Subaru Reports Record Breaking Sales for August 2008

Subaru Forester hits an all-time sales record as does the Legacy Sedan - while the Impreza bests its August sales record

CHERRY HILL, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Subaru of America, Inc. today reported August sales of 18,932 total units -- a 14% increase over the same month in 2007 of 16,573 units. The company posted total year-to-date sales of 129,298 units, a 6% gain over YTD August 2007 of 122,165 units.

The Subaru Forester hit an all-time sales record of 6,763 units resulting in an increase of over 73% from August 2007 sales as did the Subaru Legacy Sedan at 2,402 units -- a 24% increase over the same period last year. The Subaru Impreza posted its best August ever -- up an impressive 15% over the same period last year.

   Model                       2008 August              % v 2007

   Total Impreza                 5,071                    +15%
   Total Legacy                  2,402                    +24%
   Total Outback                 3,834                    -15%
   (incl. Legacy Wagon)
   Total Forester                6,763                    +73%
   Total Tribeca                   862                    -53%

   Total                        18,932                    +14%



"Subaru is enjoying record sales due to the strength of our product line and the top-notch service provided by our dealerships," said Tim Colbeck, vice president of sales for Subaru of America. "While the market is down 11 percent for the month of August and 8 percent on a year-to-date basis, we are growing with products that are not only fuel efficient, but also leaders in durability, capability, and safety."

"Subaru is proud to provide a safer, superior driving experience for its customers," said Thomas J. Doll, executive vice president for Subaru of America. "Equipped with unique symmetrical All-Wheel Drive technology and the Subaru boxer engine, the Subaru product line, renowned for durability, reliability, traction and "active safety," represents one of the highest repurchase-loyalty ratings in the U.S. market," Doll added.

Source: Subaru of America, Inc.  

Mitsubishi Motors Reports August Sales

CYPRESS, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Mitsubishi Motors today announced total August 2008 sales of 9,200.

Galant sales were 2,976, which is the largest month for Galant since August 2007.

August 2008 Lancer Evolution sales were up 228 percent over August 2007 sales.

Mitsubishi's total August 2008 sales were down 29 percent, compared to August 2007 (13,020 sales), which was the largest August sales month in four years.

Source: Mitsubishi Motors North America, Inc.  

Audi Reports August Sales

- Audi reports tough month-over-month comparison; A4 selldown depletes inventory

- Audi A6 sales up year over year, record A5 sales

- Year to date, Audi sales outpace industry trends

- CPO sales up again

HERNDON, Va., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Audi of America announced today auto sales for the month of August totaling 6,406, a decrease of 16% from last year's figures. Despite strong economic headwinds, Audi new vehicle sales in the U.S. are down just 3.7% year-to-date. Audi Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) sales continued to grow with another record-setting month; compared with last year's August figures, CPO sales rose to 2,841 units, up 20.8%.

"We have a strong portfolio of all-new models which has helped sustain interest in Audi and drive showroom traffic through this otherwise tough period," said Johan de Nysschen, executive vice president, Audi of America. "Our Audi dealers were so successful in selling down our 2008 model year A4s that our inventory came up a bit short to satisfy consumer demand. The all-new 2009 model year A4 vehicles are arriving now. Based on sold orders and consumer interest through our website and at local dealer launch events, we expect strong demand for this segment-leading sedan, and excellent sales for September."

The Audi 2009 A4 models are arriving in dealer showrooms now and are all-new. Based on government data and independent test results, the 2009 A4 2.0T leads its key competitors in fuel economy and 0-to-60 miles per hour acceleration.

Nationwide, several Audi models sold well. The Audi A6 model line sales increased significantly, up 88.4% over last August. Dealers recorded a record sales month for the all-new A5 due to improved availability, with 718 units sold. In addition, dealers in key markets noted strong sales, including the greater Atlanta and Los Angeles metropolitan areas and the Pacific Southwest region.

Audi continues to impress industry analysts and other third-party industry watchers. J.D. Power and Associates, the respected industry organization that measures, among other things, quality within the auto industry, recently noted that Audi posted the greatest ranking improvement in initial quality during the 2008 J.D. Power Initial Quality Survey. The Audi Q7, A3, A4 and A6 have also been recognized by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) as Top Safety Picks in 2008, earning Audi the most Top Safety Pick designations for 2008 models of any luxury automaker this year.

ABOUT AUDI

Audi of America and its 272 dealers offer a full line of German-engineered luxury vehicles. The Audi line up is one of the freshest in the industry with 23 models, including 12 models launched during model years 2008 and 2009. Audi is among the most successful brands globally. Last year AUDI AG recorded its 12th consecutive record year for sales and profit growth. Visit www.audiusa.com or www.audiusanews.com for more information regarding Audi vehicles and business issues.

 AUDI US SNAPSHOT                            
-----YEAR TO DATE-----
                    Aug-08   Aug-07  Yr/Yr % Aug-08    Aug-07   Yr/Yr %
                    actual   actual  change   YTD       YTD      change
                                             actual    actual

 A3                   432      428    0.9%    3,447     4,369   -21.1%
 A4/S4/RS 4         2,136    3,675  -41.9%   28,906    28,880     0.1%
 A5/S5                718      n/a     n/a    3,472       n/a      n/a
 A6/S6              1,520      807   88.4%    8,173     7,636     7.0%
 A8/S8                274      324  -15.4%    1,907     2,443   -21.9%
 TT                   341      562  -39.3%    3,166     2,672    18.5%
 R8                    83      n/a     n/a      448       n/a      n/a
 Audi Q7              902    1,824  -50.5%    8,714    14,458   -39.7%
 Total Audi Sales   6,406    7,620  -15.9%   58,233    60,458    -3.7%

Source: Audi of America  

Kia Motors America Announces August Sales

Passenger Cars Up 22.2 Percent Year-To-Date

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Kia Motors America (KMA) today announced August sales of 25,065 units. Year-to-date sales are up 1.3 percent with 210,705 units sold. Passenger cars are up 4.9 percent for August and 22.2 percent year-to-date.

