Few names and symbols have the prestige of Mercedes-Benz and its three-pointed star. A comprehensive array of products ensures that Mercedes-Benz has every aspect of the burgeoning luxury market covered.

Continual powertrain and styling changes keep Mercedes-Benz products fresh. A 6.3L AMG model joins the SL-Class resulting in a new SL63 AMG model. Powertrain updates to the SLK-Class have resulted in new SLK300 and SLK350 models.

The big news for Mercedes is the addition of a 50-state compliant diesel engine. This engine adds new models to the R-Class, ML-Class, and GL-Class.

Mercedes has updated the styling of a number of products this year. Updated models include the CLS-Class, M-Class, SLK-Class and SL-Class.

Next up for Mercedes will be the introduction of the long awaited new E-Class and the launch of a new compact SUV, the GLK-Class.

• What's new for Mercedes-Benz
• Mercedes-Benz for 2009
• Read more on Mercedes-Benz
• Official Site
• Parent Site

Performance

For many, the way a car performs is a key criterion for which car to purchase. Our Velocity Index helps determine which vehicles are the best all-around performers taking in to consideration a balance of factors such as acceleration and handling.

For more information, view our new car performance guide.

What would we drive?

Based on our Velocity Index analysis, the 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class (C300) seems to provide a good trade-off between price and vehicle performance.

Fuel Economy

Fuel economy has long been a key decision factor when buying a new vehicle. While the EPA estimates may accurately predict your mileage with a given vehicle, they are useful for broad comparisons of vehicles. Note that many trucks and large SUVS are too heavy to be required to specify their fuel economy.

For more information, view our new car fuel economy guide.

What's popular

Here are the five cars that draw the most attention from our readers.

• 2009 Mercedes-Benz C-Class
• 2009 Mercedes-Benz M-Class
• 2009 Mercedes-Benz SLK-class
• 2009 Mercedes-Benz S-Class
• 2009 Mercedes-Benz SL-class