New Mercedes-Benz V-Class debuts with sharper looks and creature comforts

The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has been enhanced for more comfort and digitisation and also debuts the full-electric EQV. Available equipment lines include entry-level Style, mid-tier Avantgarde and high-end Exclusive versions, and the five-model range includes the Vito, V-Class, V-Class Marco Polo and the EQV. Optional design packages include the AMG Line, Night package and a specific exterior and interior EQV design package for the silent model. 

A new radiator grille that varies depending on the equipment and model, adaptive multibeam LED headlights, an LED light band and upright Mercedes star on the hood for the first time form part of new styling tweaks. New design wheels in 17, 18 and 19-inch size are available, including five new paint colours.

The interior is upgraded by digitisation, a redesigned instrument panel with a touchscreen, new air vents, heated steering wheels with capacitive hands-off recognition and two 12.3-inch widescreen displays.

It features wireless charging, keyless start function, 64 colour ambient lighting, current generation MBUX with Energizing comfort control and navigation with augmented reality and a “Hey Mercedes” artificial intelligence assistant with further optimisation.

Safety and assistance systems include active brake assist with intersection warning function and brake intervention in an emergency,attention and headlamp assist, rain sensors, active distance assist, blind spot assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and Park Package.

The top-of-the-line V‑Class Exclusive boasts sports suspension, a Nappa leather steering wheel, tinted windows in the rear, electrically operated sliding doors and the electric EASY-PACK tailgate as well as 19-inch alloy wheels.

The introduction of the e-Vito into the commercial space is another range highlight, while the V-Class Marco Polo is a camper’s delight, outfitted with sleeping quarters and other outdoorsy accoutrements.

The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is a lifestyle bus hit in SA, and the new model continues to offer existing technical specification, meaning V250 and V300 models with 2.0l turbodiesel engines with various outputs.

The EQV uses a pure-electric driveline, and according to Beate Mey,PR & communications specialist at Mercedes-Benz vans SA, the new range, except the Marco Polo, is expected to arrive in the country within 18-24 months, including the EQV.