Did you know that Mercedes-Benz India landed the first AMG model back in 2010? That means it has been ten years, give or take. Since then, the company has seen steady growth in demand for its performance-oriented models. In 2019, for instance, AMG grew 54 per cent year-on-year. That’s despite the fact every AMG arrives in India via the CBU (Completely Built Unit) route. So, to push sales numbers in the upward direction, the Indian arm of the German carmaker has announced that it will start production of AMG models locally. More precisely, at its plant in Chakan, near Pune, Maharashtra.

The first AMG model to roll off the assembly line will be the updated, and soon-to-be-launched, GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe. The model, which broke cover in July last year, would have landed in India as a CBU with a price tag of around Rs 1 crore. But, via CKD (Completely Knocked Down) route, the variant’s estimated price is close to Rs 80 lakh. As you’d agree, there’s a massive gap between those anticipated figures. The real story, however, will unfold when Mercedes-Benz India launches the model in question.

In case you’re wondering, the Mercedes-AMG GLC 43 4MATIC Coupe packs a 3.0-litre, twin-turbocharged V6, mated to a 9-speed automatic transmission and an all-wheel-drive system. Thanks to a maximum output of 385bhp/520Nm, the go-fast coupe-esque SUV can hit 100kmph from a standstill in 4.9 seconds and reach an electronically-governed top speed of 250kmph.

Offering AMG models at reduced prices will surely help Mercedes-Benz India to keep performance-car enthusiasts more intrigued. In all probability, the next locally-assembled AMG will be the A35. That will not only introduce the A-Class Limousine in India but also become the least-expensive AMG in the country.

As of now, the company has 10 CKD products in its portfolio. That, as mentioned above, includes all AMG models as well as Maybach and EQ cars. Before launching the all-electric EQC in India, Mercedes-Benz landed the GLE 53 4MATIC Coupe.