Mercedes-Benz India Launches The All-New G-Class 450d
- By MT Bureau
- October 13, 2025
Mercedes-Benz India has fortified the legendary G-Class lineage with the launch of the all-new G 450d, a vehicle distinguished by the most potent diesel engine in the brand's portfolio. This introduction completes a comprehensive powertrain strategy for the iconic SUV in India, now encompassing a diesel, a petrol, and a fully electric model. The G 450d is powered by an advanced 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder diesel engine, augmented by a 48-volt electrical system and an Integrated Starter Generator (ISG). This sophisticated powertrain generates 270 kW and a formidable 750 Nm of torque, propelling the substantial SUV from 0 to 100 km/h in a mere 5.8 seconds, with a top speed of 210 kmph.
The model's identity remains deeply rooted in its unparalleled off-road capability, honed over 45 years. Its proven ladder-frame construction, three 100 percent mechanical differential locks and a suspension system combining a double-wishbone independent front setup with a rigid rear axle form the bedrock of its rugged character. Key off-road metrics include a maximum 100 percent gradeability, a fording depth of 70 cm and approach, departure and breakover angles of 31, 30 and 26 degrees respectively. The standard adaptive adjustable damping and the DYNAMIC SELECT system – which includes three dedicated off-road driving programmes – allow drivers to effortlessly tailor the vehicle's character for any terrain. A redesigned Offroad Cockpit in the digital displays provides vital information like steering angle and tyre pressure, while the ‘Transparent Hood’ function offers a virtual view of the terrain ahead.
Visually, the G 450d retains the timeless, commanding silhouette of the G-Class while incorporating subtle yet distinct updates. A new radiator grille with four horizontal louvres and a redesigned front bumper with integrated vertical louvers define the front aspect. The vehicle rides on standard 20-inch AMG alloy wheels, reinforcing its powerful stance.
Inside, the cabin merges traditional robustness with state-of-the-art technology and luxury. The dashboard is dominated by two 12.3-inch screens for the driver and multimedia, housing the latest MBUX NTG7 infotainment system. This system features augmented reality navigation, which superimposes directional cues onto a live video feed, along with wireless smartphone integration. The exclusive MANUFAKTUR programme offers near-limitless personalisation, from unique paint colours to bespoke interior trims, spare wheel rings and decorative stitching. The AMG line interior theme, enhanced by Nappa leather, ambient lighting and an available Burmester 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos, creates an exceptionally luxurious environment. Comprehensive noise insulation and acoustic glass ensure exceptional cabin serenity, while a suite of advanced safety features, including Active Brake Assist and a 360-degree camera, provides confidence on every journey.
To celebrate the G-Class heritage, Mercedes-Benz India will soon initiate the exclusive ‘G-Tribe Escapade,’ a curated driving expedition for select customers. This journey will traverse from India to the scenic landscapes of Thimphu, Punakha and Paro, offering a firsthand experience of the vehicle's capabilities.
Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, "The new G 450d underlines our commitment to offer diesel, petrol and electric powertrain for the first time in India to the G-Class, the longest running nameplate in the automotive industry. The G 450d featuring Mercedes-Benz’s powerful and efficient diesel engine, combines performance with efficiency, reiterating the sustained customer demand for a diesel powertrain in the G-Class. The G 450d ensures Mercedes-Benz now has a ‘G-Class’ for every customer requirement in India, further elevating practicality along with desirability and cult status of this iconic SUV."
Jeep India Introduces Confidence 7 Ownership Programme For Compass And Meridian
- By MT Bureau
- January 16, 2026
Jeep India has launched Jeep Confidence 7, a long-term ownership and care package for its Compass and Meridian models with prices starting at INR 41,926 and INR 47,024, respectively.
The programme provides coverage for up to seven years, incorporating warranty, maintenance and roadside assistance to manage ownership costs and vehicle value.
The scheme includes an Assured Buyback (ABB) option, offered through authorised dealers, which guarantees a resale value of up to 60 percent of the ex-showroom price, depending on the vehicle's age and mileage. To manage service expenses, the programme offers an Annual Maintenance Contract (AMC) with costs starting from approximately INR 38 per day. According to the company, this can result in savings of up to 33 percent on scheduled service parts and labour.
The package features several service-oriented benefits, including Priority Ownership and an Express Service designed to complete specific tasks within 90 minutes. A Courtesy Edge provision ensures that if general repairs or services exceed two days, customers are provided with a loaner vehicle or taxi support to maintain mobility.
Additional components of the programme include Roadside Assistance (RSA) for the full seven-year duration and a INR 2,000 voucher for Jeep lifestyle merchandise. The extended warranty is transferable to subsequent owners, which is intended to support the vehicle's resale market value.
