February 2011 U.S. auto sales figures are in and most automakers did relatively well compared to last February. Incentives continue to remain attractive to car shoppers who were enticed with 0 percent car loan rates and more discounted lease deals.
General Motors experienced an impressive 49.1 percent increase compared to last February. Retail sales were a major contributor to GM’s success in February, seeing a 70 percent increase, the highest year-over-year gain in the company’s history.
"Our plan was to get off to a quick start this year, and we did just that," said Don Johnson, vice president, U.S. sales operations. "Having the right vehicles in inventory, combined with aggressive advertising and targeted consumer marketing has been the key to our success in the first two months this year."
Ford’s 13.8 percent increase compared to February 2010 was aided by the Ford Fusion and Escape‘s February sales records and the Fiesta‘s best month ever.
"With oil nearing $100 per barrel and gasoline prices continuing to rise, consumers’ consideration for fuel economy once again is taking top billing," said Ken Czubay, Ford vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. "Ford’s investment in new products, engines and transmissions is delivering real value to our customers, and people are rewarding us for it."
Chrysler Group’s February sales saw a 13 percent increase compared to the same month a year ago.
"Our retail sales were up substantially in February, proof positive that the 16 all-new or significantly-refreshed models we launched during 2010 are resonating with consumers," said Fred Diaz, president and CEO – Ram Truck Brand and lead executive for U.S. sales. "The sustained buzz generated by our Super Bowl commercial has added to the interest and excitement in our 2011 models as they land in dealership showrooms in volume."
February 2011 U.S. auto sales:
GM: up 49.1%
Ford: up 13.8%
Chrysler Group: up 13%
Subaru: up 19.8%
Toyota: up 48.5% (including Scion)
Lexus: up 0.2%
Nissan: up 31.6%
Infiniti: up 29.9%
Honda: up 21.7%
Acura: up 20.8%
Mercedes-Benz: up 5.1%
smart USA: up 9.5%
BMW: up 8.7%
MINI: up 22%
Kia: up 36.4%
Hyundai: up 28%
Mazda: up 13.7%
Suzuki: up 19%
Mitsubishi: up 71.5%
Volkswagen: up 18.5%
Porsche: up 32%
Audi: up 24.7%
