Mercedes-Benz India states that among the upcoming launches, several models will cater to the high-end market, including three EVs.
Mercedes-Benz India's upcoming launches, several models will cater to the high-end market, including three EVs.
Mercedes-Benz India has kickstarted its year with the first launch, the GLS SUV, priced between ₹1.32- 1.37 crore (ex-showroom, India). On the sidelines of the launch, the company also gave a glimpse of what to expect from the company in 2024, announcing 12 products in total including 3 electric vehicles. While the GLS facelift is the first launch of the year from the company, we have generated a list of potential products that could make their way to our shores in the next 12 months.
Expected to be priced between ₹ 45-49 lakh (ex-showroom, India), the upcoming GLA facelift is anticipated to retain the current 1.3-litre turbo-petrol and 2.0-litre diesel engines. Unveiled in May 2023, the GLA facelift is set to launch in the first half of this year. Changes to the exterior include new LED lighting at the front and rear, wheel arches that match the car's exterior colour, replacing the black plastic seen on the outgoing model among other changes. Minimal changes are observed in the cabin, with the GLA facelift featuring an updated MBUX infotainment system, along with interior ambient lighting and support for wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto.
The GLB facelift will debut with substantial cosmetic upgrades both internally and externally. Price projections place it in the ₹65-70 lakh range. The existing petrol and diesel engines, coupled with dual-clutch auto gearboxes and the 4Matic all-wheel-drive system, are anticipated to continue without change.
The upcoming sixth-generation E-Class is slated to make its debut by late 2024, with prices ranging between ₹ 80- 90 lakh. Mercedes is likely to present two engine options for India: a 2.0-litre turbo-petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid assist and a 2.0-litre diesel engine. A 9-speed automatic transmission is expected to be standard across the entire range.This iteration will only be available in the long-wheelbase form, a continuation of the tradition from previous generations. The design will incorporate elements reminiscent of the S-Class, with an increased size compared to its predecessor. However, it remains uncertain whether the 'Superscreen' – comprising a 12.3-inch instrument cluster, a 14.4-inch touchscreen infotainment display, and a 12.3-inch passenger touchscreen – will be available on the India-specific E-Class.
The EQA will enter the market as the German automaker's most affordable electric SUV. The 2024 EQA electric SUV features a fresh black panel grille with a distinctive star pattern and introduces new alloy wheels. The powertrain options for the 2024 EQA remain consistent, delivering a power output of 187 bhp and a peak torque output of 385 Nm. Optimising the range, the EQA will boast 560 km (WLTP) on a single charge, an increase of 130 km compared to its predecessor. Inside, standard features include a new 10.25-inch infotainment system and an updated steering wheel with touch control panels borrowed from the newer EQ model range. The cabin exudes a premium feel with the introduction of the new brown lime open-pore wood trim.
The EQE sedan, a sibling to the EQE SUV already available in India and is expected to launch in August 2024. The EQE sedan is based on the same platform as the EQS. It is smaller and more affordable than its SUV counterpart. The sedan will be powered by the same battery as the SUV, a 90.6 kWh pack, providing it with a range of around 544 km on a single charge.
Mercedes-Benz India has been the undisputed leader of the luxury car market in India and has been continuously updating its products to stay ahead of the curve. Currently, the company’s EV portfolio registers 4 per cent of the total sales but with the advent of newer and fresher products, it is expected to increase its market share in the luxury EV segment.
