Mercedes Benz India Launches AMG C63 Coupe and AMG GTR Coupe

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  • June 17, 2020
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The company added it’s the widest range of performance and dream cars by launching AMG C63 Coupe and AMG GTR Coupe recently.

Launching it virtually, Martin Schwenk, Managing Director, and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, announced the features and price of the new cars. Priced at INR 1.33 crore the new C63 Coupe is cheaper than its predecessor model while it is not the case with the new GT R, which is priced INR 2.48 crore.

AMG C63 Coupe

AMG C63 Coupe

The new C63 Coupe is powered by 4 litre V8 engine. It combines sportiness with emotion and intelligence offering design and driving pleasure. The interior offers an authentic sports car atmosphere. Every facet of the inside of the vehicle reflects the performance philosophy. There are perfectly matched elements, characteristic touches and an ambience geared to sportiness in every detail.

The steering wheel is lined with fine Nappa leather and perforated in the grip area. Ergonomically positioned touch control buttons ensure intuitive user-friendliness and are conducive to focused driving.  The fully digital instruments and larger displays, including a new infotainment generation, are state-of-the-art features that make operating the car a highly individual affair. Depending on the precise specification, the instruments can also feature the ‘Classic,’ ‘Sporty, or ‘Progressive display styles.

The high-resolution media display with 10.25-inch screen diagonal adds a particularly high-quality touch to the interior of the car. Using finger movements (multi-touch), the touchpad is as intuitive to operate as a smartphone. The head-up display transforms the windscreen into an exciting digital cockpit.

In the exterior the front splitter, diffuser and spoiler lip reduce lift at the front and rear, and make the car look even sportier in combination with the inserts in the side skirts. The adaptive multi-beam LED headlamps with individually controllable LEDs react to the traffic situation. Partial main beam omits other road users without dazzling them. Ultra-range high-beam increases the range to the permitted maximum. The cornering light and active light functions also illuminate the field of vision to optimum effect.

The electric panoramic sliding sunroof is opened either continuously or by using the one-touch function. When the vehicle is parked, the panoramic sliding sunroof can also be opened and closed from outside – using the vehicle key with the functions ‘summer opening’ and ‘comfort closing.’ Electrically folding exterior mirrors protect the car vehicle from annoying damage when parking, the lowerable exterior mirror on the front passenger side makes parking easier and the self-dimming function protects the eyes.

Carbon-fibre has been used lavishly to reduce weight and improve performance and aesthetics. The material has been used in several places including front apron A-wing, side sill panels, rear apron, side facings for the air vents, mirror housings and spoiler lip.

AMG GTR Coupe

AMG GTR Coupe

Demonstrating AMG's development and racing expertise the GT R Coupe pushes the limits of dynamic driving even further, making AMG’s DNA even more enjoyable. Thanks to direct knowhow transfer from motorsport the sports car impresses with a top speed of 318 kmph and acceleration from 0 to 100 kmph in 3.6 seconds. With rear-axle steering the car offers maximum agility and stability even at critical limits.

The lower a vehicle’s centre of gravity, the better its performance and this phenomenon is achieved through the installation of a low-set front mid-engine in a transaxle configuration, in GT R Coupe. This results in beneficial weight distribution of 47 to 53 percent between front and rear axles. The torque tube, as it is called – made out of carbon fibre in GT R provides a flexurally and torsionally rigid connection between the engine and the transmission. At the same time an extremely light and torsion-resistant drive shaft made of carbon fibre rotates inside the tube, which ends up in saving about 14kg of weight. This transfers the output from 4-litre V8 bi-turbo engine to Speedshift DCT 7-speed sports transmission, which has been redesigned for the vehicle with a longer first and shorter seventh gear. The uniball joints are wear resistant metal linking elements attached to the lower wishbones of the rear axle in a design that allows minimal play, so facilitating even more precise driving.

With the rear axle differential lock, the car is even more agile offering greater driving pleasure. The electronically controlled differential lock enables optimum power distribution between both wheels when cornering. It continually adjusts to the driving situation and increases driving stability even when changing lanes. The interventions of rear axle differential lock are optimized for the respective driving situation and ESP mode. As such it widens the spread between driving dynamics and handling, comfort and driving safety.

The ride control suspension contributes to improving driving safety. The spring rate of the shock absorbers is increased in ‘Sport’ and ‘Sport+’ modes. The stiffer suspension configuration together with the continual damping adjustment for each individual wheel reduces pitching and rolling of the body during dynamic driving manoeuvres. This increases safety and ride comfort at the same time.

