On the strength of recent product introductions and led by a 12 percent increase in retail sales, Chrysler Group reports sales of 220,131 units for May 2004, a 5 percent increase over May 2003 when 217,411 units were sold. Chrysler brand posted its highest monthly sales total in history to 57,333 units, an increase of 27 percent. The brand's new flagship sedan, the new Chrysler 300, posted sales of 13,079 units, an increase of 350 percent over the previous 300 model. Additional Chrysler brand highlights:
Chrysler Pacifica sales increased 179 percent to 6,633 units; and Chrysler Crossfire set a monthly sales record with 1,669 units. "The last time a Chrysler passenger car sold more than 10,000 retail units in one month was September 1986, when the company sold 10,000 Chrysler LeBarons and 13,000 Chrysler Fifth Avenues," said Gary Dilts, Chrysler Group senior vice president - sales. Jeep brand sales increased 10 percent to 41,765 units. Other Jeep vehicle highlights:
Jeep Wrangler posted a sales increase of 15 percent to 8,350 units; Jeep Liberty sales for May 2004 were 15,414 units, an increase of 1 percent; and, Jeep Grand Cherokee sales increased 17 percent to 18,001 units. While the Dodge brand saw a decrease of 4 percent compared to year ago levels, sales highlights for the brand include:

• Dodge Durango sales surged 30 percent over year ago totals to 15,817 units;
  

• Dodge Ram pickup was the Dodge brand volume leader with 42,635 units sold, breaking even with year ago levels;
  

• Dodge Caravan with Stow 'n Go seating posted sales of 25,695 units, a strong increase of 12 percent compared to year ago levels. Chrysler Group finished the month with 588,127 units of inventory, a 69-day supply.