April 1, 2009
Mercedes-Benz Canada press release
TORONTO, ON? Mercedes-Benz Canada reported today that a record-breaking total of 2,393 Mercedes-Benz and smart units were registered for the month. This represents the best ever combined March sales for Mercedes-Benz and smart, and a 16.4% gain over last year. With 2,181 vehicles delivered to customers, the Mercedes-Benz side reported a record sales growth and an increase of 26.0%. A total of 212 smart fortwo units were retailed for the month.
At the end of the first quarter, combined sales for Mercedes-Benz and smart totaled a record-breaking 5,221 units making it the strongest first quarter ever, pushing year-to-date growth to 9.9%. Mercedes-Benz sales accounted for a 19.6% gain in the first quarter.
Very strong B-Class, C-Class, E-Class, SLK-Class, SL-Class, GLK-Class and M-Class model sales played a significant role in March?s overall success. With an impressive 736 vehicles retailed for the month, the C-Class continued to be a top pick for Canadian buyers. The SLK-Class and SL-Class March results were a clear indication that many customers are more than ready for open-top driving. Led by extraordinary interest in the all-new GLK-Class and sustained appeal in the M-Class, GL-Class and R-Class, the luxury light truck side also reported continued growth in March with 784 units or a 85.3% increase in sales.
The diesel sales ratio was 51.3% for the month, while permanent all-wheel drive 4MATIC? units accounted for 75.7% of the overall passenger car and light truck sales (excluding smart). On the pre-owned side, the company reported 661 vehicles delivered for the month of March, on par with last year?s March sales. Pre-owned sales for the first quarter amounted to 1,515 units. "The remarkable record-breaking first quarter results are directly and proportionately related to everyone?s hard work in our dealerships and corporate offices over the course of the last three months," said Marcus Breitschwerdt, President and CEO of Mercedes-Benz Canada. "I am extremely proud that we have been able to maintain last year's exceptional momentum. The first quarter is usually the toughest of the year and to start 2009 on such a positive note is very rewarding on all fronts. We are grateful that Canadians continue to embrace Mercedes-Benz products with such enthusiasm and passion. As we enter the second quarter of 2009, we will continue to fervently promote our highly desirable products, our compelling value proposition and our very competitive offers. "
About Mercedes-Benz Canada
Mercedes-Benz Canada is responsible for the sales, marketing and service of the four brands within the Mercedes Car Group in Canada; Mercedes-Benz, smart, AMG and Maybach. Headquartered in Toronto, Ontario, Mercedes-Benz Canada employs approximately 1,050 people in 19 locations across Canada. Through a nationwide network of 14 Mercedes-Benz owned retail operations and 36 authorized dealerships, Mercedes-Benz Canada sold 24,117 vehicles in 2008, the best year ever reported for Mercedes-Benz Canada Inc.
