Delhi Auto Expo

Mercedes launches Rs 60-lakh SUV, Rs 3 cr open top car

Premium car maker Mercedes-Benz today launched a luxury SUV, M-Class, which is priced at Rs 58-60 lakh, and an open top vehicle, SLS AMG Roadster, that comes for about Rs 3 crore.

The German auto major also showcased the future design cues through Concept A-Class and fuel cell technologies. The concept car is likely to be introduced next year.

Mercedes-Benz India said that continuing in true M-Class tradition, the third generation of this vehicle sets new benchmarks in SUV design, technology and performance.

With a top speed of 224 km per hour, the company said it is a "true off-roader" and comes with nine air bags to ensure safety of its passengers in case of an accident.

The M-Class (M 350 CDI) vehicle has been built with the ECO start-stop function, which reduces fuel consumption and emissions by automatically switching off the engine during traffic jams or traffic signals.

The open top SLS AMG, with an eight cylinder V8 engine, can go from 0-100 km per hour in under four seconds and has a top speed of 317 km per hour.

"The SLS AMG Roadster has all the trimmings of a formidable sports car," the company said. The car is available in the market.

Bollywood actor, director and producer Farhan Akhtar became the first customer of M-Class and keys of the SUV was handed over to him after the launch.

Talking to reporters, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India Peter Honegg said the company expects a double-digit growth in the luxury car segment in India.

"Our plans are to sell more than what we sold in 2011 and to satisfy the customers even more," he said adding the sales are likely to pick up in the second half of 2012 but lot depend on the what steps government announces.

In 2011, the company had sold 7,430 units, up 27.69 per cent from 5,819 units in the previous year.

The company has showcased the largest display at the expo with 18 cars ranging from S-600 pullman to DTM racing cars and live Stardrive demonstration.

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