Among the many notable features in the exterior is the headlamp that spits uniform warm-white light quality, which is close to the colour temperature of daylight and illuminate the road considerably more precisely than conventional halogen or xenon headlamps. The LED tail lights impress with their extremely flat and horizontal lines.

Carbon-fibre has been judiciously used in GT R Coupe. For instance, the roof is made of carbon fibre yielding maximum performance. In addition this material has been used in air curtains in the front bumper, active panels in the front bumper for better aerodynamics, long bonnet with power domes and A-type grille.

A look at the interior gives a glimpse of the high-tech features beginning with the cockpit. The user interface concept with fully digital instruments cluster of 12.3 inches and a 10.25-inch display fills the eyes. The steering wheel in Dinamica microfibre with steering wheel buttons gives the freedom to focus on the road when looking away is not an option. High-quality materials give the interior a handcrafted character. The centre console turns the interior of the sports car into something very special. The stylized V8 arrangement of the controls has been enhanced with the facelift and supplemented with innovative display switches to select the various settings. The centrally positioned touchpad enables intuitive control of the infotainment system.  

Martin Schwenk in GLE 

Adds Top-end Petrol, Diesel Variant To LWB GLE

Mercedes-Benz has also strengthened its SUV offering by adding two new top-end variants to its popular GLE portfolio - 450 4MATIC LWB and 400 d 4MATIC LWB. The current LWB GLE range comprises the BS-VI GLE 300 d 4MATIC LWB and the top-end CBU GLE 400 d 4MATIC LWB Hip Hop variants.

The locally made GLE 450 4MATIC LWB and 400 d 4MATIC LWB features the same design, power, plush interiors, just like the other variants in the current generation GLE range. The differentiation is in the packaging of latest technology, including the cutting-edge Mercedes-Benz MBUX system with interior assistant. The permanent 4MATIC all-wheel drive with variable torque distribution capability together with 9G-TRONIC transmission ensures it is just as agile and capable as an off-roader as its diesel siblings.

Schwenk said, “The new long wheelbase GLE has already created a benchmark in the luxury SUV segment and we are very satisfied with the customer response. Encouraged by this response we are now introducing a petrol and a diesel variant of the GLE LWB. We are confident that the GLE 450 4MATIC and the 400 d 4MATIC will help this SUV retain its top billing in the luxury SUV segment. The GLE LWB is an important pillar in our expansive SUV portfolio, leading our product offensive in the SUV segment and it remains Mercedes-Benz’s highest selling SUV in India. With the addition of these two new variants, we once again reiterate our customer focus and our commitment to the Indian market.”

An in-line six-cylinder engine systematically electrified with 48-volt technology powers the Mercedes-Benz GLE 450 LWB 4MATIC. Its performance data of 270 kW (367 hp) and 500 Nm of torque, with a further 250 Nm of torque and 16 kW/22 hp available via EQ Boost over short periods is quite commendable. The integrated starter/alternator (ISG) is responsible for hybrid functions such as EQ Boost or energy recuperation, while allowing fuel savings that were previously reserved for high-voltage hybrid technology.

Integrated Starter Generator (ISG) eliminates the need for a belt drive for ancillary components at the front of the engine, which reduces its overall length. The slim design, together with the physical separation of intake/exhaust, creates space for near-engine exhaust after treatment. The 48-volt on-board power supply serves not only high power consumers such as the water pump and air-conditioning compressor, but also the Integrated Starter Generator (ISG), which also supplies energy to the battery by means of highly efficient energy recuperation.

The GLE 400 d 4MATIC LWB comes equipped with an OM 656 in-line six-cylinder diesel engine which generates 243 kW (330 hp) and 700 Nm of torque. The most powerful diesel engine in the history of Mercedes-Benz bundles together state-of-the-art technology components. As a result, the engine sets standards in terms of agility and consumption.

Other interesting features of both the variants include multi-beam LED headlamps with ultra range high beam, 4MATIC with VTD (Variable Torque Distribution), Airmatic suspension with ADS+, 20-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, Auto Park Assist 360 degree surround view camera, widescreen cockpit, easy pack tailgate, electric sun blinds, blind spot assist and Active Brake Assist. (MT)

 

Maruti Suzuki Victoris SUV Launched In India, Aims To Disrupt Mid-Size SUV Segment

Maruti Suzuki Victoris

Maruti Suzuki India (MSIL), the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has further expanded its product portfolio with the launch of the Victoris SUV.

The Victoris is being made available in multiple powertrain options, including petrol with strong hybrid, Allgrip Select (4x4) and factory-fitted S-CNG with an underbody tank design. Bookings are now open at INR 11,000.

