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Trump said it was all about creating more US manufacturing jobs. He was not truthful. It was about generating more revenue to offset the tax cut for the top 1%.
The top 1% are unfairly being taken advantage of. 40% of households (76 million) will not pay any income taxes in 2025.
According to the Brookings Institute the non-payers have incomes up to $75k per year.
A flat tax would be much fairer for all taxpayers. Today a neutral flat tax rate would be about 17%. IMO everyone should contribute to the country's wellbeing.
That might have been true 75 years ago. Today it is hard to even think of anything that does not have some portion of the final product that is made from a foreign source or as you post "does not import goods".
Tariffs hurt everyone: the importer, the US based manufacturer who has a portion of the material necessary for production sourced from a foreign country and most of all the consumer who winds up paying more for the exact same product.
Paying more for the exact same product is the very definition and essence of inflation.
The US pays more for almost every identical pharma product, even those produced in the US, than in many other countries. It has nothing to do with inflation and everything to do with government over regulation.
Good lord you realize this was originally meant to be a fun post intended for people to comment and share about a product we all enjoy? If this gets this political, I may bow gracefully out.
And continuing with posting fun details on this post about ordering a '26 E53 AMG Wagon; my dealer shared with me my VIN number! As of Thursday the new car was still sitting on the carrier, but my dealer expected it would be offloaded that day or Friday the latest and clear customs. Once it clears customs it will appear on my dealerships "processing center". My dealership also shared that Mercedes distribution stated that pricing is tentative to be released by the end of August.
And continuing with posting fun details on this post about ordering a '26 E53 AMG Wagon; my dealer shared with me my VIN number! As of Thursday the new car was still sitting on the carrier, but my dealer expected it would be offloaded that day or Friday the latest and clear customs. Once it clears customs it will appear on my dealerships "processing center". My dealership also shared that Mercedes distribution stated that pricing is tentative to be released by the end of August.
awesome. exciting! Wonder what happens if your car makes it to the dealer before they know the pricing lol.
Window stickers go on at the VPC…if pricing isn’t released until end of the month, unfortunately the car will sit there until then. Not at all unusual for MB to do this with a new model.
I took delivery on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Kundencenter in Stuttgart, just outside the factory where she was built. I'm way too used to BMW iDrive that MBUX seems a bit intimidating, but I'm growing used to it. This is a fantastic car, and I look forward to seeing everybody else's stories with theirs!
Pictured next to my M3 Competition Touring. I like boring colors.
I took delivery on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Kundencenter in Stuttgart, just outside the factory where she was built. I'm way too used to BMW iDrive that MBUX seems a bit intimidating, but I'm growing used to it. This is a fantastic car, and I look forward to seeing everybody else's stories with theirs!
Pictured next to my M3 Competition Touring. I like boring colors.
Mazel tov! Looking good. I am also coming from BMW and do really like iDrive so will be good to see how you do with the transition.
I took delivery on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Kundencenter in Stuttgart, just outside the factory where she was built. I'm way too used to BMW iDrive that MBUX seems a bit intimidating, but I'm growing used to it. This is a fantastic car, and I look forward to seeing everybody else's stories with theirs!
Pictured next to my M3 Competition Touring. I like boring colors.
Congrats! Really looking foward to your thoughts. M3 Touring and E63 wagon are both darlings of auto journos and YouTubers...very curious to hear if the E53 stacks up well to them in any way...
Window stickers go on at the VPC…if pricing isn’t released until end of the month, unfortunately the car will sit there until then. Not at all unusual for MB to do this with a new model.
Thanks, Alan, I forgot to mention what you just confirmed. Without pricing, there is no "official" release of this new vehicle Stateside, so it will not leave the Port of Baltimore until official release... It's all going to work out, I'm very sure of it.
I took delivery on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Kundencenter in Stuttgart, just outside the factory where she was built. I'm way too used to BMW iDrive that MBUX seems a bit intimidating, but I'm growing used to it. This is a fantastic car, and I look forward to seeing everybody else's stories with theirs!
Pictured next to my M3 Competition Touring. I like boring colors.
She's a real beauty! I wish I could have ordered mine without the Panoramic Sunroof. I have not had luck with mine in my 2011 E350 bluetec. It will tilt up, but if I open it it's hit or miss if will shut and stay shut. The dealer wants a massive amount of money to fix whatever ails it. Not worth it for the few nice days we get on this green Earth that aren't 105F.
