It may be the lazy days of summer, but auto manufacturers are enjoying a jolt in auto sales with the help of the cash for clunkers program. Subaru was the clear winner with a 34% sales increase over last year at this time. They were also the only manufacturer to see an increase in sales so far this year over last—4.3 percent for the first 7 months of 2009 compared to 2008.

Ford was the domestic winner with a 2.4 percent increase over July 2008---its first year over year sales gain since November 2007 and an increase of almost 7 percent over June. The big sellers were the Ford Escape up 94 percent, Ford Focus up 44 percent, Ford Fusion up 66 percent, and Mercury Mariner up 71 percent from the previous year.

Hyundai, which launched early with the clunkers program also enjoyed a 12 percent increase over last year and 21 percent over last month. Clunker deals accounted for 22 percent of Hyundai sales.

Most other manufacturers including Chrysler, GM, Honda, Nissan, and Toyota enjoyed a boost in sales over last month, the highest of 2009, but fell versus last year.

It is clear that the cash for clunkers program has made a big impact on auto sales this month. Right now the Senate is debating whether to extend the program with another $2 billion in funding. If that happens, then automakers may be able to continue the sales ride in the coming month.

—Liza Barth