(October 3, 2012) AUBURN HILLS, Mich. — Chrysler has reported U.S. September sales of 142,041 units, a 12 percent increase compared with sales in September 2011 (127,336 units), and the group’s best September sales since 2007.

The Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge, Ram Truck and Fiat brands each posted year-over-year sales gains in September compared with the same month a year ago. The Fiat brand’s 51 percent increase was the largest sales gain of any Chrysler Group brand for the month. September marked Chrysler Group’s 30th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales gains.

“Last month marked our 30th-consecutive month of year-over-year sales increases and our strongest September in five years,” said Reid Bigland, President and CEO – Dodge Brand and Head of U.S. Sales. “Going forward with our current product line up, record low interest rates and a stable U.S. economy, we remain optimistic about the health of the U.S. new vehicle sales industry and our position in it.”

As the production ramp up of the all-new Dodge Dart compact sedan continues in the Belvidere, Ill. assembly plant, Dart sales of 5,235 units were up a significant 72 percent in September compared with the previous month.

While the Dodge Dart continued its steady monthly sales climb, six Chrysler Group models set sales records in September. The Chrysler 200 and sporty Dodge Avenger mid-size sedans each set records for the month of September. The Avenger achieved its record with a sizable 89 percent sales increase compared with the same month a year ago.

Two Jeep models — the Wrangler and Patriot — set September sales records, while a 51 percent increase earned the Fiat 500 an all-time sales record. In addition, the Dodge Journey set a sales record for the month of September demonstrating why it is the most versatile and affordable crossover in America. Sales of the Journey were up 41 percent in September compared with the same month last year.

Other standout models in September were the flagship Jeep Grand Cherokee with sales up 19 percent, and the Dodge Grand Caravan with a sales gain of 32 percent.

Chrysler Group finished the month with a 65-days supply of inventory (369,144 units). U.S. industry sales figures for September are projected at an estimated 14.9 million units Seasonally Adjusted Annual Rate (SAAR).