Upcoming car launches in January 2023
The Indian automotive industry witnessed plenty of new car launches in the last year. While most were ICE cars, a few hybrids and pure electric vehicles were also in the limelight. As we already said our goodbyes to 2022, it is now time to move on and shed some light on the upcoming car in 2023, especially the new launches in January 2023.
South Korean automaker Hyundai is expected to start its new year in India with the launch of the Ioniq 5 in January. The electric car uses an EV-only platform and advanced 800-volt charging architecture. The Ioniq 5 is offered in two different battery pack options in international markets. Meanwhile, Hyundai has already opened its order books for the EV on 20 December, 2022.
MG Hector facelift
British carmaker MG is gearing up to launch the Hector facelift in India. The SUV will come with a fresh design and interior, along with new features. In fact, MG has already revealed the 14-inch tablet-style touchscreen infotainment system for the upcoming Hector facelift. Additionally, it could also get ADAS. The Hector facelift is likely to be offered with the same petrol and diesel engines.
Mahindra Thar 2WD
Indian SUV maker Mahindra is expected to launch entry-level and affordable versions of its Thar. While the brand has yet to disclose its variant details, a leaked document has already surfaced on the internet, revealing its specifications. Going by the leaked data, the new-entry level Thar will get a 1.5-litre diesel engine and a two-wheel drive option. However, Mahindra could still offer the SUV with a six-speed manual and six-speed automatic transmission.
German marque BMW is all set to launch an array of new offerings in India in January 2023. To start with, it will bring the new-generation X1 to India. The all-new X1 features new daytime driving lights and display setup. Meanwhile, BMW's Audi Q3 and Mercedes-Benz GLA rival is likely to be available in petrol and diesel engines with mild-hybrid functionality.
BMW 3 Series facelift
The 3 Series received a mid-cycle update in May last year, bringing in the redesigned front end, several new paint options, mildly tuned-up engines, and a new infotainment and driver display. The saloon gets inverted L-shaped daytime driving lights and redesigned bumpers. BMW has given it a 12.3-inch driver display and a 14.9-inch touchscreen infotainment system. Notably, all engines are equipped with a 48-volt mild hybrid system.
BMW 7 Series and i7
The launch of the flagship 7 Series and its electric equivalent i7 have been confirmed for the market. The models feature a radical design language similar to the updated X7. The 7 Series and i7 come with split headlights, a larger grille, new wheels, and slimmer taillights. While there is a new single-piece display setup, a 31.3-inch 8K ultrawide display is the main highlight of the sedans. The 7 Series comes with a host of powertrain options, including PHEV variants, and most of them are likely to make their way to the country. Whereas, the i7 is powered by a 101.7kWh battery pack and two electric motors. It promises a claimed range of 512km.
Unveiled in April 2022, the X7 facelift gets new split headlights, new bumpers, and a fresh set of alloy wheels. Notably, it debuted the split headlamp setup. BMW has also given it the new single-piece display setup, comprising a driver screen and infotainment touchscreen. Meanwhile, the SUV continues to be powered by the same engine options, including the 4.4-litre V8, which now features mild-hybrid assist.
Mercedes-Benz
German luxury auto major Mercedes-Benz will bring the AMG E 53 Cabriolet 4Matic+ to India on 6 January. A 440PS 3.0-litre, six-cylinder turbocharged petrol engine is the crux of this AMG model. In addition, it comes with AMG-specific equipment, such as AMG ride control+, and so on. The E 53 also features Dynamic Select driving modes. Meanwhile, Mercedes-Benz will bring the sporty saloon via the CBU route, thus it could attract a higher premium.