The iconic Mercedes Gelandewagen, popularly known as G-Class, will pack a robust electric powertrain under the hood, informed Mercedes-Benz India Chief Executive Officer Santosh Iyer during the company’s fourth Annual Press Conference. 

Unveiling the new G 580, Vice President Sales and Marketing Lance Bennett said, “The electric Gelandewagen is powered by the EQ technology and more. Electrifying this iconic vehicle presented several challenges as we needed to preserve its signature design and legendary off-road capabilities. Integrating EV components required us to develop a unique drive system featuring four individual electric motors.”  

“At the rear, the motors are connected to form a rigid axle, ensuring exceptional off-road traction. The axle is equipped with a two-speed gearbox, enabling gear reduction for low-range, off-road performance. The G 580 stands apart from other G-Class models with its raised bonnet and rear wheel arch air curtains. These elements are seamlessly integrated to improve aerodynamics and acoustic performance.”  

The electric variant delivers 587 horsepower and an astounding 1,164 Nm of torque, courtesy of its four electric motors. It accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.7 seconds. Powered by a large 116 kWh battery and an intelligent recuperation system, it offers a WLTP range of up to 473 kilometers. Fast charging from 10 percent to 80 percent takes only 32 minutes.  

Like every G-Class, the G 580 underwent the legendary Schöckl test, completing the grueling trail 336 times. This symbolic number guarantees every G-Class meets the highest standards of durability, reliability and off-road capability, earning it the Schöckl badge displayed on the B-pillar.  

“To put this into perspective, the G 580 can complete the Schöckl trail 13 times on a single charge. Its electric drivetrain and low-range gearbox make it the most capable off-roader in its class. It can climb inclines of up to 45 degrees—even in reverse—and wade through water up to 850 mm deep,” added Bennett.   

“Engineers have designed a water- and dust-proof battery pack, encased within the ladder chassis. The innovative four-motor drive system also allows for unique off-road maneuvers, enabling the vehicle to pivot on the spot by up to 720 degrees. This feature ensures that if you reach a dead end on a trail, you can turn around with ease.

Another highlight is the G-Steer function, which tightens the turning circle off-road by braking the inner wheel to slide the rear end around sharp bends,” revealed the executive.   

Inside, the electric off-road cockpit and Dynamic Select system offer a range of driving modes. In Rock Mode, the G 580 crawls effortlessly in low range with speed adjustable via steering wheel paddles, making hill ascents and descents seamless.  

The G 580 is available in a special Edition 1 model, offered in five colors including the exclusive Manufaktur South Sea Blue Magno. This edition features AMG line styling, the night package and 20-inch black alloy wheels. Additional details include blacked-out door handles with keyless go and blue brake calipers.  

The G580 is priced at INR 30 million (ex-showroom, pan-India). This icon has already garnered electrifying demand and is sold out until Q3 2025! Bookings and deliveries for the G 580 will start in Q4 2025, noted a company official. 

EQS 450 SUV

The company also launched its 5-Seater EQS 450 SUV during the event. Commenting on the same, Iyer noted, “The EQS 450 SUV builds on the success of the EQS 580, which we launched a few months ago. The EQS 450 caters to customers seeking cutting-edge technology, generous space, and sustainability at its core.”  

“We launched the EQS 580 in September last year in a 7-seater configuration. The response was phenomenal. We received feedback that there was a demand for both 7-seater and 5-seater variants. The EQS 580 exceeded all expectations, selling out within three months of its launch. Deliveries for the 7-seater will resume in April 2025, while the 5-seater variant is set to roll out soon.  The EQS SUV line-up now includes two configurations: the 7-seater EQS 580, ideal for larger families with pets and frequent travel needs and the 5-seater EQS 450, designed for nuclear families who still want generous luggage space,” he added.   

The EQS 450 comes in the electric art line, which distinguishes it from the 7-seater variant. It boasts features like energising air control, advanced luggage capacity and an impressive WLTP-certified range of 820 kilometers, making it one of the longest-range electric SUVs.  

It is priced at INR 12.8 million(ex-showroom). Deliveries will begin in February 2025. 

Look back into 2024

It was reported that Mercedes-Benz India achieved its best-ever sales of 19,565 units during the January to December 2024 period, representing a 12.4 percent increase compared to the 17,408 units sold in the same period in 2023. Growth during the second half of 2024 (July to December) was noted to be a strong 16 percent.

