The Indian arm of Mercedes-Benz, a subsidiary of the German luxury automotive marque, has lined-up five new models for launch in the domestic car market over the next 12 months. The company has set aside at least one product for its hatchback, sedan and Sports Utility Vehicle (SUV) portfolio for the Indian audience. Mercedes-Benz India would be introducing its B-Class diesel, A-Class, GL-Class, GLA compact SUV and CLA coupe in the country. The first model launch by Mercedes-Benz would be the new GL-Class premium SUV that would see Indian daylight on May 16, 2013. The upcoming GL-Class facelift model would come with several high end features like Active Parking Assist including Parktronic, along with a cutting edge drive authorisation system. The German auto maker’s flagship SUV would be powered by a highly efficient V8 engine, which could churn out impressive power and torque equations close to 430 bhp and 700 Nm, respectively. Post the launch of 2013 GL-Class, Mercedes-Benz is expected to introduce its B-Class diesel models in the Indian luxury automotive market. The B-Class range is already plying on local streets since September 2012, however, the company had rolled out the premium hatchback range in only petrol powered models. Further, the German auto maker would also introduce its A-Class models this year in the country, which has already become a huge hit in Europe. Upon its arrival on the Indian turf, Mercedes-Benz A-Class could become the company’s cheapest model in its product portfolio. The premium hatchback is expected to come with introductory price tags around Rs. 20 lakh. Mercedes-Benz is also planning to launch its CLA coupe and GLA compact SUV in the Indian luxury car market. As per industry sources, the two aforementioned models could arrive by the end of 2013 calendar year or in the first few months of 2014. The yet-to-be launched Mercedes-Benz GLA would challenge the likes of BMW X1 and Audi Q3, while the CLA coupe would become the German car maker’s cheapest sedan model in the country. The company has reclaimed its number two position in the Indian luxury automotive space during April 2013 and with so many new models on the horizon, top spot definitely looks feasible. Source: cartrade