and Odyssey. The CR-V was the top-selling model for September, with sales of 19,604, up 9.5%. The Pilot posted a sales increase of 27.9% on sales of 10,306. The Accord recorded sales of 18,639, down 13.8% and the Civic, which is nearing full production, posted monthly sales of 13,724, down 26.4%.
“Our U.S. manufacturing facilities are finally up to full production and the results are starting to show with increased CR-V, Pilot and Odyssey sales,” said John Mendel, American Honda executive vice president of sales. “Truckloads of new vehicles began arriving the last week of September and shoppers can now feel more confident that they will find what they want at their local Honda dealer.”
Acura Division recorded September sales of 10,010, a decrease of 6.6% versus September 2010, and year-to-date sales of 89,146, down 7.9%. The TSX was the top-selling Acura model for the month with record September sales of 3,112 up 37.9%.
–UPDATED: Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) reported September U.S. sales of 92,964 units versus 74,205 units a year earlier, an increase of 25.3%. Nissan Division sales increased 28.2% for the month with 84,485 units. Sales of Infiniti vehicles increased 2.1% from the prior year, to 8,479 units.
NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS
- Nissan vehicles posted September sales of 84,485 units, an increase of 28.2% over the 65,900 units sold in September 2010.
- Strong combined sales of Nissan cars – including the Altima, Sentra, Maxima, and Versa – were up 32.3% versus the prior year at 55,751 units, setting a September record for total car sales.
- Versa saw a record September, with sales of 11,800 units increasing 68.1% over the prior year – helped by a strong start for the all-new Versa sedan, which had its first full month of sales in September.
- Strong sales of the Nissan Altima continue, with 24,356 units marking a September increase of 21.7% over the prior year, while Maxima sales jumped 26.3% to 6,133 units.
- The Rogue crossover vehicle continues to gain momentum, with sales of 10,740 units marking a 29.1% increase over last year – also a record September.
- Sales of the 100% electric Nissan LEAF totaled 1,031 units in September, with total sales of 7,217 units of the innovative, zero-emissions vehicle since its December 2010 U.S. debut.
INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS
- Infiniti sales totaled 8,479 units for September, an increase of 2.1% versus 8,305 a year earlier.
- Infiniti G Sedan sales of 3,940 marked an increase of 28.9% for the month, and the model’s best September.
- With sales of 1,206 in September, an increase of 46.7%, the Infiniti QX full-size luxury SUV has a year-over-year increase of 15.1%.
- The updated 2012 Infiniti FX, with a new front fascia, wheels and instrument cluster, arrives in Infiniti showrooms this month, and is expected to support continued growth for the brand in October.
“Thanks to a strong and diverse lineup of cars and trucks, Nissan division sales marked the best September in 26 years,” said Al Castignetti, vice president and general manager, Nissan Division. “Nissan saw year-over-year growth across the board, from our cars – including the all-new Versa sedan – to our crossovers and trucks as well.”
–UPDATED: Volkswagen of America reported 27,036 units sold in September 2011, a 35.6% increase over prior year sales. Year-to-date sales are up 22.2%.
“We are continuing to see consumer interest in our German engineered vehicles grow as we launched the all-new Passat and Beetle in September,” said Jonathan Browning, President and CEO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. “As we enter the last quarter of the year, we anticipate Volkswagen to continue to outperform the overall industry as we expand our product portfolio and make German Engineering accessible to a larger audience.”
Highlights include:
- September sales total 27,036 units, a 35.6% increase over prior year sales
- Year-to-date increase of 22.2%
- Chattanooga-built Passat launches with 3,176 units in first month of sales
- First retail sales of 2012 Beetle with 722 units sold
- 55.4 % increase in Jetta Sedan sales vs. last year with 13,128 units
- GTI sales up 43.4% and Golf up 19.4%
- Touareg sales increase 104.4% vs. prior year
- Tiguan sales up 22.8%
- High-mileage, clean diesel TDI models account for 22.7% of sales
The all-new, 2012 Volkswagen Passat went on sale September 12 with 3,176 units sold for the month. The 2012 Beetle, also launched in September, sold 722 units during its first month of sales. Volkswagen Jetta sales (including Sport Wagen) totaled 15,023 units, a 39.5% increase over last year. GTI sales increased 43.4 % while Golf sales rose 19.4% versus last year. Sport utility vehicles Touareg and Tiguan experienced 104.4% and 22.8% sales increases, respectively. Volkswagen’s high-mileage, clean diesel TDI models accounted for 22.7% of all September sales and 41% year-to-date.