Leading August passenger car sales is Optima with 3,807 units, up 25.2 percent over the same period last year. Rio and Rondo also both had increases of 19 percent and 15.2 percent respectively over the same period last year with 3,590 and 3,508 units sold.

Kia Motors America (KMA) is the sales, marketing and distribution arm of Kia Motors Corporation based in Seoul, South Korea. KMA offers a complete line of vehicles through more than 640 dealers throughout the United States. For 2007, KMA recorded its 14th consecutive year of record U.S. sales. Kia Motors subscribes to a philosophy of building high value, high quality, safe and dynamic vehicles. Kia Motors prides itself on producing vehicles that are exciting and enabling and evoke the Kia tagline "The Power to Surprise."

Kia Motors America is the "Official Automotive Partner of the NBA." Information about Kia Motors America and its full vehicle line-up is available at its Web site -- http://www.kia.com/. For media information, including photography, visit http://www.kiamedia.com/.

             MONTH OF AUGUST                 YEAR-TO-DATE
 Model        2008      2007                2008       2007
 Rio         3,590     3,017              28,258     22,292
 Spectra     6,170     6,834              55,037     49,761
 Optima      3,807     3,040              38,873     28,017
 Amanti        214       249               2,643      4,837
 Sportage    2,845     4,109              26,132     32,067
 Sorento     3,041     3,557              17,473     26,438
 Sedona        886     3,023              19,210     29,281
 Rondo       3,508     3,045              22,038     15,263
 Borrego     1,004       n/a               1,041        n/a

 Total      25,065    26,874             210,705    207,956

Source: Kia Motors America  

Hyundai Motor America Reports August Sales

FOUNTAIN VALLEY, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Hyundai Motor America today announced sales of 41,130 for the month of August, an 8.8 percent decrease from the all-time August sales record set in 2007.

"Once again the fuel-efficient Accent, Sonata and Elantra, despite restricted availability, continued their upward sales trend with increases of 73 percent, 17 percent and 13 percent, respectively, over the same month last year," said Dave Zuchowski, Hyundai Motor America's vice president of national sales. "As illustrated by our August sales, the small to midsize segments continue to be where the market is and we believe Hyundai is extremely well positioned to capitalize on this."

"Additionally, we just finished our first full month of sales of our new rear-wheel drive Genesis and we are thrilled with the results of 1,177 units. Genesis is changing the way American buyers think about the Hyundai brand and is attracting an entirely new type of prospect to our showrooms."

All Hyundai vehicles sold in the U.S. are covered by The Hyundai Advantage, America's Best Warranty. Hyundai buyers are protected by a 10-year/100,000-mile power train warranty, a 5-year/60,000-mile bumper-to-bumper warranty, a 7-year/unlimited-mile anti-perforation warranty and 5-year/unlimited-mile roadside assistance protection.

Hyundai Motor America, headquartered in Fountain Valley, Calif., is a subsidiary of Hyundai Motor Co. of Korea. Hyundai vehicles are distributed throughout the United States by Hyundai Motor America and are sold and serviced through 800 dealerships nationwide.

CARLINE   AUG/2008     AUG/2007      CY2008      CY2007

ACCENT   6,455        3,731       41,379       26,092
SONATA   11,477       10,348       88,813      92,808
ELANTRA   10,031        8,812       82,463       66,726
TIBURON   984        1,646        7,053      10,614
SANTA FE  7,675       10,570       51,953       62,509
AZERA    703        1,992       12,954       15,938
TUCSON   1,685        4,954       14,953       28,756
ENTOURAGE  391        1,295        3,905       14,785
VERACRUZ   552        1,739        7,600        6,965
GENESIS    1,177      0        1,826      0

TOTAL    41,130       45,087      312,899      325,193

Source: Hyundai Motor America  

 Acura Announces August Sales Results

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The MDX luxury SUV was Acura's top-selling model with August sales of 5,180 units. Acura sales for August tallied 15,089 units, down 8.2 percent compared to August 2007*. Acura's year-to-date** vehicle sales totaled 105,831 units, down 13.9 percent compared to 2007.

"As we prepare for the arrival of the all-new 2009 TL later this month, we anticipate strong Acura car sales throughout the remainder of 2008," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales. "The all-new TL embodies dramatic styling, driving excitement, refinement and connectivity, raising the bar in the highly competitive luxury market."

August 2008 sales for Acura sedans were led by the TL performance luxury sedan with 5,000 units, up 0.2 percent from August 2007, followed by the TSX sports sedan which posted sales of 2,837 units, and the RL luxury performance sedan, with 316 units sold. In addition, the RDX turbocharged crossover SUV sold 1,756 units.

For media information and high-resolution photos of Acura vehicles, please visit http://www.acuranews.com/. For consumer information, please visit http://www.acura.com/.

 *  The daily selling rate is calculated with 27 selling days for August
    2008 and 27 selling days for August 2007.
 ** Year-to-date sales based on 206 days for 2008 versus 205 days for 2007.



American Honda Vehicle Sales For August 2008
                      Month-to-Date
              August      August      DSR**
               2008        2007      % Chg.

