Penske Automotive Group
Each of its business lines performed well, and all saw same-store revenue increase. As a whole, the company had an 8.5% jump.
I like its brand mix, which relied on the popular BMW, Toyota/Lexus
Gross margin did fall slightly to 14.8%, from 15.4%, but this was due in part to the sharp rise in sales of used vehicles. At Penske, these have lower margins. Sonic Automotive
There's no great secret to its success. The company is diversified geographically, and that paid off with same-store revenue increasing 22.8% outside the U.S. This compares to a 2.5% increase in the U.S. This quarter, sales outside the States made up 37% of the company's top line.
Having a strong international operation protects the company when there's a downturn in one country or region. Lithia Motors
Its brands and presence outside the U.S. should continue to benefit the company. At a trailing P/E of 16, investors may well find the shares too hard to pass up -- without the haggling.
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Fool contributor Larry Rothman is happy to receive feedback, and promises to read it when not being wrestled by his three children. He doesn't have any positions in the companies mentioned. The Fool has a disclosure policy.