It is a bit of a cliché by now that the luxury-car industry is recession-proof. But, history and independent research has proved again and again that this does tend to be the case. Apparently, buyers in this segment aren't affected much by a general economic slowdown.

That should be reason for optimism among many of the luxury-car brands based out of Europe. Quite contrary to the air of recession swirling in the winds among euro-zone countries, companies like Ferrari and Lamborghini are actually faced with a situation where their models like the Ferrari 458 Spider and the Lamborghini Aventador are almost sold out for the next 12 to 18 months.

With the Indian automobile market registering a negative growth rate during the second half of 2011, there is certainly the air of a slowdown, at least for now. The industry has been pointing at high interest rates and rising fuel prices as the reasons for the drop in demand. But, are these reasons affecting the luxury-car buyer too?

If one were to look at the line-up of luxury cars that are likely to be launched or unveiled at the Auto Expo here, it does look like the segment is not too worried about the slowdown. For example, Mercedes-Benz — the first to enter India from this segment — is launching the SLS AMG Roadster, its most coveted convertible based on the SLS AMG super sportscar, at the show. It will also be displaying its latest, most exciting concept car, the A-Class concept, at the expo.

If there is a change in strategy that can be discerned from among the plans of luxury-car manufacturers which has been influenced by the slowdown, then it would be from the arrival of the smaller, more affordable models.

Audi plans to launch the Q3 compact sports utility vehicle soon. Later this year, Mercedes-Benz is planning to launch the B-class hatch; and BMW, which started the race with the launch of the X1 last year, is now launching the MINI brand in India. All of these models could be priced between Rs 20 lakh and Rs 35 lakh.

The UK-based MINI, an iconic brand owned by BMW, will aim to launch three models, including a convertible, starting from below Rs 20 lakh. BMW will also be launching the new 3-Series later this year.

Some of the other brands that are considering either entering India or are looking to expand their presence here include Ferrari and Maserati who are looking to set up more outlets; Toyota is studying the market for a possible launch of its luxury brand Lexus by next year.

muraliswami@thehindu.co.in

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