Chrysler, Nissan report double-digit Aug. US sales gains, leading US industry to strong month

DETROIT (AP) — Most automakers are reporting stronger-than-expected U.S. sales for August.

Chrysler and Nissan led the way with double-digit increases, while Toyota reports sales were up 6 percent. Chrysler’s sales leaped 20 percent as the Jeep brand led the automaker to its best August in a dozen years. Nissan reported nearly a 12 percent increase.

Ford and General Motors exceeded analysts’ expectations, though Ford sales rose just 0.4 percent, and GM posted a 1.2 percent decrease. Still, GM’s sales appear to be holding up despite safety recalls involving 29 million vehicles for a variety of problems.

Volkswagen continues to struggle with sales off almost 13 percent from a year ago.

Trucks and crossover SUVs led most automakers, continuing a trend away from cars. Crossover SUVs generally are built on car underpinnings, so they’re more efficient and maneuverable than the older truck-based SUVs. Many get over 30 mpg on the highway.

%@AP Links

214-v-33-(David Melendy, AP correspondent)–U.S. automakers have reported mixed results in the showrooms last month, but AP correspondent David Melendy reports some enjoyed exceedingly strong sales. (3 Sep 2014)

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APPHOTO NY116: In this March 14, 2014 file photo, a 2015 Chrysler 200 automobile moves down the assembly line at the Sterling Heights Assembly Plant in Sterling Heights, Mich. Automakers report sales for May on Tuesday, June 3, 2014. All automakers report U.S. sales figures for August 2014 on Wednesday, Sept. 3, 2014. Chrysler and Nissan both posted double-digit U.S. sales gains last month, signs of strong August for the industry. (AP Photo/Paul Sancya, File) (14 Mar 2014)

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