FCA Posts Big U.S. Sales Gains for October

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV reports a 16% gain in October new-car sales, defying an expected downturn for the U.S. market overall.

FCA’s combined sales in the U.S. climbed to 177,400 units from 153,400 units a year earlier. The company says 20% of the total were fleet sales.

Five of FCA’s brands reported strong gains, led by Jeep (+9% to 72,800 SUVs). Volumes also rose for Ram (+14% to 54,400 trucks), Dodge (+38% to 33,900), Chrysler (+21% to 13,300) and Alfa Romeo (+44% to 1,700).

U.S. deliveries of Fiat brand minicars plunged 35% to 1,200 units in October.