Mercedes-Benz Inaugurates Viva Star in Bengaluru: A New Era of Ultra-Luxury and “Made in India” Maybach Excellence
On January 23, 2026, the landscape of luxury automotive retail in Karnataka underwent a significant transformation. Mercedes-Benz India, in partnership with its newest franchise partner Viva Star, officially inaugurated a state-of-the-art sales and service facility in the upscale neighborhood of South Bengaluru. This launch is not merely an addition to the brand’s footprint but a strategic cornerstone in their “Go to Customer” strategy, bringing the world of ultra-luxury closer to the thriving billionaire community and young aspirational customers of India’s innovation capital.
The event was marked by the presence of Santosh Iyer, Managing Director & CEO of Mercedes-Benz India, and Prasad Deshpande, Managing Director of Mercedes-Benz Viva Star. Beyond the physical showroom, the day’s highlights included the national launch of the first-ever “Made in India” Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 SUV and the unveiling of Karnataka’s first exclusive Maybach Lounge.
The Viva Star Facility: Architectural Luxury Meets Functional Excellence
Strategically located on Kanakapura Road, in close proximity to the Lalbagh Metro station, the Viva Star facility is designed to offer high visibility and seamless connectivity to prime residential and commercial hubs. The project was completed in a record five months, involving an investment of approximately INR 200 million, reflecting Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to rapid market readiness.
Sales and Customer Experience Center
The luxury sales facility spans 10,400 sq. ft. across four levels. It is not just a showroom but a curated environment featuring:
- Six Car Display Positions: Allowing customers to interact with the latest Mercedes-Benz portfolio in a spacious, modern setting.
- Exclusive Deliveries: A dedicated handover bay supported by a “Key Presenter” ensures that every vehicle delivery is a memorable event for the owner.
- Private Consultation Areas: Multiple private and semi-private consultation spaces are available to provide a personalized buying journey.
- Boutique Elements: A dedicated shop wall displays accessories and boutique items for brand enthusiasts.
Advanced Service Infrastructure
Complementing the sales floor is a massive 16,600 sq. ft. aftersales facility. This service center is equipped to handle the complex needs of modern luxury vehicles with:
- 19 Working Bays: These cover Preventive Maintenance and General Repair (PMGR), as well as Body and Paint jobs.
- EV Readiness: To support the growing fleet of Battery Electric Vehicles (BEVs), the service facility features a 180 kW fast charger, while the sales area is equipped with a 60 kW charger.
- Certified Technicians: A team of 74 trained professionals ensures that every vehicle receives personalized care and high-quality service.
- Customer Convenience: The facility includes an exclusive customer lounge, an Express Prime Bay for quicker turnaround, and a dedicated spare parts area.
Karnataka’s First Exclusive Maybach Lounge
A major highlight of the Viva Star inauguration is the introduction of the first Maybach Lounge in Karnataka. This concept represents the pinnacle of the brand’s retail architecture, combining a “shop-in-shop” experience with the “Icons of Luxury” store.
The Maybach Retail Kit
The lounge is anchored by the innovative Maybach Retail Kit, which is handcrafted and engineered in Germany. This kit allows for a “white glove” presentation of customization samples, including the exclusive ‘manufaktur’ range. Customers can meticulously select materials, colors, and finishes to personalize their ultra-luxury vehicles in a dedicated, high-end environment.
The interior of the lounge, as seen in the event photos, features avant-garde lighting, plush seating, and digital displays that immerse the customer in the heritage and future of the Maybach brand.
Product Spotlight: The “Made in India” Maybach GLS 600
The event served as the stage for a historic milestone in Indian automotive manufacturing: the launch of the Mercedes-Maybach GLS 600 SUV, now produced locally at the Chakan facility near Pune. India is the only market outside the USA to manufacture this ultra-luxury flagship.
Performance and Luxury Specifications
Priced at INR 2.75 crores (all-India ex-showroom), the locally made GLS 600 maintains the uncompromising standards of the Maybach nameplate:
- Powerhouse: It is equipped with a 4.0-litre V8 engine.
- Ride Quality: Features the AIRMATIC package for superior suspension and comfort.