Acura Division Total    15,089      16,436      -8.2%
RSX             0           1
TL *        5,000       4,992       0.2%
TSX         2,837       3,245     -12.6%
RL            316         522     -39.5%
MDX *       5,180       5,816     -10.9%
RDX  *      1,756       1,860      -5.6%
Selling Days     27          27


                       Year-to-Date
              August       August     DSR**
               2008         2007     % Chg.

Acura Division Total                    105,831      122,357    -13.9%
RSX             1          294    -99.7%
TL *       32,642       40,748    -20.3%
TSX        23,994       23,433      1.9%
RL          3,507        4,562    -23.5%
MDX *      33,219       37,792    -12.5%
RDX  *     12,468       15,526    -20.1%
 Selling Days    206          205


 *  Honda and Acura vehicles are made of domestic and global sourced
    parts.
 ** Daily Selling Rate

Source: American Honda Motor *** Inc.  

 

American Honda Reports August Sales

All-new Pilot sales increase 18.6 percent; Civic Sales up by 5.3 percent

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- American Honda Motor *** Inc., posted August total vehicle sales of 146,855, a decline of 7.3 percent compared to record-setting August 2007 results. Year-to-date sales of 1,083,957 represent a 1.2 percent increase on a daily-selling-rate basis* compared to last year.

Honda Division posted August sales of 131,766, a decline of 7.1 percent versus August 2007. Honda models showing increased sales included the all-new Pilot, up 18.6 percent to 11,276; Civic, up 5.3 percent to 30,052; the Civic Hybrid, up 47.7 percent to 3,105.

"Meeting the demand for fuel-efficient vehicles remains a priority," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president of sales for American Honda. "In addition to the Civic and Civic Hybrid, the sales increase of the all-new Pilot shows that fuel-efficient technologies such as our variable cylinder management system are being well-received in Honda's light truck segment."

Honda total car sales decreased by 4.9 percent to 78,674. Honda light truck sales saw a decrease of 10.3 percent to 53,092.

*The daily selling rate is calculated with 27 days for August 2008 and 27 days for August 2007. The year-to-date daily selling rate is calculated with 206 days for 2008 and 205 days for 2007. All percentages reflect the daily selling rate.


American Honda Vehicle Sales For August 2008
  Month-to-Date
                   August      August      DSR**
                    2008        2007       % Chg.
 American Honda Total                     146,855     158,342      -7.3%
    Total Car Sales 86,827      91,448      -5.1%
    Total Truck Sales                      60,028      66,894     -10.3%
    Honda Total Truck Sales             53,092      59,218     -10.3%
     

MODEL BREAKOUTS BY DIVISION
 Honda Division Total                     131,766     141,906      -7.1%
 
    Odyssey  *      15,546      19,324     -19.6%
    Pilot *         11,276       9,504      18.6%
    CR-V *          19,866      23,192     -14.3%
    Element *        2,606       2,759      -5.5%
    Ridgeline        3,798       4,439     -14.4%


 

Source: American Honda Motor *** Inc.,  

BMW Group Reports August Sales

BMW Group US sales (BMW and MINI combined) up 1.0 percent in August

WOODCLIFF LAKE, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- The BMW Group in the U.S. (BMW and MINI combined) reported August sales of 30,931 vehicles, an increase of 1.0 percent over the 30,639 vehicles sold in August 2007. The BMW Group also reported a year-to-date sales volume of 217,821 vehicles, down 2.5 percent, compared to 223,341 vehicles in the same period of 2007.

BMW Brand Sales

Sales of BMW brand vehicles decreased 4.1 percent in August for a total of 25,462 compared to 26,562 reported in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date BMW brand sales were down 7.4 percent, to 180,889 vehicles compared to 195,436 vehicles sold in the same period in 2007.

"In the last six months in a tough economy we have seen premium brand sales largely supported by the Northeast region," said Jim O'Donnell, President of BMW of North America, LLC. "In August however the Southeast and West came back as a strong contributor to our BMW sales. A trend? Don't know, but a good sign."

Contributing to BMW sales in August was a good balance between retail financing and leasing.

"We are strong believers that the premium market deserves a choice of both retail financing and leasing," said Jim O'Donnell. "We knew working our APR programs to add a bit more value to the ownership equation would get us a better balance with leasing. This month it's been exactly like this."

BMW Automobile Sales

BMW's automobile sales are down 5.6 percent in August to 19,653 versus 20,825 in the same month a year ago. Year-to-date sales also decreased 7.1 percent, to 142,436 automobiles compared to 153,303 in the same period of 2007.

BMW Sports Activity Vehicle Sales

Sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles increased by 1.3 percent in August to 5,809 vehicles over the 5,737 sold last August. Year-to-date, sales of BMW Sports Activity Vehicles were down 8.7 percent, to 38,453 vehicles compared to the 42,133 sold in the first eight months of 2007.

MINI Brand Sales

MINI USA reported August sales of 5,469 automobiles, up 34.1 percent from the 4,077 cars sold in August 2007. Year-to-date, the division reported sales of 36,932 automobiles, an increase of 32.3 percent, compared to the 27,905 cars reported in the first eight months of 2007.

"MINI continued to see strong demand in August and one that again lowered our inventory even more," said Jim McDowell, Vice-President MINI USA. "But good news is on the way as we have increased our allocation for the remainder of the year starting in September."

McDowell noted that 75 percent of all MINI customers will likely build their vehicles to order. "This trend shows that MINI costumers continue to be those choosing more for lifestyle and individualization rather than just downsizing for fuel economy."