X253 GLC3004M, 222 S400, Ferrari Roma, Tesla Model S
I have also an order in for a E53 Wagon in NY area.
Ordered in April, production was supposed to be end August, was moved up to end July and then pushed back to first week of August. Had a PO since end May.
Hopefully will have the car in September if they can do pricing soon, since this tariff situation seems to be a little clearer.
Cirrus silver, pinnacle, drivers assist, USB package, super screen, sun protection, some other small stuff.
She's a real beauty! I wish I could have ordered mine without the Panoramic Sunroof. I have not had luck with mine in my 2011 E350 bluetec. It will tilt up, but if I open it it's hit or miss if will shut and stay shut. The dealer wants a massive amount of money to fix whatever ails it. Not worth it for the few nice days we get on this green Earth that aren't 105F.
Very annoyingly, it was a dealer ordering mistake. When I walked up to the car, it was covered, and I had a very visible "WTF" moment when they pulled the cover off. I told the delivery coordinator there was a mistake. They looked pretty confused, so I explained that I had wanted the panoramic roof, and my original order I signed off had it listed.
I was about to refuse delivery (and was a bit irritated), but the Kundencenter staff called the dealer, and they reviewed my paperwork. Turns out, the general sales manager made a mistake when placing the order. He also forgot ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, but THAT I could have likely lived without.
After about 2 hours, including chatting with senior management at Mercedes-Benz AG, we came to an agreement that I would accept delivery of this car and that the dealer would order another one, with my original specs. The management at MBAG is requesting a priority build slot, so the replacement could be built in as few as 3-4 weeks. The incorrect car would then be traded with no penalty, and MB Bank would honor the same interest rate (assuming it changes). They will resell it in their inventory as a "Jahreswagen" and eat whatever depreciation happens. They also agreed to reimburse me for my one-way DB train fare and the single night in the hotel, plus cover my expenses to go back to Stuttgart for a second delivery experience that hopefully isn't ruined.
I'm still annoyed, but I am very grateful for how well they handled everything. Mercedes-Benz München does want my business (we're about to order a GLE 53 HYBRID once the facelift is revealed soon, and it's pending in their systems) so I guess anything to keep a very loyal customer happy.
Very annoyingly, it was a dealer ordering mistake. When I walked up to the car, it was covered, and I had a very visible "WTF" moment when they pulled the cover off. I told the delivery coordinator there was a mistake. They looked pretty confused, so I explained that I had wanted the panoramic roof, and my original order I signed off had it listed.
I was about to refuse delivery (and was a bit irritated), but the Kundencenter staff called the dealer, and they reviewed my paperwork. Turns out, the general sales manager made a mistake when placing the order. He also forgot ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, but THAT I could have likely lived without.
After about 2 hours, including chatting with senior management at Mercedes-Benz AG, we came to an agreement that I would accept delivery of this car and that the dealer would order another one, with my original specs. The management at MBAG is requesting a priority build slot, so the replacement could be built in as few as 3-4 weeks. The incorrect car would then be traded with no penalty, and MB Bank would honor the same interest rate (assuming it changes). They will resell it in their inventory as a "Jahreswagen" and eat whatever depreciation happens. They also agreed to reimburse me for my one-way DB train fare and the single night in the hotel, plus cover my expenses to go back to Stuttgart for a second delivery experience that hopefully isn't ruined.
I'm still annoyed, but I am very grateful for how well they handled everything. Mercedes-Benz München does want my business (we're about to order a GLE 53 HYBRID once the facelift is revealed soon, and it's pending in their systems) so I guess anything to keep a very loyal customer happy.
wow, I’m really sorry for all that! But you’re a total boss! I love this story!
Very annoyingly, it was a dealer ordering mistake. When I walked up to the car, it was covered, and I had a very visible "WTF" moment when they pulled the cover off. I told the delivery coordinator there was a mistake. They looked pretty confused, so I explained that I had wanted the panoramic roof, and my original order I signed off had it listed.
I was about to refuse delivery (and was a bit irritated), but the Kundencenter staff called the dealer, and they reviewed my paperwork. Turns out, the general sales manager made a mistake when placing the order. He also forgot ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, but THAT I could have likely lived without.
