Ford, General Motors, and Fiat Chrysler All See Sales Dips in February

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Maybe February was just a slow month in 2018, or, maybe it was unusually hot for car makers in 2017, regardless, this year, the Big Three all saw sales dips compared to 12 months ago.

FCA, based in Auburn Hills, posted sales of 165,903 vehicles in February, just a one percent decrease compared to a year ago.

The company also saw its Jeep brand increase sales by 10 percent, marking the brand’s best February ever, buoyed by strong sales of Jeep Wrangler and Renegade.

Detroit-based General Motors saw sales dip 6.9 percent from last year, citing a very strong February in 2017. However, things aren’t necessarily bleak.

GM said that Cadillac sales grew 14 percent (driven by strong sales of the XT5, ATS, and Escalade) and Chevrolet’s crossovers were up 7 percent from last year. GMC crossovers were up 19 percent – the Terrain posted a 17 percent year-over-year increase, while the Acadia was up 22 percent.

“Consumer confidence is at its highest level since 2000, the economy is strong, our newest products are selling very well and we have successfully managed the transition to the 2018 model year far better than most of our competitors,” says Kurt McNeil, U.S. vice president, sale operations for GM. “Customer demand, GM’s new products, and upcoming launches are in perfect tune.”

Dearborn-based Ford Motor Company saw a 6.9 percent decrease in sales compared to February 2017.

However, Ford has taken advantage of higher transaction prices, as it has had lots of success in selling full-size trucks.

The company’s F-Series trucks marked its best February in 18 years as Ford sold 68,243 pickups.

Ford also saw its Expedition reach new heights. Expedition sales increased 41.4 percent compared to a year ago.

“Our higher trim level vehicles are really resonating with our customers, who are looking for more content and technology than ever before,” says Mark LaNeve, Ford vice president, U.S. marketing, sales and service. “This is especially true of our trucks and SUVs. Our all-new Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator are moving fast, as we work to increase our output to keep up with our customers’ passion for these two vehicles.”