Chrysler's U.S. Sales Jump 35% in June

Chrysler outperformed its rivals as the automaker posted on July 1 a better-than-expected 35% increase in June U.S. sales.

The gain "shows that we continue to build on our sales momentum," Fred Diaz, Chrysler's lead executive for U.S. sales, said.

"Consumer buzz is building tremendously with the arrival of our all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee in dealerships now, as well as the continuing accolades for our new Ram heavy-duty pickup trucks."

Chrysler's total June sales of 92,482 were nonetheless down from the 104,819 vehicles sold in May when overall industry sales were boosted by hefty incentives.

Chrysler's sales for the first half of the year were up 12% at 527,219 vehicles.

Copyright Agence France-Presse, 2010