MONTVALE, NJ -- Mercedes-Benz USA reported sales of 55,208 certified pre-owned vehicles for 2004, representing a 4.1-percent increase over the 53,021 units sold in 2003. This marks the sixth consecutive record year of Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned sales.

"As a growing number of pre-owned Mercedes-Benz vehicles come into the market as a result of the phenomenal new-vehicle sales over the past few years, customers have more options than ever through the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program," said Dave Schembri, vice president, pre-owned and fleet operations for MBUSA. "This momentum in our pre-owned segment will continue to build as the new vehicles we launched in 2004 – including the fuel-efficient E320 CDI, a new-generation SLK roadster, and four new high-performance AMG models – move into the marketplace." Schembri added that MBUSA marked its 11th consecutive year of new-vehicle sales growth, selling 221,610 new vehicles in 2004.

Dealers nationwide who participate in the Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program offer factory certified pre-owned vehicles for purchase and lease. Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned vehicles must pass a mechanical and appearance inspection performed by factory-trained technicians. The vehicles are then reconditioned to Mercedes-Benz standards and are backed by a Mercedes-Benz limited warranty. The Mercedes-Benz Certified Pre-Owned program also includes a comprehensive roadside assistance program. To help match customers with the models of their choice, the Mercedes-Benz USA Web site (http://www.mbusa.com) allows customers to search dealers' new and pre-owned inventories nationwide.