 Table: Sales BMW of North America, LLC, August 2008

                       August    August     %       YTD        YTD      %
                       2008      2007               2008      2007

 BMW brand             25,462    26,562   -4.1    180,889   195,436   -7.4
  BMW passenger cars  19,6536   20,8256   -5.6    142,433   153,303   -7.1
  BMW light trucks
  (SAVs)                5,809     5,737    1.3     38,453    42,133   -8.7
 MINI brand             5,469     4,077   34.1     36,932    27,905   32.3
 TOTAL Group           30,931    30,639    1.0    217,821   223,341   -2.5



 BMW Certified Pre-Owned

Sales of BMW's Certified Pre-Owned vehicles are up 26.7 percent, to 9,453 CPO vehicles versus 7,462 vehicles reported last August. Year-to-date, CPO sales are up 21.8 percent, to 69,437 over the 57,024 reported in the same period in 2007.

 Sales BMW of North America, LLC, August 2008

                          August   August            YTD        YTD
                            08       07      %    August 08  August 07   %

 1 Series                1,190        0            8,617          0
 3 Series               10,756   12,470  -13.7%   81,967     97,041  -15.5%
 Z4 Roadster and Coupe     556    1,127  -50.7%    4,672      6,547  -28.6%
 5 Series                5,287    5,173    2.2%   32,908     33,840   -2.8%
 6 Series                  663      761  -12.9%    4,881      5,951  -18.0%
 7 Series                1,201    1,294   -7.2%    9,391      9,924   -5.4%
 BMW passenger cars     19,653   20,825   -5.6%  142,436    153,303   -7.1%
 X3                      1,963    3,181  -38.3%   13,220     20,107  -34.3%
 X5                      3,380    2,556   32.2%   22,347     22,026    1.5%
 X6                        466        0            2,886          0
 BMW light trucks (SAVs) 5,809    5,737    1.3%   38,453     42,133   -8.7%
 BMW brand              25,462   26,562   -4.1%  180,889    195,436   -7.4%
 Cooper /S Hardtop       3,631    3,233   12.3%   24,966     22,249   12.2%
 Cooper /S Convertible     505      844  -40.2%    4,545      5,656  -19.6%
 Cooper /S Clubman       1,333        0            7,421          0
 MINI brand              5,469    4,077   34.1%   36,932     27,905   32.3%
 TOTAL BMW of North
  America, LLC          30,931   30,639    1.0%  217,821    223,341   -2.5%



Source: BMW of North America, LLC  

Mercedes-Benz Reports August Sales of 18,507

Year-To-Date Sales of 158,519 Continue to Outpace 2007

MONTVALE, N.J., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) today reported August sales of 18,507 new vehicles, an 11.8 percent decrease compared to August 2007. On a year-to-date basis, MBUSA continued to outpace its 2007 performance with sales of 158,519 new vehicles (versus 157,806).

Demand for the company's volume-leading C-Class boosted that model line's sales performance by 53.1 percent (6,990 vs. 4,565) for the month. On a year-to-date basis, the C-Class posted a gain of 39.8 percent (50,593 in 2008 vs. 36,184 in 2007). While down for the month of August (2,430 vs. 3,062), the popular M-Class sport utility vehicles continued to hold their gain on a year-to-date basis with a 7.2 percent increase (22,517 in 2008 vs. 21,012 in 2007).

Separately, through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program, MBUSA marked a 46.8 percent increase in August sales with 6,440 vehicles sold compared to 4,388 in August 2007, bringing year-to-date sales to a total of 42,973 units, an increase of 23.3 percent over the same period in 2007.

Mercedes-Benz USA, headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the United States. In 2007, MBUSA achieved an all-time sales record of 253,433 new vehicles, setting the highest sales volume ever in its history.

 ModelAugust '08  August '07  Monthly %  YTD 2008  YTD 2007  Yearly %

 C-CLASS6,990 4,56553.1% 50,593 36,184  39.8%

 E-CLASS2,681 3,718  -27.9% 27,782 29,191  -4.8%

 S-CLASS1,700 2,467  -31.1% 12,916 17,537 -26.4%

 CL-CLASS 232352  -34.1%  1,955  2,395 -18.4%

 SL-CLASS 477485-1.6%  4,379  4,403  -0.5%

 CLK-CLASS613 1,372  -55.3%  7,778 10,381 -25.1%

 SLK-CLASS356526  -32.3%  3,864  5,671 -31.9%

 CLS-CLASS313713  -56.1%  4,493  5,458 -17.7%

 R-CLASS  469 1,033  -54.6%  6,003  8,899 -32.5%

 M-CLASS2,430 3,062  -20.6% 22,517 21,0127.2%

 GL-CLASS  2,184 2,615  -16.5% 15,623 15,957  -2.1%

 G-CLASS62 72  -13.9% 616 718 -14.2%

 GRAND
TOTAL18,50720,980  -11.8%158,519157,8060.5%

Source: Mercedes-Benz USA  

Mazda Reports August 2008 Sales

CX-9 Leads the Way with Its Best Month Ever, MAZDA3 Reports Its Best August

IRVINE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Mazda North American Operations (MNAO) today reported August 2008 sales of 23,680 vehicles, a slight decrease over last August of 4.4 percent. Year-to-date, Mazda has sold 199,239 vehicles, down 2.0 percent.

"August sales showed that customers' focus on smaller, smarter, more efficient vehicles is sharper than ever, in the face of still-steep fuel prices and continued monetary uncertainties," said Jim O'Sullivan, president and CEO, MNAO. "At Mazda, with record sales for MAZDA3, MAZDA5 and CX-9 this month, we continue to hammer away at the basics: the right car at the right price, sold through the right dealer network."

The highly acclaimed CX-9, reigning North American Truck of the Year, had a very solid August, selling 3,173, up 41.4 percent compared to last August, and its best month ever. Competing in one of the most popular and competitive automotive segments, the Mazda CX-9 is a clear class leader with its three-row, seven-passenger interior and powerful V6 engine.

