Mercedes-Benz is all set to launch locally assembled S-Class luxury sedan in India on October 7. The flagship product from the German auto giant is likely to cost much less than what the existing models cost due to local assembly.
The locally assembled Mercedes-Benz S-Class is expected to continue with the same engine options as the CBU version. This means the S 450 3.0-litre inline six-cylinder petrol engine with 367 hp and 500 Nm as well as the S 400d with a 3.0-litre inline-six diesel making 330 hp and 700 Nm. The nine-speed automatic pairs with both.
It is unclear if Mercedes-Benz will continue to offer AWD or the rear-wheel steering system in the locally made version, some deletions in chassis technology and features might be seen to keep prices in check. The Air suspension should be available on the higher trim levels as well as the AMG Line package with its sharper styling and handling package.
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The rear axle steering in India will remain limited at 4.5-degrees, and not the full 10-degree steering angle.
According to sources the locally assembled S-Class will be priced at around the Rs 1.75 crore mark (ex-showroom). This means it will be around Rs 42 lakh cheaper than the fully imported S 400d currently on sale.
This isn’t the first time Mercedes has followed this approach, as the previous-gen W222 S 500 variant was also initially launched as a CBU and was later replaced by a locally assembled model that dropped its price by Rs 21 lakh.
(For more updates stay tuned with DNP India)
