DaimlerChrysler Boosts Discount on Jeep Grand Cherokee

DETROIT March 4, 2003; Sholnn Freeman wrting for the WSJ reported that DaimlerChrysler AG boosted discounts on the Jeep Grand Cherokee full-size sport-utility vehicle by $1,000 to a total $4,000, according to dealers.

Dealers say the Grand Cherokee deal is modeled on a successful program the company used to lift Dodge Durango sales 3% in February, while big SUVs from rivals tanked. Chrysler's own Grand Cherokee sales dropped 20% last month. Dealers said Chrysler delivered the new program Monday; it ends March 31.

Overall, Chrysler's sales fell 4% from a year ago, compared with a 6.9% slide for the overall industry. Dealers said Chrysler's regional sales officials have turned up the pressure to keep the momentum going. They say Gary Dilts, the company's sales chief, has also delivered mass prerecorded voice mail messages meant to pump dealers to sell.