Not to be outdone, the popular and fuel-efficient MAZDA3 had its best August sales month ever and continues to be Mazda's sales leader. MAZDA3 reported a 4.4 percent increase in sales, totaling 10,970. The MAZDA5 multi-activity vehicle posted a 39.7 percent increase versus last August, with 1,324 sales, its best August since launch. Year-to-date, MAZDA5 sales are up 43.3 percent, proof-positive that the MAZDA5 is the right vehicle for today's market.

The all-new 2009 MAZDA6 is arriving at dealerships across the country now. With a larger body than the outgoing car, as well as more powerful -- and more fuel efficient -- engine choices, the 2009 MAZDA6 is sure to be a hit.

Mazda Motor de Mexico (MMdM) celebrated its best-ever August with sales of 1,768 vehicles, up 22 percent versus last year. On a year-to-date basis, MMdM reported 13,525 total sales, accounting for a 34 percent increase versus last year. Mazda Canada Inc. (MCI) reported August sales of 7,705 units, down 10.8 percent.

Headquartered in Irvine, Calif., Mazda North American Operations oversees the sales, marketing, parts and customer service support of Mazda vehicles in the United States, Canada, Mexico and Puerto Rico through nearly 900 dealers. Operations in Canada are managed by Mazda Canada, Inc., located in Ontario; in Mexico by Mazda Motor de Mexico in Mexico City; and in Puerto Rico by Mazda de Puerto Rico in San Juan.

Mazda North American Operations - August
                                  2008

                   Month-To-Date                     Year-To-Date

         August  August       %    % MTD  August   August        %    % YTD
           2008    2007  Change      DSR    2008     2007   Change      DSR

Mazda3  10,970  10,511  4.4%   0.6%  84,227  84,707   (0.6)%   (1.5)%
Mazda5   1,324     948   39.7%    25.7%  14,637   10,213    43.3%    29.6%
Mazda6   3,010   3,830 (21.4)%  (32.0)%  38,543   40,186   (4.1)%   (5.3)%
MX-5
Miata   1,052     926   13.6%     8.7%   9,383   11,716  (19.9)%  (26.1)%
RX-8       355     463 (23.3)%  (35.3)%   2,591    4,417  (41.3)%  (72.1)%
CX-7     2,917   4,072 (28.4)%  (44.8)%  21,247   28,395  (25.2)%  (34.9)%
CX-9     3,173   2,244   41.4%    26.7%  18,361   13,720    33.8%    24.6%
Tribute    795   1,542 (48.4)% (101.1)%   9,250    7,763    19.2%    15.3%
B-Series Truck      84     226 (62.8)% (179.0)%   1,000    2,063  (51.5)% (108.3)%
MPV        -       -       N/A      N/A     -        122 (100.0)%      N/A


TRUCKS   6,969   8,084 (13.8)%  (20.3)%  49,858   52,063   (4.2)%   (5.4)%

TOTAL   23,680  24,762  (4.4)%   (8.4)% 199,239  203,302   (2.0)%   (3.0)%

Note:  MPV is a discontinued vehicle.

Source: Mazda North American Operations  

Volkswagen Reports August 2008 Sales

Best Jetta month since May 2006

HERNDON, Va., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Volkswagen of America, Inc. today announced August 2008 sales of 22,292 units, a 2.9 percent increase over the August 2007 sales of 21,655 vehicles. On a year-to-date basis, 2008 Volkswagen sales are 1.3 percent ahead of 2007 sales through August.

"We're extremely pleased with our August sales results," said Mark Barnes, COO, Volkswagen of America, Inc. "This is a tough economy and for Volkswagen to be ahead of last year's sales is a true testament to the strength of our brand. With our recent launch of all-new 50-state compliant clean diesel Jetta TDI, Jetta SportWagen, Tiguan and our other exciting new product offerings, like the CC and Routan arriving late September, we're looking forward to continued success."

August represents the best Jetta month for Volkswagen since May 2006. With fuel economy becoming a key purchase criterion, consumers are looking at more economical vehicles, which positions Volkswagen very well. Volkswagen's all-new 50-state compliant clean diesel Jetta TDI is selling about as fast as the dealers can get them into their showrooms, with a turn rate of close to 75 percent.

 VW-US Snapshot                               ------ YEAR-TO-DATE ------

                     August-   August-          August-   August-
                       08        07    Yr/Yr %  08 YTD    07 YTD  Yr/Yr %
Actual    Actual  change   Actual    Actual  change
SportWagen     867         -    0.0%    1,481      -
Passat Wgn   488    527   -7.4%   4,577   4,748   -3.6%
Touareg    527    699  -24.6%    4,835   5,307  -8.9%
Tiguan    1,031    -   N/A    3,600         -     N/A

TOTAL  22,292   21,655    2.9%  158,258  156,188 1.3%

Source: Volkswagen of America, Inc.  

Nissan North America Announces August Sales

FRANKLIN, Tenn., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Nissan North America, Inc. (NNA) today reported August 2008 sales of 108,493 units versus 95,527 units a year ago, an increase of 13.6 percent. Sales of Nissan Division vehicles increased 14.2 percent, while sales of Infiniti Division vehicles increased by 8.0 percent.

 (Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/20080506/NISSANWORDMARKLOGO )

 NISSAN HIGHLIGHTS

-- Nissan vehicles saw sales of 97,417 units in August compared with August 2007's 85,275 units sold, a 14.2 percent increase.

-- The Xterra SUV and Frontier midsize pickup led a strong month for truck sales, with increases of 76.9 percent and 55.5 percent, respectively, over year-ago levels.

