The E-Class from Mercedes-Benz has always been their best selling line, and one of the most successful sedans in the world. As is the case with any successful car, however, radical and/or numerous changes could prove detrimental to that car's bottom line. Rest assured, the only bottom lines affected by the new E-Class will be those of its competitors. Mercedes reported record sales in the month of April 2003, and every year for the last six years, the total sales volume has set record highs. Leading the way for 2003 is the new E-Class: from the same time last year, sales of E-Class sedans and wagons jumped an incredible 47%. Let's not forget that we're talking about Mercedes-Benz, and not some upstart automaker trying to establish itself in a highly competitive market. An increase of sales for a brand that's regarded by many as being the industry standard can only mean history is in the making. Perhaps it is. The E500 is making a strong case for title of the best midsize luxury sedan sold in America. A long and impressive array of technologically advanced features - not found in many of its competitors - is equaled by the E500's flawless road performance and elegant exterior style. Fans of the old E-Class will be happy to see even more ellipsoidal headlights, sexy new curves, and an overall more aggressive stance. A gorgeous new feature is the panoramic sunroof that creates the look of an all-glass roof and has a much larger opening than the conventional sunroof. Special glass filters out excessive sunlight, which can be further limited by power sunshades. Behind the wheel, E-Class loyalists will find more sweeping curves through the dash and wood trims. Precision-crafted chronographic gauges clearly display the car's important functions, and the center console neatly houses the navigation, entertainment, and climate controls with soft-touch buttons and dials. A new, power flip-down panel in the center console houses switches for many vehicle functions. At the touch of a button, it opens to reveal an extra storage space or the newly available six-disc CD changer. The same 302 hp V8 engine in last year's ASA winner, the SL500, is under the hood of the new E500. Ergo, the E500 delivers a similar heart-stopping driving experience. Lightning quick acceleration, tight and responsive cornering, and a super luxurious ride are all attributes of the best performing E-Class that Mercedes has built. Ultimately, the numerous technological features and amenities of the E500 are decidedly what set it apart from everyone else. Keyless Go, a unique transponder that detects when the driver is within three feet of the vehicle, lets the driver unlock the car by merely pulling the door handle and start the engine via a start/stop button on the shifter. It also makes it impossible for a driver to lock himself out. Distronic Adaptive Cruise Control uses sensors in front of the car to automatically maintain a preset distance from the vehicle in front of you. These are but two of several unique features that make the E500 one of a kind, maybe the best of a kind. By Ayman Shairzay mbusa.com