Lexus LM 350h luxury MPV launched in India, prices start at ₹2 crore

Lexus LM 350h luxury MPV launched in India, prices start at ₹2 crore

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Lexus LM 350h luxury MPV launched in India

It’s noteworthy to mention that the Lexus LM 350h shares its underpinnings with the Toyota Vellfire that retails at ₹1.2 crore (ex-showroom). Both models are based on the GA-K modular platform but the Lexus looks a lot more exotic with its futuristic styling. The massive spindle grille takes centre stage, flanked by sharply styled LED headlamps and vertically stacked fog lamps. The rear sports a full-width LED taillight with a boxy design aimed to maximise cabin space.

Also Read : New-gen Lexus LM bookings cross triple digits ahead of launch

The Lexus LM 350h gets a 48-inch TV, 23 speakers, sensor-based climate control and an adaptive suspension

Speaking about the launch, Tanmay Bhattacharya, Executive Vice-President – Lexus India, said, “The debut of the all-new Lexus LM in India marks a pivotal moment for us, as we embark on a journey into the realm of ultra-luxury mobility. Upon announcing the commencement of its bookings last year, the new Lexus LM had become an instant hit in the country reiterating our belief that India is home to ultra HNIs who yearn for heightened indulgence & experiences. The majestic LM, with its exceptional comfort, innovative design, and unparalleled craftsmanship is poised to redefine the ultra-luxury mobility experience, meeting the expectations of our esteemed guests in India. We thank our guests for their patience as well as their faith in the brand and are confident that we will be able to begin deliveries of the majestic new LM by mid of this year.”

The LM name stands for ‘Luxury Mover’ and the four-seater configuration ensures the best is packed in the cabin. This includes a partition between the front and rear passengers. It also gets aircraft-style recliner seats, a 23-speaker surround sound system, pillow-style headrests, a refrigerator and a 48-inch television. Other features include fold-out tables, heated armrests, USB ports, wireless phone chargers, reading lights, vanity mirrors, and an umbrella holder.

Lexus LM 350h
The Lexus LM 350h is based on the GA-K modular platform shared with the Toyota Vellfire but gets futuristic styling, setting it apart

ower on the Lexus LM 350h comes from the 2.5-litre four-cylinder petrol-hybrid engine that develops 246 bhp and 239 Nm of peak torque, paired with an eCVT automatic transmission. The engine works with a nickel-metal hydride battery for higher efficiency. Power goes to all four wheels via the All-Wheel Drive (AWD) system.

The Lexus LM also gets an adaptive suspension for a pliant ride, while there’s a new sensor-based climate control that will adjust the temperature according to the passenger’s body. Furthermore, the MPV gets noise-reduction tyres, active noise control, and a digital rearview mirror. On the safety front, the LM 350h gets the Lexus Safety System+ 3 ADAS suite bringing a host of active and passive safety features.

Lexus LM 350h
The Lexus LM 350h competes against a host of luxury SUVs at its price point

The Lexus LM 350h sits right on top of the MPV segment in India with its jaw-dropping price tag. The model does not have a direct rival at the moment, but it does compete with top-of-the-line luxury SUVs including the Land Rover Range Rover, Mercedes-Maybach GLS, Bentley Bentayga, and the like.

First Published Date: 15 Mar 2024, 18:36 PM IST


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Lexus LM 350h luxury MPV launched in India

What is the Aurus Senat? The limousine gifted by Vladimir Putin to Kim Jong Un

What is the Aurus Senat? The limousine gifted by Vladimir Putin to Kim Jong Un

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By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 26 Feb 2024, 16:13 PM

The UN sanctions ban the supply, sale and transfer of luxury goods including cars to North Korea. So what is the Aurus Senat which has been caught in

…

The Aurus Senat Limousine was built for Russian President Vladimir Putin and the car was recently gifted to North Korea’s supreme leader Kim Jong Un

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently gifted a new car to North Korean leader Kim Jong Un in a show of friendship between the two state leaders. The luxury limousine ‘Aurus Senat’ has been the talk of the town not for the gift itself but for violating the UN sanctions against Pyongyang. The UN sanctions ban the supply, sale and transfer of luxury goods, including cars, to North Korea. So, what is the Aurus Senat that’s caught in the eye of the storm? We break it down for you.

The Aurus Senat Limousine is Vladimir Putin’s official vehicle and the car is the first Russian luxury vehicle developed in the country. The Aurus Senat made its global debut in 2018 and was originally custom-made for the Russian president under the codename ‘Cortege’.

