Weekly Car News Fix: Mercedes-Benz S-Class CKD, F-Pace SVR, Fortuner Legender 4x4 Launched, Skoda Sedan Gets A Name, And More

The last seven days were action-packed with multiple launches and unveilings. We also have some important launch timelines and announcements for upcoming models. Here’s a low-down:

Launches Galore

Locally Assembled Mercedes-Benz S-Class 

Kicking off the plethora of launches was the Mercedes-Benz S-Class sedan, which is now a locally assembled model. The good part is that it’s pretty similar to its CBU counterpart in terms of design and features. The best part? It is now more affordable by a whopping Rs 60 lakh!

F-Pace SVR Arrives In India

Next up on the list is the spiciest iteration of the Jaguar F-Pace, the SVR, going on sale in India at Rs 1.51 crore (ex-showroom). The highlight of the performance SUV, of course, is its beefy 5-litre supercharged V8 engine delivering 550PS and 700Nm. The F-Pace SVR also gets a more aggressive design, stiffer springs, better brakes, and a more agile steering rack.

ES Gets Midlife Refresh 

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Lexus has joined the party with the facelifted ES hybrid sedan launching in India at Rs 56.65 lakh (ex-showroom). Not only is it a locally assembled model (like the pre-facelift ES) but it also gets subtle updates inside and out at a nominal premium.  

Fortuner Legender Gets AWD

Elsewhere, the Toyota Fortuner Legender has gotten more off-road-capable with the introduction of an all-wheel drivetrain. It continues with its 204PS 2.8-litre diesel engine, paired with a 6-speed automatic. The new flagship Fortuner variant also gets more kit compared to its 4x2 AT version. Of course, all this comes at a sizeable premium of Rs 3.72 lakh. 

Matte Edition Variants For VW Group Cars

Lastly, the Skoda Rapid, Volkswagen Polo, and Vento have had their respective Matte Edition variants launched. As the name suggests, all three get a Matte Grey shade and contrasting black inserts all over the body. This comes at a premium from Rs 30,000 to Rs 76,000, depending on the model.

Debuts

Skoda’s New Sedan Gets A Name

Car launches aside, there were also equally important reveals. For starters, the upcoming Skoda sedan, which will replace the Rapid, will be called Slavia. It’ll be based on the same MQB-A0-IN platform as the Kushaq and will be a larger and more premium alternative to the Rapid.  The new notchback will fully break cover later this year, followed by the launch in 2022.

Tata Punch Details Revealed

Tata Motors has revealed everything you want to know about the upcoming Punch, including its variants, features, and powertrain.

ZS EV Facelift Breaks Cover

In markets abroad, MG Motor has given the ZS EV a midlife refresh comprising a new design and a cabin that is a straight lift from the Astor. The main upgrades are, of course, under the hood, including a larger battery, more range, and a new long-range variant. 

Announcements

XUV700 Off To A Flying Start

Rounding off the week were some key announcements in the country as well as abroad. Mahindra had a lot to celebrate this week, as, within two days of commencing reservations for the XUV700, the SUV registered over 50,000 bookings. Remember that not a single XUV700 unit has been delivered yet; delivery timelines will be announced on October 10. 

MG Astor Gets A Launch Date

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MG Motor India will launch the Astor on October 11.  The SUV will come in five trims, get a personal AI assistant robot, and feature segment-first ADAS. 

No Geneva Motor Show For 2022

Not all things were positive this week as the Geneva Motor Show 2022, scheduled from February 19-27, has been called off yet again. The obvious culprit? The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic situation plus a global semiconductor shortage. This makes it the third year in a row that the annual Swiss motor show has been cancelled.