The Mercedes Car Group started the year 2007 with a seven percent increase in unit sales to 77,700 passenger vehicles (January 2006: 72,700). Worldwide deliveries of Mercedes-Benz brand passenger vehicles rose 14 percent in January to 73,500 units (January 2006: 64,500).

The Mercedes-Benz S- and E-Class recorded particularly strong sales growth around the world, as well as the SUV family consisting of the M-, R-, GL- and G-Class. Sales of S-Class vehicles were up significantly in January, enabling the flagship of the Mercedes-Benz brand to expand its leading world-market position in the luxury segment. Overall sales of Mercedes-Benz brand vehicles in the luxury segment rose 43 percent in January to 8,500 units. A total of 15,600 E-Class models were delivered to customers around the world in January, an increase of 13 percent from January 2006. Mercedes-Benz set a new record in the SUV segment by selling 12,400 units last month (up 33 percent). Despite increasing competition, Mercedes-Benz remains the best-selling premium brand in the SUV segment in Germany and Western Europe.