Trio of Dodge Vehicles Set Sales Records

METHUEN, MASS. (07/30/2012)(readMedia)-- Dodge's sales are gaining momentum in 2012, with the Dodge Journey, Avenger and Challenger all breaking their June records last month. The popularity of the revamped models helped the auto brand post its best June sales in five years and its 13th consecutive month of year-over-year sales growth. Year-to-date, Dodge has moved 261,578 units in the United States, a 14-percent increase compared to the same period in 2011.

Dodge's Avenger, Challenger and Journey were each redesigned or refreshed for the 2011 model year, and hot sales of the 2012 models indicate that the changes were for the best. The Avenger sedan sold 9,404 units in June, a 68-percent jump compared to the same month last year, while the Dodge Journey SUV saw its sales rise 49 percent year-over-year last month, selling 6,896 units. The Dodge Challenger, the brand's retro-styled muscle car, moved 4,009 units for an 18-percent increase in June.

"Even though the Avenger, Challenger and Journey appeal to different kinds of buyers, Dodge's approach of adding finer materials and improving performance is paying off for each model in the showroom," said Tom Barenboim, owner of Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram, a Massachusetts Dodge dealer. "We expect sales to continue to grow as more and more buyers discover how favorably Dodge vehicles hold up against their competitors."

Dodge has not only been refreshing its established favorites, but also introducing new models to the market. The all-new 2013 Dodge Dart, an aggressively styled compact car, started rolling out to dealer lots in late June. Already creating a lot of buzz in its competitive class, the Dart recently earned the top spot on the 10 Coolest Cars Under $18,000 list from Kelley Blue Book's kbb.com, which cited the car's surprisingly roomy interior and abundance of personalization possibilities.

All Dodge Dart trims except the upcoming performance-oriented Dart R/T come standard with a 2.0-liter 160-horsepower engine. An optional 1.4-liter turbocharged unit offers matching horsepower yet delivers more torque and improved fuel economy, returning up to 39 mpg on the highway. The Dart, which is the first Dodge vehicle to be built using Fiat architecture, features soft-touch surfaces, an available largest-in-segment touchscreen and optional Bluetooth connectivity. Additionally, the car is highly customizable, with more than 150 Mopar parts and accessories available, including unique grilles, tailpipes and steering wheels.

Expected to arrive at dealers later this year, the 2013 Dodge Dart R/T will pack in more power, generating 184 horsepower with its 2.4-liter engine. Dual tailpipes, a Hyper Black grille, 18-inch aluminum wheels and a sport-tuned suspension set the performance vehicle apart from other Dart trims. Meanwhile, Nappa-leather-trimmed seating and a Racetrack tail lamp with 152 LED lights round out the Dart R/T's appeal to driving enthusiasts.

"The Dodge Dart simultaneously brings sportiness, spaciousness and sophistication to the compact class," added Barenboim. "Not only is it supremely functional, it's also a lot of fun to drive. And, with all the customization options available, anybody looking for a compact car will be able to find a Dart that suits their personality."

About Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram:

For more than 60 years, Clark Chrysler Jeep Dodge Ram has helped car, truck and SUV buyers find the vehicles that satisfy their needs, along with financing and service to they deserve. Whether you're searching for hassle-free Jeep sales, Chrysler parts, Dodge service or the latest Ram trucks, their dealership works hard to exceed customer expectations. To view Clark's wide selection of new and used Jeep and Chrysler models, visit their showroom at 175 Pelham Street in Methuen, Massachusetts, or browse online at www.clarkchryslerjeep.com. They can be reached by phone at 888-875-3706, and you can find them on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/ClarkJeep.