New-Car Sales To Improve Nearly 2 Percent in January

New-vehicle sales are expected to improve nearly 2 percent (1.6%)  year-over-year in January to a total of 1.06 million units, and an estimated 15.9 million seasonally adjusted annual rate, according to Kelley Blue Book.

“January is typically the weakest sales month of the year as many consumers take advantage of holiday deals in December.  However, winter storms also could impact new-vehicle sales this month, as much of the country deals with historically cold weather and snowstorms,” said Alec Gutierrez, senior analyst for Kelley Blue Book.  “Early estimates indicate fleet sales will be down as well.”

Key Highlights for Estimated January 2014 Sales Forecast:

• In January, new light-vehicle sales, including fleet, are expected to hit 1,060,000 units, up 1.6 percent from January 2013 and down 21.9 percent from December 2013.
• The seasonally adjusted annual rate for January 2014 is estimated to be 15.9 million, up from 15.2 million in January 2013 and up from 15.3 million in in December 2013.
• Nissan to Record Solid Sales from Top-Performing Altima, Rogue
• Chrysler is expected to post a respectable gain in January with strength from its Jeep and RAM brands.

Full-Size Pickup Truck Sales Growth Expected to Slow on Cutback Incentives, Arrival of New F-Series
Compact crossovers will continue to report double-digit growth for the fifteenth month in a row, albeit slower than the 20 percent growth seen last year.  Entry-level luxury cars also will post positive numbers, thanks to the recently launched BMW 4 Series and all-new Mercedes-Benz CLA-Class.

“Following a huge year in 2013, full-size pickup truck sales should see growth slow in 2014,” said Gutierrez.  “General Motors will look to cut back on incentives on the all-new Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra, while Ford manages their inventory before its new line of F-Series trucks hits the market later this year.”

More info at: www.kbb.com.

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Tags: Kelley Blue Book

Category: General Update, Management, Vehicles