Mercedes voted best prestige brand by Kelley Blue

Of course it is ;-)

Your right. No surprise here, and they probably will for many years to come. But for how many years? I give them at least another 5 years, thats good.. That will certainly hold up for sales. But the only one they have to worry about is Lexus.

One of the main reasons Mercedes is most prestige is the dearly beloved S600 and S-Class AMG. The BMW 745Li just don't get enoguh attention.
And Lexus don't have a true competitor to niether one them. And the Audi A8 surely doesn't grab for attention.

Lexus needs a true competitor and the LS460 is not go cut it. Thats why Lexus is coming out with the
"Lexus LS 650h World's first V12 Hybrid Engine" using Toyota's Next generation Hybrid motor that's coming out within the next three years. It's to be price at $150,000 and it's mail competiors are the Bentley Mercedes S600.

Till the "LS650h World's first V12 Hybrid Engine" comes out. Mercedes will hold the champ. Lexus is the only automaker I see stopping them. Maybe BMW. Maybe...We'll see in the next body style BMW 745.

Mercedes still appeals to the rich boys in Hollywood. Lexus don't, because they have no super model brand like S600.

I also see BMW gaining ground with American Idol Jordin Sparks in her new video with Chris Brown, Jordin Sparks is driving a BMW 545. Could you imagine her driving a Lexus GS? Hell No.

goObama: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mercedes-Benz#Innovations

what use does lexus' innovations compared to MB? please do tell.

whats the matter if a certain car is used as a taxi? I see all kinds of cars used as taxis, why? two important needs: comfort and room space. you should stop taking crack and try to be open-minded for a change.

People People People. Are you just blind? Look what Lexus has done in 20 years. Look what they have became. Domination. Lexus is future. Mercedes is past. Only cars that will be future is Audi, BMW, and Lexus. Lexus is just waking up. Look what Lexus has done in 20 years that no other automaker have ever done in ONLY 20 YEARS!! Could you imagine them in another 20 years? Have you read the headlines all over the world on hjow so many people have switch over to Lexus from Mercedes? Once Lexus get through making every single Model comparable to every single Mercedes, it over.

Lexus wants Domination. They have the money to do so and Mercedes will ever have, and can't no one stop them, because they hire people with brains. Lexus is the new kids on the block. Your Grand children will be all drving a Lexus.

Mercedes is past. It live it's glory days. But the future is going to be Audi and Lexus.

Awards, etc.... Now everybody knows what shi*y cars Mercedes makes, and everybody knows what great cars Lexus makes, it just a matter of years.

Money will get you anything. Mercedes had in the past, Caddy had in the past, And now it's Lexus time. And Audi will follow.

Stop living in the 80's,90's,...

The IS-F is just the beginning. Mercedes first sports car was nothing like the Lexus IS-F meaning that it did not accomplish what the Lexus IS-F has. World's first 8-speed automatic transmission with direct shift on first try.

I would love to see what Mercedes/BMW/Audi would do if they had toyota with deep pockets to back them up.

And one more thing:

Obama, how is Lexus perfect? Did you know that the VW Jetta is recommended by your beloved consumer reports while the Lexus GS isn't? What about all the recalls Toy/Lex had? No automotive brand is perfect.

Nature friendly? Hybrids aren't necessarily good for the environment.

http://canadianobserver.wordpress.com/2007/03/22/hybrids-not-so-good-for-the-environment/

Also, I wouldn't call the LS600H environmentally friendly. Sure it's a nice car, but it was over-hyped and its gas mileage isn't all that great.

The Lexus RX is used as a Taxi in New York. Stupid troll. I guess using your logic, Lexus is overpriced taxi trash.

Silver1// These people here consider Japanese somewhat inferior to beat Germans. It's true.

They've been saying the same thing when Japan started selling cars in US that japs can't beat americans.

It's about time Chrysler/Mercedes topped a list! This category isn't even a substantive or tested category, it is simply a perception of reality, not reality.

Daimler is still using Chrysler's diesel engines in all their BluTEC cars, you know that right?

That probably explains why they drive like tractors!

"Daimler is still using Chrysler's diesel engines in all their BluTEC cars, you know that right?"

I just can't believe how inaccurate that statement is.
What is this world coming to?

All you need to do is drive down Rodeo or through Newport and you'll see it's obvious that Mercedes is the most prestigious brand.

I didn't need to be told that MB is the most prestige brand. I already knew, and have done for some time.

