DaimlerChrysler reported that U.S. auto sales rose 4.7% in November compared with the same period a year ago amid a strong showing by its Mercedes-Benz luxury brand.
Sales at the company's Chrysler Group rose 2.9% from November 2005 to 164,556, while Mercedes-Benz sold 22,079 vehicles, its third highest performance and a 21% jump from a year ago.
Overall, DaimlerChrysler said U.S. sales were 186,635 in the month. More detailed figures for Chrysler and Mercedes-Benz were to be released later in the day.
The auto industry as a whole may look a little better last month because November 2005 was relatively weak. Customers avoided car showrooms a year ago despite easing gas prices and deep discounts amid worries about high heating costs and other factors.