DETROIT An auto industry research firm says an improving economy and a host of new models should push U.S. auto sales above 15 million this year.

The Polk research firm says auto sales should continue to lead the countrys economic recovery. Polk predicts 15.3 million new vehicle registrations this year, up nearly 7 per cent from 2012.

Automakers release December and full-year sales for 2012 on Thursday. Analysts predict sales of around 14.5 million, the strongest year since 2007.

Polk expects 43 new models to be introduced this year, up 50 per cent from last year. New models usually boost sales. The company also predicts a rebound in large pickup truck sales.

But the optimistic forecast firm hinges on Washington reaching agreement on spending cuts that could happen later in the year.