Mercedes-Benz recorded a slight increase (0.3%) in registrations over 2004, with 82,247 new cars sold.

New models launched last year did particularly well. The new A-class hatchback (launched in February 2005) recorded 11,034 units. September’s new B-class multi-activity vehicle had a strong start, with 1,606 registrations since its launch date.

The CLS-class sold 3,029 examples of the four-door Coupé. Over 1,100 M-class off-roaders were sold from mid-September 2005.

Dermot Kelly, managing director Mercedes Car Group, said: "2005 was a tough year, but the challenge was met head-on, and our strategy of adding value to our products has clearly paid off.

"By offering customers complimentary upgrades to engines or specification on certain models, we were able to be buoyant in sectors where sharp declines were the norm, and to return strong performances."

This year sees the launch of the new S-class saloon on March 16 and the R-class Grand Sports Tourer which goes on sale in April. The SL-class roadster will be revised, and the new GL-class SUV will be introduced at the end of the year.