DaimlerChrysler Places First in Two Segments of the 1999 Total Quality Award Survey

Auburn Hills, Mich. -- Owners of DaimlerChrysler vehicles once again showed overwhelming ownership satisfaction by placing the Chrysler Sebring Convertible and Chrysler LHS sedan at the top of two segments in the Strategic Vision 1999 Total Quality Awards^TM.

Based on responses of more than 33,000 buyers, Chrysler LHS was named the Total Quality Award winner in the Large Car segment and three-time winning Chrysler Sebring Convertible was the top car in the Convertible segment (under $30,000).

                           LHS                                                               Sebring Convertible

"Being honored by the Strategic Vision Total Quality Index shows that our customers appreciate the overall design, handling and performance that we build into each of our cars and trucks," said Jim Holden, Executive Vice President - Sales and Marketing, DaimlerChrysler.

Strategic Vision measures new vehicle quality as defined by consumers. The Total Quality Index calculates how buyers rate the entire experience of purchasing, owning and driving a new vehicle. The index is calculated on factors such as reliability, craftsmanship, ride, comfort, power, style and dealership experience.

According to consumer responses, Chrysler LHS and Chrysler Sebring Convertible stood out from others in their class in the following ways:

Chrysler LHS

• An all-new model for 1999, owners rate LHS as the class leader with its fun-to-drive characteristics and handling capabilities
• Scoring well above the segment average, LHS receives high owner ratings in style, innovation and power

Chrysler Sebring Convertible

• A three-time winner of the Strategic Vision Total Quality Award
• Large interior space and cargo capacity are key reasons owners rated Sebring Convertible as a smart choice
• Sebring Convertible's exceptionally smooth ride and ease of handling make it fun-to-drive

"Fun-to-drive, exceptional performance and innovative design were high scoring areas for the DaimlerChrysler products, leading owners to feel a high level of self-esteem and pride," said Daniel Gorrell, Vice President - Strategic Vision. "DaimlerChrysler is a company that understands the emotions generated by a pleasurable driving experience."