The fastest-growing segment was top-end vehicles (TEVs), which experienced a 30 percent year-to-date (YTD) growth. It was also highlighted that one out of every four Mercedes-Benz cars sold in India in 2024 was a TEV.
Battery electric vehicles (BEVs) also marked its best-ever sales with a 94 percent YTD growth, achieving over 6 percent sales penetration. It was noted that Mercedes-Benz introduced four new BEVs in 2024 namely, EQA 250+, EQB SUV, EQS SUV 580 and the Maybach EQS SUV. This expansion of the BEV portfolio reportedly generated significant customer interest and reinforced Mercedes-Benz’s leadership in the luxury BEV segment by achieving its highest-ever annual BEV sales.  

Moreover, the company achieved the sale of 200,000 cars in India since 1994. It was mentioned that of these, 100,000 cars were sold in just the last six years (2019–2024). 

Mercedes-Benz Financial Services also achieved a portfolio of INR 10 billion in India with over 50 percent penetration. It was stated that every second Mercedes-Benz retailed in India was financed through the service, which also attained an 80 percent insurance penetration rate. 

Road Ahead

The company revealed plans for the launch of eight new models in 2025 with most focusing on BEVs and TEVs to offer consumers the latest products and cutting-edge intuitive technology. The company was also reported to expand its luxury network reach in 2025, planning 20 new luxury outlets supported by a commitment of over INR 4.5 billion in investment from franchise partners over three years.

It was stated that the focus on TEVs extended beyond cars with plans to partner for dedicated stores selling Maybach collection items, the first of which would be opening in Bengaluru.

Mercedes-Benz India announced a collaboration with Tata Cliq Luxury to allow enthusiasts to purchase or gift exclusive Mercedes-Benz collection items online through the ‘House of Mercedes-Benz’. 

To mark the milestone of 200,000 vehicles on Indian roads, Mercedes-Benz reportedly launched several corporate citizenship initiatives. The company committed INR 75 million to road safety initiatives aimed at reducing accidents and fatalities on highways like the ‘Samrudhhi Mahamarg’ and the ‘Nizamabad Corridor’ in Hyderabad.

Additionally, a new retail campaign was launched to celebrate the 200,000 milestone, offering exclusive event invitations to existing customers and a chance for a lucky new customer to attend the F1 race in Monaco.

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  - uthpsl May 04, 2025 20:09 PM

  Mercedes-Benz is redefining luxury and innovation with the all-electric G 580-combining rugged off-road legacy with cutting-edge EV tech. The 4-motor setup, Schöckl-tested toughness, and futuristic features make it a game-changer. Pair that with the EQS 450’s record-breaking range, and it’s clear: the future of electric luxury is already here!

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German automotive luxury brand BMW Group India has introduced the new BMW M2 CS as a Completely Built-Up (CBU) unit. The high-performance special edition is based on the second-generation M2 and is available in limited quantities at an ex-showroom price of INR 16.6 million.

The vehicle is equipped with an upgraded 3.0-litre, six-cylinder in-line engine, a unit shared with the BMW M4 GT3 EVO racing car. It delivers 390 kW (530 hp) and 650 Nm of torque. Power is managed via a standard eight-speed M Steptronic transmission with Drivelogic, sending drive to the rear wheels.

In terms of performance, the BMW M2 can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in 3.8 seconds, with a top speed of 302 kmph (M Driver’s Package included as standard). It clocked a lap time of 7:25.5 minutes (recorded 11 April 2025) at Nurburgring, surpassing the previous compact car record by eight seconds.

The BMW M2’s chassis has been lowered by eight millimetres compared to the standard model, featuring bespoke tuning for springs, dampers, and control systems. The exterior incorporates extensive carbon-fibre-reinforced plastic (CFRP) components, including the roof, bonnet, mirror caps and rear diffuser.

It features a ‘ducktail’ spoiler and a unique kidney grille design. Standard equipment includes 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged M light-alloy wheels in Matt Gold Bronze, fitted with track tyres. Braking is handled by an M Compound system with red calipers, while carbon ceramic brakes are available as an option.

The cabin is fitted with M Carbon Bucket Seats and an Alcantara steering wheel. Lightweight materials extend to a carbon-fibre centre console and door trim panels with illuminated ‘CS’ logos.

The digital features include BMW Operating System 8.5 with ‘QuickSelect’ menu structure; BMW Live Cockpit Professional with Head-Up Display; Harman Kardon surround sound system and M Drive Professional, featuring a drift analyser and laptimer.

Hardeep Singh Brar, President and CEO, BMW Group India, said, “The new BMW M2 CS is optimised for the ultimate thrill. By bringing this global track icon to Indian shores, we are catering to a growing community of enthusiasts who demand an uncompromising, pure-blooded driving experience. And while the M2 CS is born for the racetrack, it’s ready to take you wherever you need to go. It stands as a definitive driver’s machine - a bridge between peak adrenaline and the open road, offering our Indian customers a level of exclusivity and precision that only a 'CS' badge can deliver.”

