(August 8, 2011) While July auto sales edged up ever so slightly in the U.S., things weren't as rosy in Canada. Canadian vehicle sales in July dropped 4.9 per cent from the same month a year ago, according to a firm that tracks automotive sales.

Sales of cars and light trucks fell to 141,472 last month. That figure represents a drop of more than 7,000 from the 148,756 vehicles sold in July 2010.

A lack of discounts and continuing shortages of Japanese cars, along with higher fuel prices and an uncertain economy, kept many buyers away, analysts said.

Car sales were down 6.1 per cent last month at 63,379 units from 67,532 a year ago, while truck sales fell 3.9 per cent to 78,093 from 81,224.

There were bright spots and their names are Ford and Chrysler. Both Canadian subsidiaries reported strong sales.

Chrysler sold 23,385 cars and light trucks, up five per cent from the same month a year earlier. It was the best July for sales in Chrysler Canada's history.

Ford remained Canada's best-selling automaker, with sales of 27,344 cars and light trucks. That was its best sales showing in 32 years and represented a one per cent increase over July last year.

Ford's car sales were up 10 per cent, driven by strong interest in its Fiesta, Fusion and Taurus models.

General Motors dropped to third place in sales behind Chrysler.

Sources: Published reports