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

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

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.  

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)

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German passenger vehicle manufacturer Volkswagen has announced the introduction of the Tiguan R-Line in India. The SUV features R-themed design elements, updated aerodynamics and enhanced functionality.

The Tiguan R-Line includes LED Plus headlights, a horizontal LED strip at the rear and 19-inch Coventry alloy wheels with diamond-turned surfaces. The front design incorporates a glass-covered horizontal strip and radiator grille openings positioned towards the outer edges of the front bumper.

Inside, the SUV gets an updated cockpit layout with R-Line inserts on the front sport seats and an illuminated R logo on the dashboard. The cabin includes ambient lighting with 30 colour options for the dashboard and door trims. A panoramic sunroof is also part of the design. Other features include an illuminated moulding between headlamps, rear combination lamps and illuminated door handle recesses. Pedals are finished in brushed stainless steel and the vehicle is equipped with roof rails and chrome-trimmed air intakes.

The Tiguan R-Line is equipped with seats that feature a massage function and adjustable lumbar support. It also includes Air Care Climatronic (3-zone), Park Assist Plus with Park Distance Control and wireless charging for two smartphones.

TATA.ev, the electric vehicle subsidiary of Tata Motors, has launched its electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius in collaboration with automobile distributor Allied Motors.

With this, the company’s popular EV offerings the Tiago.ev, Punch.ev and Nexon.ev will be available for customers in Mauritius.

Yash Khandelwal, Head International Business, Tata Passenger Electric Mobility, said, “We are thrilled to introduce our electric vehicle portfolio in Mauritius, marking our first international expansion beyond the SAARC region. With the government’s strong commitment to sustainable mobility, Mauritius holds strategic importance in our EV journey. As a pioneer of the EV revolution in India and a proven success in SAARC markets, Tata.ev is well-positioned to support the country’s transition to electric mobility. Our diverse range of EVs—spanning multiple body styles and battery options—combined with an unmatched ownership experience and the strong partnership of Allied Motors, sets the stage for a transformative shift in Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

James Ngan, Managing Director, Allied Motors, Mauritius, said, “Our partnership with Tata.ev is a game-changer for Mauritius, bringing an exceptional range of electric vehicles to a country that is ready to embrace sustainable and innovative mobility solutions. The new Tata.ev portfolio offers a perfect combination of power, efficiency, and advanced technology, giving consumers access to world-class electric mobility. Backed by our extensive service and after-sales support, we assure customers of a seamless ownership experience. This is just the beginning, and we are excited about the positive impact these EVs will have in revolutionising Mauritius’ automotive landscape.”

Hyundai Motor India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers in the country, has made strong headway in the country’s stock markets.

The carmaker which got listed on 22 October 2024, has now found its stock being included on NIFTY Next 50, NIFTY 100, NIFTY 500, S&P BSE 500 and other key capital market indices.

Unsoo Kim, Managing Director, Hyundai Motor India, said, “As a listed entity, we are elated to cross yet another important milestone. By becoming a part of prestigious Indian capital market indices such as the NIFTY Next 50 and S&P BSE 500, we have fortified HMIL’s standing in the Indian stock exchanges, reinforcing its market presence and credibility. As India grows, HMIL will continue to grow intrinsically with it, along with a constant focus on driving innovation, improving operational efficiencies, and making strategic investments that will strengthen our business outlook and contribute to the growth of the Indian economy.”

Interestingly, Hyundai Motor India’s debut on the stock exchange was also one of the largest Initial Public Offerings (IPO) in the country.

File photo: Hyundai Listing Ceremony

Maruti Suzuki India, the largest carmaker in the country, has announced a major investment of INR 74.1 billion towards a new under-construction plant with a capacity to produce 250,000 units per year.

This new facility will complement the company’s existing facility at Kharkoda plant, which went on stream in February 2025.

The new facility that is expected to go live by 2029 will expand the company’s manufacturing capabilities to 750,000 units per year. Maruti Suzuki India is optimistic that the demand for made-in-India passenger vehicles will continue both in the domestic as well as export markets.

The investment will be done through the company’s internal accruals.

Furthermore, Dr Tapan Sahoo, currently ED – Engineering will take on the additional responsibility of Digital Enterprise vertical.

On the other hand, the company announced that it has appointed Sunil Kakkar as an Director (Corporate Planning) for a period of three years till 31 March 2028.