The Greater Cleveland Auto Dealers Association isn't ecstatic over the latest sales numbers, but IS quite pleased that overall purchases in the region in March were better than in February...4 per cent better.
Dealers President Gary Adams says that's particularly gratifying, because most of the rest of the country is still seeing decreasing sales numbers. Adams says maybe that wasn't a fluke.
GARY ADAMS: "If we do about the same or a little better each month as we move through 2009... we'll take that right now."
Adams credits the new deduction of sales tax on cars, the government's continued backing of beleagured Chrysler and General Motors, and the incentives that surrounded the recent Auto Show, as helping accelerate sales.
Overall, 11 of the 38 makes of cars had increased sales this March compared to March, '08, including higher-end cars, Lincoln, Lexus, Acura, and Jaquar.
ADAMS: "The luxury models continue to do well. typically people who can afford high-end luxury vehicles aren't as affected by a recession."
But only one American name plate sold better in the area last month.
DODGE posted sales 12% higher than the year before.
