Two U.S. automakers offer holiday incentives

By John Porretto
Associated Press

DETROIT — Two of the three major U.S. automakers have sweetened their incentive packages for the holidays, a move predicted by some analysts as the companies try to meet year-end sales goals.

General Motors Corp. yesterday announced a holiday financing package for several 2003 sport utility vehicles. Earlier this week, DaimlerChrysler AG's Chrysler Group improved financing terms on most Dodge and Chrysler minivans for the coming month.

GM, already offering no down payments or finance charges on many models, has enhanced its "Zero, Zero, Zero" program by offering no-interest financing for up to 60 months on 13 SUVs.

The world's largest auto-maker also will give $1,000 in cash on 11 other '02 and '03 models.

The new deals at GM begin today and run through Jan. 2.

SUVs included are the Chevrolet Trailblazer, Trailblazer EXT, Tracker, Blazer, Tahoe, Suburban, GMC Envoy, Envoy XL, Yukon, Yukon XL, Yukon Denali, Yukon Denali XL and the Oldsmobile Bravada.

Chrysler, for its holiday special, is offering $2,500 cash back or zero-percent financing for up to five years on most minivans through Jan. 2. Previously, the interest rates were 2.9 percent for 48 months and 3.9 percent for 60 months.

Ford Motor Co. has not announced any additional incentives for the holidays.