Auto dealers attracted buyers in July, despite rising concerns about jobs and the strength of the recovery.
The world’s big automakers, General Motors, Toyota, Ford and Chrysler, all reported sales gains in July versus June, some more than others, and most were helped by generous promotions.
“Consumers have been conditioned to think that the summer is a great time to pick up a deal on a new car,” Edmunds.com senior analyst Jessica Caldwell said.
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Toyota said its U.S. sales rose 20 percent last month from June, as the Japanese automaker that has been battered by recalls continues to draw customers.
Auto sales at Detroit’s automakers, GM, Ford and Chrysler, were flat to slightly higher in July, in a sign that Americans are still willing to spend on big-ticket items.
GM’s sales rose 2.6 percent over June and 5 percent from July of last year, helped by promotions to make room for 2011 models. GM says sales from its four brands — Chevrolet, Buick, GMC and Cadillac — jumped 25 percent over July of 2009. Buick and Cadillac sales more than doubled. GM’s total sales include Pontiac, Saturn and Hummer, which are brands it has sold or is discontinuing.