The SUV can be had with a 1.5-litre hybrid powertrain with EV mode and e-CVT transmission, a multi-terrain 4x4 system with four drive modes and a CNG variant with dual ECUs.

The Victoris will join the Brezza, Ertiga, Fronx, Grand Vitara and Jimny to further expand its play in the SUV segment.

The new SUV features a 26.03 cm fully digital instrument cluster, 25.65 cm SmartPlay Pro X infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, over-the-air updates and Alexa Auto integration. It also introduces a segment-first Infinity by Harman 8-speaker system with Dolby Atmos, 64-colour ambient lighting, ventilated seats, powered driver’s seat, wireless charging with cooling and a panoramic sunroof.

On safety, the Victoris comes with six airbags as standard, Level 2 ADAS with more than ten driver-assist features, all-wheel disc brakes, electronic parking brake, and a 360-degree camera. In fact, the Victoris has scored a 5-star Bharat NCAP safety rating for both adult and child occupants.

It comes with Maruti Suzuki India’s Arena Safety Shield, including ESP, ABS with EBD, hill hold control and a standard three-year/100,000 km warranty.

Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “The new-age Indian customer is well-travelled, hyper-connected, socially aware, technologically progressive and environmentally responsible. To meet the aspirations of such customers, our new SUV the Victoris has ‘Got It All’. Victoris is a Latin word that means ‘victory’. We are confident the Victoris with its high technology, sleek design, intelligent and connected features, 5-star level safety and multiple environment friendly powertrains will win hearts in India. With Victoris we are strengthening our SUV portfolio and our overall market share.”

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing & Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “At Maruti Suzuki, we are always listening to our customers. Today’s young, and dynamic audience consider an automobile as a reflection of who they are – energetic, composed, confident and always moving forward. We gave this brief to our design and engineering teams for the all-new ‘Victoris’. SUVs may be the most loved segment today, but the SUV buyer has evolved. This new generation of young customers are ambitious, hyperconnected and value experiential living. The all-new Victoris is our answer to that shift - a progressive blend of tech, design and versatility. It is engineered with true SUV DNA and sets a new benchmark for what today’s automobiles can feel like. With the Victoris, we’re not just launching another SUV, we’re celebrating a new dimension to driving - one that’s ‘Got It All’.” 

MARUTI SUZUKI VICTORIS
Overall Length (mm) 4360 Engine Specifications K-Series 1.5L Dual Jet Dual VVT Engine Strong Hybrid
Overall Height (mm) (unladen) 1655 Displacement 1462cc 1490cc
Overall Width (mm) 1795 Max Power 75.8kW (103.06PS) @ 6000rpm 68kW (92.45PS) @5500 rpm
Wheelbase (mm) 2600 Max Torque 139Nm @ 4300rpm 122Nm @ 3800-4800 rpm
Tyre Size 215/60 R17 Fuel Efficiency 21.18 km/l (MT)* 28.65(eCVT) *
19.07 km/l (ALLGRIP AT) *
27.02 km/kg (MT S-CNG) *
Fuel Tank Capacity Petrol - 45 L
CNG - 55 L
Suspension Front: Mac Pherson Strut & Coil Spring
Rear: Torsion Beam Type & Coil Spring

Mercedes-Benz India Launches ‘Dream Days’ Festive Campaign

Mercedes-Benz India Launches ‘Dream Days’ Festive Campaign

In celebration of India's dreamers and their aspirations, Mercedes-Benz India has announced the launch of its comprehensive festive campaign, ‘Dream Days’. Scheduled to run from 2nd September to 31st October 2025, the initiative is designed to make the ambition of owning a Mercedes-Benz more accessible than ever through a suite of tailored ownership benefits and experiential engagements.

The 360-degree campaign focuses on creating signature luxury experiences at every customer interaction. A core component is a range of innovative financial solutions aimed at empowering new and existing customers. For its entry and core model portfolios, Mercedes-Benz is introducing financial plans featuring exceptionally low monthly instalments, attractive interest rates and minimal down payments. First-time buyers will receive additional ‘Welcome Benefits’ when trading in their current vehicle.

Further enhancing flexibility, a unique ‘Seasonal Payment Plan’ allows customers to structure their payment schedules around periods of higher cash flow, such as bonus months, alleviating the burden of uniform monthly payments. A standout ‘Key to Key’ programme for select models like the S-Class enables customers to upgrade to a new vehicle after 24 to 36 months with zero down payment, effectively allowing them to own two new Mercedes-Benz cars within a four-year period.

