It seems the global auto slowdown hasnt really hit the Indian market, atleast not the luxury car market. Mercedes-Benz India has posted record sales for the first three quarters of the year 2008 with total sales already above 3000 cars! The cumulative sales as a result have grown by a whopping 56% for January to September period when compared to the same period last year.

“Our impressive performance this year continues – we are delighted to cross the 3000 sales figure mark for the first time and have already set our sights on many more. This impressive performance in an otherwise fluctuating economy is commendable. Mercedes-Benz has proved again that it is the luxury car of choice for the Indian customer. We are confident that in the coming months and years. We will continue to grow and remain competitive in an already ultra dynamic market” commented Dr. Wilfried Aulbur, Managing Director and CEO of Mercedes-Benz India.

The company has posted an increase in sales for all of its models sold in India. The new C-Class which made its debut at the auto expo this year is the biggest gainer with 1450 units sold betweeen January to September, year on year growth of more than 135%! The S-Class continues to be the favourite among the riches with more than 524 units sold by the end of the third quarter, a growth of 64% year on year. The evergreen E-Class also continues to sell well with 921 cars moving out of the showroom b/w January to September. Mercedes-Benz also intoduced two new engine options for the E-Class this year christened the E230 and E220 CDI which makes it the most comprehensive product with largest number of variants in its class.

Sanjiv Sahajwala, Director- Sales and Marketing of Mercedes-Benz India added: “The luxury car portfolio from Mercedes-Benz has the largest scope and depth at present in India. Our customers appreciate that they can get the latest and the best from the Mercedes-Benz stable, backed by the most extensive after-sales service network as compared to any luxury player in India a critical enabler towards maintaining traction in the Indian market.”