Mercedes-Benz Receives Best Overall Value of the Year Award for the E-Class and SLK230

TORONTO, March 11, 2003; In the wake of receiving several recent accolades and awards for many of its 2003 models, Mercedes-Benz has now been awarded IntelliChoice's prestigious and coveted Best Overall Value of the Year (BOVY) distinction for the E-Class and SLK 230 in two separate categories. Selected from over 1000 2003 model-year domestic and import vehicles, the IntelliChoice BOVY recognizes those models that represent the best value in their class.

IntelliChoice is responsible for publishing annual car and truck cost guides that project ownership expenses over a five year period from the day of purchase. The company researches vehicle ownership costs by factoring purchase price as well as depreciation, fuel, repairs, fees and other items over five years into the equation.

"The cars, trucks and SUVs awarded with this distinction have proven their value and will cost less to own than their competitors," said David Wurster, Publisher of PRIMEDIA'S IntelliChoice. "It's not the purchase price that matters when trying to find the best values. It's how much the vehicle will cost you during the time you own it."

The Mercedes-Benz E-Class won for Best Luxury Car category, while the SLK230 earned again this year's top marks in the Best Base Sport category.

Since its last complete redesign in 1996, the E-Class has been one of the best-selling imported luxury cars in Canada. The all-new 2003 E-Class which starts at $69,950 sports a very attractive design and features a host of technology "firsts", such as the electrohydraulic Sensotronic Brake Control system (SBC), integrated rollover sensor and dual-stage belt force limiters.

Since making its 1994 debut as a concept car at the Turin Auto Show, the SLK230 has been an uncontested hit. This two seater coupe which transforms itself into a roadster in 25 seconds provides the security and refinement of a coupe while allowing its owners to indulge in the open-air passion of a roadster. Three models are available in this class: the SLK230, SLK320 and SLK32 AMG.

President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada, Marcus Breitschwerdt said, "Both the E-Class and SLK-Class have earned the IntelliChoice BOVY several times over the years. These awards are an affirmation of what we strive for in our vehicles, and support our unwavering commitment to giving our customers the best overall package of safety, quality, durability and value in our cars."