[palioman]

Bought the Merc E 200 CGI in April.
7 months, 15000kms and the first service later, I am jotting down the experience....but first, a bit of background.
Left India last year, giving up my palio and swift vdi. Am currently in Dubai.
Scouted around for a dream car,checked out the BMWs, AUDIs,..well the usual suspects.None got the juice flowing, so to speak. Ambled around to the Mercedes showroom, drove the C Class, the M , didnt look at the S.
Drove the E 200 CGI..was not intending to( the sales guy asked me to )..after all, a big car with a puny 1.8 litre engine has got to be a joke, right ? Wrong.
Amazed was the word. Smooth, refined, and good torque, like something akin to a V6 under that bonnet.
Came back again with a neutral mindset, got it packed with the full complement of 5 passengers and aircon full blast, through a narrow, unpaved road, busy with trucks.
Nary a hiccup, auto gear smooth and positive,engine unstressed.
Drove the E 300 later with the 7 speed. Not nearly as good at the lower speeds
Bought the E 200 !!!
Now, after having lived with it....
1. As comfortable as ever.
2. very refined
3. Incredible fuel efficiency, averaging 12 kmpl , in a land where petrol is cheap.
4. Very good road holding and stability.
5. Does not feel like you are piloting a big car, easy to drive.
6. Feels indestructible.
Now the negatives
1. Some interior rattles !! ( IN A MERC )
2. Big steering wheel, though you get used to it.
3. Expensive to service ( routine)
4. No SATNAV, expensive option.
5. Gets people thinking you are rich, even though you are just a car bum .
6. Leather seats ( cream color) are not easy to keep clean if kids are in.

[rahulrajeev]

How much you had to pay on the road. Didn't you have any service packages available. Put some photos as well.