Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up for a major product offensive in 2026, planning to introduce 12 new models and variants as part of its strategy to sustain leadership in the Indian luxury car market. With a strong focus on premiumisation, electrification, and aspirational range expansion, 2026 promises to be one of the most exciting years yet for Indian Mercedes buyers, spanning everything from cutting-edge electric sedans to iconic off-roaders.
In this blog, we break down the most anticipated Mercedes-Benz India upcoming launches for 2026, what they mean for luxury car buyers, and how the brand is balancing tradition with innovation across its powertrain portfolio.
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Mercedes-Benz CLA EV: A Breakthrough Electric Sedan
One of the headline launches for 2026 in India will be the all-electric CLA sedan. This model is expected to redefine how luxury electric sedans are perceived in the country through its blend of efficiency and tech.
What to Expect
- Range and Battery: A full electric powertrain with a claimed range of up to 792 km (WLTP) thanks to an 85 kWh nickel manganese cobalt (NMC) battery pack.
- Performance: Powered by a rear electric motor producing approximately 272 hp, designed for high energy efficiency and daily usability.
- Platform: Based on the new Mercedes-Benz Modular Architecture (MMA), an EV-first platform that supports the brand’s next-generation digital features.
- Digital Interior: The CLA EV will debut the new MB.OS (Mercedes-Benz Operating System), featuring AI-driven assistance and a high-tech, lounge-like cabin.
- Market Positioning: Targeted as a strategically important entry-point for luxury EVs, with an estimated ex-showroom price starting around 70 lakh.
The CLA EV underscores the brand’s electrification strategy, aiming at buyers who prioritize range, modern aesthetics, and advanced software integration.
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G-Class Cabriolet: Iconic SUV Goes Open-Top
A standout addition to the 2026 lineup is the Mercedes-Benz G-Class Cabriolet. This convertible version of the legendary off-roader is set to return to the Indian market, offering a unique blend of ruggedness and open-air luxury.
Key Highlights
- Design: Features a powered fabric soft-top that retracts to reveal the entire passenger compartment while maintaining the iconic boxy silhouette.
- Configuration: Unlike previous two-door versions, the new model is expected to adopt a more practical four-door layout.
- Powertrain Variety: Expected to offer multiple options, including a 4.0-liter twin-turbo petrol engine and potentially an all-electric variant with a 116 kWh battery.
- Exclusivity: Anticipated to launch in the fourth quarter of 2026, with an estimated price point of 4 crore, catering to elite collectors and enthusiasts.
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Expanded EQ and EV Lineup: Electrification as a Core Pillar
Electric vehicles (EVs) have become a significant part of the Mercedes-Benz India portfolio, contributing roughly 20% of the brand’s top-end vehicle sales. The 2026 roadmap accelerates this transition with several key updates.
EV Highlights to Look Out For
- EQS and EQS SUV Updates: Following the launch of the Celebration Editions in early 2026, refreshed variants of these flagship EVs will continue to lead the top-end electric segment.
- MB.Charge Public: Mercedes is rolling out its global charging ecosystem in India, providing customers with seamless access to over 9,000 fast DC charging points across the country through a single app.
- Mass Market Appeal: The CLA EV will serve as a high-volume driver for the EV segment, bridging the gap between entry-level luxury and the flagship EQS range.
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Premium and Top-End Gas/Diesel Launches
While electrification is a priority, Mercedes-Benz is not moving away from internal combustion engines (ICE). The 2026 strategy emphasizes “Top-End Vehicles” (TEV) to ensure high brand value and desirability.
Strategy and Localization
- Local Production of Maybach GLS: In a historic move, India has become the first market outside the USA to locally produce the Mercedes-Maybach GLS. This reduces the entry price for the flagship SUV to 2.75 crore.
- AMG Performance: The high-performance AMG portfolio, which saw 34% growth in 2025, will be bolstered by new performance-oriented variants throughout the year.
- Focus on Value: The brand is intentionally pivoting away from discount-driven volumes in the entry-level segment to focus on more profitable, high-substance luxury models.
Why 2026 Is Important for Mercedes-Benz India
Strategic Product Offensive The 2026 launch calendar includes 12 new products, ensuring that the brand has one of the freshest lineups in the luxury segment. This refresh is designed to counter rising competition and maintain the brand’s 36% market share.
Market Conditions and Pricing Due to currency volatility and a strong Euro, Mercedes-Benz has implemented a 2% price hike effective January 2026. The brand has also hinted at quarterly price assessments to manage exchange rate pressures.
EV Adoption Trends Luxury EV adoption in India is being driven from the top down. With 70% of the brand’s EV sales coming from models priced above 1.25 crore, the upcoming 2026 models are designed to meet this demand for high-end sustainable luxury.
What Buyers Should Know
- Focus on Residual Value: By avoiding aggressive discounting, Mercedes aims to protect the resale value of its vehicles, a key factor for luxury buyers.
- Infrastructure Growth: The launch of MB.Charge Public significantly reduces “range anxiety” by integrating public charging and payments into the Mercedes me ecosystem.
- Customization: With the expansion of top-end models, buyers can expect more “Manufaktur” personalization options for vehicles like the Maybach and G-Class.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the range of the upcoming Mercedes CLA EV? The CLA EV is expected to offer a WLTP-certified range of up to 792 km, making it one of the longest-range electric sedans in India.
- Will there be a price increase in 2026? Yes, Mercedes-Benz India has announced a price hike of up to 2% effective from January 1, 2026, due to rising input costs and currency fluctuations.
- Which is the most expensive Mercedes model launching in 2026? The G-Class Cabriolet is expected to be among the most exclusive and expensive launches, with an estimated price of 4 crore.
- Is Mercedes still focusing on diesel engines? Yes, diesel remains a strong preference in the Indian luxury market, accounting for 43% of the brand’s sales. Most core SUV models will continue to offer diesel options.
A Transformative 2026 for Mercedes-Benz India
With 12 new launches, a major push into high-range electrification, and a clear pivot toward top-end luxury, Mercedes-Benz is set for a landmark year in 2026. By balancing the local production of icons like the Maybach GLS with the debut of future-ready tech in the CLA EV, the brand continues to define the standard for luxury mobility in India.
Stay tuned to Motozite for the latest updates, in-depth reviews, and expert analysis as these 2026 models arrive in showrooms. Whether you are looking for the efficiency of a next-gen EV or the raw presence of a G-Wagen, we provide the insights you need to make an informed luxury purchase.