VW – U.S. Snapshot |
— SEPTEMBER 2011 — |
— YEAR-TO-DATE — |
|||||
Sep-11 | Sep-10 | Yr/Yr % change | Sep-11 YTD | Sep-10 YTD | Yr/Yr % | ||
Golf |
1,312 |
1,099 |
19.4% |
13,854 |
11,303 |
22.6% |
|
GTI A5/A6 |
1,197 |
835 |
43.4% |
13,188 |
10,922 |
20.7% |
|
Total Rabbit/Golf/GTI/R32 |
2,509 |
1,934 |
29.7% |
27,042 |
22,225 |
21.7% |
|
Jetta Sedan A5/A6 |
13,128 |
8,450 |
55.4% |
115,612 |
67,991 |
70.0% |
|
SportWagen A5/A6 |
1,895 |
2,319 |
-18.3% |
21,376 |
19,116 |
11.8% |
|
Total Jetta |
15,023 |
10,769 |
39.5% |
136,988 |
87,107 |
57.3% |
|
Beetle Coupe |
722 |
662 |
9.1% |
924 |
10,850 |
-91.5% |
|
Convertible |
1 |
350 |
-99.7% |
841 |
3,897 |
-78.4% |
|
Total Beetle |
723 |
1,012 |
-28.6% |
1,765 |
14,747 |
-88.0% |
|
Eos |
558 |
521 |
7.1% |
6,166 |
5,709 |
8.0% |
|
Passat Sedan |
3,176 |
572 |
455.2% |
4,837 |
9,212 |
-47.5% |
|
Wagon |
– |
150 |
-100% |
56 |
2,144 |
-97.4% |
|
Total Passat |
3,176 |
722 |
339.9% |
4,893 |
11,356 |
-56.9% |
|
VW – U.S. Snapshot |
— SEPTEMBER 2011 — |
— YEAR-TO-DATE — |
|||||
Sep-11 | Sep-10 | Yr/Yr % change | Sep-11 YTD | Sep-10 YTD | Yr/Yr % | ||
CC |
1,610 |
2,132 |
-24.5% |
23,329 |
20,893 |
11.7% |
|
Tiguan |
1,628 |
1,326 |
22.8% |
20,016 |
15,282 |
31.0% |
|
Touareg |
656 |
321 |
104.4% |
4,853 |
2,832 |
71.4% |
|
Routan |
1,153 |
1,206 |
-4.4% |
10,407 |
12,539 |
-17.0% |
|
TOTAL |
27,036 |
19,943 |
35.6% |
235,459 |
192,690 |
22.2% |
–UPDATED: Hyundai Motor America announced sales of 52,051 vehicles in September, a 12% total sales increase compared with the same period a year ago, and a 16% retail sales increase over last September.
“Finishing September with such strong momentum is no small feat, especially considering the disappointing economic climate,” said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America’s executive vice president of national sales. “Consumer demand remained strong, vehicle availability improved, and we’ve added yet another entry to our family of standard 40 MPG fuel economy vehicles with the all-new Veloster.”
Year to date, Hyundai sales are up 20% versus 2010 in total, and up 31% at retail. Sales to fleet accounts represent 11% of the total sales year-to-date and just 10% for the month of September. Thirty-seven percent of Hyundai vehicles sold in September achieved 40 MPG fuel economy ratings.
Santa Fe and Tucson, the heart of Hyundai’s crossover line-up, registered sales increases of 67 and 36%, respectively. Equus, the highest-ranking premium luxury car in the 2011 J.D. Power and Associates APEAL study, delivered another strong month and has already exceeded its first full-year sales target.
“The Veloster, our new 40-MPG 3-door sport coupe, hit dealerships in mid-September and American car-buyers weren’t far behind,” said John Krafcik, Hyundai Motor America’s president and CEO. “We’ve delivered 838 Velosters to 838 happy owners in less than two weeks, with very strong demand from all parts of the country, and from all types of buyers.”