After about 2 hours, including chatting with senior management at Mercedes-Benz AG, we came to an agreement that I would accept delivery of this car and that the dealer would order another one, with my original specs. The management at MBAG is requesting a priority build slot, so the replacement could be built in as few as 3-4 weeks. The incorrect car would then be traded with no penalty, and MB Bank would honor the same interest rate (assuming it changes). They will resell it in their inventory as a "Jahreswagen" and eat whatever depreciation happens. They also agreed to reimburse me for my one-way DB train fare and the single night in the hotel, plus cover my expenses to go back to Stuttgart for a second delivery experience that hopefully isn't ruined.
I'm still annoyed, but I am very grateful for how well they handled everything. Mercedes-Benz München does want my business (we're about to order a GLE 53 HYBRID once the facelift is revealed soon, and it's pending in their systems) so I guess anything to keep a very loyal customer happy.
The lack of Panoramic roof would have been a non-starter for me too. I have been driving with Pano roofs for close to a decade now, and it radically alters the interior ambience for the better. However, I have no desire whatsoever for the Energizing air control, since it uses up precious space from the glovebox and I can certainly live without it.
The lack of Panoramic roof would have been a non-starter for me too. I have been driving with Pano roofs for close to a decade now, and it radically alters the interior ambience for the better. However, I have no desire whatsoever for the Energizing air control, since it uses up precious space from the glovebox and I can certainly live without it.
Did not realize I donated some of my glovebox space to the “energizing air”. Are there pictures of that somewhere?
AI says: The Mercedes-Benz ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system itself doesn't directly consume space within the glove box. Its primary components, like the advanced filtration system and sensors, are integrated into other areas of the vehicle, such as under the front bonnet in some models like the EQS.
However, the optional Air Balance system, which can be paired with ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, does utilize the glove compartment. The Air Balance system features a fragrance atomizer located in the glove box. This atomizer contains a backlit vial of fragrance that releases scents into the cabin at user-selectable intervals.
Therefore, while the core ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system doesn't directly affect the usable space within the glove box, opting for the Air Balance system will mean a portion of the glove box space is occupied by the fragrance atomizer and its vial.
Last edited by E53DadWagon; Aug 6, 2025 at 09:15 AM.
Did not realize I donated some of my glovebox space to the “energizing air”. Are there pictures of that somewhere?
AI says: The Mercedes-Benz ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system itself doesn't directly consume space within the glove box. Its primary components, like the advanced filtration system and sensors, are integrated into other areas of the vehicle, such as under the front bonnet in some models like the EQS.
However, the optional Air Balance system, which can be paired with ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, does utilize the glove compartment. The Air Balance system features a fragrance atomizer located in the glove box. This atomizer contains a backlit vial of fragrance that releases scents into the cabin at user-selectable intervals.
Therefore, while the core ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system doesn't directly affect the usable space within the glove box, opting for the Air Balance system will mean a portion of the glove box space is occupied by the fragrance atomizer and its vial.
AI is correct. EAC displays outside and inside air quality in the climate control menus and on the (optional) rear climate controls. It is pointless. Air Balance adds the flacon fragrance canister holder to the glove compartment.
Did not realize I donated some of my glovebox space to the “energizing air”. Are there pictures of that somewhere?
AI says: The Mercedes-Benz ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system itself doesn't directly consume space within the glove box. Its primary components, like the advanced filtration system and sensors, are integrated into other areas of the vehicle, such as under the front bonnet in some models like the EQS.
However, the optional Air Balance system, which can be paired with ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL, does utilize the glove compartment. The Air Balance system features a fragrance atomizer located in the glove box. This atomizer contains a backlit vial of fragrance that releases scents into the cabin at user-selectable intervals.
Therefore, while the core ENERGIZING AIR CONTROL system doesn't directly affect the usable space within the glove box, opting for the Air Balance system will mean a portion of the glove box space is occupied by the fragrance atomizer and its vial.
I grabbed a picture of the MB Energizing Air Control canister that sits inside the glovebox, from the net.
I grabbed a picture of the MB Energizing Air Control canister that sits inside the glovebox, from the net.
I think you are not reading the above. This is not the energizing air control. This is the air balance (fragrance thing). Apparently two separate things.
Part of the Air Balance system, a fragrance atomizer offers an extra dimension of cabin ambience. Featuring an elegant, LED-backlit vial in the glovebox and its own ductwork, any of several distinctive yet subtle aromas is gently atomized into the cabin at periodic intervals, yet the scent won't linger on cabin surfaces or clothing. The vial is easily replaced when you'd like to change scents.
