Carried by a strong retail sales performance, Chrysler Group reported U.S. sales of 178,034 units for August 2004, an increase of 1 percent compared to August 2003 sales of 190,388 units. August results represent the tenth time in 11 months monthly sales have increased year-over-year. Sales are reported on a day rate adjusted basis. August 2004 had two fewer selling days than August 2003. The Chrysler brand set a new sales record for August by posting sales of 47,952 units, 43 percent above August 2003 sales of 36,167 units. Chrysler 300 had a fourth consecutive month of robust sales with 11,786 units sold. This week the Chrysler 300 was awarded the government's highest 5-star rating for driver and front passenger crash protection. Dodge Magnum posted a sales increase of 12 percent to 5,410 units compared to July sales of 5,230 units. Sales for the existing Dakota increased 12 percent to 9,770 units, clearing the way for the all-new Dodge Dakota arriving in dealerships this fall. Dodge brand sales decreased 6 percent to 96,522 units. Jeep brand sales declined 16 percent as the brand begins clearing the way for the launch of the all-new Jeep Grand Cherokee this fall. Existing Jeep Grand Cherokee sales declined 27 percent, while Jeep Wrangler posted sales of 3 percent lower compared to August 2003 sales. Jeep Liberty sales decreased 8 percent. Chrysler Group finished the month with 528,422 units of inventory, or a 74-day supply.