Complementing these ownership advantages, Mercedes-Benz is elevating its customer service with nationwide ‘Service Clinics’. During these events, trained brand engineers will travel to various locations to provide personalised vehicle diagnostics and address owner concerns directly.

The campaign will culminate in the ‘Dream Days Festival’, a first-of-its-kind event touring six key cities: Chandigarh, Ahmedabad, Pune, Bengaluru, Chennai and Kochi. This two-day festival will offer participants hands-on driving experiences across specially designed tracks that demonstrate the capabilities of the brand’s sedans, SUVs, electric vehicles and high-performance AMG models. Attendees can also enjoy immersive brand experiences, such as the Burmester Sound Experience, fostering a deeper connection with the Mercedes-Benz brand.

Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "India is a nation built on dreams – from startup founders, entrepreneurs to seasoned executives, every dreamer deserves the luxury that they aspire for. This festive campaign, hence, underlines our commitment to fulfil the aspirations of our customers, offering flexible and curated financial solutions, supporting them with their purchase decision. We are confident these financial solutions will find immense value among customers, creating excitement and positive momentum in the market this festive season.”

Hyundai Marks 10 Years of Creta With New King And King Limited Edition Variants

Hyundai Creta King

Hyundai Motor India (HMIL), one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has introduced the Creta King and Creta King Limited Edition to mark a decade of its popular Creta SUV in the domestic market. The company has also added new features to other Creta variants.

The Creta King includes features such as R18 diamond cut alloys, a driver power seat with memory function and a passenger seat with electric adjustments. It also comes with a dashcam, wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay and dual-zone automatic temperature control. The vehicle is available with a 1.5L petrol, 1.5L diesel and 1.5L turbo petrol engine. A new Black Matte colour is also being introduced.

The Creta King Limited Edition adds exclusive ‘King’ branding on elements like the seat belt cover, headrest cushion and key cover. This limited edition is available in Abyss Black, Atlas White and the new Black Matte colours.

The Creta King Knight, with its black design, also receives upgraded features including R18 matte black alloys, electric seat adjustments for the driver and passenger, a dashcam and dual-zone automatic temperature control.

Tarun Garg, Whole-Time Director and Chief Operating Officer, Hyundai Motor India, said, “At HMIL, we have always believed in delighting our customers with fresh choices and enhanced experiences. Ahead of this festive season, we are excited to introduce the Creta King and Creta King Limited Edition in our SUV, the Hyundai Creta. These additions, coupled with enriched feature offerings in the Creta line up will reinforce our commitment to offering products that blend style, performance, technology and safety. We are confident that these new introductions will add to the festive excitement and further strengthen the appeal of Hyundai’s most loved SUV among Indian customers.”

Additionally, new features have been added across other Creta variants, including a dashcam, dual-zone automatic temperature control and wireless Android Auto/Apple CarPlay. The Creta N Line also gets these new features.

Honda Elevate Receives Festive Upgrades With New Interior And Styling Options

Honda Elevate

Honda Cars India has introduced a series of updates to its popular SUV, the Honda Elevate in time for the festive season. The enhancements include new interior colour options and exterior styling upgrades, aiming to give the vehicle a more premium and stylish feel.

The top-of-the-range Honda Elevate ZX grade now features a new Ivory interior theme, complete with ivory leatherette seats and soft-touch inserts on the doors and instrument panel. As an optional extra, customers can choose a new ‘Alpha-Bold plus Grille’ for a more commanding front profile, along with a 360-degree surround vision camera and 7-colour ambient lighting. With these additions, the Elevate ZX offers a choice of three distinct interior themes: Tan, Ivory and Black.

For the V and VX grades, Honda is introducing new black fabric upholstery, which replaces the previous shadow beige option. These variants also feature dual-tone interiors with ivory soft-touch inserts. The new Alpha-Bold plus Grille is available as an accessory for these models and the Crystal Black Pearl colour option is now offered across the V, VX and ZX grades.

Kunal Behl, Vice-President Marketing & Sales, Honda Cars India, said, “The Honda Elevate is a very successful model and has been greatly appreciated by customers for its versatility in both the domestic and export markets. With the introduction of the new ZX grade with ivory interiors and new enhancements across all grades, it is our endeavour to offer more choices to customers during the festive period and warmly welcome them into the Honda family.”

The Honda Elevate is powered by a 1.5L i-VTEC petrol engine and is available with a choice of a 6-speed manual or 7-speed CVT automatic transmission. The SUV continues to offer a range of safety features, including the Honda Sensing advanced driver-assist system in the ZX grade, which includes Collision Mitigation Braking and Adaptive Cruise Control.