I make these comments based on real ownership - not, as I strongly suspect, bigoted comments posted by a fair few "wannabee's".

If M-B are the best prestige brand then heaven help us all. I, along with many others (read the owners' forums if you don't believe me)suffered nearly two years of electrical and mechanical heartache with my E320 E-Class. It comes to something when other owners of the same generic model come up to you to exchange tales of woe! I sold it on (cheering loudly and heavily out of pocket) and tried a number of different vehicles Lexus LS reminded me of a Japenese Hi-Fi and it is the only car I've ever driven that induced motion sickness whilst DRIVING!, the Audi A8 was very nicely put together but very bland and uninspiring to drive, so it came down to the BMW 7-Series or the Jaguar XJ8. The 7-series was a nice car but IMHO that I-Drive should be outlawed! It is downright dangerous and a prime means of driver distraction. That, plus the butt-ugly styling, lead me to plump for the Jaguar 3.5L V8 XJ8 SE. Styling is a matter of opinion - I like it with a mesh grille added. Interior ambience is unrivalled - if you like the Gentlemen's Club Room atmosphere. Controls are totally intuitive and the handling is superb! If the Lexus was a Pioneer Hi-Fi then this is a Linn. Plain and simple but delivers in bucketsful. It's the best vehicle I've ever owned or driven and I love it! Had it one year now, had a few problems with it, but the way they've been resolved coupled with the attitude of my local dealership has been superb (contrast that with the total arrogance of my local M-B Dealer). Well done Jaguar! When I come to change this one I might just take a peek at the new XF.

No doubt about it! MB is the oldest carmaker.It deserves this title!

No surprise....congrats M-B!

Dear Jesus, I asked once and I`ll ask again If you want to be taken seriously, you MUST remove That Nick Name that you are using.I am sure that Jesus Christ will forgive you for using HIS sacred name in vain...and by the way I´m also Brazilian and I desagree with you when you state that in Brazil Mercedes is the only luxury brand people want!I`m from SC and here we see plenty of BMWs 7 series, some Mercedes S class, and almost none AUDI A8. But I agree that Mercedes deserves that Title for the time they`ve been around...

GoObama,

SHUT UP! Why did you avoid this thread, you puss!

http://www.autospies.com/news/New-IS-F-M3-C63-Comparo-MotorTrend-27503/

I will tell you why, your IS-F got its ASS kicked.

Look at the lap times, DOMINATED by the M3.

LAST PLACE in the comparo.

Have a nice day, you moron.

Silver1,

you are hilarious. i don't know what you smoked before you wrote all that junk but it's complete bullsh*t. I don't care what Lexus has done in the last 20 years. What has Mercedes done since it's debut in the world of automobiles? they have set the benchmark in safety, innovations, technology, and timeless designs. Lexus will never have a SL gullwing. The Lexus brand appeal will never be the same as a Mercedes. WHY? because even people in Japan view Mercedes as the marque luxury brand in the world. Lexus wasn't even introduced in Japan until a few years ago. Before that what were they? just rebranded Toyotas. So you tell me what's so prestigious about rebadging cars?

The fact of the matter is this. Lexus IMO was aimed directly at Mercedes when they first made their debut. I see no innovation. Instead I see duplication. It was easy for them to take what's already good in the market and have it put in their own cars. They saved decades of "innovation".

Just because you can't afford the premium on top of a Lexus don't hate on the brand that inspired the Lexus brand to come about in the first place.

Well said, Agent63.

"Agent63"

Not hating. Just speaking the truth. Where do you see Mercedes 20 years from now? Where do you see Audi? Where do you see BMW?

I suggest you read the Auto Spies previous articles:

Math Madness: Who Will Be The Premium Market Leaders in 2010 and to 2030?

http://www.autospies.com/news/Math-Madness-
Who-Will-Be-The-Premium-Market-Leaders-in-
2010-and-to-2030-22884/

Mercedes
Year: 2007 Units 255,026
2010 277,054
2015 318,075
2020 365,170
2025 419,238
2030 481,312

Lexus:
Year: 2007 Units 335,976
2010 Units 380,112
2015 Units 466,928
2020 573,573
2025 704,575
2030 865,498

By the year 2030 as you can see Lexus numbers will double the amount of Mercedes. Even Audi will. Like I stated Mercedes is the PAST!

Now lets define Prestige: reputation or influence arising from success, achievement, rank, or other favorable attributes

Prestige: a high standing achieved through success or influence or wealth etc.; "he wanted to achieve power and prestige.

