The A-Class Limousine will play a key role in strengthening Mercedes-Benz’s sedan portfolio and will be one of the key products to be introduced in India in 2020. It will appeal to a younger customer base that is looking for a very stylish saloon, with next generation telematics and infotainment systems combined with a high level of performance and plenty of space for passengers and luggage.

Mercedes-Benz unveiled also the sporty and stylish luxury SUV the new GLA, which had its world premiere in December 2019. The new GLA features an iconic design that redefines its class again. It combines masculine off-roader genes with Mercedes-Benz’s philosophy of sensual purity. The new GLA now has even more powerful proportions and stance that complements its SUV stance.

The new generation GLE ‘hip-hop’ was another product on display. It comes equipped with touch and AI-based voice control, which offers an unrivalled urban and off-road SUV experience.

The recently-unveiled EQC Edition 1886, gave visitors a glimpse of the ecosystem of services, technologies and innovations around electric mobility that can redefine the automotive sector.

Future Technologies

Mercedes-Benz and its largest R&D facility outside Germany, Mercedes-Benz Research and Development India (MBRDI), made an impressive display of innovative products and the future of automobile technology at the Auto Expo. While Mercedes-Benz India launched the unique V-Class Marco Polo and Marco Polo HORIZON luxury vehicles in India and showcased the Volocopter which is the future of sustainable mobility, MBRDI highlighted the cutting-edge research work on Mercedes-Benz User Experience (MBUX) undertaken in Bengaluru and also wrapped up the Hackathon 2019. Martin Schwenk, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, launched Marco Polo, and together with Manu Saale, Managing Director and CEO, MBRDI, unveiled Volocopter, the mobility of the future.

Marco Polo: Marco Polo takes its body design from its base vehicle, the V-Class, giving an impression of unexpectedly generous space, nonetheless showing compact exterior dimensions. Thanks to powerful and efficient engines, the 9G-TRONIC suspension, and high safety standards, Marco Polo is suitable for long journeys though it is easy to drive/handle as a passenger car.

According to Manu Saale, “Luxury and technology are concepts that are so closely linked, that they represent two sides of the same coin. As automobile inventors and innovators, it is imperative for us to come up with breakthrough disruptions in the auto space that set new industry benchmarks while providing convenience, ease and a comprehensive portfolio of choices to our customers. Through our connected car technologies such as the MBUX, our latest concept car VISION AVTR and the trailblazing innovation of the Volocopter, we want to drive our customers into the future.”

Urban Air Mobility: Volocopter wrote history in 2011, when it completed the very first manned flight of an electrically- powered multi-copter. Since then the German company has demonstrated flights in Dubai, Singapore, and Stuttgart. The pioneers in the development of electrical air taxis that take off and land vertically (eVTOLs), Volocopter builds aircraft that are based on drone technology and carry two people. 

MBUX: At the Consumer Electronics Show 2019, Mercedes-Benz launched the new MBUX Interior Assist with its CLA Coupé. The intuitive controls system operates in non-contact mode and recognizes gestures and movements to create a smart and seamless experience for the user, both in sunlight and in complete darkness. Software experts from the Infotainment and Connected Car Department at MBRDI played a key role in the development of MBUX. (MT)

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Renault India has introduced four variants to its Kiger SUV range, updating the model’s powertrain and trim options. The changes include the addition of an Evolution+ variant and an expanded selection of turbo-powered models.

The French automaker has added the Evolution+ trim across its naturally aspirated (manual and AMT) and turbo (manual) engines. Features included in this variant comprise a keyless entry and start system, driver seat height adjustment, smartphone replication, automatic climate control and fabric upholstery.

Additionally, Renault has expanded its turbo-powered range from three to five options by offering the Techno trim with a 5-speed manual transmission. The naturally aspirated range has increased from six to eight variants.

With these updates, the Kiger turbo-powered line-up now starts at INR 789,000 (ex-showroom). The base price for the Evolution+ variant is INR 699,000 (ex-showroom).

Francisco Hidalgo, VP – Sales and Marketing, Renault India, said, “At Renault, our focus has always been on making innovation and mobility more accessible to customers. With the New Kiger range, we are taking this commitment further by bringing turbo performance, premium features, and greater choice within easier reach. As customer expectations continue to evolve, accessibility today goes beyond price—it is about enabling a more complete and rewarding ownership experience. This update reflects our effort to democratise features and technologies that matter most, while staying true to Kiger’s core promise of performance.”

