Retailers in the automotive sector saw their sales rise for the first time in three months in January (+0.5%). The 1.3% sales gain observed at new car dealers was partially offset by a 2.5% decline at used and recreational motor vehicle and parts dealers. While new car dealers' sales seem exceptionally strong (+9.9%) compared with January 2003, they were only 1.1% above those observed in the same month two years ago. Except for the sharp declines seen in the second half of 2003, sales at new