Toledo-built models perform well for Chrysler

Toledo-built Jeep Wranglers -- lined up in the lot at Chrysler's North Assembly plant in North Toledo -- gained 23 percent from last January, with sales of 7,896. The Jeep Liberty was another big performer. THE BLADE Enlarge | Photo Reprints

If January is any indication, Chrysler Group LLC is off to another good year.

The automaker reported selling more than 101,000 vehicles in the United States last month, a 44 percent increase over the previous January. Chrysler said Wednesday it has now posted year-over-year sales gains in 22 straight months.

The Toledo-built Jeep Liberty was again a strong performer, especially considering it is one of the most grizzled vehicles in Chrysler's portfolio. Sales of the Liberty were up 68 percent from last January, increasing to 6,825. Chrysler intends to stop building the current Liberty this summer and launch a replacement in 2013.

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The Wrangler, Jeep's other Toledo-built vehicle, gained 23 percent from last January, with sales of 7,896.

Overall, the top-gaining models included Chrysler's 300 full-size sedan and 200 midsize sedan, and the Dodge Avenger, Charger, and Durango. Each of those more than doubled its sales from last January.

Brandwise, Jeep sales were up 37 percent, Chrysler sales were up 81 percent, Dodge sales were up 29 percent, and Ram sales were up 42 percent. Sales of Fiat in the United States had not yet begun last January.

The sales numbers came out the same day Chrysler announced its first annual net profit in well over a decade.

Most other auto companies also had a good month.

Volkswagen reported a 48 percent increase in sales over last January, and Hyundai (15 percent), Nissan (10 percent), Honda (9 percent), Toyota (7.5 percent), and Ford (7 percent), also reported improved U.S. sales.

One sour note was GM, where sales were down 6 percent. Its car sales rose 13 percent but were overshadowed by decreased demand for its trucks and crossovers. Also, GM's sales in January, 2011, were inflated by rebates and other deals.

Analysts are expecting industrywide sales to rise around 7 percent to more than 870,000 for January.