In an aggressive move to capture the luxury SUV market, Mercedes-Benz has launched the new ‘Grand Edition' GL-Class series with more features, but with a lower starting price (Rs 60.99 lakh). The Grand Edition is cheaper by Rs 6 lakh than the outgoing model (Rs 67 lakh).

“We've managed lower pricing because of increased scale of production for the same variant. The packaging is the same as global models we sell, so we've increased the value proposition for customers by putting much more features than the one we are replacing,” Mr Debashis Mitra, Director, Sales & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz India said.

He added that a similar strategy has also been followed for the smaller M-Class SUV Grand Edition launched recently.

A higher trim version of its GL-Class large SUV range, the Grand Edition is available in two variants – Executive and Luxury. The four-wheel drive off-roader features 20-inch light alloy wheels, two-tone leather seats and new metallic paint finishes. The engine is a three litre diesel V6 putting out 224 HP.

The front-end design is also new — dark-tinted headlamps and a redesigned front bumper with integrated LED daytime running lamps. The SUV also has an electronically foldable third row seating, apart from a parking assistance system with a reversing camera.

roudra.b@thehindu.co.in

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