Mercedes-Benz sales strong following powerful Q1 performances

Mercedes-Benz kick-started 2011 with powerful Q1 results lead by the company’s flagship luxury saloon S-Class, which enjoyed 13% year-on-year growth, supported by the new Integrated Service Package (ISP) offered across the range. The ISP allows customers to maintain their new Mercedes-Benz vehicle to optimum operating condition for the best performance for a period of five years or 105,000km, free of charge.

S-Class sales are expected to continue their momentum in Q2, bolstered by the recent launch of the more powerful and efficient 350 CGI and 500 CGI engine versions in the Middle East.

Mercedes-Benz SUVs contributed strongly to the positive results, with sales up 26% across all models compared to the same period in 2010. This was buoyed by strong performances from the ML Grand Edition, and GL Grand Edition with ISP. Both models are anticipated to continue to build Mercedes-Benz market share within SUV segment, boosted with the launch of a new ML 500 – competitively priced at US$64,999.

Frank Bernthaler, Director, Sales and Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Cars, Middle East & Levant said: “The outstanding first quarter sales we have witnessed reaffirm our position as the leading premium car brand in the GCC and Levant, and reflect Mercedes-Benz global success this year.”

World-wide unit sales by Mercedes-Benz Cars division have grown 13% from the same period last year, driven by nearly all automobile classes.

“2011 is a momentous year for Mercedes-Benz as we celebrate 125 years since the invention of the automobile on 29 January 1886, by our founding fathers Karl Benz and Gottlieb Daimler. To celebrate and continue to drive our powerful sales, we are unveiling a glorious new batch of vehicles on roads across the region,” added Bernthaler.

Mercedes-Benz has launched numerous new vehicles this year, including the new 350 CGI and 500 CGI engine S-Class versions in April, and the C-Class facelift.

The elegant, new segment creating, four-door coupé CLS will also hitting the roads this month, followed by the introduction of a totally new model, the C-Class Coupé, and the third generation of Mercedes-Benz most exciting and successful sports car ever built – the desirable SLK - in June.