Mercedes-Benz India today showcased a total of 12 models at its pavilion at the Auto Expo. The German luxury carmaker unveiled the GLC SUV, the S-Class Cabriolet and the crafted fortress on wheels, the Mercedes-Maybach S 600 Guard. Both the global products which do not have a predecessor in India, were unveiled by Roland Folger, managing director and CEO, Mercedes-Benz India.

Speaking at the unveiling, Folger said, “The Auto Expo today has evolved into a global motor show and represents the prowess of the burgeoning Indian auto industry. We chose this platform to showcase the best products from our global portfolio for our discerning Indian customers, partners and brand enthusiasts. We kick-started 2016 with the spirit of ‘Winning’ and our products showcased indeed promise an exhilarating year ahead. We are confident that 2016 will be packed with some of the most stunning product introductions, novel brand showcases and other initiatives which will redefine the way customers experience luxury in the Indian automotive segment.”

“The GLC and the S-Class Cabriolet are two of the most successful global products without a predecessor in India and we will be introducing them this year. With these introductions we will strengthen two segments which witnessed the highest growth last year: the SUV and the Dream Cars. While the GLC’s launch will boost our SUV offering even further, the S-Class Cabriolet’s addition will bring in a new dimension to the top-end luxury cabriolets in India.”

Slotted between the GLA and GLE, SUV equivalents of the A-class and E-class, the GLC is a rival to the BMW X3 and the Audi Q5, a segment in which Mercedes was absent so far here in India. The SUV is likely to be powered by a 2.1-litre diesel engine, which will come in two states of tune – 168bhp and 201bhp. Both engines are mated to a nine-speed automatic transmission. The SUV combines the luxurious interiors of the C-class with the tall seating and space of an SUV. Not only is the GLC taller than the sedan, but it also features a longer wheelbase. However, the GLC is more a soft-roader than an out-and-out off-roader.