The latest generation Mercedes-Benz S-class was launched in India earlier this year, with its price ranging from Rs 2.17 – 2.19 crore (ex-showroom, India). However, that was a fully-imported CBU (completely-built-unit) model. Mercedes is now gearing up to introduce the locally assembled S-Class, which will be a CKD (Completely Knocked Down) unit and will be significantly less expensive. Price announcement for the locally-assembled S-Class will take place on October 7, 2021.
- S-Class CKD is expected to be over Rs 40 lakh cheaper than CBU
- Expected to get a little less standard equipment
- Will have petrol and diesel engine options
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class CKD: expected features
While the upcoming locally assembled version of the S-Class is expected to drop some features over its imported launch edition, most of the equipment is expected to be carried over. Sources tell us, that features like the 12.8-inch portrait-oriented touchscreen infotainment system, the 12.3-inch digital instrument display, ambient lighting, automatic climate control and electrically adjustable front seats. Things like the Burmester 4D surround sound system and rear seat entertainment touchscreens might not come fit as standard.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class CKD: engine and gearbox options
Under the hood, the CKD S-Class will feature the same petrol and diesel engine options as its current CBU counterpart does. The diesel unit is an in-line 6-cylinder, diesel. The petrol engine is also an in-line 6-cylinder, turbocharged unit. Both engines will come paired with a 9-speed automatic gearbox, though it remains to be seen if rear-wheel steering or Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system will come standard fit.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class CKD: expected price
Sources tell us that the locally assembled S-Class will be priced at around the Rs 1.75 crore mark (ex-showroom). This means it will be around Rs 42 lakh cheaper than the fully imported S 400d currently on sale. This isn’t the first time Mercedes has followed this approach, as the previous-gen W222 S 500 variant was also initially launched as a CBU and was later replaced by a locally assembled model that dropped its price by Rs 21 lakh.
2021 Mercedes-Benz S-Class CKD: competition check
The locally assembled Mercedes S-Class will continue to compete with the other luxury limousines in our market, such as the BMW 7 Series (Rs 1.38 – 1.69 crore) and Audi A8 (Rs 1.58 crore). However, even with these lower prices for the CKD model, the S-Class will still be the most expensive model in this company.
Dipan Sur
Viraaj Bhatnagar
Glenn Noronha
Dhruv Dhaka
