Here at Autohaus on Edens, we hope the year 2012 has wonderful things in store for you! If last year is any indication of Mercedes-Benz USA’s success, things are looking great in 2012!

Recently, Mercedes-Benz USA released its 2011 sales figures, reporting sales of 264,460 vehicles, the highest annual volume on record with a 17.5% increase over the 225,007 vehicles sold during 2010.

C-Class

The ever-popular and sporty C-Class was the top selling Mercedes-Benz class in 2011. The C-Class is a great gateway to the Mercedes-Benz brand for those first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers.

Mercedes C-Class sedans and coupes are well known for their stylish body, class-leading safety, innovative luxury, and time-tested value. In 2011, 69,314 C-Class units were sold in the U.S., an increase of 17.9% compared to 2010.

E-Class

With a full fleet of vehicles including sedans, coupes, cabriolets and wagons, the E-Class had impressive sales of 62,736 units in 2011. With so many different models to choose from, you are sure to find the perfect fit for you and your family.

SLK-Class

In and around Chicago, 2012 SLK350 drivers probably saw a lot of other SLK-Class models on the road in 2011. In 2011, 3,220 units were sold, an increase of 62.6% over 2010 sales which is truly remarkable.

In Chicago, 2012 SLK350 drivers will also be surprised to know that December 2011 sales were 133.3% greater compared to December 2010 figures.

M-Class

The M-Class rounds out the top 4 best-sellers of 2011 with almost 36,000 units were sold.

Be sure to stop by Autohaus on Edens in Northbrook to test drive one of these 2011 top sellers and see the newest 2012 models in our showroom. Start things off right in 2012 with an all-new Mercedes!

Here at Autohaus on Edens, we hope you all had a wonderful holiday season and wish you nothing but the best in 2012! Congratulations are also in order for the Mercedes-Benz fleet of SUVs; they hit the over 2 million units sold worldwide mark just before the start of the New Year!

The Mercedes SUV has come a long way since its debut over 30 years ago with the G-Class, and since then, the fleet now includes: M-Class, R-Class, GL-Class, GLK-Class, and the G-Class that started it all.

The popularity of specific models tends to vary by geographic location. For instance, in the U.S., the M-, GLK- and GL-Class SUVs are the most popular models.

In China, the second largest Mercedes market, the R-Class is most in demand. It is not hard to see that there is a lot to love in the Mercedes R350 BlueTEC. Even Chicago drivers can appreciate the wonderful features this model has to offer.  This model is a classic Mercedes. R350 BlueTEC Chicago drivers will love this first-class ride that seats up to seven and leads its class in performance and safety.

In Germany, home of Mercedes-Benz, the G-Class is king. The G550 SUV is a favorite of Germans due to its timelessly classic look, on and off-road capability, as well as its low emissions and impeccable interior.

As you can see, the love for Mercedes-Benz SUVs is shared globally. Be sure to stop by Autohaus on Edens to get a first-hand look at the great options Mercedes-Benz has if you are looking for an SUV. Will all of these options, you are sure to find the perfect SUV for you and your family!

In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz new cars have been lucky so far this winter given the lack of snow and relatively mild temperatures. However, 4MATIC all-wheel drive not only kicks in during tough winter storms, it is an essential feature all year round, taking you from winter storms to summer heat, providing you with precise and safe driving all the time.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec drivers absolutely love the 4MATIC feature which not only lets all four tired do the work equally, but it also is equipped to let each wheel adapt to changes on the road.

Four Points of Contact

4MATIC helps to balance braking, steering, and accelerating across the four tires that improves not only grip on the road, but also makes your ride more balanced and precise, no matter what terrain you are driving through.

Wheel Speeds

Wheel speed varies when driving in a straight line versus rounding a corner, meaning that left and right wheels need to rotate at different speeds.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec drivers can drive at ease since the 4MATIC feature continuously monitors the speed of every wheel to ensure that each is turning at the proper speed given the conditions.

Weight Distribution

When your vehicle brakes, all of its weight is shifted to the front wheels, in turn making them work harder than the rear wheels. When this occurs, wheel grip can be compromised and leave your vehicle off balance.

4MATIC helps to optimize torque when braking, helping to keep you balanced on the road.

Mixed-friction Surfaces

From dry roads, to slick icy roads in Chicago, Mercedes-Benz new cars can drive safely on the road with 4MATIC since it uses a combination of individual brakes as well as reduction of engine output to put the right balance on each wheel to have an optimal and equal amount of torque on a variety of driving surfaces.