-- With the introduction of the seventh-generation Maxima, sales for the model were strong, reaching 5,484 units, exceeding prior year by 15.5 percent.

-- The all-new Nissan GT-R enjoyed a strong launch with sales of 484 units in August.

-- Sales of Nissan cars combined for 49,394 units, an increase of 0.6 percent from the prior year, while truck sales increased 32.7 percent to 48,023 units.

INFINITI HIGHLIGHTS

-- Infiniti sales for August grew to 11,076 units from 10,252 units, an increase of 8.0 percent.

-- Sales of the EX totaled 1,645 units, the strongest posting for the new nameplate since its launch in December 2007.

-- Sales of the FX sport crossover reached 1,581 units, an increase of 27.3 percent compared with August 2007.

NNA INFORMATION

-- Combined sales for Nissan and Infiniti of 108,493 units, compared with last August's sales of 95,527 units, marking an increase of 13.6 percent.

-- To ensure consistency in our global sales reporting, Nissan North America calculates monthly variances on a straight-percentage basis, unadjusted for the number of selling days in the month. This August had 27 selling days, as did August 2007.

In North America, NNA's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution and manufacturing. More information on NNA and the complete line of Nissan and Infiniti vehicles can be found online at www.nissannews.com.

 NISSAN DIVISION SALES
   August   August   Monthly    CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
    2008     2007   % Change    2008     2007    % Change
Nissan Division
  Total    97,417    85,275    14.2  643,939   635,210     1.4
Versa      8,015     8,454    -5.2   62,341    53,865    15.7
Sentra     9,207     9,076     1.4   79,288    75,616     4.9
Altima    25,298    25,434    -0.5  207,733   190,151     9.2
Maxima     5,484     4,748    15.5   31,618    34,758    -9.0
350Z 906     1,380   -34.3    8,278    13,916   -40.5
GT-R 484NA      NA      631NA      NA
Total Car 49,394    49,092     0.6  389,889   368,306     5.9
Frontier   9,140     5,878    55.5   39,339    45,257   -13.1
Titan      5,871     6,985   -15.9   27,028    45,766   -40.9
Xterra     8,208     4,639    76.9   28,345    34,596   -18.1
Pathfinder 6,792     6,633     2.4   28,569    41,811   -31.7
Armada     2,178     2,959   -26.4   12,506    21,257   -41.2
Rogue      6,639NA      NA   49,998NA      NA
Murano     5,071     6,580   -22.9   51,610    57,448   -10.2
Quest      4,124     2,509    64.4   16,655    20,769   -19.8
Total Truck     48,023    36,183    32.7  254,050   266,904    -4.8


North American
Produced 84,317    77,315     9.1  533,422   563,846    -5.4
Car       48,004    47,712     0.6  380,980   354,390     7.5
Truck     36,313    29,603    22.7  152,442   209,456   -27.2
Import    13,100     7,960    64.6  110,517    71,364    54.9
Car1,390     1,380     0.7    8,909    13,916   -36.0
Truck     11,710     6,580    78.0  101,608    57,448    76.9

INFINITI DIVISION SALES
   August   August   Monthly    CYTD     CYTD      CYTD
    2008     2007   % Change    2008     2007    % Change

Infiniti Division
Total    11,076    10,252     8.0   82,194    83,574    -1.7
G Sedan    4,014     4,349    -7.7   32,222    37,640   -14.4
G Coupe    1,847     1,826     1.2   15,086     9,492    58.9
M  1,221     1,658   -26.4   10,968    15,034   -27.0
Q45    0 0      NA021  -100.0
QX56 768     1,176   -34.7    5,914     7,633   -22.5
EX 1,645NA      NA    9,010NA      NA
FX 1,581     1,242    27.3    8,995    13,752   -34.6
Total Car  7,082     7,833    -9.6   58,275    62,187    -6.3
Total Truck3,994     2,419    65.1   23,919    21,387    11.8


Source: Nissan North America, Inc.  

Toyota Reports August Sales

TORRANCE, Calif., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Toyota Motor Sales (TMS), U.S.A., Inc., today reported August sales of 211,533 vehicles, a decrease of 9.4 percent from last August, on a daily selling rate basis.

The Toyota Division posted August sales of 182,252 units, a decrease of 9.4 percent from last August. The Lexus Division reported August sales of 29,281 units, a decrease of 9.1 percent from the year-ago month.

Toyota Division

Toyota Division passenger cars recorded August sales of 111,778 units, down 3.4 percent from the same period last year. Passenger car sales were led by Camry and Camry Hybrid, which posted combined sales of 44,064 units, up 3.3 percent over August 2007. Camry Hybrid reported August sales of 3,456 units. Corolla recorded sales of 29,443 units for the month. With limited availability, the Prius mid-size gas-electric hybrid posted August sales of 13,463 units. Yaris reported sales of 9,474 units for the month, up 20.5 percent over the year-ago month.

Toyota Division light trucks posted August sales of 70,474 units, down 17.6 percent from August 2007. Light truck sales were led by the Tundra full-size pickup with August sales of 17,401 units. The Tacoma mid-size pickup reported sales of 12,407 units for the month. Highlander and Highlander Hybrid posted combined sales of 8,070 units in August. The Highlander Hybrid gas-electric mid-size SUV reported August sales of 1,277 units, up 225 percent over last August. Sequoia posted sales of 3,195 units for the month, up 86.1 percent over the same period last year.

Scion posted August sales of 11,867 units. The xB urban utility vehicle led the way with August sales 4,626 units. The tC sports coupe posted August sales of 4,484 units. The xD reported best-ever August sales of 2,757 units for the month, up 3.5 percent over the same period last year.