Energizing Air Control
A two-stage filtration system helps further cleanse the cabin air. A fine-particle prefilter teams with a combination particulate/activated charcoal filter in the cabin to help screen out even smaller particles such as allergens, soot and pollen (down to 2.5 microns, or 0.0001 inch) and some pollutants in gaseous form. The measured air quality can be visualized in the multimedia display, and can active automatic air recirculation if needed.
Part of the Air Balance system, a fragrance atomizer offers an extra dimension of cabin ambience. Featuring an elegant, LED-backlit vial in the glovebox and its own ductwork, any of several distinctive yet subtle aromas is gently atomized into the cabin at periodic intervals, yet the scent won't linger on cabin surfaces or clothing. The vial is easily replaced when you'd like to change scents.
Energizing Air Control
A two-stage filtration system helps further cleanse the cabin air. A fine-particle prefilter teams with a combination particulate/activated charcoal filter in the cabin to help screen out even smaller particles such as allergens, soot and pollen (down to 2.5 microns, or 0.0001 inch) and some pollutants in gaseous form. The measured air quality can be visualized in the multimedia display, and can active automatic air recirculation if needed.
Ok, it is a bit confusing, since the "Air Balance package", which I was referring to, is also a part of the "Energizing Comfort Package". As per the below:
So as long as the "Air Balance" thing is not selected, your glovebox will not be compromised. I personally would never opt for this option. But the Energizing Air Control, from the description above, is certainly a worthy addition.
With the W214, (and I assume also in the X214 and S214) ordering the Energizing Air Control (P53) includes the Air Balance Cabin Fragrance system that has the fragrance canister in the glovebox. I have that option and it includes the fragrance atomizer. It is also not a pointless system as suggested above - at least not in my opinion. It monitors the outside air quality and will automatically turn on the recirculation if it drops below a certain level. It also includes an ionizer that helps the charcoal filter capture odors and other particles that results in cleaner air in the cabin. I've noticed it working in several instances and I no longer have to quickly hit the recirculation when a truck blows a plum of smoke or when passing an area with unpleasant odors. It's quite brilliant actually and I'm glad I have this option. The fragrance canister in the glovebox does take up some room but I still have plenty of room for the owners manual, a notepad, and gloves which is all I need. I prefer to keep my car and its compartments uncluttered so this reduced space does not affect me at all.
With the W214, (and I assume also in the X214 and S214) ordering the Energizing Air Control (P53) includes the Air Balance Cabin Fragrance system that has the fragrance canister in the glovebox. I have that option and it includes the fragrance atomizer. It is also not a pointless system as suggested above - at least not in my opinion. It monitors the outside air quality and will automatically turn on the recirculation if it drops below a certain level. It also includes an ionizer that helps the charcoal filter capture odors and other particles that results in cleaner air in the cabin. I've noticed it working in several instances and I no longer have to quickly hit the recirculation when a truck blows a plum of smoke or when passing an area with unpleasant odors. It's quite brilliant actually and I'm glad I have this option. The fragrance canister in the glovebox does take up some room but I still have plenty of room for the owners manual, a notepad, and gloves which is all I need. I prefer to keep my car and its compartments uncluttered so this reduced space does not affect me at all.
Well the plot thickens. Noticed that MB seems to use different names in different markets and the bundles are not always accurately described on the web page. Similar situation with rear AC controls.
I took delivery on Friday at the Mercedes-Benz Kundencenter in Stuttgart, just outside the factory where she was built. I'm way too used to BMW iDrive that MBUX seems a bit intimidating, but I'm growing used to it. This is a fantastic car, and I look forward to seeing everybody else's stories with theirs!
Pictured next to my M3 Competition Touring. I like boring colors.
Congrats!!! I have a refundable deposit down and waiting for pricing/allocation. What color is your e53 wagon? Also, were the windows tinted like this from the factory? I didn't think that the pano roof was an option. I think here in the States it is a standard spec...
And as a potential e53 wagon-buyer, I do have to say I am a little worried about Mercedes quality when it comes to the hybrid electrical motor tied into the transmission. Anyone have a 2024/2025 e53 sedan that can comment on any issues?
Last edited by yossarian1; Aug 7, 2025 at 05:57 PM.
Well the plot thickens. Noticed that MB seems to use different names in different markets and the bundles are not always accurately described on the web page. Similar situation with rear AC controls.
At least for the US, it’s even dumber than we thought. The air smelly thing in the glove box comes with the fancy seat option. Weird.
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