Sprinter vans are reliable vehicles most often associated with delivery services and are rarely, if ever, mentioned in the same sentence as luxury. However, the Sprinter van got tired of taking a back seat to the other Mercedes-Benz models and recently got a serious makeover that will make you do a double take.

In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers sometimes need to sacrifice their luxurious lifestyle and workspace when they are on the road. However, the good folks over at Becker Automotive Design have transformed the Sprinter Van into a sight to behold.

From the outside, the JetVan looks modest and functional, and in and around Wheeling, used Mercedes fans won’t know what is coming to them once they open the door.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers may think that they have just entered the interior of a luxurious private jet such as Air Force One, however this is obviously not the case.

If you crave luxury, opulence, and the most wicked ride on the road, then the JetVan has plenty to offer you. Only the finest materials are used in the construction of the interior. Luxuries include plush leather custom seating, advanced lighting systems that not only create a wonderful ambiance, but also offer a remarkable clarity that makes it perfect to work in, as well as the most state-of-the-art entertainment and communication technology.

You can choose from several floor plans of the JetVan depending on what your needs are for this pimped out ride. For instance, if you are looking to entertain, hideaway tables are perfect for displaying snacks and you’ll want to go all out with a state-of-the-art entertainment package.

In Wheeling, used Mercedes drivers that seek a JetVan with an emphasis on work, over entertaining can choose a floor plan that allows you to access key mobile office amenities such as: high speed wireless Internet, a well-lit workspace, plenty of desk space, as well as a variety of entertainment and communication systems.

If you are frequently on the road for work and need a second home on wheels, or even if you want to keep the luxury you are used to on the road, then the Becker JetVan by Mercedes-Benz is for you. It is the perfect way to relax, entertain and/or work while on the road, surrounded by unprecedented luxury.

For more information regarding what it takes to transform a Sprinter Van, options, estimates and pricing, be sure to check out the following link: http://www.beckerautodesign.com/jetvan-select.html.

Every time around this year, we are faced with the somewhat daunting task of Christmas shopping. Sure, for some people it is a cinch, however for others, it is not always so easy. However this year in Glenview, Mercedes Lease customers will get a little help with their shopping from Mercedes-Benz this year.

This Christmas, Mercedes-Benz has released its 2011 Mercedes-Benz Collection which is full of stylish, quality gifts for everyone in the family, especially for that person that seemingly has everything.

In Chicago, 2012 SLK350 fans will love the variety of gifts offered in this collection. Here are some of our favorites:

For that person that needs a little organization in their life, this practical, yet elegant Italian calfskin leather organizer is the ideal gift.

Complete with diamond stitching and metal AMG logo from the Mercedes BUSINESS line, this organizer will be the perfect accessory for business meetings as well as keeping track of errands on the weekend when you want to take a break from the electronic gadgets.

In and around Glenview, Mercedes Lease drivers will love the gift of precision time this Christmas with these gorgeous his and her watches.

The stainless steel ladies’ watch featuring gorgeous Swarovski crystals on the stainless steel face can go from the office to a night out.

The men’s chronograph wristwatch also makes for a wonderful gift and features elegant crocodile pattern on the leather strap.

In Chicago, 2012 SLK350 drivers will be able to groom their toddlers while they are young by giving them the ultimate Mercedes-Benz gift. Your little ones will absolutely love the electric version of the famous SL model. Recommended for children ages 3-5 years, the kids will love having a child-size model of their favorite Mercedes-Benz.

Be sure to check out the complete line of gifts in the 2011 Mercedes-Benz Collection. You are sure to find something for everyone on your list, even the pickiest of gift recipients. Happy shopping!

A few weeks ago, Mercedes-Benz USA released their September 2011 sales figures which shattered September 2010 sales records with a 15.6% increase in sales.

As we have seen over the past few months of sales figures, things are definitely trending upward, a sign of perhaps a better economic climate as well as high customer approval of the latest Mercedes-Benz fleet of vehicles.

In the month of September, a total of 23,897 Mercedes-Benz vehicles were sold compared to 20,666 vehicles last September.  However, of all of those vehicles sold, the Mercedes-Benz C-Class and E-Class led the pack with sales, accounting for almost half of all sales in September 2011.

C-Class

In Glenview, Mercedes Lease drivers love their C-Class vehicles and it is no surprise that the C-Class continues to be the top-selling model for Mercedes.

In September 2011, 6,895 C-Class vehicles were sold, representing over a 30% increase from C-Class sales in September 2010.

