Stellantis Struggles with Slow Sales Amid BMW Competition

As we move into autumn, Stellantis continues to secure a strong presence among the slowest-selling vehicles in the U.S., with multiple models remaining on the list. Despite a significant push from BMW, which now claims the top spot, Stellantis maintains a firm foothold with four vehicles making the Top-10, highlighting the automaker’s challenges in moving inventory. From the all-electric Fiat 500e to the luxurious Jeep® Grand Wagoneer L, Stellantis’ lineup continues to experience slow sales. These models, coupled with the Dodge Hornet and Alfa Romeo Giulia, demonstrate that Stellantis is grappling with sluggish movement even with various segments.

Stellantis’ Models Continue to Face Sales Hurdles – 

Stellantis remains a notable force on the list of the slowest-selling new vehicles, even as luxury brands like BMW attempt to catch up. While BMW occupies the top two spots, Stellantis continues to hold significant real estate, with four of its models appearing in the Top 10.

• Fiat 500e: Ranking third on the list, the Fiat 500e’s struggles in the U.S. market are becoming more apparent. With a market day supply of 518 and an average price of $34,503, the compact city car remains one of the slowest movers. This is reflective of broader global challenges, as Stellantis recently extended the production halt on the 500e until November 1st due to poor sales performance. The compact size and limited range may be factors in its struggles, especially in a market that is still warming up to smaller EVs.
• Jeep® Grand Wagoneer L: In the seventh spot is the full-size, luxury SUV, the Jeep® Grand Wagoneer L. Despite its reputation as a high-end, family-oriented vehicle with ample space and premium features, it’s facing slower-than-expected sales. With a supply of 336 days and an average price of $109,559, this model highlights Stellantis’ challenge in breaking into the ultra-luxury SUV market. The competition from brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz, combined with its high price point, likely contributes to its slower movement.
• Dodge Hornet: A more budget-friendly option, the Dodge Hornet lands in eighth place. Despite Stellantis marketing the Hornet as a versatile and tech-forward compact SUV, it has experienced slower sales than expected. With a market day supply of 327 and priced at $37,664, the Hornet’s slower movement may be due to increased competition in the crowded compact SUV market. However, its inclusion in the Top-10 suggests there is room for improvement in demand, particularly for Stellantis’ first plug-in hybrid SUV.
• Alfa Romeo Giulia: Rounding out Stellantis’ lineup in the ninth position is the Alfa Romeo Giulia, a sleek and sporty sedan that hasn’t caught on as strongly as expected in the U.S. market. With a market day supply of 323 and an average price of $53,485, the Giulia competes in the premium sedan segment but struggles to match the sales performance of its German rivals. Alfa Romeo’s challenge seems to be convincing luxury buyers to opt for Italian design over more established brands like BMW and Mercedes-Benz.

A Stronghold Despite Competition – 

Although BMW is making waves with four models on the list, including the top two spots, Stellantis continues to hold its ground with vehicles across different segments, from electric city cars to luxury SUVs and performance sedans. Including these four Stellantis models suggests that the automaker faces persistent challenges in selling certain models despite offering diverse options across various price points and categories.

However, this situation also presents an opportunity for potential buyers. With a high inventory of these models and extended market day supplies, customers can negotiate for lower prices or additional incentives. For instance, with the Fiat 500e production on hold, dealerships may be more inclined to offer deals to clear existing stock. The same applies to premium models like the Jeep® Grand Wagoneer L and Alfa Romeo Giulia, which may also come with negotiable prices due to their slow sales.

Top 10 Slowest-Selling U.S. Vehicles (October 2024) – 

While BMW may have surged to the top of the slowest-selling list, Stellantis remains a key player with a significant share of the inventory-challenged vehicles. The Fiat 500e, Jeep® Grand Wagoneer L, Dodge Hornet, and Alfa Romeo Giulia represent a range of options that are moving slowly off dealership lots, offering potential buyers strong negotiating power. As Stellantis continues to navigate a competitive and evolving market, these models will need additional support to boost their sales performance in the coming months.

Source: CarEdge.com