Chrysler Group sales rise 11% on Jeep, Ram

DETROIT -- Chrysler Group's U.S. sales climbed 11 percent in February on the strength of Jeep and Ram, which offset declines at Dodge.

The company reported sales of 154,866 units last month, its best February since 2007 and its 47th consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

Jeep sales, up 47 percent in February from the previous year, set a February record. Three Jeep vehicles, the Wrangler, Compass and Patriot, set February sales records. The Cherokee outsold the Wrangler for the third consecutive month, while sales of the larger Grand Cherokee climbed 34 percent.

Sales of Ram pickups rose 26 percent to their best February since 2006. The company said sales of its light-duty pickup, the Ram 1500, increased 30 percent while its heavy-duty lineup was up 19 percent.

Dodge sales dropped 11 percent in February, despite strong sales of the Durango and a February sales record for the Journey. Those gains were not enough to offset double-digit declines from the Dart, Charger and Challenger, as well as the Avenger, which ended production last month.

Sales of Chrysler brand vehicles rose 1 percent as small gains from the 200 and Town & Country offset declines from the 300 sedan.

Fiat sales climbed 5 percent; sales of the 500L offset declines from the 500 minicar.

Chrysler reported an 85-day supply of unsold inventory on hand, down from the 105-day supply it reported a month earlier.