Also Read : Russia makes luxury cars? US mocks Putin for his gift to North Korea’s Kim

Aurus Senat
The Aurus Senat is built for civilians as well and draws power from a 4.4-litre V8 engine developed with inputs from Porsche Engineering

The Aurus Senat Limousine is the presidential state car while the shorter five-door sedan is also available for civilian purchase. Visually, the Senat borrows several cues from the Rolls-Royce Phantom luxury saloon, even as the company says its retro styling is inspired by the ZIS-110 Soviet limousine of the 1940s.

The Aurus Senat is sizeable at 5,631 mm in length and weighs a hefty 2,700 kg. President Putin’s stretched limousine measures 6,700 mm and also gets armoured protection. This includes bulletproof armour, reinforced glass, bomb-resistant underfloor protection, run-flat rubber tyres, as well as integrated “offensive” weapons and a self-contained oxygen supply. The presidential state car also gets its secure-line communication system.

Aurus Senat
The Aurus Senat’s cabin gets individually adjustable rear seats with entertainment screens for each passenger. The presidential vehicle is completely armoured as well

The cabin remains opulent on the Senat with the best of leather and finer materials gracing the cabin. The model gets dual instrument pods with a large TFT display in the centre and a large infotainment system slotted into the centre console. The rear seats get their respective screens, along with individually adjustable rear seats.

On the power front, the Senat stretched limousine gets a 6.6-litre V12 engine with about 850 bhp on offer, whereas the long-wheelbase saloon is powered by a 4.4-litre V8 developed by NAMI or the Central Scientific Research Automobile and Automotive Engines Institute in Russia. The motor is said to have been developed with inputs from Porsche Engineering and is tuned to produce 590 bhp and 880 Nm of peak torque.

Aurus Senat
The Aurus Senat joins Kim Jong Un’s fleet of luxury cars that includes Maybachs, Lexus, a Mercedes Pullman Guard and more

Kim Jong Un isn’t new to luxury cars and reportedly has a long line of opulent vehicles at his disposal. Reports suggest the leader has at least two Maybach 62s, a Mercedes-Maybach S650, a Lexus LX, a Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600, and a Mercedes Pullman Guard. The new Aurus Senat is now an addition to this list.

First Published Date: 26 Feb 2024, 16:13 PM IST



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In pics: Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift kickstarts India journey with fresh styling

In pics: Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift kickstarts India journey with fresh styling

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars


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The 2024 Mercedes-Benz facelift has finally made its India debut on 8th January after making its global debut previously in early 2023. The flagship Mercedes-Benz luxury SUV comes with a host of updates on design and feature front, while the powertrain too received a touch of electrification.

2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift
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The front profile of the 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift has been updated significantly with redesigned LED headlamps, which flank the large and bold-looking front grille that sports four thick horizontal slats. The front bumper too has been revamped significantly with chrome trim surrounding the lower air intake and large black air dams at both ends.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
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The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is available in both petrol and diesel engine options, namely GLS 450 and GLS 450d, which come priced at ₹1.32 crore and ₹1.37 crore (ex-showroom). The luxury SUV looks similar to the outgoing model as the side and rear profile of the new GLS remain almost unchanged.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
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The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS comes with a host of updates inside its plush cabin as well. The first most notable one among them is the upgraded MBUX touchscreen infotainment system, which combines the large touchscreen infotainment system and the instrument cluster. The upholstery has been updated as well.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
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Besides these changes, the car gets wireless smartphone charger at the front and back as well. Apart from these, the Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift is majorly unchanged inside its cabin. However, the updated upholstery takes the premiumness of the cabin a few notches up.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
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The rear occupants too get dedicated tablets for rear seat entertainment connected to the MBUX system of the car. The MBUX of the GLS gets wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay connectivity. The rear seat occupants get a touch panel for controlling a wide variety of functions and features.

Mercedes-Benz GLS
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Powertrain options for the new GLS include a petrol engine and a diesel motor as well, which come combined with a 48V mild-hybrid technology that can churn out 20 bhp power and 200 Nm torque alone. Transmision duty for the SUV is performed by a nine-speed automatic gearbox.

First Published Date: 08 Jan 2024, 17:06 PM IST



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Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift launched with subtle design changes, upgraded MBUX

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift launched with subtle design changes, upgraded MBUX

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By: Mainak Das
| Updated on: 08 Jan 2024, 15:45 PM

  • The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift comes with a host of subtle yet noticeable design updates, new features and 48V mild-hybrid technology.
The 2024 Mercedes Benz GLS facelift comes with a host of subtle yet noticeable design updates, new features and 48V mild-hybrid technology.

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift was officially launched in the Indian luxury car market on Monday at a starting price tag of ₹1.32 crore (ex-showroom). The facelift iteration of the luxury carmaker’s flagship SUV comes in India after making its global debut in April last year. Mercedes-Benz has been tasting success over the last couple of years as the German luxury carmaker is witnessing rising demand for its SUVs. With the launch of the new GLS, the auto company is expecting a sales boost.

