Chrysler fighting for sales share

Despite a booming market for most marques last year, Chrysler was one of the few that didn’t increase its Kiwi sales figures. It saw sales of nine for its Grand Voyager people carrier and 87 for its 300 large sedan – a total of 96 units. David Smitherman, chief executive officer of Fiat Chrysler New Zealand (FCNZ), says 2014’s figures reflect tough segments the models are in with large car sales more than halving in the past six years. RELATED: Dodge Ram to be sold in New Zealand. However, FCNZ saw 50 per cent growth last year on the back of the distributors other brands – Jeep, Dodge, Abarth, Alfa Romeo and Fiat. “The success of the other brands in probably where the focus is for us, but certainly we will still be representing Chrysler,” says Smitherman, with FCNZ on track to launch Chrysler’s updated 300. The new vehicle will continue being sold with either a six or eight-cylinder petrol engine. Despite Chrysler recently exiting the UK market due to declining sales and a portfolio hit by tougher CO2 regulations, Smitherman says this will not impact on availability in New Zealand.