New Delhi – Mercedes-Benz has achieved a remarkable milestone in the Indian market, registering its highest-ever sales in a calendar year. In a significant accomplishment, the brand maintained its position as India’s most desirable luxury carmaker for the ninth consecutive year, delivering 17,408 new cars in 2023, a 10% increase from the previous year. This achievement marks 2023 as the ‘Best Year Ever’ for Mercedes-Benz in India, also witnessing the highest H2 and Q4 sales in the company’s history in the country.
The success story of Mercedes-Benz in India is further highlighted by the introduction of the New GLS, an embodiment of luxury and power. The New GLS 4Matic, with its G-Wagon-inspired front grill and Mercedes-Maybach inspired luxury features, has strengthened the brand’s formidable SUV portfolio. It’s part of Mercedes-Benz India’s intense product offensive, which includes a plan to launch over 12 new vehicles in 2024, focusing on Top-End Vehicles (TEVs) and 3 New Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs).
• GLS 450 4Matic: INR 1.32 crores
• GLSLS 450d 4Matic: INR 1.37 crores
Mercedes-Benz India’s commitment to the Indian market is evident in its planned investment of €22 million (approximately Rs. 200 crores) in 2024. This investment, aimed at manufacturing operations, new product startups, and digitization of manufacturing processes, will bring the company’s cumulative investment in India to an impressive INR 3000 crores in its 30th year of operations. This move underlines the company’s dedication to driving sustainability and redefining the future of mobility in the digital age.
Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, emphasized the brand’s focus on superior products, the introduction of Top-End Vehicles, elevated customer experiences, and customized solutions tailored for the Indian market. “Our best year ever in terms of sales and a drastic improvement in customer satisfaction parameters stem from an immense desire for the Mercedes-Benz brand,” Iyer noted.
In 2024, Mercedes-Benz India plans to expand its network by inaugurating 20 workshops and entering 10 new cities. The brand aims to ensure that every customer is within a two-hour drive from a service facility. Additionally, 25 facilities will be transformed to international MAR 20X standards to enhance customer experience.
The New GLS, inspired by the luxurious Mercedes-Maybach, features powerful engines in both diesel and petrol variants, paired with 48V mild hybrid technology. The interiors boast new angular air vents, a glossy piano black lacquer with silver flowing lines, and a Burmester and Dolby Atmos sound system, providing an unparalleled driving experience.
Mercedes-Benz India’s strategic roadmap for 2024, named ‘Desire to Exceed,’ aims to exceed customer expectations through various initiatives, including the intense product offensive, investments in manufacturing, expansion of retail footprint, the Bertha Benz Scholarship, the Green School Transformation project, and a focus on building a diverse workforce.
The company’s commitment to sustainability continues with the launch of new BEVs and the development of charging infrastructure for customers. The Mercedes-Benz GLS 4MATIC Facelift brings grand design and first-class luxury, featuring a digital cockpit, three rows of luxury seating, and advanced drive technologies.
Mercedes-Benz India’s achievements and future plans reflect its commitment to excellence, customer satisfaction, and sustainable mobility, reinforcing its position as a leader in the luxury automotive segment in India.
Key Technical Data
Mercedes-Benz GLS 4Matic Facelift | ||
GLS 450 (Petrol) | GLS 450d (Diesel) | |
Engine | Petrol 6 Cylinder | Diesel 6 Cylinder |
Transmission | 9G-TRONIC automatic | 9G-TRONIC automatic |
Engine Size (cc) | 2,999 | 2,989 |
Power (kW) | 280 (+15*) | 270 (+15*) |
Torque | 500 (+200) | 750 (+200) |
Top Speed (kmph) | 250 | 250 |
0-100 | 6.1 | 6.1 |
*ISG Values