Nissan Sales Rose Sharply in April

Cars and Drivers

Published: April 28, 2014 6:47 am

Last Updated: April 28, 2014 9:33 am

Among major cars brands, Nissan is expected to have the largest percentage growth in April, compared to the same month last year. Toyota Motor Corp. (NYSE: TM) and Chrysler sales should also have surged. Based on Kelly Blue Book (KBB) forecasts, sales of the two largest U.S. manufacturers — Ford Motor Co. (NYSE: F) and General Motors Co. (NYSE: GM) — have suffered.

KBB analysts report:

In March, new light-vehicle sales, including fleet, are expected to hit 1,415,000 units, up 10.1 percent from April 2013 and down 7.8 percent from March 2014.

The seasonally adjusted annual rate (SAAR) for April 2014 is estimated to be 16.3 million, up from 15.2 million in April 2013 and flat with March 2014.

Retail sales are expected to account for 82 percent of volume in April 2014.

Nissan sales (which include its luxury brand Infiniti) are expected to increase by 19.5% in April, according to KBB, to 105,000. Also in double-digits, Chrysler sales should increase 18.1% to 185,000. Chrysler sales include Dodge, Fiat, Jeep and RAM. Toyota sales, which include Lexus, are expected to rise 15.2% to 203,000.

Toyota’s success will allow it to come close to Ford in terms of vehicle sales count. Ford’s sales are expected to fall 0.9%, the only drop among major manufacturers, to 210,000. Market leader GM’s sales are also expected to be lackluster with an increase of only 5.2% from April 2013 to 250,000. If there has been any effect from GM’s recalls, it will be barely evident this month.

The least successful major brand sold in the United States, Volkswagen (which includes Audi), will continue its terrible struggle. Sales are expected to rise only 4.2% to 53,000. VW global management continues to insist that it can pass Toyota and GM in global sales. Although it is the top manufacturer in China and Europe, without a major success in America, its chances to take the top global spot will be nearly impossible.

In so far as the general trend for April is concerned, Alec Gutierrez, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book said:

Following a big rebound in March, Kelley Blue Book expects April to continue with another solid month of sales, which will be supported by rising consumer confidence and improving employment conditions. Sales also are supported by improved credit availability, low interest rates and attractive lease offers. Leasing has accounted for approximately 25 percent of all retail sales so far this year, a trend which is supported by a continued strong outlook for used-car values along with low interest rates.

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