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Stellantis-owned Citroen India has introduced the Aircross Comfort Edition, a limited-run series starting at INR 909,000 (ex-showroom). The launch coincides with the brand’s 108th-anniversary celebrations and aims to provide premium features and comfort-oriented upgrades across all trim levels.

A standout inclusion in this edition is the standardisation of premium leatherette interiors across all Comfort Edition trims, a move the company describes as a segment-first. Other ergonomic improvements include adjustable headrests for both front and rear seats, as well as refined interior finishes with soft-touch materials.

Citroen has introduced a structured accessory pack strategy to allow customers to personalise their vehicles.

YOU Pack (INR 36,600): Includes soft-touch IP, fog lamps, a 10-inch infotainment system with wireless Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, a reverse camera with guidelines and door cladding with chrome inserts.

PLUS Pack (INR 8,460): Adds a reverse camera with guidelines, a wireless charger, and door cladding with chrome inserts.

MAX Pack (INR 40,000): Focuses on technology and audio, featuring a JBL speaker system with an amplifier and an advanced front, cabin and rear dashcam with predictive safety alerts (e.g., front collision, lane change and pedestrian detection).

Kumar Priyesh, Business Head & Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “At Citroen, comfort is at the heart of our product philosophy. We have been closely listening to our customers, who are increasingly seeking more features, enhanced comfort, and a premium in-cabin experience at value-driven price points. The Aircross Comfort Edition is a direct response to this evolving demand.”

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Czech automaker Skoda Auto India has announced that its new Kodiaq RS SUV has sold out within six minutes of its release. The limited run of 50 units was offered as part of the brand’s ‘Surrender’ campaign, marking 125 years of Skoda in motorsport and the 51st anniversary of the RS badge.

This achievement follows the performance of the Octavia RS, which sold out in 20 minutes in 2025.

Ashish Gupta, Brand Director, Skoda Auto India, said: “The RS has stood as a global icon for over half a century, with a passionate following in India for more than two decades. With the ‘Surrender’ campaign, we brought to customers a unique combination of performance and versatility in the Kodiaq RS. We are delighted—though not surprised – to see customers truly ‘surrender’ to its motorsport heritage, 4x4 capability, 7-seat luxury, and its standing as the quickest Skoda in India.”

The Skoda Kodiaq RS is powered by a 2.0 TSI engine producing 195 kW (265 PS) and 400 Nm of torque. It features a 7-speed DSG transmission with all-wheel drive, it can accelerate from zero to 100 kmph in a claimed 6.3 seconds and a top speed of 231 kmph. The vehicles is equipped with a dynamic sound boost, progressive steering and Dynamic Chassis Control Plus (DCC Plus).

The exterior features black accents on the grille, ORVMs, window trims, roof rails and D-pillars. The interior includes black leather upholstery with red stitching. The model is available in four colours: Moon White, Magic Black, Velvet Red and Steel Grey.

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Hyundai Motor India Limited (HMIL) has launched the nationwide ‘Hyundai Smart Care Clinic’, a service initiative designed to deliver comprehensive vehicle health assessments and special benefits to its customers. This programme underscores the company’s dedication to service excellence, drawing upon its three-decade legacy in the country and its foundational principles of trust, progress and pride.

Scheduled to run from 24 June to 8 July 2026, the clinic will be available at all Hyundai service centres. The offering includes a complimentary 30-point check-up for critical systems like brakes and suspension, alongside significant savings on extended warranty, mechanical labour, parts, car care, roadside assistance and Bluelink subscriptions, with discounts reaching up to 30 percent.

Timed ahead of the anticipated monsoon season, the initiative aims to ensure vehicles are prepared for wet conditions. By promoting timely maintenance and essential repairs, the programme is positioned to enhance vehicle longevity, safety and the overall driving experience for Hyundai owners.

Nilesh Shah, National Service Head, Hyundai Motor India Limited, said, “As Hyundai celebrates 30 years of its journey in India, we remain committed to placing our customers at the heart of everything we do. The Hyundai Smart Care Clinic reflects our customer-first philosophy, offering proactive vehicle care and a holistic service experience. Through this initiative, we aim to strengthen customer trust by ensuring their vehicles remain in optimal condition while delivering enhanced convenience, transparency and a truly rewarding ownership journey.”

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