CARLINE |
SEPT/2011 |
SEPT/2010 |
CY/2011 |
CY/2010 |
|
ACCENT |
4,525 |
4,885 |
40,770 |
39,767 |
|
SONATA |
18,181 |
20,639 |
174,761 |
149,123 |
|
ELANTRA |
14,386 |
10,062 |
147,922 |
101,022 |
|
SANTA FE |
6,213 |
3,719 |
57,981 |
60,829 |
|
AZERA |
79 |
299 |
1,407 |
2,439 |
|
TUCSON |
3,724 |
2,730 |
34,896 |
29,460 |
|
VELOSTER |
834 |
0 |
834 |
0 |
|
VERACRUZ |
817 |
992 |
6,836 |
6,088 |
|
GENESIS |
3,000 |
3,230 |
25,224 |
21,319 |
|
EQUUS |
292 |
0 |
2,283 |
0 |
|
TOTAL |
52,051 |
46,556 |
492,914 |
410,047 |
|
–UPDATED: Kia Motors America (KMA) announced best-ever September sales of 35,609 units, an 18.4% increase over the same period last year and the company’s 13th straight monthly sales record. Kia’s design-led transformation has delivered unprecedented growth and market share gains, and with year-to-date sales up 37.1%, KMA bested its previous record annual sales total in less than nine months.
September sales were once again led by the U.S.-built(1) Sorento CUV, and with production of the critically acclaimed 2012 Optima now underway at Kia Motors Manufacturing Georgia (KMMG) the popular midsize sedan also was a strong performer with 6,191 units sold.
“Kia has become one of the fastest growing car companies in the U.S., and surpassing our previous annual sales record in less than nine months is the result of our dramatic brand transformation and our diverse lineup of stylish, well-appointed vehicles that offer modern technologies and outstanding fuel economy,” said Byung Mo Ahn, group president and CEO of KMA and KMMG. “Our growth and momentum will continue with the arrival of the all-new 2012 Rio 5-door in the next few weeks, which will join the Optima Hybrid as Kia’s second vehicle to deliver up to 40 miles per gallon while also offering consumers class-leading(2) horsepower and world-class design.”
MONTH OF SEPTEMBER |
YEAR-TO-DATE |
||||
Model |
2011 |
2010 |
2011 |
2010 |
|
Rio |
190 |
1,638 |
13,792 |
20,891 |
|
Spectra |
– |
6 |
1 |
265 |
|
Forte |
5,458 |
5,116 |
62,717 |
51,728 |
|
Optima |
6,191 |
2,024 |
55,737 |
21,222 |
|
Amanti |
– |
14 |
1 |
240 |
|
Sportage |
3,589 |
2,888 |
37,109 |
16,787 |
|
Sorento |
11,112 |
10,115 |
99,725 |
78,950 |
|
Sedona |
2,393 |
1,706 |
19,235 |
17,217 |
|
Rondo |
– |
111 |
44 |
3,387 |
|
Borrego |
10 |
1,107 |
375 |
8,313 |
|
Soul |
6,666 |
5,346 |
78,669 |
49,024 |
|
Total |
35,609 |
30,071 |
367,405 |
268,024 |
|
(1) Assembled in the United States from U.S. and globally sourced parts.
—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, announced September 2011 sales of 2,170 vehicles, an increase of 10% compared to the same period last year, when it sold 1,971 vehicles.
To date in 2011, the company has sold 22,664 cars. In the same nine-month period last year, Porsche sales were 17,690; thus, with September results Porsche U.S. sales increased 28% year-to-date.
For the month of September 2011, Porsche’s Approved Certified Pre-Owned vehicle sales were 714, compared to 619 last year. The year-to-date total is 6,597, compared to 5,645 in the previous year – a 15% increase.
Model |
September 2011 |
Year-to-Date |
|||
Current Year |
Prior Year |
Current Year |
Prior Year |
||
ALL BOXSTER/CAYMAN |
222 |
214 |
2,692 |
2,803 |
|
ALL 911 |
504 |
325 |
4,757 |
4,222 |
|
ALL CAYENNE |
930 |
808 |
10,031 |
5,098 |
|
ALL PANAMERA |
514 |
624 |
5,184 |
5,565 |
|
GRAND TOTALS |
2,170 |
1,971 |
22,664 |
17,690 |
–UPDATED: Subaru of America, Inc. announced September 2011 sales of 20,934 and sales of 195,550 year-to-date.
Consumer demand for Subaru products remains at an all time high; however recent sales have been affected due to supply restrictions and lowest-ever dealer inventory following the Japanese tsunami. Production levels at Subaru factories have now fully recovered and the company expects sales numbers to reach new heights in the coming months as the company returns to its record setting pre-tsunami levels.
“We are extremely pleased to break 20,000 sales again this month, despite inventory constraints,” said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Subaru of America, Inc. “This momentum positions us well for a successful introduction of the all-new 2012 Impreza, which will hit dealer showrooms later this year.”