Lexus Division

Lexus passenger cars reported August sales of 17,844 units, a decrease of 9.8 percent from August 2007. Passenger-car sales were led by the ES entry luxury sedan with August sales of 7,881 units. The IS entry luxury sport sedan reported best-ever combined sales of 6,318 units, up 17.4 percent over last August. The LS flagship luxury sedan reported combined sales of 1,772 units. The GS luxury sport sedan reported combined August sales of 1,686 units.

Lexus Division light trucks recorded August sales of 11,437 units, down 7.8 percent from the year-ago month. Lexus sales were led by the RX luxury utility vehicle, which posted combined August sales of 8,969 units. The RX 400h hybrid luxury utility vehicle reported August sales of 1,277 units, up nine percent over August 2007. The LX 570 reported sales of 748 units, an increase of 238.5 percent over the same period last year.

TMS Hybrids

TMS calendar-year-to-date hybrid sales totaled 185,051 units. TMS posted August sales of 19,529 hybrid vehicles. Toyota Division recorded sales of 18,146 hybrids for the month. Lexus Division reported August sales of 1,383 hybrids.

 There were 27 selling days this month and last August.



     TOYOTA RETAIL SALES
  (INCLUDES FLEET & HAWAII)
  August, 2008

    ----- CURRENT MONTH -----   -- CALENDAR YEAR TO DATE --
   DSR %    DSR %

SCION xD    2,757     2,664     3.5     20,974      2,664   683.5

SIENNA  10,244    11,099    -7.7     85,240     96,047   -11.7
RAV  412,911    15,916   -18.9     96,433    117,534   -18.4
FJ CRUISER  1,886     4,802   -60.7     20,125     38,684   -48.2
4RUNNER     4,115     8,312   -50.5     34,343     59,182   -42.3
HIGHLANDER  8,070     9,514   -15.2     76,222     83,121    -8.7
LAND CRUISER  245181    35.4      3,017      1,589    88.9
SEQUOIA     3,195     1,717    86.1     22,562     16,299    37.8
TOTAL SUV  30,422    40,442   -24.8    252,702    316,409   -20.5

4X2 TACOMA  6,508     9,060   -28.2     60,867     72,119   -16.0
4X4 TACOMA  5,899     6,034    -2.2     47,270     49,400    -4.8
OTAL TACOMA      12,407    15,094   -17.8    108,137    121,519   -11.4
 
TUNDRA     17,401    18,919    -8.0    107,330    124,909   -14.5
TOTAL PICKUP      29,808    34,013   -12.4    215,467    246,428   -13.0
TOTAL TOYOTA
DIV. LT TRUCK    70,474    85,554   -17.6    553,409    658,884   -16.4

LX     748221   238.5      5,769      1,972   191.1
GX   1,720     2,157   -20.3     11,503     14,430   -20.7
RX   8,969    10,032   -10.6     58,580     67,686   -13.9

TOTAL LEXUS
LIGHT TRUCK      11,437    12,410    -7.8     75,852     84,088   -10.2

TOTAL TOYOTA
LIGHT TRUCK      81,911    97,964   -16.4    629,261    742,972   -15.7


Source: Toyota Motor Sales, U.S.A., Inc.  

Daimler AG Reports August Sales of 20,927 New Vehicles for the Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S.


- Total of 20,927 Units of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division Sold in U.S.

- Mercedes-Benz USA Records August Sales of 18,507

- smart USA Records 2,420 Sales in August

NEW YORK, Sept. 3 /PRNewswire/ -- Daimler AG (NYSEAI) today reported sales for the Mercedes-Benz Cars division (Mercedes-Benz and smart combined) of 20,927 units in the U.S. for August 2008. All sales figures in this release are on an unadjusted basis unless otherwise noted.


Mercedes-Benz USA reported August sales of 18,507 new vehicles, bringing the year-to-date total to 158,519, a .5 percent increase over 2007 year-to-date sales.

Sales for the smart fortwo remain strong with deliveries totaling 2,420 for the month of August. This brings the year-to-date total to an incredible 16,378 units in a just over seven months of being offered in the U.S. market. The vehicle is attracting an overwhelming number of buyers who want a solution to high gas prices, a reduced environmental footprint and increased urban mobility on congested city streets -- all in a package that's fun to drive. The fortwo offers a powerful combination of outstanding fuel efficiency, innovative safety, environmental friendliness and low cost of ownership. There are currently 71 smart centers open in 33 states.

Detailed vehicle sales information for MBUSA will be announced later today in a separate press release issued by Mercedes-Benz USA.

Mercedes-Benz Cars Division in the U.S. Sales Summary Through August 2008

           Month Sales      %         Sales CYTD       %
       Curr Yr     Pr Yr  Change  Curr Yr     Pr Yr  Change

Mercedes-Benz USA    18,507    20,980   -11.8  158,519   157,806     0.5
smart USA             2,420      n/a*    n/a*   16,378      n/a*    n/a*

Mercedes-Benz USA/
smart USA combined  20,927         *       *  174,897         *       *

 * smart sales in the U.S. started in mid January 2008


Source: Daimler AG  

Ford Reports August Sales; Ford Focus, Escape Remain Standouts in a Challenging Market

- Ford Focus sales were up 23 percent and Ford Escape sales were up 17 percent versus year ago.

- Lower demand for trucks and SUVs drives total Ford, Lincoln and Mercury sales down 26 percent.

- Ford updates second-half production plans.

DEARBORN, Mich., Sept. 3 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- Higher demand for the fuel-efficient Ford Focus and Ford Escape continued in August, as consumers continued moving to smaller and more fuel-efficient vehicles.