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Variants

In India, Mercedes-Benz will offer the new GLS facelift in two different trims– GLS 450 and GLS 450d. While the GLS 450 is powered by a petrol engine, the GLS 450d is fuelled by a diesel motor. While the petrol variant is priced at ₹1.32 crore (ex-showroom), the diesel one comes priced at ₹1.37 crore (ex-showroom).

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Design

The updated Mercedes-Benz GLS gets subtle yet significant visual changes over the outgoing model. The most prominent one among them is the horizontally slated radiator grille finished in silver. The design of the LED headlamps and LED taillights has been revised, while the front bumper of the SUV has been revised as well. The reprofiled front bumper comes with new air inlet grilles and high-gloss black surrounds. Besides these changes, the updated GLS remains unchanged.

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Interior

Interior of the updated flagship Mercedes-Benz SUV is more or less similar to the previous model. However, the SUV features new upholstery options in the form of Catalana Brown and Bahia Brown. Also, the India-spec GLS facelift does not get the six-seater cabin with captain seats in the middle row, which is available in global markets.

The cabin of the facelifted Mercedes-Benz GLS gets an upgraded MBUX infotainment system that combines the centrally mounted touchscreen infotainment system and the driver’s display at the instrument cluster. Other features include a 13-speaker Burmester 590-watt audio system, wireless Android Auto and Apple CarPlay, wireless charging for front and rear occupants, sound personalisation etc.

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Safety

The 2024 Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift gets a parking package comprising a permanent low-speed 360-degree camera and an off-road mode with multiple camera viewpoints surrounding the vehicle. Other safety features on board the luxury SUV include multiple airbags, electronic stability control, a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS), and Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Powertrain

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS is available in both petrol and diesel engine options. The GLS 450 is propelled by a 3.0-litre six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine that churns out 360 bhp power and 500 NM of maximum torque. The diesel-propelled GLS 450d generates 325 bhp power and 700 NM of peak torque.

Both the petrol and diesel engines come paired with a new 48V mild-hybrid system that generates an additional boost of 20 bhp and 200 Nm under heavy load. For transmission duty, the SUV gets a nine-speed automatic gearbox which channels power to all four wheels via the automaker’s famous 4Matic+ all-wheel drive setup. There are three drive modes on offer, which are – Eco, Comfort, and Off-road.

Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift: Rivals

The new Mercedes-Benz GLS facelift comes refreshing its rivalry with the likes of BMW X7, Audi Q8, Volvo XC90 and Land Rover Discovery.

First Published Date: 08 Jan 2024, 13:24 PM IST



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Mercedes-Benz to show G-Class EV, Concept CLA & AI-powered assistant at CES 2024

Mercedes-Benz to show G-Class EV, Concept CLA & AI-powered assistant at CES 2024

by with No Comment Electric vehicles cars


Mercedes-Benz has stated that it will reveal a number of digital innovations at the CES 2024 in Las Vegas next month. Slated to take place between 9th and 13th January 2024. The German luxury car manufacturer has revealed that it will showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and its new Artificial Intelligence (AI) powered iteration of MBUX virtual assistant.

By: HT Auto Desk
| Updated on: 25 Dec 2023, 16:48 PM

Mercedes-Benz is gearing up to show a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class and AI-powered assistant, while the Concept CLA will make its North American debut.

Consumer Electronics Show or CES has been witnessing an increasing penetration of automotive technologies with a rising number of automobile manufacturers every year and the 2024 edition of the annual event is not going to be any different. Honda has already teased an electric vehicle that will break cover at the CES 2024. Mercedes-Benz has also said that it will showcase its updated AI-powered MBUX virtual assistant that will offer a more human-like interaction opportunity with the car.

Mercedes-Benz has said the new MBUX virtual assistant takes the ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistant into a whole new visual dimension using high-resolution game-engine graphics developed by Unity Technologies. This updated MBUX system will debut in Mercedes-Benz cars in 2024.

While the AI-fuelled updated version of MBUX will be a key attraction from Mercedes-Benz at CES 2024, the carmaker will also showcase a camouflaged prototype of the pure electric G-Class that is among the much-awaited Mercedes-Benz electric vehicles. Also, the automaker will showcase the Concept CLA electric sedan with a coupe design promising more than 750-kilometre range. With an appearance at this event, the Mercedes-Benz Concept CLA will make its North American debut.

The Concept CLA four-door sedan previews the new entry-level vehicles from the luxury car marquee, which will comprise both internal combustion engine (ICE) propelled models as well as electric vehicles. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz India is gearing up to launch its GLS facelift in the country on 8th January 2024, which made its global debut earlier this year.

First Published Date: 25 Dec 2023, 16:48 PM IST



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