Auto Sales Surge 20% in U.S.

Carmakers sold 1.29 million cars and light trucks in the U.S. last month compared with 1.07 million units in August 2011, according to Autodata Corp.

Last month's volume equates to an annual sales rate of 14.5 million vehicles compared with 12.5 million units a year earlier.

Demand for passenger cars soared 28% to 650,600 units last month as U.S. gasoline prices spiked 9% during August. Light truck sales climbed 13% to 634,600 units.

Domestic brands boosted volume 12% to 581,600 vehicles, led by Chrysler's 14% gain to 144,300 units. Sales grew 13% to 196,700 units at Ford and 10% to 240,500 units at General Motors.

European brands increased volume 9% to 117,400 vehicles despite Volkswagen's 63% surge to 41,000 units.

Asian carmakers hiked volume 28% to 586,200 vehicles. Demand zoomed 60% to 131,300 vehicles at Honda and 46% to 188,500 units at Toyota. Nissan sales rose 8% to 98,500 units.

Hyundai's growth continued to cool from its previous torrid pace with a modest 4% gain to 61,100 units. Affiliate Kia posted a 22% jump to 50,000 units.