Chrysler Russia SAO has made public the results of Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge car sales in Russia during the first six months of 2008. Through its official dealer network the Chrysler Company has sold 4638 cars, which is 69% more than during the same period in 2007, and 14% more by now than during all year in 2006. It is the best result achieved in the entire history of official sales in Russia. As before, the maximum growth was achieved by Dodge that put on 115%. Sales by Chrysler Russia SAO have been growing at a higher rate as compared with those in the Russian foreign car market which made a 47% increase during the same period, according to the Committee of Auto Manufacturers of the European Business Association in Russia.

Chrysler, Jeep and Dodge have strengthened their position in Russia as a result of the brand lineup renewal, brand promotion in Russian regions and due to marketing activities, including measures to raise the brand recognizability.

A New look on Familiar Things

Exactly two years have passed since the Dodge brand was officially presented on the Russian market. The results of the first half of 2008 have proved that Dodge provides today 48.6% of all sales made by the company in Russia. The absolute leader is Dodge Caliber, a Golf-Class hatchback. In 2008, 1733 cars were sold, which is 82% more than during the same period in 2007.

In terms of the rate of growth, it is the medium-sized SUV – Dodge Nitro that holds the top position in this family. It put on 151% during the first six months in 2008. In this respect it is inferior only to the legendary Jeep Wrangler (+179%).

The Second Half of the Year Promises to Be Even More Successful

The excellent results of the first six months raise the company’s hopes that this tendency will continue. The reason for optimistic expectations is also given by new cars whose sales have already started or will start in the near future.

Dodge, a newcomer to the Russian market, has proved itself as an innovative brand that can take on the best qualities of some vehicle classes and perfectly realize them in new models. In the next few weeks, this trend will be maintained by a totally new Dodge Journey, the vehicle based on the D-Class. Externally, it is reminiscent of a crossover and at the same time it has a transformable five- or seven-seat passenger compartment typical of a minivan. At the Frankfurt International Motor Show 2007 this innovative car received a great positive response. Dodge Journey along with Jeep Cherokee will be presented by the Chrysler Company as its debuts at the forthcoming Moscow International Auto Show in August 2008.