Carline |
Sep-11 |
Sep-10 |
% Chg |
Sep-11 |
Sep-10 |
% Chg |
|
MTD |
MTD |
MTD |
YTD |
YTD |
YTD |
||
Forester |
6592 |
6449 |
2.22% |
56381 |
64121 |
-12.07% |
|
Impreza |
3340 |
3678 |
-9.19% |
31070 |
33055 |
-6.01% |
|
Legacy |
3139 |
2999 |
4.67% |
31338 |
28165 |
11.27% |
|
Outback |
7607 |
8154 |
-6.71% |
74791 |
66384 |
12.66% |
|
Tribeca |
256 |
152 |
68.42% |
1970 |
1889 |
4.29% |
|
TOTAL |
20934 |
21432 |
-2.32% |
195550 |
193614 |
1.00% |
|
“Legacy and Outback continue to experience solid gains with year-to-date increases of 11 % and 12 %, respectively,” said Bill Cyphers, senior vice president, sales, Subaru of America, Inc. “We expect this trend will continue as we rebuild inventory.”
–UPDATED: Audi of America reported record September U.S. sales of 9,725 vehicles, topping the previous record of 8,151 vehicles sold in 2010. September 2011 marked the ninth consecutive month of record-setting sales for the brand in the U.S. market.
Audi U.S. year-to-date sales date grew 15.5% to 84,981. The luxury car brand has recorded record sales in 13 out of the past 14 months.
The favorable Audi performance in September was led by significant consumer demand for the all-new 2012 A6 with a 42.8% increase on 1,124 vehicles sold when compared to August 2010 sales. Demand for the Audi A7, introduced this spring and recently named the Esquire Magazine Car of the Year for 2011, remained strong with 693 vehicles sold in the month. The all-new A6 and A7 feature Audi’s industry-leading navigation and safety technology, including MMI® Navigation plus with Google Earth™, Audi connect™ featuring available wireless Internet access and Audi night vision assistant with thermal imaging.
With sales of the new Audi A8 flagship sedan included, demand for the most luxurious Audi cars equaled 23% of the overall Audi sales mix in September.
Year-to-date sales of the popular Audi Q7 full-size luxury sport-utility vehicle increased 30.8% to 540 vehicles sold, when compared to 2010. The Audi Q7 TDI clean diesel model accounted for 46.5% of the sales mix in the lineup. Demand remained strong for the Audi A3, with an increase of 9.9% YTD sales compared to 2010. As consumers continued to show preferences for efficiency, the Audi A3 TDI clean diesel model accounted for 51% of the total A3 sales mix for the month.
The reintroduction of the Audi TT RS sports car helped spur total Audi TT sales to an increase of 153% from a year earlier with 210 vehicles sold in September. Audi TT YTD sales increased 27.1% to 1,662 vehicles sold.
Audi Certified Pre-Owned sales of 2,871 vehicles mark the best September on record and the seventh-consecutive record month. Year-to-date sales of 28,389 put Audi on track to deliver one of the best CPO years on record.
For the record-setting month of September 2011, Audi recorded YTD sales increases of over 25% with four of its models: the Audi A8, the Audi Q7, the Audi R8 and the Audi TT. In addition, the Audi southern regions experienced strong gains, with YTD sales jumping 20% to 20,966 vehicles sold. The Texas and Atlanta markets were especially strong in September.
“Our strong third quarter sales figures clearly reinforce that Audi is a luxury market leader,” said Audi of America President Johan de Nysschen. “All indications continue to point toward 2011 winding up as the best year Audi has ever enjoyed in the U.S. market with even more sales growth ahead.”
Audi sales highlights – September 2011
• New company record set in September with 9,725 vehicles sold, topping the previous record of 8,151 vehicles sold in September 2010.
• Audi sales in the U.S. grew 15.5% to 84,981 luxury vehicles sold from January 2011 through September 2011.
• Four models within Audi lineup post YTD gains exceeding 25%.
Audi A6, A7 and A8 August sales and news notes
• Strong initial sales for the all-new 2012 A6 with 1,124 vehicles sold, an increase of 42.8% over August 2011.
• 2012 Audi A7 sustains momentum with 693 vehicles sold.
• Audi A8 sales increase 395.2% YOY to 411 vehicles sold; A8 YTD sales up 541.9% to 4,179 vehicles sold.
Audi A3 and Audi Q7 September sales and news notes
• Audi A3 posted strong sales gain with an increase of 9.9 % YTD to 5,023 vehicles sold in September.