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Tata Motors, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has bagged another feather in its cap for its popular all-new Tata Sierra SUV.

The Tata Sierra has secured a five-star safety rating from Bharat NCAP, scoring 31.14 out of 32 for Adult Occupant Protection and 44.73 out of 49 for Child Occupant Protection. The results confirm that the mid-size SUV meets the highest safety standards under the current protocol, including stable structural integrity during frontal offset and side impact tests.

It was in November 2025 that Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles relaunched the reimagined Sierra at an introductory price of INR 1.14 million. Originally debuted in 1991, the new iteration transitions from the original three-door format to a five-door monocoque design measuring under 4.4 metres.

The SUV features a 'Premium' positioning, distinguished by the slimmest headlamps in its category, a pillarless design past the B-pillar, and a substantial glasshouse. The interior incorporates a triple-screen display system with Dolby Atmos audio and a ‘living room’ aesthetic inspired by contemporary Indian art.

Standard safety equipment across all variants includes six airbags and a sealed fuel system. The Sierra is equipped with over 20 ADAS L2+ features, such as intelligent speed assist and sign recognition.

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German luxury car brand Audi India has expanded its Q8 range with the launch of the Audi SQ8. Positioned between the standard Q8 and the RS Q8 Performance, the vehicle enters the Indian market at an introductory price of INR 17.77 million (ex-showroom).

The SQ8 is powered by a 4.0-litre V8 TFSI engine, producing 373 kW and 770 Nm of torque. It has a claimed acceleration from zero to 100 kmph in 4.1 seconds and reaches a top speed of 250 kmph.

The mechanical architecture includes quattro permanent all-wheel drive with a self-locking centre differential. Adaptive air suspension sport with continuous damping. All-wheel steering as standard for increased manoeuvrability and S-specific sport exhaust system for a distinct sound profile.

On the outside, it is equipped with HD Matrix LED headlights featuring Audi laser light and four light signatures. Design elements include S-specific bumpers, a single-frame mask in aluminium and frameless doors with power latching. A panoramic sunroof is standard, while 22-inch alloy wheels and ceramic brakes are available as options.

Inside, the cabin features front sport seats upholstered in Dinamica microfiber and leather. Technology integration includes the Audi Virtual Cockpit plus and a 730-watt Bang & Olufsen 3D Premium Sound System with 17 speakers. Safety systems comprise eight airbags, Audi Pre Sense Basic and park assist with 360-degree cameras.

Balbir Singh Dhillon, Brand Director, Audi India, said, “The Audi SQ8 strengthens our high-performance SUV line-up in India by offering a compelling balance of power, everyday usability and genuine, visceral performance. It is designed for customers who want a versatile luxury SUV that can be effortlessly comfortable during the week and truly exciting on the weekend. We are seeing growing enthusiasm for performance cars across India, particularly among our discerning, younger clientele, and the Audi SQ8 is a natural extension of our commitment to bringing the brand’s finest performance heritage to the Indian market.”

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JSW MG Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has inaugurated its largest MG SELECT Experience Centre in Surat. The facility is part of a national rollout of 14 centres across 13 cities, designed to showcase the brand’s luxury vehicle portfolio.

The Surat centre, located in the New City Light Area, follows a gallery-inspired design philosophy focused on minimalist aesthetics. The environment is intended to provide personalised services for customers in the luxury segment, moving away from traditional showroom layouts to immersive, art-focused spaces.

The centre features two primary models:

• MG Cyberster: A performance electric vehicle with a 0-100 km/h acceleration time of 3.2 seconds and a 580 km ARAI-certified range. It is priced at INR 7.49 million (ex-showroom).
• MG M9: Positioned as a luxury limousine, available at an ex-showroom price of INR 6.99 million.

According to the company, JSW MG Motor India is currently the second-largest brand in India's luxury electric vehicle segment.

Milind Shah, Head of MG SELECT, JSW MG Motor India, said, “We are delighted by the overwhelming response to the MG Cyberster and MG M9 since their launch. JSW MG Motor India has also risen to become the second largest* brand in the luxury EV segment, an impressive milestone powered by the combined success of both the cars. Surat is fast emerging as a hub for luxury automobiles with a positive customer response. We are committed to delivering a luxury automotive environment that is tailored, technology-driven, and truly resonates with the aspirations of our customers in this vibrant city.”

Sonam Jain, Dealer Principal, MG SELECT Surat, said, “This centre transcends the traditional showroom experience to redefine automotive luxury for our discerning clientele in Surat. This will also cultivate a community where every customer’s aspirations are realized and their patronage is genuinely cherished.”

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