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."

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In a move designed to enhance organisational agility, Renault Group has appointed Josep Maria Recasens to the newly consolidated role of Chief Strategy, Product & Program Management Officer with immediate effect. This promotion is a key part of the company's broader initiative to streamline its structure and accelerate decision-making. Recasens will now report directly to CEO François Provost and will join the Group’s Leadership Team, positioning him to shape the company's future direction.

His expanded responsibilities will encompass defining Renault’s overarching strategy, guiding critical product choices for the coming years and coordinating the implementation of future vehicle lineups to ensure their market success. While assuming these central corporate duties, Recasens will maintain his current position as CEO for the Iberian Peninsula countries. He will also continue as the CEO of Ampere, Renault's electric vehicle and software entity, until its ongoing transformation is fully complete.

Recasens brings a wealth of automotive industry expertise to this role. An engineer with an MBA, his career began at SEAT S.A. in 2002, where he progressed through roles in research and development, product planning, and international project management, eventually rising to Director of Strategy. He joined Renault in June 2021 as Director of Strategy and Business Development, playing a central role in the Renaulution plan and partnership deployments. His trajectory at Renault has been rapid, including his appointment as Chief Strategy Officer in 2023 and his leadership of Ampere, where he has been instrumental in steering its evolution into an electric and software-focused enterprise.

Provost said, “Since my arrival, I have focused on implementing a simpler, more effective and faster organisation to adapt to the current challenges. Bringing together the strategy, which sets the course, and the Product and Planning, which guides product choices and program directions, is an essential lever for greater coherence and agility. Josep Maria will be in charge of this scope and will take over from Guido Haak, whom I warmly thank for his dedication and years with us. Ampere's ambition remains at the heart of our strategy to provide our customers with innovative electrical and software technologies that are accessible to all.”

Recasens said, "I am very happy to take on this new challenge and grateful for the trust the Group has placed in me. My first priority will be to extend to the entire company a few principles that have made Ampere successful: a strong focus on the product, disciplined programme management and a holistic view of investments. With the support of the Leadership Team, we will adapt, accelerate and deploy these fundamentals to consolidate and amplify the renewed product momentum, and embed this dynamic in a sustainable way at the heart of the Renault Group's strategy.”

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JSW MG Motor India has announced an association with pickleball player Monica Menon under its Women of MG initiative. The collaboration aims to support women achievers and emerging sports, which the brand states align with the values of agility, adaptability, and the pursuit of excellence.

The partnership draws a parallel between pickleball – described as reflecting the pace of modern life – and the MG Comet EV, the company’s urban electric vehicle. Monica Menon’s career includes transitioning from an AITA National Tennis Champion and 2010 Asian Games athlete to a pickleball player with more than 100 career podium finishes.

Udit Malhotra, Head of Marketing, JSW MG Motor India, said, “Pickleball captures the pulse of modern India, agile, intelligent, and always moving forward. Monica’s journey reflects that same rhythm of purpose and precision. The MG Comet EV, too, reimagines urban mobility with intent, compact yet expressive, simple yet smart. Through Women of MG, we celebrate women who lead with conviction and redefine their paths with style and substance.”

Monica Menon, added, “I’m thrilled to collaborate with JSW MG Motor India, a brand that champions women and supports new-age sports like pickleball. This partnership brings together two worlds that value precision, purpose, and thoughtful performance, sports and mobility. The MG Comet EV, with its compact yet spacious design and intelligent technology, makes every journey effortless, turning everyday travel into an experience of comfort and confidence. JSW MG Motor India’s commitment to supporting women and fresh ideas makes this collaboration truly meaningful.”

The partnership marks another step in the Women of MG programme, which has previously collaborated with figures such as professional golfer Tvesa Malik, Khel Ratna and Arjuna Awardee Deepa Malik and Paralympic silver medallist Bhavina Patel.

Beyond sports, JSW MG Motor India supports various community initiatives, including Sewa and Womentorship, Drive Her Back, Worth Waiting For, Prerna and MG Changemakers, to empower communities and amplify women’s potential.

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Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance (MSSF), the carmaker’s digital car financing platform, has surpassed the milestone of 2.5 million car loan disbursals since its inception in FY2020-21.

The platform aims to revolutionise the car financing customer journey with a seamless, transparent and fully digital experience. The total amount disbursed has exceeded INR 1,700 billion.

MSSF provides an end-to-end digital journey for customers, offering facilities such as loan application, online sanction and disbursal with real-time progress tracking. Customers can compare and choose from multiple financiers, with options for Credit Score-Based Interest Rates and pre-approved offers for salaried and self-employed individuals.

The platform has achieved significant uptake with over 40 percent of Maruti Suzuki customers have utilised MSSF across both the ARENA and NEXA networks.

Partho Banerjee, Senior Executive Officer, Marketing and Sales, Maruti Suzuki India, said, “Today, most car buyers start their journey online, exploring models and financing options before visiting a dealership. Recognising the magnitude of this shift early on, Maruti Suzuki pioneered a multi-financier, end-to-end digital car financing solution with Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance. Over the past five years, this platform has transformed the car-buying experience. Over 40 percent of our customers availed loans through Maruti Suzuki Smart Finance across ARENA and NEXA. MSSF’s ‘anytime-anywhere’ convenience has provided Joy of Mobility to over 2.5 million customers, amounting to more than INR 1,700 billion, reflecting our commitment to innovation and customer delight.”

He added: “This success is powered by the unwavering support of our finance partners, enabling seamless financing nationwide. Together, we continue to redefine automotive retail through customer-centric digital solutions.”

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Tata Motors Passenger Vehicles, one of the leading car manufacturers in the country, has unveiled the new Tata Sierra, which it said has been designed to honour its predecessor while redefining what a modern Indian SUV can be.

The SUV is a re-interpretation of the original's soul, bridging heritage and the future. It stands as a halo product, set to lead the next chapter of the company’s design. Clean surfaces replace ornamentation, while the proportions, long wheelbase, upright stance and powerful shoulders emphasise its stance.

The Sierra’s exterior design reinterprets the silhouette of the original. The three-quarter glasshouse has been reimagined using a panoramic roof, flush glazing and a black-painted roof finisher. This maintains the airy character of the original while meeting safety and aerodynamic standards. The long wheelbase, roofline and width deliver better aerodynamics and visual balance.

At the front, the Sierra features the Light Saber, a full-width LED DRL that forms a single curve across the fascia. This lighting signature is mirrored in the rear light bar. Complementing it are R19 alloy wheels, flush door handles and gloss black cladding. The Clamshell tailgate, wide rear haunches and floating-roof effect give it road presence.

Inside, the Sierra features a ‘Living Room Philosophy,’ aiming to create a lounge space on wheels. The TheatrePro multi-screen setup features a Horizon View screen layout, offering digital experiences for both driver and passenger. This integrates with the SonicShaft Soundbar with a JBL Black 12-speaker system, which, combined with Dolby Atmos, transforms the cabin into an acoustic experience. The PanoraMax (sunroof plus surround view glasshouse) recreates the openness of the original Sierra’s glass canopy. The cabin architecture is horizontal, accentuating width and openness.

Interestingly, even before its launch, the Sierra SUV design has been recognised globally by winning the Red Dot Design Award. The jury in 2025 consisted of 15 experts from 13 countries.

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