Mercedes recently found itself in an odd position: trailing German rival BMW in their ongoing battle for sales supremacy. The news was hard for Stuttgart to swallow, but it has also served as a wake up call as parent DaimlerChrysler is now pouring some extra attention into its German luxury brand. Over the past several years the company’s American brands, commonly known as The Chrysler Group, have been the recipients of DCX largesse with Mercedes getting limited assistance, at least in the eyes of some critics. Now, with the S-Class on the market, with the E-Class soon to appear, and with other models being updated, Mercedes is poised to quickly regain the top spot that was wrested away by BMW.

The new E-Class features quite a number of changes including the following:

Pre-Safe is standard. This is Mercedes’ safety system that automatically adjusts seatbelt and seat settings in anticipation of a crash. In addition, the sunroof and windows automatically close up if a crash is pending.

Introduction of an Intelligent Light System. The E-Class’ headlights will automatically adjust according to the driving conditions. Big changes include enhancements to the fog light system for better vision, a widening of the vision field, and better use of cornering technology to have the headlamps cover areas previously outside of its range.

Ten engine choices. From four cylinder turbo diesels up to a 5.5L V8, the E-Class’s engine range will be incomparably better than any of its competitors. Indeed, a 514 horsepower E63 AMG version will also be released, making this model the most powerful E-Class every built.

Other improvements with the new model include a better air conditioning system, a retuned chassis, and more responsive steering. In addition, the entire front end has been redone with the emphasis on a more aggressive look for the new model.

Prices for the E-Class will start at just over $44,000 and go well over $100,000 for the AMG model. Will the E-Class help Mercedes recoup its lead? The smart money says yes, but not without a fight from BMW who is also rolling out several new models this year.

In all, the cars coming down the pike from Mercedes are worth a closer look and certain to spark more interest in the brand, something DaimlerChrysler sincerely hopes to achieve. With 29 variations offered, will the “wow factor” persuade you to purchase a Mercedes E-Class?

Beyond ownership is the maintenance that is done to preserve your vehicle’s mojo. You know keeping your Mercedes well maintained can go a long way toward helping your car operate problem free as well as looking great. Trouble is, parts can get expensive…you’ll pay a premium if you have some garage or dealer do the work for you. Fortunately, you have some options – terrific ones at that – to find, procure, and install the high quality parts your Mercedes deserves without destroying your budget. Please keep reading for some helpful tips.

Owning a Mercedes is just like owning a piece of automotive history. It was back in the 1880s when two German craftsmen, Gottlieb Daimler and Karl Benz, began working on what became known as the first internal combustion engine. Soon thereafter the first “Daimler” vehicles were produced and were later renamed “Mercedes” due to legal conflicts with the Daimler name. Eventually, Daimler and rival automaker Benz merged to produce the Mercedes-Benz name that we know today. Yes, the parent company is now known as DaimlerChrysler but to Mercedes owners calling their cars a Mercedes-Benz is still common even though the Benz name isn’t typically ascribed to specific vehicles, especially in the U.S.

Beyond its history are the vehicles defining Mercedes, particularly those built in the last quarter of a century. In the important U.S. market, Mercedes has registered strong growth with new vehicle sales growth of more than 350% since 1993. An expanded product line and a desire by motorists to own and care for finer automobiles has been a big part of the Mercedes sales surge. New models, including an SUV and compact cars have fueled much of the growth as consumers flock from traditional American and European brands to Mercedes. Mercedes’ legendary quality is an important attraction as their line of diesel powered vehicles typically last for several hundred thousand miles. Indeed, it isn’t unheard of for diesel Mercedes owners to brag about their cars having passed the 500,000 mile mark.

Mercedes attributes much of their success to the design and craftsmanship put into every car. The company is very careful whom they choose to produce OEM parts relying on trusted names such as Bosch, Hengst, Mann, ACM, Conti, and others to outfit their vehicles. Expensive parts, mind you, but well worth it…you drive a Mercedes!

Of course, if you are like many Mercedes aficionados who enjoy working on their own vehicles, you are in good company. In times past, buying OEM parts meant an expensive trip to your dealer’s parts department or a disappointing visit to your local parts store. Disappointing, as you soon discovered that the only German parts available were for Volkswagens.

Today, your choices have expanded immensely due to the rise of online auto wholesalers such as the Auto Parts Warehouse, who specialize in carrying Mercedes Benz parts. Consumers today are turning on their computers, surfing the ‘net, and finding suppliers who have the parts they need and can ship these parts directly to them. With no middle man mark ups, many of the quality wholesalers are able to supply Mercedes Benz parts at prices well below the prevailing retail rates.

Yes, you have a truly fine and capable vehicle in your Mercedes. You can keep your “Benz” running great and looking its best with genuine OEM parts. Shop around and head down the road to real savings today!