The C-Class has long enjoyed success, especially since it is a great class for first-time Mercedes-Benz buyers, as well as for younger drivers. In and around Glenview, Mercedes Lease drivers love how versatile the C-Class is with a fleet of sedans and redesigned coupes that not only are some of the safest cars on the road at an affordable price, but they also feature impressive performance and luxury.

E-Class

In and around Chicago, Mercedes E-Class wagon drivers were not alone in loving their E-Class vehicle.

The 9^th generation E-Class vehicles were driving off the showrooms and into people’s driveways steadily in the month of September with the sale of 5,122 units, representing an annual 6.9% increase.

In Chicago, Mercedes E-Class wagon fans love that the E-Class wagon is the only wagon that delivers in the performance, safety and luxury departments.  Not a fan of the wagon? No need to fret. The E-Class has a full line of models including sedans, coupes and cabriolets in addition to wagons.

To join in on the September sales parade, come on over to Autohaus on Edens to take one of the many C-Class and/or E-Class vehicles on a test drive!

As you may recall, in March we brought you news about the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy to open later this year to serve as a driving school for teenagers.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers will be excited to learn that the first Mercedes-Benz USA Teen Driving Academy is in its final stages, finalizing its facility as well as its curriculum.

Even though the first driving academy location is not in Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers will be able to see what to expect from the driving academy based on what is happening in its first location in Los Angeles, California.

This location is no random choice for Mercedes-Benz. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the number one cause of death among teens ages 15-20 is car crashes in the Southern California area.  Data also shows that teens are most likely to have a significant crash in their first year of driving, four-times higher than an adult or experienced driver.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec drivers not only want to make sure that their children are safe drivers, but they also want to know that this new approach in driver education is worthwhile.  The good news is that the curriculum has already proven successful at the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy in the U.K. and that each curriculum is tailored for each individual state. The curriculum involves interactive elements as well as on-line, classroom and on-road training.

Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy students will be taught how to become safe drivers through various methods of teaching including: role-playing, case studies, dilemma games, witness accounts, brainstorming and coaches’ questions. This is in large contrast to what has traditionally been involved in drivers education, where emphasis has been placed on memorization that has been shown to not be effective.

In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz ML350 BlueTec drivers can’t wait to see if Chicago will be one of the next cities to get a Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy.  We are keeping our fingers crossed since they offer one of the most comprehensive programs for those at the beginning of their driving learning phase and they do this by engaging teens, which will ultimately better prepare these new drivers to be critical thinkers and safe drivers.

Stay tuned to our blog for the latest information on the Mercedes-Benz Driving Academy in the U.S. There are plans to announce additional Driving Academy locations in the future. Here’s hoping Chicago is one of them!

Pretty soon on your football Sundays, you’ll be seeing and hearing a lot more from Mercedes-Benz.  Mercedes-Benz USA recently inked a 10-year deal giving it naming rights to the Superdome which will now be known as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The deal also makes Mercedes-Benz the Official and Exclusive vehicle of the New Orleans Saints.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz owners may be familiar with the Superdome since it is not only home to the New Orleans Saints, one of the Chicago Bears’ rivals in the NFC, but also because it has played host to historically major events such as hosting the Pope, and most recently as we recall watching in horror from our television sets, the site where thousands of victims of Hurricane Katrina sought refuge.

With this new deal, the 73,000-seat stadium will turn a new page in its history and the outlook looks bright for both parties involved: the state of Louisiana and Mercedes-Benz USA.

“A great partnership between two world-class organizations” – Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal

As a state-owned stadium, the deal will let Louisiana taxpayers off the hook financially for costs related to the Superdome.  For instance, last year taxpayers had to fork over almost $14 million. In Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans will also realize that this deal will help Mercedes-Benz expand and increase its marketing efforts in the U.S.

For Mercedes-Benz, it will help increase their branding and marketing exposure immensely. In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz fans know that the NFL is a lucrative market to tap into and the Saints have at least six nationally televised games slated for this year alone in the Mercedes-Benz Superdome allowing for Mercedes-Benz advertising to reach a large and captive audience.

In Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans will have their eyes on several high-profile sporting events coming up soon that will take place in the newly named Mercedes-Benz Superdome.

The Sugar Bowl and BCS college football championship are scheduled in January 2012, followed by the NCAA’s men’s Final Four basketball championships in April 2012.  In 2013, New Orleans will play host to the Super Bowl.

The official unveiling of the Mercedes-Benz Superdome will be on October 23 during a nationally televised NFL game between the New Orleans Saints and the Indianapolis Colts.