Prestige: The level of respect at which one is regarded by others; standing.

Now tell me what has Lexus been doing over the past few years of gaining prestige?

Marketing.

It's things like this that makes a car prestige:

Nieman Marcus will sell Lexus the LS 600h L Launch Edition.

Each successive Lexus LS design has become the best-selling prestige luxury sedan in the United States. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lexus_LS#cite_note-lssales)

What dealership cost $75 million to build? (http://www.autospies.com/news/What-dealership-cost-75-million-to-build-23792/)

Lexus Pushes For Stores To Become More Hotel Like And Become Hangouts
(http://www.autospies.com/news/Lexus-Pushes-For-Stores-To-Become-More-Hotel-Like-And-Become-Hangouts-25663/)
Anyhow. i can on and on...You get my point. In the future if you don't have a Lexus your going to be on the "not cool" list


http://www.autospies.com/news/Math-
Madness-Who-Will-Be-The-Premium-
Market-Leaders-in-2010-and-to-2030-22884/

Oh and cannot forget, year after year awards like "World Car Of the Year."

Even Oprah and Tara Banks drives a Lexus and several European Governments to!

AUDI, LEXUS, BMW IS THE FUTURE. PERIOD.

And I really Love Mercedes especially the New C-Class and S-Class. The C-Class in White is hot!

Honestly, I'll choose a Mercedes over a BMW because I like the new interior quaility that Mercedes has on the new C-Class and S-Class. And Love the Grill on the new C-Class. I love BMW styling but hate the interiors, until then BMW will never see the light of day of me.

"ErichHartmann"

What help makes a car prestige? The people who drives them right?

excellent post agent63! really great! mercedes all the way!

It's no secret that I dont like m-b. I think that of all the luxury companies, this is one that exists and sells solely because of their name and prestige factor. They get away with things that other companies cannot, such as releasing god-awful designs like the cls, s550, slk, et al., and stability control systems that can't be shut off. Again, they can do this because of the badge; their main competition gets slammed for their designs and non-defeatable stability controls.

That said, I still think they are head and shoulders above lexus. These lexus freaks here keeping throwing up what they've supposedly done in 20 years, but what HAVE they done in 20 years that other companies havent? Hell even Hyundai has advanced in the last 20 years; that's what happens when technologies are readily available by other companies who've paved the way.

Bottom line, m-b may have taken this award, and even though they're way ahead of lexus, they need to seriously step it up if they want to STAY ahead of them.

"tattedtwice"

They made $$$$$$$ in past 20 years. More than any other automaker has in their first 20 years....

"They made $$$$$$$ in past 20 years. More than any other automaker has in their first 20 years...."

Is that the best you have? If it is, that's probably the lamest defense I've heard so far.

A little quick logic: BMW, m-b, Jaguar, Cadillac, Lincoln, et al, have all been around for decades. During their first 20 years their cars cost a fraction of what they are now. Seeing as lexus cars are 30k and up, one would HOPE they'd earn more in their early years. That's as easy to deduce as the fact that BMW and m-b both earn MUCH than lexus since they sell much more worldwide.

"Mercedes"

Lexus is for people who don't like cars? well lets see here, #1 selling luxury brand in the U.S. for how many years? The LS has beat Lexus target by 300%?

The LS 600h is sold out till God knows when.

"Spellchecker001"

Most people didn't get the car for it's fuel economy, they got it become of a more green environment.

Like I stated, with those type of special people buyig a car those people is very paticular in what they choose and want everything to be perfect. It's the most expensive green car out on the road.

And those special special people with $$$$ is what makes a car prestige.

"Spellchecker001"

According to Wards, The Lexus LS600h is on a 1-year back order. But per you, you stated no one wants it....Ok Buddy....

I might not like the company that you used for your username, but I do like the way you think and agree 100%. I see lexus as nothing more than toyotas for people with more money; people who arent enthusiasts at all, and know little to nothing about cars. Their sales may increase but as far as image and prestige, hell even street credibiility, I dont see them matching the Germans for a looooooooong time.

"Mercedes"

When Lexus was release it was never intended to out sale it's home turf.

Thats why Lexus was name after the Great ALL MIGHTY U.S.

L-Luxury
EX-Export
U-United
States

"tattedtwice"

A long time?

Pay attention to the headlines and awards. Sales, Sales, Sales. Awards, Awards, Awards.

