Mercedes-Benz has officially made one of India’s most opulent SUVs significantly more accessible. By commencing local production of the Mercedes Maybach GLS in India, the brand has announced a major price reduction that marks a substantial shift in the ultra-luxury segment. This move underscores India’s growing strategic importance as a premium automotive hub for global brands.
Major Price Cut for Mercedes Maybach GLS in India
In a landmark development for the Indian luxury car market, the Mercedes Maybach GLS is now priced at 2.75 crore (ex-showroom). This represents a significant reduction of 42 lakh compared to the earlier fully imported version, which was retailed at approximately 3.17 crore.
- The price reduction is a direct result of moving from CBU (Completely Built Unit) status to local assembly.
- Production is now handled at the Mercedes-Benz manufacturing plant in Chakan, Pune.
- This transition allows the company to optimize costs through lower taxation and manufacturing efficiencies without compromising on the vehicle’s elite specifications.
- Mercedes-Benz also introduced a limited Maybach GLS Celebration Edition, priced at 4.10 crore, to commemorate this production milestone.
India Becomes One of the Few Markets to Produce Maybach
India is now the first market outside the United States to locally assemble the Mercedes Maybach GLS. This development highlights the rising demand for top-end luxury vehicles in the country and reflects the confidence global automakers have in Indian manufacturing capabilities.
Santosh Iyer, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, noted that the localization strategy is a response to strong customer demand. By assembling the vehicle locally, the company can maintain global quality standards while offering a more competitive price point to Indian buyers.
What You Get With the Made-in-India Maybach GLS
Despite the price correction, the Mercedes Maybach GLS retains all the hallmark features that define its ultra-luxury status. The SUV continues to be a powerhouse of performance and a sanctuary of comfort.
Powertrain and Performance
- It is powered by a 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 petrol engine with a 48V mild-hybrid system.
- The engine produces 557 hp and 730 Nm of torque, with an additional 22 hp boost from the integrated starter generator.
- It features a 9-speed automatic transmission and the 4MATIC all-wheel-drive system.
- The SUV can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 4.9 seconds, with a top speed limited to 250 km/h.
Opulent Interior and Rear-Seat Comfort
- The cabin features a first-class rear layout with individual executive seats offering massage, heating, and ventilation.
- A 9.6-liter refrigerated compartment is integrated into the rear armrest, complete with bespoke champagne flute holders.
- High-tech entertainment is provided via twin 11.6-inch MBUX rear tablets and a 29-speaker Burmester 3D surround sound system with Dolby Atmos.
- Interior finishes include premium Nappa leather and Manufaktur wood trim options.
Technology and Ride Engineering
- The E-Active Body Control suspension system uses a fully active setup to adjust ride dynamics for maximum comfort.
- Advanced safety features include the Guard 360 vehicle protection suite and Level 2 ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems).
- The MBUX infotainment system provides seamless connectivity and a transparent bonnet function for easier navigation.
What This Price Drop Means for Indian Luxury Buyers
This reduction places the Maybach GLS in a much stronger position against other ultra-luxury SUVs. By dropping below the 3 crore mark, the vehicle becomes an attractive option for a broader group of affluent buyers who previously considered CBU imports too high-priced due to import duties.
Beyond the cost savings, local production significantly reduces delivery wait times. Buyers no longer have to wait several months for a fully imported unit, making the Maybach GLS a more practical purchase for those seeking immediate luxury.
India’s Strategic Role in the Mercedes Maybach Global Plan
This move positions India among the top five global markets for the Mercedes Maybach brand. It signals a shift where India is no longer just a destination for imports but a key player in the production of the world’s most exclusive vehicles.
By focusing on localization, Mercedes-Benz India is prioritizing long-term brand integrity and customer experience. This strategy ensures that the brand remains the most desirable luxury name in the country while improving the overall value proposition for its elite clientele.
A New Era for Ultra-Luxury in India
The price cut for the Mercedes Maybach GLS is a milestone for the Indian automotive landscape. It demonstrates that local production can make iconic luxury vehicles more attainable without diluting their exclusivity or performance. For buyers exploring the ultra-luxury SUV segment in 2026, the Made-in-India Maybach GLS offers a perfect blend of presence, prestige, and improved value.
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