From September 8 – September 15, 2011 all eyes were on Lincoln Center in New York City as it was the center of the fashion universe with almost 100 of the world’s top fashion designers showing off their Spring 2012 Collections.

It has been said that fashion is known by “sophisticated construction, elegant execution and a forward-thinking timelessness”.  In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz fans may know that these are some of the very same qualities that Mercedes-Benz is best known for.

This is one of the reasons why Mercedes-Benz has since 2007 been the sponsor of New York’s fashion week; there is a shared belief across the high fashion industry and that of luxury vehicles.

Alongside the gorgeous and glamorous gowns and trench coats, Mercedes-Benz also used this world stage to showcase two of its most highly anticipated 2012 models: the SLS AMG Roadster and the C63 AMG Coupe.

In and around Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans can not wait for the SLS AMG Roadster to hit the showrooms later this year, and it is evident to see why.  Showcased in the lobby of Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week, the SLS AMG Roadster turned heads with its all-aluminum frame and soft top.

The 2012 SLS AMG Roadster does not disappoint in the performance department either. It packs a hand-built, 563-hp 6.2-liter V-8 engine.  In Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans will be able to go from 0-60 mph in as little as 3.7 seconds and reach a top speed of 197 mph.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz fans also got to get a look at the 2012 C63 AMG Coupe.  A hand-built 6.3-liter V-8 engine with SLS AMG parts has an output of 510 horsepower and can go from 0 to 60 mph in the blink of an eye; a mere 4.2 seconds.

The interior is just as stunning as the exterior and what is under the hood. A high-gloss black piano lacquer trim along the interior works really well with the red details found throughout the rest of the interior.

AMG sport seats in plush leather with red top-stitching will make you never want to step foot outside the 2012 C63 AMG Coupe Black Series.

Miss out on Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week this year? Check out the Fall/Winter Collection debuts February 9-16, 2012 where you can get the best of both worlds: world-class high end fashion alongside Mercedes-Benz models.

In Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers want and deserve nothing but the best. That is why they drive a Mercedes-Benz and when on vacation, they stay at world-class Four Seasons resorts. Now, you can get the best of both worlds.

Four Seasons and Mercedes-Benz USA are proud and excited to announce a partnership that will allow for access to some of the best vehicles Mercedes-Benz has to offer while on vacation so going away will no longer mean not being able to drive a Mercedes-Benz.

In and around Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans can now get behind the wheel some of the most popular An Mercedes-Benz vehicles anytime they are guests of Four Seasons Resorts across the country.

The first participating Four Seasons Resorts include the following:

• Resort Jackson Hole located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming

• Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale in Troon North, Arizona; and

• Four Seasons Resort Vail, in Vail Valley, Colorado

At these gorgeous resorts, select Mercedes vehicles will be available to all guests of the resort compliments of Four Seasons and Mercedes-Benz. They will even throw in the cost of fuel. Vehicles will be available on a first-come, first-serve basis.

In and around Chicago, Mercedes-Benz drivers who have an adventurous spirit and love of the outdoors will get the most out of this partnership.  These three participating resorts have tailored exclusive packages that will allow guests to explore the wilderness that each geographical area has to offer and this journey will be aided by a Mercedes-Benz vehicle.

Suite Spin

At the Four Seasons Resort Vail in Colorado, guests can book the “Suite Spin” package and partake in activities such as a gourmet picnic overlooking a scenic mountain, followed by mushroom hunting with a local forager.  In and around Chicago, used Mercedes dealer fans will then get to enjoy the fruits of their labor by later having a world-class dinner that includes the day’s mushroom harvest.

To help aid in this adventure, the Mercedes-Benz GL450 or the ML350 will be available for this adventure.

Open Road

Four Seasons Resort Scottsdale guests in Troon North, Arizona can explore the majestic Sedona red rock formations; explore the Sonora Desert and the mountains by booking the “Open Road” package.

The Mercedes-Benz E350 Cabriolet will help guide your trip through Arizona’s most picturesque landscapes.

Wildlife Safari Tour

Last but not least, guests staying at the Four Seasons Resort Jackson Hole located in Grand Teton National Park, Wyoming are in for a treat with the “Wildlife Safari Tour” package.

Your own personal biologist will act as your personal guide on a Wildlife Safari Tour aided by a Mercedes-Benz GL450. Take in the sights of the breathtaking Wyoming wilderness including wildlife such as elk, grizzlies and wolves.

Stay tuned for future Four Seasons Resorts that will participate in this exciting partnership!