SUVs, trucks stuck on car lots (Watch for incentives in Sept and Oct)

[Bozita]

New car dealers around here either own or lease "overflow" space. Those lots are currently loaded with pickups and large SUVs.

http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=2006609020304

SUVs, trucks stuck on car lots
'06 models hit by higher gas prices

BY KATIE MERX and ANGELA TABLAC
FREE PRESS BUSINESS WRITERS

September 2, 2006


Detroit's automakers struggled to unload large inventories of trucks and SUVs last month, despite generous incentive offers, as U.S. consumers continue to favor smaller fuel-efficient vehicles.

General Motors Corp. reported on Friday a respectable month with a nearly 4% increase from last year's tepid August sales. But Ford Motor Co. continued to slide, with overall sales down 11.6% -- trucks down 21%, cars up 8.5% -- from a strong August 2005.

"We're certainly benefiting in the midsize car segment," said George Pipas, Ford's U.S. sales analysis manager, highlighting sales of the Ford Fusion and related Lincoln and Mercury models.

Toyota Motor Corp. continued its record pace, again topping DaimlerChrysler AG, but slipping back behind Ford, which it had outsold for the first time in July.

DaimlerChrysler treaded water. Its sales fell just 3% in August, compared with the same month a year ago, but it continues to carry higher than desirable inventory levels.

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