Mercedes-Benz recalls 150 cars over faulty fuses in China

Mercedes-Benz has started the New Year with a one track mind, to regain the no.1 spot in the luxury car market.

And to achieve that target, the Stuttgart based car maker has already introduced the new CLA-Class, the C-Class diesel and more recently the 2015 B-Class.

Next in line are the CLS 250 CDI Coupe and the E-Class Cabriolet, a step towards the 15 in ’15 strategy.

The E-Class sedan is quite a good looking car, but in this Cabriolet form, it looks even better. At the front the neatly laid out single-slat mesh grille with the large three-pointed star logo doesn’t stick out as much as in the standard version.

On either side of the grille the E Cabriolet get those familiar looking LED headlights. The bumper with the large air dams gives the front a dash of aggression.

The long bonnet and elongated beltline along with 17-inch light-alloy wheels make a striking visual statement.

The rear sports the same LED taillights but aside from that gets an additional touch of chrome above the registration plate.

In this range-topping Cabriolet form, Mercedes-Benz has decided to plunk a 3.0-litre turbocharged V6 that makes a maximum power output of 333 horses and peak torque of 480Nm.

Thanks to the larger more powerful unit, the E400 Cabriolet can cross three-digit speeds in just 5.3 seconds and record a top speed of 250kmph. Mated to a 7-speed automatic gearbox, the shift characteristics can be preset from economical to dynamic modes.

For those who want to take matters in their hands, there the E400 Cabriolet also get paddle shifters.

Moreover, to ensure that the car returns good efficiency in city riding conditions, it comes equipped with the ECO start/stop function.

The E-Class Cabriolet will come equipped with the works. It gets a 7-inch TFT display with the Mercedes COMAND Online system that also gets a hard drive navigation system.

The Stuttgart-based car will also introduce a unique Mercedes-Benz App to enhance the internet connectivity experience.

To ensure a 360 degree surround sound, Mercedes has fitted it with the Logic 7 technology from Harmon Kardon with 5.1 multi-channel recordings.

In terms of safety the E400 Cabriolet comes with a 360° camera and Active Parking Assist, keyless go, tyre pressure monitor and adaptive high beam assist. Moreover, it also gets ABS, ESP and Hill Start Assist.

In the Indian market the E-Class Cabriolet doesn't quite have a direct competitor.

Set to be launched tomorrow, we expect Mercedes-Benz to bring in the E400 Cabriolet at around Rs 75 lakh.