Interesting article - but i wouldn't say that Mercedes is no longer regarded as the top brand - but it is perceived differently than in the past - many of it's traditional buyers in Europe have moved away from the S class - Audi and BMW have picked up quite a few of Mercedes old customers. Luckily for Mercedes, a younger and more newly rich market has emerged for their cars, but this also might put-off conservative potential customers even more.

One thing I do object to though, is the racist remarks I have read on some forums pertaining to the high status the Mercedes-Benz brand has in Hip-Hop culture - particularly among young black Americans. I have read some disgusting and offensive things from ignorant morons who seem to think Mercedes is a brand that should only be owned by a particular type of person - need I say more.