Mercedes-Benz India To Introduce C 300 Petrol Variant: Navigating Changing Market Dynamics

Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up to introduce a significant change to the C-Class sedan lineup, with plans to replace the existing range-topping C 300d variant with a new C 300 petrol variant in the second quarter of 2024. This strategic move is driven by evolving market dynamics and a noticeable shift in consumer preferences from diesel to petrol in the luxury sedan segment.

The decision to phase out the C 300d variant reflects the changing landscape of the automotive industry, particularly in urban centers like Delhi-NCR, where the demand for diesel-powered vehicles has been dwindling. Santosh Iyer, CEO and managing director of Mercedes-Benz India, attributes this shift to a combination of factors, citing an increased preference for petrol engines among customers, driven partly by concerns rather than purely rational motives.

In the sedan segment, petrol-powered vehicles dominate, constituting nearly 70 percent of sales, whereas diesel remains more popular in the SUV segment, comprising approximately 60 percent of total sales. This trend underscores the importance of aligning product offerings with evolving consumer preferences to remain competitive in the market.

The upcoming C 300 petrol variant is poised to become the new flagship model in the C-Class lineup, joining the existing C 200 petrol variant. It will be equipped with a potent 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbocharged petrol engine featuring mild-hybrid technology, paired with a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic gearbox. This powertrain configuration is expected to deliver a spirited performance, with an output of 258hp (enhanced by an additional 23hp from the mild-hybrid system) and 400Nm of torque. Mercedes-Benz claims the C 300 will accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 6 seconds.

In addition to the powertrain upgrade, the new C 300 will address a longstanding concern regarding ground clearance by introducing a raised suspension system. This enhancement aims to improve the overall ride comfort and drivability of the C-Class sedan, ensuring a smoother and more refined driving experience on various road conditions. Moreover, the C 300 is anticipated to be offered in a single, fully loaded AMG Line trim, mirroring the configuration of its predecessor, the C 300d.

Given the premium positioning and advanced features expected in the new C 300 petrol variant, pricing is projected to be in the range of approximately Rs 62 lakh, aligning closely with the outgoing C 300d variant. This pricing strategy reflects Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to offering exceptional value and uncompromising quality in its luxury sedan lineup.

The introduction of the Mercedes-Benz C 300 petrol variant underscores the brand’s agility in responding to evolving market trends and customer preferences. By offering a compelling blend of performance, technology, and luxury, the C 300 aims to set new standards of excellence in the luxury sedan segment, reaffirming Mercedes-Benz’s position as a leader in the automotive industry.