Proof that Lexus Image is On Par with Mercedes: LS600H in Official Use:

http://www.autospies.com/news/
Mercedes-voted-best-prestige-brand-by-
Kelley-Blue-27815/

"Mercedes"

Contrubutions?

Since 1989, the annual Lexus Champions for Charity golf series has raised over $100 million for charity causes. This Lexus-sponsored golf series begins with over 190 golf tournaments held at golf and country clubs around the U.S., and culminates in a three-day championship tournament at Pebble Beach's Spyglass Hill, Spanish Bay, and Pebble Beach Golf Links courses, with $1,000 prize donations at the local level, and multiple prizes at the national level leading up to a $100,000 championship charity purse. Since 2002, Lexus has also been the presenting sponsor of the Michael Douglas and Friends celebrity golf tournament, which raises health care and community funds via the Motion Picture & Television Fund. Other philanthropic efforts by Lexus include the Pursuit of Potential children's charity (including the Lexus Environmental Challenge with Scholastic) and vehicle auctions for Adopt-A-Minefield and Cedars-Sinai Medical Center's Road to a Cure. Many Lexus dealerships also sponsor community organizations in their local neighborhoods.

"Mercedes"

If it were a contrubitions war on who could give more we all know Mercedes will go broke trying to give more than the rich kids Lexus.

"Mercedes"

Technology? Design?

Speaking of technology, who holds the champ as being the most Advance Car on Earth, Automotive Design and Egineering Award, Tech Car of the Year, 2007 Best Engineered Vehicle, Tech Car of The Year.

Oh and Citing its world's first, the official publication of the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) named the LS 460 as 2007's Best Engineered Vehicle.

Saftey?

2007, Auto Bild recognized the LS 460 Pre-Collision system with its 2007 Innovation Prize, finding that its active safety features surpassed the rival Mercedes-Benz S-Class

Kiplinger's named the 2006 LS 430 as "Best in Safety for Cars $40,000 and Over."

UK insurance centre Thatcham awarded the LS with its only 5-star theft-deterrence ratings, the LS topped the What Car? Security Supertest with perfect 100 scores.

oh and it's Lexus according to Automotive Marketing Consultants, Inc. found that the LS had the quietest cabin of any luxury car, with an idle reading of just 31.1 dB in the front seat.

All these awards and all this money and all these sales all this marketing all these celebrities and special special people who buys Lexus is what makes a car prestige. Their building a very good image for itself.

This is why I enjoy laughing at lexus freaks, and this is why I call them freaks, because yall blindly defend these things, while displaying little or no logic.

Youre proud that celebrities own them? But I suppose you dont notice all the m-b's that they buy, huh? Im guessing you do, but you choose to ignore it. I'd bet money that if someone did a count of the celebs that own benzes and the ones that own lexus, it would embarrass you AND toyota.

As for sales, I guess thats all perspective; you freaks are happy that they're number 1, but I personally wouldnt brag about it since it's only cheesy, rebadged toyotas that put them over the top. Besides, as witness so far this year, they're in a decline now that the newness has worn off. We'll see if you freaks still have that little tidbit to hold on to come December.

Bottom line, even the best lexus marketing person, probably the same one releasing all this 'ls600 sold out for years to come' BS, could fool open-minded people into thinking they're on the level with the big boys.

I'm not a Lexus fan. I acutally drive a Mercedes. Thanks....

My condolences....

It's Lexus that made $14,000,000,000 dollars in revenues, but remember this:

Math Madness: Who Will Be The Premium Market Leaders in 2010 and to 2030?

http://www.autospies.com/news/Math-Madness-
Who-Will-Be-The-Premium-Market-Leaders-in-
2010-and-to-2030-22884/

Mercedes
Year: 2007 Units 255,026
2010 277,054
2015 318,075
2020 365,170
2025 419,238
2030 481,312

Lexus:
Year: 2007 Units 335,976
2010 Units 380,112
2015 Units 466,928
2020 573,573
2025 704,575
2030 865,498

LS600HL is the most expensive green car on the market. It's for people who acutally care about the environment, Therefore it will sell regardless. Thats why it's has a 1-year back order. Mercedes sure doesn't they wish they did.

Mercedes"

When Lexus was release it was never intended to out sale it's home turf.

Thats why Lexus was name after the Great ALL MIGHTY U.S.

L-Luxury
EX-Export
U-United
States

Why do you think they just started selling several Lexus models in Japan after all these years?