- Acoustic Excellence: Outfitted with a Burmester® surround sound system and an Acoustic Comfort Package for a silent, serene cabin.
- Rear-Seat Sanctuary: Includes multicontour rear seats and the MBUX High-End Rear Seat Entertainment System.
- Ambiance: Animated interior lighting and advanced MBUX Infotainment systems elevate the digital experience for all passengers.
The unveiling of the white GLS 600 at the showroom (refer to the event images) showcased its imposing chrome grille and signature Maybach aesthetics, drawing significant attention from the gathered connoisseurs.
Market Insights: Why Bengaluru and India Matter
During his presentation, Santosh Iyer highlighted the strategic importance of the Indian market, noting that India has now broken into the Top 5 markets globally for Mercedes-Maybach.
The Billionaire Capital
Bengaluru has emerged as one of the top 3 cities for billionaires in India. The demand for top-end luxury vehicles (TEVs) is being driven by a new generation of young, aspirational customers who prioritize high product substance and a world-class retail experience. Mercedes-Benz aims to tap into this “burgeoning potential” by providing elevated touchpoints like the one at Viva Star.
Financial Realities and Pricing Strategy
A critical portion of the presentation focused on the economic headwinds facing the luxury sector. As shown in the “Exchange Rate Triggers Price Revision” data shared during the event:
- Forex Pressures: The Euro-INR exchange rate has remained volatile, consistently staying above the INR 100 mark throughout 2025.
- Cost Absorption: Mercedes-Benz indicated that over 10% of forex-related costs have yet to be passed on to the consumer.
- Dynamic Pricing: To manage these costs, a price revision of up to 2% was implemented effective January 1, 2026.
- Future Outlook: The company is considering quarterly price assessments throughout 2026 to ensure operational sustainability while protecting the residual value of their vehicles.
Expansion Plans for 2026
The inauguration of Viva Star is just the beginning of an “action-packed” year for the brand. Mercedes-Benz has announced an ambitious network expansion for 2026, which includes:
- 20 New Luxury Touchpoints: These will be spread across the country.
- New Market Entry: The brand will enter three new cities to further broaden its reach.
- Infrastructure Upgrades: Existing facilities will be upgraded to the latest global luxury retail standards.
- Investment: Franchise partners are projected to invest over INR 450 crore over three years to support this growth.
This expansion ensures that Mercedes-Benz remains the “densest luxury network in India,” operating in over 60 cities with more than 145 touchpoints.
Visual Highlights from the Launch
We encourage our readers to scroll through the embedded images from the launch event at Kanakapura Road:
- Leadership Presence: View images of Santosh Iyer and Prasad Deshpande as they celebrate the new partnership and the inauguration of Viva Star.
- The Unveiling: See the moment the “Made in India” Maybach GLS 600 was revealed, showcasing its striking design and luxurious proportions.
- Inside the Maybach Lounge: Explore the textures and lighting of the first-of-its-kind retail space in Karnataka.
- The Legends Wall: Check out the heritage section of the showroom that pays homage to the iconic history of the Three-Pointed Star.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the new Mercedes-Benz Viva Star showroom located? The facility is located in South Bengaluru on Kanakapura Road, near the Lalbagh Metro station.
What is the price of the “Made in India” Maybach GLS 600? The ultra-luxury SUV is priced at INR 2.75 crores (all-India ex-showroom).
What makes the Maybach Lounge unique? It is the first in Karnataka and features a Maybach Retail Kit handcrafted in Germany, allowing for high-end customization through the ‘manufaktur’ range.
Does the facility support electric vehicles (EVs)? Yes, the Viva Star service facility is equipped with a 180 kW fast charger, while the sales facility features a 60 kW fast charger.
Why are Mercedes-Benz prices increasing in 2026? Price adjustments (up to 2%) are driven by sustained forex pressures, with the Euro-INR rate remaining above INR 100, alongside rising logistical and input costs.
How many new touchpoints does Mercedes-Benz plan to open in 2026? The company plans to inaugurate 20 new luxury touchpoints across India in 2026.
Photo Gallery: Viva Star Bengaluru
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