This festive season, the Indian automotive market is booming with new car launches as automakers prepare to entice buyers with exciting new models. As many as six new passenger vehicles (PVs) are set to hit the market this month, with automakers targeting prospective customers who traditionally make their big-ticket purchases during this auspicious period. After buying a home or real estate, the next major purchase for many Indian families is a new car, and automakers are fully aware of this trend.
Korean automaker Kia is introducing two highly anticipated models: the next-generation Carnival, which was discontinued last June, and the EV9 electric SUV, their new flagship vehicle. Both models are expected to make a big splash in the market.
Nissan, the Japanese car giant, is also rolling out its refreshed Magnite facelift this month. Four years after its initial launch, the popular compact SUV gets its first mid-lifecycle upgrade, aiming to maintain its strong presence in the segment.
Chinese automaker BYD (Build Your Dreams) is gearing up to launch its BYD eMax 7 on October 8, an all-electric MPV with a modern twist. BYD has already begun accepting bookings for the eMax 7, with a token amount of ₹51,000 at authorized dealerships or on its website. The first 1,000 customers will also receive benefits worth ₹51,000, making it an attractive deal. Priced between ₹30-33 lakh, this new MPV is expected to generate buzz in the electric vehicle market.
Luxury automakers Mercedes-Benz and BMW are also vying for attention this season. Mercedes-Benz, India’s largest luxury carmaker, is set to launch the sixth generation long-wheelbase E-Class, with prices starting upwards of ₹80 lakh. It’s designed to take on its rival, BMW’s newly launched 5 Series LWB. Deliveries for the new E-Class will begin by the end of October.
BMW, India’s second-largest luxury carmaker, is not sitting idle. On October 4, the brand will launch its high-performance sedan, the M4 CS (Competition Sport), a variant positioned between the standard M4 and the M4 GTS, promising enhanced performance.
Gaurav Vangaal, associate director at S&P Global Mobility, notes, “After buying a home, the next big-ticket purchase for consumers in India is a vehicle, which generally happens in this mega festival season.” CS Vigneshwar, president of the Federation of Automobile Dealers Associations (FADA), adds, “The auto market is flush with new product launches, and customers are spoilt for choice. OEMs have assured us of enough stock, and we expect 25-30% of annual sales to come from this festive season.”
With so many options across sedans, SUVs, and electric vehicles, customers are sure to find something that fits their style and budget this festive season!
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