Mercedes-Benz V-Class (Germany, 2014-present)

Mercedes unveiled a new generation of the V-Class. The name was brought back by the German brand after its original launch back in 1996. The full-size MPV was developed together with the new Viano and intends to redifine an MPV and set benchmarks for the segment with regard to design, appearance, comfort, versatility, efficiency, and safety.

According to Mercedes the V-Class boasts an extensive range of new features that don’t exist in any other vehicle in this segment. The MPV is equipped with Crosswind Assist and Attention Assist as standard. Also available as options are many practical assistants, including a 360-degree camera, active parking assistance systems and the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission. Another completely new feature is the latest-generation multimedia system, which comes with a touchpad for operating all of the telematics functions in the vehicle.

The interior of the new V-Class also offers a lot of space and a wide variety of seat configurations in the rear. Examples include individual seats and benches for two or three passengers, with a maximum eight passengers setting. The separately opening rear window is a special highlight for the easy loading and unloading of cargo. The rear window can be opened and closed independently of the rear hatch, enabling users to access a second cargo platform.

At its market launch, the new V-Class is available with a cutting-edge turbodiesel in three output ratings. The 2.1-liter four-cylinder engine has common rail direct injection and is available in 100 kW (136 hp), 120 kW (163 hp), and 140 kW (190 hp) versions. The Mercedes engineers have specifically enhanced it for use in the new V-Class. They focused on combining the superior performance of a six-cylinder engine with the exemplary efficiency of a four-cylinder unit. In the top-of-the-line V 250 BlueTEC model, this results in a torque range and power delivery that are comparable to those of the previous three-liter V6 turbodiesel, even though the new vehicle consumes up to 28 percent less fuel and meets the Euro 6 emissions standard, thanks to BlueTEC.

Mercedes-Benz Vans focused especially on the needs of three customer groups. First, families that include two or more children and value an active family life, leisure time, and a good work-life balance. Secondly, people who are very active in their leisure time. Because these individuals have a lot of sports and outdoor equipment, they need more transport capacity but would still like to remain as independent as possible. The third group consists of operators of luxurious VIP or hotel shuttle buses who want to provide their passengers with a comfortable and high-quality travel experience.