Mercedes launches most powerful SUV in India – GL 63 AMG

In Mercedes-Benz’s ‘Year of Excellence’, the luxury carmaker looks to launch no less than 10 new offerings in India. The fourth of the 10 models is the GL 63 AMG, which it launched today at a sticker price of Rs 1.66 crore (ex-showroom, Mumbai). The SUV will be brought in to India as a fully imported model. 

The seven-seat SUV, which weighs a hefty 2.5 tonnes, is the most powerful SUV in India. It is powered by a 5.5-litre bi-turbo V8 engine that develops around 550bhp and comes with a seven-speed 7G-Tronic automatic gearbox. The carmaker claims the vehicle goes from 0-100kph in 4.9 seconds and has a limited top speed of 250kph. Suspension is via an ‘AMG ride control’ package of adaptive, self-levelling air suspension and active anti roll-bars.

Speaking at the launch in Mumbai today, Eberhard Kern, MD and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India, said, “The GL 63 AMG packs the perfect blend of style, luxury, sportiness and performance driving which are associated with the Mercedes-Benz and AMG brands. It is one of the most revolutionary products to come from Mercedes-Benz demonstrating the rich blend of sophistication with the latest design and technology. This is the perfect car for our customers and enthusiasts, who are passionate about performance driving.”

Kern said the company plans to continue the new model offensive. The GLA compact SUV, which is expected later this one, is the one to watch out for.

In January-March 2014, Mercedes-Benz India sold 2,554 units, a growth of 27 percent over the January-March 2013 period when it sold 2,009 units. Commenting on the Q1 2014 sales performance, Eberhard Kern said: “Our success and robust growth of 27 percent in the first quarter of 2014 amidst challenging market dynamics is a clear indicator that our customers have appreciated our ‘Year of Excellence’ strategy. Mercedes-Benz India witnessed a surging demand for the new S-class, ML-class and GL-class, all of which are currently waitlisted, even after producing them locally. Additionally, our new-generation cars portfolio comprising the A-class and B-class continues to witness significant demand. Our volume drivers continue to be the C-class and the new E-class.”