Ford Focus sales were up 23 percent and Escape sales were up 17 percent versus a year ago, while the impact of a weak economy and lower demand for large trucks and SUVs resulted in double-digit sales declines for Ford and the auto industry.

"The Focus and Escape offer the features and fuel economy today's consumer's want," said Jim Farley, Ford group vice president, Marketing and Communications.

The 2009 Escape, with its new 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine and six-speed transmission, delivers class-leading highway fuel economy of 28 mpg -- matching the 2009 Toyota RAV4 and topping the Honda CR-V. The 2009 Escape Hybrid delivers 34 mpg in the city and 31 mpg on the highway, making it the most fuel-efficient utility vehicle available.

The 2009 Focus has similarly impressive fuel economy with an EPA highway fuel economy of 35 mpg -- equal to the Toyota Corolla and the smaller 2009 Honda Fit.

Overall, during August, Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicle sales totaled 151,021, down 26 percent. The decline primarily reflects lower demand for SUVs (down 53 percent) and trucks (down 39 percent) and lower sales to fleet customers (down 31 percent).

"We expect the second half of 2008 will be more challenging than the first half, as weak economic conditions and the consumer credit crunch continues," said Farley.

North American Production

Ford now plans to produce 890,000 vehicles in the second half of 2008 (420,000 vehicles in the third quarter and 470,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter).

The second-half plan is 50,000 vehicles lower than the previous plan (20,000 vehicles in the third quarter and 30,000 vehicles in the fourth quarter). The reduction primarily reflects lower sales to daily rental companies, lower production associated with the transfer of the Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator from Michigan Truck Plant to Kentucky Truck Plant, and a downward revision to the company's U.S. industry sales forecast (to the low end of the previously provided range of 14.0 to 14.5 million).


   FORD MOTOR COMPANY AUGUST 2008 U.S. SALES
   -----------------------------------------

   August %     Year-To-Date    %
   ------ ------------
2008     2007  Change2008 2007 Change
----     ----  ---------- ---- ------
Sales By Brand
Ford 133,088  180,282   -26.2 1,250,834  1,465,888  -14.7
Lincoln9,540   10,423    -8.5    75,253     92,685  -18.8
Mercury8,393   12,296   -31.7    90,400    118,340  -23.6
    -----   ------------    -------
Total Ford,Lincoln and Mercury
151,021  203,001   -25.6 1,416,487  1,676,913  -15.5

Volvo  4,669    9,119   -48.8    55,974     72,476  -22.8
    -----    -----------     ------

Crossover Utility Vehicles  
32,927   33,348    -1.3   273,320    270,291    1.1
   
Sport Utility Vehicles  
10,852   23,087   -53.0   119,773    196,044  -38.9
 


 FORD BRAND AUGUST 2008 U.S. SALES
 ---------------------------------

   August %     Year-To-Date    %
   ------ ------------
2008     2007  Change2008 2007 Change
----     ----  ---------- ---- ------

Flex     2,010  0NA     5,593    0     NA
Edge     9,962   10,165    -2.0    87,197     78,044   11.7
Escape  14,025   11,960    17.3   116,511    116,605   -0.1
Taurus X 1,670    4,863   -65.7    18,473     27,346  -32.4
    -----    -----------     ------
Ford Crossover Utility Vehicles  
27,667   26,988     2.5   227,774    221,995    2.6

Expedition     3,867    6,883   -43.8    39,627     65,386  -39.4
Explorer 5,502   11,929   -53.9    60,841     97,845  -37.8
    -----   ------------     ------

Ford Sport Utility Vehicles    
9,369   18,812   -50.2   100,468    163,231  -38.5

F-Series 40,429   69,220   -41.6   359,971    481,146  -25.2
Ranger   4,920    4,783     2.9    50,900     53,415   -4.7
Econoline/Club Wagon   8,081   12,821   -37.0    93,802    118,866  -21.1
Freestar     0  0NA   02,390 -100.0
Low Cab Forward   55266   -79.3 6902,114  -67.4
Heavy Trucks     518896   -42.2     4,4568,300  -46.3
------ ----------
Ford Trucks and Vans 54,003   87,986   -38.6   509,819    666,231  -23.5
   ------   ------     -------    -------

LINCOLN BRAND AUGUST 2008 U.S. SALES
------------------------------------

   August %     Year-To-Date    %
   ------ ------------
2008     2007  Change2008 2007 Change
----     ----  ---------- ---- ------

MKX2,651    3,421   -22.5    22,224     23,145   -4.0
Navigator  923    2,163   -57.3    10,725     15,765  -32.0
Mark LT    562768   -26.8     3,2765,858  -44.1
------ ----------


MERCURY BRAND AUGUST 2008 U.S. SALES
------------------------------------

   August %Year-To-Date   %
   ------ ------------
2008     2007  Change2008 2007 Change
----     ----  ---------- ---- ------

Mariner  2,609    2,939   -11.2    23,322     25,151   -7.3
Mountaineer560    2,112   -73.5     8,580     17,048  -49.7
Monterey     0  0NA   0  700 -100.0
  -  -     -  ---

VOLVO BRAND AUGUST 2008 U.S. SALES
 ----------------------------------

   August %     Year-To-Date    %
   ------ ------------
2008     2007  Change2008 2007 Change
----     ----  ---------- ---- ------

V70  195430   -54.7     2,5312,512    0.8
XC70 772870   -11.3     7,0748,036  -12.0
XC90     1,175    2,556   -54.0    14,186     21,011  -32.5
C70  462293    57.7     4,6063,213   43.4
C30  410 26 1,476.9     3,191   51 6156.9
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Source: Ford Motor Company