Merc launches SUV GL Class at₹77.5 lakh

Ahead of the launch of its compact car later this month, German luxury car maker Mercedes Benz on Thursday launched its premium sports utility vehicle GL-Class priced at ₹77.5 lakh (ex-showroom Delhi).

The GL-Class is one among the slew of products, including the upcoming hatchback A-class, that the company plans to launch in India.

"We are ambitious. The Mercedes brand has a lot of potential in India and 2013 is the year of offensive for us," said Eberhard Kern, managing director and CEO, Mercedes Benz India.

The initial 100 units of the launch edition of GL-Class will be imported and from September onwards the company will start assembling the vehicle at its plant at Chakan, near Pune.

Having lost its numero uno position in the Indian luxury car market to BMW in 2009, it was relegated to the number 3 position when Audi overtook as well last year. The firm, however, said its new cars would strengthen its merket position.

"We are not in the numbers game," said Kern. "We are for profitable sustainability but with more products such as the A-Class coming in, we should be able to strengthen our position in India."

The new SUV is powered by a 2,987 cc, V6 diesel engine and will take of Audi's top-end SUV Q7.

Get insights into Upcoming Cars In India, Electric Vehicles, Upcoming Bikes in India and cutting-edge technology transforming the automotive landscape.