Strong Sales for Dodge Ram and Dodge Grand Caravan Vehicles Fueling Growth for Chrysler Canada in 2008

From January through July 2008, Chrysler Canada has grown sales by three percent (146,751 units) compared to the same time period in 2007.  Several fuel-efficient models in Chrysler's lineup achieved significant gains and contributed to noteworthy growth year-to-date.  The Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck achieved a double-digit sales increase in July, while the Dodge Grand Caravan more than doubled its sales over last year.

"Customers still seek functionality and flexibility in a new vehicle, even as they shift to new segments," said Reid Bigland, President and CEO of Chrysler Canada.  "Our vehicle portfolio offers a number of models that incorporate the fuel-efficient performance required by the current market conditions, as well as the flexibility that our customers demand.  The strong sales of the Dodge Grand Caravan are a great example of how Chrysler is drawing customers to a vehicle suited to meet the evolving needs of consumers - it offers improved fuel economy over an SUV, and can accommodate almost every lifestyle."

July Highlights

Dodge Ram 1500 pickup truck sales grew 34 percent in July with 2,873 units sold.  Year-to-date sales for this model have reached 16,705 units, marking growth of 27 percent.

Dodge Grand Caravan sales of 2,955 units were more than twice the July 2007 volume, despite a decrease in the overall segment.  Year-to-date sales of the Dodge Grand Caravan grew 38 percent and positioned it as one of the company's highest volume vehicles.  The Chrysler Town & Country also posted outstanding growth, with sales of 395 for the month, compared to 71 in July 2007.

Several of Chrysler's fuel-efficient models achieved strong sales performance in July.  Combined sales of the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass and Jeep Patriot grew 38 percent (4,547 units).  Sales of Jeep Compass itself increased 51 percent.  Year-to-date combined sales of the Dodge Caliber, Jeep Compass, and Jeep Patriot trio are up 37 percent over 2007.

Dodge Avenger, with a fuel economy rating of 43 miles per gallon (highway), is also experiencing growing demand.  In July, sales for the vehicle reached 850 units, an increase of 31 percent over 2007.

Dodge Journey remains the No. 1 crossover vehicle in Canada as sales continue to climb.  In July, 1,100 Dodge Journey vehicles were sold.

The Jeep brand posted its best July results ever, with sales of 3,833, up four percent over last year.

August Sales Program

For the month of August, Chrysler Canada will continue to combine its innovative free gas program with aggressive cash discounts.  The company's "Take a Free Ride" promotion offers customers up to $1500 of free gas. The program has been enhanced to include 2009 model vehicles such as the all-new Dodge Journey as well as all 2008 models (excluding Dodge Viper, Challenger, and Sprinter).

"In addition to helping customers lower their gas expenses, Chrysler Canada is offering Canadians exceptional opportunities to purchase a new vehicle with lower-than-ever monthly payments," said Dave Buckingham, Vice President - Sales, Chrysler Canada.  "We realize that for many consumers, the monthly payment is the key to whether they can consider a new vehicle or not. Our cash incentives for August will get them into a new Chrysler, Jeep, or Dodge product at a price that will amaze them."

Several key models will be available for a monthly payment that has been reduced by up to $140 per month.  The fuel-efficient Dodge Caliber SXT with air conditioning, automatic transmission, 4-cylinder World Engine, power windows, locks and mirrors is available for a bi-weekly purchase payment of $111. Canada's favourite minivan, the Dodge Grand Caravan Canada Value Package with V6 engine, air conditioning, automatic transmission, ABS, Electronic Stability Program, side-curtain air bags, and a 34 miles-per-gallon highway rating, is available for as little as $139 bi-weekly.

The Ram 1500 Quad Cab SXT 4X4 is available for a cash discount of up to $13,250, for a bi-weekly payment of only $169.  This extremely well-equipped model includes the HEMI® engine with fuel-saving Multiple Displacement System (MDS), chrome wheels, power windows, locks and mirrors.

For additional information about Chrysler Canada's special offers, refer to www.chryslercanada.ca