In addition to global debuts of upcoming mass-market model updates, we witnessed launches in premium segments from both Mercedes-Benz and Lotus
The busy festive period of 2023 has come to a close and it packed more automotive action than some had expected, with new cars, some special editions and facelifts. The list includes 3 global unveilings and the special editions of Volkswagen and Skoda cars, while Lotus debuted in India with an electric SUV. Here’s a brief rundown of all the models that debuted or were unveiled in the month of November
Special Editions Of Volkswagen Taigun and Virtus
Both the Volkswagen Taigun and Volkswagen Virtus got special editions in November 2023. The Taigun SUV received 2 new editions –Trail and Sound – while the Virtus only got the Sound edition. The Trail edition is an off-road focused version of the Taigun which only gets cosmetic changes like body decals, blacked-out front grille, all black interior and a roof rack as well This special edition of the SUV is similarly priced as the Taigun GT manual variant.
On the other hand, the Sound editions of Taigun and Virtus are music-specific special editions offered only with the top-spec 1-litre turbo-petrol variants. These come equipped with a subwoofer and special body decals on the C-pillar. The prices for the Sound editions of these models start from Rs 15.52 lakh (ex-showroom pan India).
Skoda Kushaq & Slavia Elegance Editions
Skoda has introduced yet another edition of the Kushaq and Slavia, namely the ‘Elegance’ edition. This special edition of both models features a distinctive Deep Black exterior shade along with some exterior and interior add-ons, for a premium of around Rs 20,000. The Elegance edition is only based on the top-spec ‘Style’ variants of both cars, limited to their 1.5-litre turbo-petrol engine.
Also Check Out: Skoda Kushaq Elegance Edition Arrives At Dealerships
New-gen Maruti Swift Debuted
Suzuki took the wraps off the new-generation Swift in Japan, following the concept preview at the Japan Mobility Show. The new Suzuki Swift not only gets a refreshed design and new cabin, but it also gets an updated 1.2-litre 3 cylinder petrol engine. After its global debut, the test mule of the new-gen Swift was also seen doing rounds on India roads and it is expected to launch here in the first half of 2024.
Third-generation Renault Duster Unveiled
The third-generation Renault Duster has made its global debut under its European guise as the Dacia Duster. The new Duster is based on the carmaker’s new CMF-B platform, drawing design inspiration from the Dacia Bigster concept. The European-spec Duster offers a range of new powertrain options, including mild-hybrid, strong-hybrid, and LPG.
We have also compared the new Duster with the old India-spec Renault Duster which was last sold here.
New-gen Skoda Superb Debuted Globally
The fourth-generation Skoda Superb had made its global debut with an updated design, all-new cabin and a variety of new powertrain options, including petrol, diesel and hybrids. Though the sedan has debuted in both estate and sedan versions, India will only get the sedan version of the Skoda Superb. Skoda could launch the new-generation Superb in India in June 2024. It is expected to be priced from Rs 36 lakh (ex-showroom).
Also Check Out: 5 door Mahindra Thar Spied Again, Looks Ready To Enter Production
Hyundai Tucson Facelift Global Unveil
The Hyundai Tucson has also undergone a midlife update and was recently unveiled globally. The changes encompass a tweaked exterior design and an updated cabin. Hyundai has yet to confirm the availability of powertrain options for the facelifted Tucson SUV. The Tucson facelift is set to debut in European markets first, with its launch in India expected in the second half of 2024 or early 2025.
Mercedes-AMG C43 Launched
The new Mercedes-AMG C43 has been launched in India, this time in a more practical 4-door sedan avatar. The new AMG C43 sedan boasts a downsized turbo-petrol engine, but it’s more powerful than before thanks to turbocharging technology derived from Formula 1. It is priced at Rs 98 lakh (ex-showroom) pan India.
Mercedes-Benz GLE Facelift Launched
The Mercedes Benz GLE facelift has also arrived on Indian shores this month after making its global debut in February 2023. The changes on the GLE facelift are subtle, and it features updated powertrain options. The prices for the GLE facelift ranges from Rs 96.40 lakh to Rs 1.15 crore (ex-showroom pan India).
Also Check Out: M S Dhoni’s Garage Gets Another Touch Of Exclusivity With The Mercedes-AMG G 63 SUV
Lotus Eletre SUV Launched
The British carmaker Lotus, has debuted in the India market with its premium electric performance SUV, the Eletre. It boasts a highly aggressive stance and sporty interiors. The Eletre SUV is priced between Rs 2.55 crore and Rs 2.99 crore. Lotus has inaugurated its first dealership in India in New Delhi.
Volvo EM90 Electric MPV Global Debut
Volvo entered the luxury MPV space with its all-new electric MPV, the EM90. The EM90 boasts a 116 kWh battery pack which can deliver a CLTC (China Light duty vehicle Test Cycle) range of 738 km. The EM90 electric MPV will be launched in China first, followed by the other global markets.
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