Mercedes‘ latest V-Class has been redesigned as a
more efficient and better equipped version of its former self. Changes include
a new front bumper, new radiator grille, new exterior paints, redesigned air
vents for the cabin and a more efficient engine range, among other things. Order books are set to open in
Europe starting with March 2019, and pricing in Germany kicks off at 36,990
euros. Pricing for other markets has yet to be disclosed.
This updated
V-Class has a broader appearance and more visual presence thanks to its new
front end design. Noticeable is the new bumper with its cooling air intakes, as
well as the new diamond structure in the radiator grille. Customers who opt for
the AMG Line version will even get chrome pins in the grille.
Other changes to the exterior include the new paint
colors, such as graphite grey metallic or hyacinth red metallic, but also two
new alloy wheel designs, one measuring 18-inches and the other 19-inches, the
latter featuring a 10-spoke aesthetic with a high-sheen finish.
Meanwhile, the interior features new air vents with
a sportier turbine look, as well as new instrument cluster dials. There is also
a new color for the upholstery (Tartufo nappa leather), while Lugano leather
and nappa leather (standard) are each available in black and silk beige.
As for passengers in the rear, they can enjoy
luxurious accommodations, much like you would in an S-Class, with seats that
offer a fully reclining function, back massage and climatisation – standard on
the Exclusive line.
This year, you’ll be able to purchase a V-Class with
a new four-cylinder OM 654 diesel engine in V 300d spec. It produces 239 PS and 500 Nm of torque, and can even deliver an additional
30 Nm under acceleration. In a straight line, the V 300d can get you
from zero to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. The top speed is 221
km/h. Helping you get there is a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is
said to increase shifting comfort and fuel efficiency, to go with the already
improved noise and vibration characteristics of the new engine.
Getting behind the wheel of a new V-Class should be
pretty safe, seen as how you benefit from features like the standard Crosswind
Assist, Attention Assist, new Active Brake Assist and Highbeam Assist Plus
(standard in the UK). The latter is available for the first time in a V-Class, and allows
the driver to “enjoy a permanent, broad illumination of the roadway without
dazzling other road users.”
This facelift also applies to Mercedes-Benz campers
and leisure vehicles, like the compact Marco Polo and Marco Polo Horizon. Going
forward, interested parties will want to keep an eye out during this year’s
Geneva Motor Show in March, where Mercedes-Benz Vans will provide an initial
outlook on the electric future of its MPV with a study dubbed ‘Concept EQV’.