US car firms beat estimates with sales near 10-year-high as economy improves

Southfield, Michigan

SURPRISING US sales gains from the Detroit Three and top Japanese automakers provide another sign that the American consumer is back and ready to spend.

With the six biggest sellers of autos in the US all increasing volumes and beating estimates last month, the industry is flirting with sales levels not seen in 10 years or more. Americans are buying pricey sport utility vehicles and pickups with luxury cabins, adding to the economy's momentum as petrol and financing are both relatively affordable.

Consumer confidence is solidly higher than it's been since before the recession, inspiring consumers to start trading in t…