Chrysler Auto Sales Beat Expectations

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The big automakers are publishing their January auto sales stats today.

Chrysler said sales climbed 8% during the month, which was stronger than the 5.4% estimated by analysts.

Total U.S. vehicle sales are forecasted to have climbed to an annualized rated of 15.7 million in January from 15.3 million in December.

"Auto sales probably bounced back in January after December's disappointing figures," said Citi's Peter D'Antonio on Friday. "Seasonal factors around yearend anticipate a major surge in vehicle buying in December, followed by the weakest selling of the year in January. "

We'll update this post as more numbers come out.