Mercedes will purchase all of Lexus in a huge tax and currency play that will instantly make the Germens hundreds of millions.
Since MB doesn't need any more luxury cars in its stable, all future Lexus RS models will be re-badged as Imperial (remember those sparrow strainer tail lights?) and marketed via Chrysler dealers. The company says this is the first time since the early 60s that Chrysler will offer a true luxo ride, and plans to resurect the old Imperial brand name.
The RX330 will be dumbed down and cheapened to suite the mentality of Grand Cheroke buyers. MB feels that since the Cheroke design is nearly 50 years old, it's time to move on, that even loyal Jeep fans will soon catch on to the dated design and horrible reliability of the Grand Cheroke. Looks like a plan to keep Jeep owners from migrating to GM/Ford SUV junk.
Same with the ES330 to replace the Dodge Intrepid. An MB spokes person noted that in order to better match the quality expectations of current Dodge buyers, that this car will be produced in a plant in the Dominican Republic.... a retrofitted sugar mill that was wiped out by a recent hurricane. Chrysler says it is a "real sweet deal" for everyone.