Mercedes-Benz cut its full-year profit margin target for the second time in less than two months, hitting European auto stocks as it joined a growing number of rivals that are blaming a weakening Chinese car market,

Mercedes-Benz Group lowered its full-year outlook, a move it said was triggered by the further deterioration of the macroeconomic environment, specifically in China.The German luxury car brand on Thursday said its cars unit is now expected to post an adjusted return on sales between 7.

German auto giant Mercedes-Benz is recalling more than half a million cars in China due to a technical defect. The Chinese market regulation authority said on Friday that the company has presented a recall plan which is due to take effect from November 27.