Upcoming Car Launches in August 2023: Mercedes-Benz GLC, Audi Q8 e-tron, Toyota Rumion, and More

The first half of 2023 saw a number of launches and unveilings in the Indian automotive sector. There will be a lot going on in the second half of this year as well, with several big automakers unveiling and rolling out new offerings for the domestic market. SUVs were all the rage in July, and August is expected to be just as interesting. In addition to Hyundai launching several new editions, Citroen, Toyota, Tata Motors, Mercedes Benz, and Volvo are preparing for some significant releases. Here's a quick glance at what each of the upcoming models has in store for us.

Also Read: Top Upcoming SUVs in India: Honda Elevate, Citroen C3 Aircross and More

Citroen C3 Aircross

The Citroen C3 Aircross will be the fourth vehicle that the French automaker launches in India, and the third that is partially based on the same platform. This car, which will be available in five- and seven-seat configurations, is just an extended C3 hatchback. The 1.2-litre turbo-petrol engine from the C3 hatchback, albeit likely tuned to a higher level, will power the C3 Aircross. The engine in the hatchback produces 108bhp and 190Nm of maximum torque. A 6-speed manual transmission will be installed in the SUV, but an automated transmission should be available soon. 

It will have a 10-inch touchscreen infotainment system, wireless Apple Carplay and Android Auto, a digitised driver's display, manual air conditioning, and other features. Dual airbags, hill hold assist, and a tyre pressure monitoring system (TPMS) will all contribute to enhanced safety. The C3 Aircross will rival the likes of the Maruti Grand Vitara, the Hyundai Creta, the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga, the XL6, and the Kia Seltos facelift. 

Mercedes-Benz GLC

On August 9, the Mercedes-Benz GLC will go on sale in its updated form. A generational upgrade has given the SUV a sleeker, higher-end appearance. The GLC 220d diesel and GLC 300 petrol versions will be offered, and both will come equipped with Mercedes' 4Matic all-wheel drive system. The interior will be completely redesigned, but the outside will only see minor adjustments. It will include a 12.3-inch digital driver's display and an 11.9-inch touchscreen system stacked vertically, both of which are derived from the C-Class layout. 

The GLC will be driven by 48V mild hybrid 2-litre gasoline and diesel engines. In charge of the transmission will be a 9-speed automatic gearbox. Anticipated pricing for the new GLC places it in the competitive range of the Audi Q5, the BMW X3, and the Volvo XC60, starting at approximately Rs 60 lakh.

Audi Q8 e-tron 

The updated version of the e-tron SUV, the Audi Q8 e-tron just made its premiere in the country. The Q8 e-tron is still offered in SUV and coupe body types, and it now has a revised front fascia, back bumper, and lettering for "Audi" and "Q8 e-tron quattro" on the B-pillar. The Q8 e-tron is still offered in 50 and 55 trims, each with a 95kWh or 114kWh battery. A single charge may propell the larger battery up to 600-kilometre. The Q8 e-tron 55's two electric motors combine to deliver 408bhp of maximum power and 664Nm of peak torque. The Q8 e-tron, according to Audi, can support up to 170kW DC fast charging. The BMW iX, the Jaguar I-Pace, and the Mercedes-Benz EQC are projected to be competitors with a starting price of roughly Rs 1.1 crore.

Also Read: Upcoming Toyota Cars in India: Rumion MPV, New Vellfire and More

Toyota Rumion

The brand-new Rumion by Toyota Kirloskar Motor (TKM) will go on sale this month. This three-row MPV will be based on the Maruti Suzuki Ertiga. A 1.5-litre naturally aspirated (NA) petrol engine with a 5-speed manual transmission and a 6-speed AT will drive the Rumion. This engine produces 103bhp of peak power and 137Nm of maximum torque. A bi-fuel CNG option could also be added. The Toyota Rumion is anticipated to have an ex-showroom starting price of Rs 9 lakh, when it arrives in India.