Mercedes-Benz USA Reports 4.1 Percent Increase of Certified Pre-Owned Sales

MONTVALE, N.J., Jan. 4, 2005 -- Mercedes-Benz USA (MBUSA) reported sales of 55,208 certified pre-owned vehicles for 2004, representing a 4.1 percent increase over the 53,021 units sold in 2003. This marks the sixth consecutive record year of Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned sales.

"As a growing number of pre-owned Mercedes-Benz vehicles come into the market as a result of the phenomenal new vehicle sales over the past few years, customers have more options than ever through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program," said Dave Schembri, vice president, pre-owned and fleet operations for MBUSA. "This momentum in our pre-owned segment will continue to build as the new vehicles we launched in 2004 - including the fuel-efficient E320 CDI, a new-generation SLK roadster, and four new high- performance AMG models - move into the marketplace." Schembri added that MBUSA marked its 11th consecutive year of new vehicle sales growth, selling 221,610 new vehicles in 2004.

Dealers nationwide who participate in the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre- Owned program offer factory certified pre-owned vehicles for purchase and lease. Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned vehicles must pass a rigorous mechanical and appearance inspection which is performed by factory trained technicians. The vehicles are then reconditioned to Mercedes-Benz standards and are backed by a Mercedes-Benz limited warranty. The Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program also includes a comprehensive roadside assistance program. To help match customers with the models of their choice, the Mercedes-Benz USA web site (http://www.mbusa.com/) allows customers to search dealers' new and pre-owned inventories nationwide.

Recognized for being among the best in the luxury segment for residual value, Mercedes-Benz has been a trailblazer in certified pre-owned vehicle programs for over 13 years. Headquartered in Montvale, New Jersey, MBUSA is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of all Mercedes-Benz products in the U.S.