Kumar Priyesh, Business Head and Director – Automotive Brands, Stellantis India, said, “Jeep Confidence 7 reflects our unwavering promise to our customers—an elevated, dependable ownership experience that stands true to the Jeep brand’s heritage of trust. Customers today seek transparency, long-term value, and effortless service engagement. With Jeep Confidence 7, we are amplifying assurance, convenience, and peace of mind, ensuring that every Jeep customer feels supported throughout their entire journey.”
Maruti Suzuki India Begins Exports Of Victoris SUV
- By MT Bureau
- January 16, 2026
Maruti Suzuki India, the country’s largest passenger vehicle manufacturer, has started exports of its premium made-in-India Victoris SUV.
Launched in September 2025, the Victoris SUV is available in multiple powertrain options, including petrol with strong hybrid, Allgrip Select (4x4) and factory-fitted S-CNG with an underbody tank design. 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.
To begin with, the company has earmarked over 450 vehicles to ship from Mundra and Pipavav ports for global markets.
Hisashi Takeuchi, Managing Director & CEO, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “Maruti Suzuki’s export journey is guided by the vision of Make in India, Make for the World. In calendar year 2025, with exports of over 3.9 lakh vehicles, we emerged as India’s number one passenger vehicle exporter for the fifth year in a row. The year also marked our re-entry into Europe with the start of exports of our first battery electric vehicle, e Vitara.”
He added, “If we look at growth of India’s passenger vehicle exports in the past five years from CY2020 to CY2025, while the rest of industry grew by 1.43 times, Maruti Suzuki exports grew by 4.67 times. The addition of Victoris will further support our export ambitions, and we are hopeful it will be well received in international markets.”
Kia India Expands Syros Range With New HTK(EX) Trim At Prices Starting INR 989,000
- By MT Bureau
- January 16, 2026
Kia India has expanded its Syros SUV range with the addition of the HTK (EX) variant at prices starting INR 989,000 (ex-showroom) for the petrol version, while the diesel model can be had for INR 1.06 million. With this the Kia Syros now has seven variants.
The HTK(EX) is based on the HTK(O) trim and includes LED daytime running lights, headlamps and tail-lamps. It features R16 alloy wheels and an electric sunroof. Technology updates include a 12.3-inch touchscreen infotainment system, electrically adjustable and foldable outside rearview mirrors and a rear parking camera with sensors.
The Syros is built on the K1 platform and holds a 5-star BNCAP safety rating. The HTK(EX) trim includes a safety suite consisting of six airbags, Electronic Stability Control (ESC), Vehicle Stability Management (VSM) and Hill Start Assist. The SUV also features ABS with EBD as part of its standard safety package, which contains over 20 functions.
Atul Sood, Sr. VP and National Head, Sales and Marketing, Kia India, said, “At Kia, customer insights guide every product decision we make. The introduction of the HTK(EX) trim for Syros reflects our constant focus on responding to customer feedback and delivering meaningful value. By expanding the lineup at an attractive price point, we aim to make our SUV more accessible while continuing to offer the features and quality that customers expect from Kia.”
Kia India Introduces New HTE(EX) Trim For Carens Clavis At INR 1.25 Million
- By MT Bureau
- January 15, 2026
Kia India, one of the leading passenger vehicle manufacturers, has announced the addition of the HTE(EX) trim to its Carens Clavis (ICE) range at prices starting INR 1.25 million for the G1.5 petrol, INR 1.34 million for the G1.5 turbo-petrol and INR 1.45 million for the D1.5 diesel model (all ex-showroom). This introduction aims to provide features across various powertrains while maintaining affordability.
The variant is available exclusively in a 7-seater configuration across all internal combustion engine options. Notably, the HTE(EX) trim introduces a sunroof to the G1.5 petrol powertrain of the Carens Clavis for the first time.
Positioned above the HTE(O) trim, the HTE(EX) includes several comfort and convenience updates. These features comprise a skylight electric sunroof, fully automatic temperature control (FATC) and LED daytime running lights (DRLs) with position lamps. Interior updates include LED cabin lamps and an auto up/down function for the driver-side power window. These additions are intended to increase the accessibility of such features to a broader customer base.
Atul Sood, Senior Vice-President – Marketing & Sales, Kia India, said, “The introduction of the HTE (EX) trim for Carens Clavis (ICE) range is a direct outcome of listening closely to our customers and understanding what they value most. By incorporating comfort and convenience features that they have actively want, including the first-ever skylight sunroof in the G1.5 powertrain of Carens Clavis – and offering them across all powertrains, we are making our Carens Clavis lineup an even more compelling choice for families. This move underlines our strong customer-centric approach and our commitment to strengthening Kia’s presence in the highly competitive Indian automotive market.”

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