• Audi Q7 sales in September up 30.8% YTD, compared to 2010.
• TDI clean diesel technology represented 51% of total A3 sales for August and 46.5% of total Q7 sales for August.
Audi TT September sales and news notes
• Audi TT sales increased 153% from the same period last year to 210 vehicles sold in September 2011; YTD sales experience 27.1% increase with 1,662 vehicles sold in 2011 through September.
Audi Certified Pre-Owned sales and news notes
• Audi CPO sales up 26% versus 2010.
• YTD sales up 35% with 28,389 vehicles sold.
—UPDATED: Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) reported September, 2011 sales of 25,521 vehicles, up 37.4% versus September, 2010 (up 32.1% on a Daily Selling Rate basis). Through the end of September, 2011 year-to-date sales are up 9.5% versus last year with 191,315 vehicles sold.
Key September sales notes:
- Mazda’s stylish CX-7 (up 90.8% with 4,909 sales) and CX-9 (up 73.6% with 4,201 sales) crossover SUVs reported best-ever monthly sales. On the year, CX-7 sales are up 34.2% while CX-9 is up 18.3%.
- Mazda6 recorded a 52.4% increase in sales with 4,163 vehicles sold. The midsize sport sedan reported its best monthly sales since March 2009, and best September sales since 2005.
- Mazda2 sales are up 62.3%, with 956 vehicles sold in September.
- The Mazda5 multi-activity vehicle posted a 54.4% increase with monthly sales of 1,712 vehicles. On the year, Mazda5 sales are up 24.4%.
- Mazda’s popular Mazda3 sold 8,929 vehicles, accounting for an 11.7% increase and its best sales month since September 2007.
—UPDATED: Mitsubishi Motors North America (MMNA) reported September 2011 sales of 5,803 units which represents a 17% increase over the September 2010 sales figures.
The increase extends a sales surge that began in September of 2010 and has continued for thirteen months, outpacing overall U.S. auto industry sales growth. Mitsubishi’s year-to-date 2011 sales are more than 59 percent higher than sales during the first nine months of last year.
“Consumers continue to be drawn to the styling, performance, and fuel efficiency of our Outlander Sport”, said MMNA President & CEO Yoichi Yokozawa. “Our momentum should be further enhanced when we launch a major advertising campaign later this month that focuses on next year’s Outlander Sport production launch at our U.S. manufacturing facility in Normal, Illinois, and next month’s sales launch of our all-electric Mitsubishi i.”
This week, in Portland, Mitsubishi Motors kicks off the seven-week “Mitsubishi i 100% Electric Experience” test drive tour of Oregon, Washington and California. The experiential marketing campaign targets potential electric vehicle shoppers ahead of the all-electric i’s arrival in November at select dealerships.
September sales highlights include:
- Mitsubishi Motors North America sold 5,803 vehicles in September 2011, a 17% increase over September 2010 and Mitsubishi’s highest sales total for the month of September since 2008
- Sales of Mitsubishi vehicles for calendar-year-to-date 2011 are at 65,875 units, a 59.1% increase over CYTD 2010 and also Mitsubishi’s highest January through September sales total since 2008.
- The Outlander Sport model had another strong showing in September with 1,512 units sold
–UPDATED: Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported September sales of 23,897 vehicles, a 15.6% improvement over September 2010 (20,666) and the company’s highest September volume on record. On a year-to-date basis, the 182,314 vehicles sold represent a 10.3% increase over the 165,355 vehicles sold during the same period last year.
The highest volume performers for the month were the C-Class and E-Class model lines. The all-new 2012 sporty C-Class – and gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for younger and first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers – led the pack with sales of 6,865, up 32.1% from September 2010. The 9th generation E-Class followed with sales of 5,122 and the full-sized SUV, the GL-Class, finished third in volume with monthly sales of 2,541. Additionally, sales of the newly launched 2012 CLS-Class posted a 399.3% increase for the month and sales of the new SLK roadster were up 50.8% over September 2010.
At the high end, the company sold 25 of its supercar — the SLS AMG — bringing its year-to-date sales to 454.
Sales of Sprinter Vans also increased by 121.3% for September with sales of 1,779 – bringing a year-to-date total of 12,452 (up 121.3 %).
Sales of the smart fortwo totaled 469 vehicles for the month (compared to the 422 vehicles sold in September 2010).
Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned (MBCPO) program, MBUSA sold 5,707 vehicles in September 2011, a decrease of -8.6%. On a year-to-date basis, MBCPO sold 57,359 vehicles, a decrease of -5.9% over the comparable period last year.
–UPDATED: The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported September sales of 25,749 vehicles, an increase of 11.4% from the 23,112 vehicles sold in the same month a year ago.
Year-to-date, BMW Group sales are up 14.2% to 219,314 in the first nine months of 2011 compared to 192,052 in the same period in 2010.
“The good results in September are remarkable given the general view of the economy but it shows there is demand and people will spend provided you have the right products and offer value,” said Ludwig Willisch, President and CEO, BMW of North America. “We continue expanding our new product range with the BMW four-cylinder 528i and Z4 Roadster, the 6 Series Coupe and the MINI Coupe now on the market, giving us more reasons to be optimistic about the critical fourth quarter of the year.”
BMW Brand Sales
Sales of BMW brand vehicles increased 19.3% in September for a total of 21,750 compared to 18,228 vehicles sold in September, 2010.
Year-to-date, the BMW brand is up 12.8% on sales of 177,679 January through September compared to 157,464 sold in the first nine months of 2010.
In September, the BMW X3 SAV continued the strong sales success that began with its launch in January. Year-to-date, the new X3 has sold 19,167 compared with 5,036 in the same period of 2010, a 280% increase. The BMW SAV segment (X3, X5, X6) continues growing with sales up 46.3% from the previous September. The BMW 5 Series continues its strong sales growth with September posting a 43% increase over September 2010. Year-to-date the 5 Series has sold 37,996 compared to 24,476 in the first nine months of 2010, a 55.2% increase.
BMW Pre-Owned Vehicles
In September, sales of BMW used vehicles (including certified pre-owned and pre-owned) totaled 13,129, a decrease of 3.0% from the 13,540 sold in September 2010.
Year-to-date, BMW used vehicle sales are down 5.7% on volume of 119,424 compared to 126,601 in the first nine months of 2010.
MINI Brand Sales
MINI USA reported sales of 3,999 automobiles in September. The September 2011 sales are down 18.1% from the 4,884 sold in September, 2010.
Year-to-date, MINI sales in the U.S. are up 20.4% on volume of 41,635 compared to 34,588 in the first nine months of 2010.
Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, September 2011 | |||||||
Sept ’11 |
Sept ’10 |
% |
YTD Sept ’11 |
YTD Sept ’10 |
% |
||
1 Series |
674 |
1,155 |
-41.6% |
6,572 |
9,745 |
-32.6% |
|
3 Series |
9,289 |
8,945 |
3.8% |
70,566 |
73,395 |
-3.9% |
|
Z4 |
140 |
100 |
40.0% |
2,932 |
3,265 |
-10.2% |
|
5 Series |
4,097 |
2,859 |
43.3% |
37,996 |
24,476 |
55.2% |
|
6 Series |
338 |
50 |
576.0% |
2,217 |
2,250 |
-1.5% |
|
7 Series |
869 |
783 |
11.0% |
7,750 |
9,746 |
-20.5% |
|
BMW passenger cars |
15,407 |
13,892 |
10.9% |
128,033 |
122,877 |
4.2% |
|
X3 |
1,853 |
146 |
1169.2% |
19,167 |
5,036 |
280.6% |
|
X5 |
3,878 |
3,632 |
6.8% |
26,047 |
25,218 |
3.3% |
|
X6 |
612 |
558 |
9.7% |
4,432 |
4,333 |
2.3% |
|
BMW light trucks (SAVs) |
6,343 |
4,336 |
46.3% |
49,646 |
34,587 |
43.5% |
|
BMW brand |
21,750 |
18,228 |
19.3% |
177,679 |
157,464 |
12.8% |
|
Cooper /S Hardtop |
1,884 |
3,304 |
-43.0% |
20,845 |
22,281 |
-6.4% |
|
Cooper /S Convertible |
447 |
1,046 |
-57.3% |
3,995 |
5,801 |
-31.1% |
|
Cooper /S Clubman |
461 |
534 |
-13.7% |
5,517 |
6,506 |
-15.2% |
|
Crossover |
1,207 |
N/A |
N/A |
11,278 |
N/A |
N/A |
|
MINI brand |
3,999 |
4,884 |
-18.1% |
41,635 |
34,588 |
20.4% |
|
TOTAL BMW of North America, LLC |
25,749 |
23,112 |
11.4% |
219,314 |
192,052 |
14.2% |