I feared this would happen

Merc1, I think you have misinterpreted me here. I never said that Audi were better looking than Mercedes ...just that they have a more thorough grasp on their aesthetic. The current Audi aesthetic seems more thoroughly convincing ...Mercedes current designs seem to be slightly incongruous. I have said this several times before and I still stand by my assessment. Also, I think you are underestimating the standard of design at Audi. Contrary to the clean and uncluttered appearance, Audi is very carefully and skillfully designed. Out of the three brands, I think Audi probably have the biggest following among designers right now -- BMW is more dramatic and is also much admired.

Sad to say Marcus, but Mercedes is by far the most "middle-of-the-road" design wise. Mercedes is quite toned-down and (dare I say it) compromised.