Mercedes-Benz introduced a new way of moving around eight people in total luxury, by unveiling the all-new V-Class. Last seen in 1998, the moniker has been re-introduced to replace the German car maker’s existing MPV, the Viano.
The Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars Division, Dr Dieter Zetsche said, "With the new V-Class we are expanding the Mercedes-Benz premium passenger car range with a saloon for up to eight people. Functionality is a must for an MPV. Comfort and style are the icing on the cake. The new V-Class combines both in a way no other vehicle in this segment can offer."
Available in two wheelbases and three lengths varying from 4,895 to 5,370mm, the van will be produced at Mercedes’ Vitoria facility in Spain. Mercedes claims a high level of cusomisation as it provides the option to individualise the van to suit multiple tastes and requirements. The van is available with either a 2+2+2 or a 2+3+3 seating option. The European-spec model will also get the option of either a single kerb-side rear sliding door or two rear sliding doors.
As expected in any Mercedes-Benz, the van carries a luxurious cabin with a high quality dashboard and the latest version of Mercedes' Comand infotainment system. The steering wheel and its mechanical system’s architecture has been borrowed from the C-Class. The van also features many safety features like Crosswind Assist and fatigue detecting attention Assist, blind spot assist and collision prevention and six airbags.
The V-Class’ front-wheel-drive platform has been derived from the current Viano’s architecture. The V-Class will be offered with two engines options in the UK- a 2.1-litre four-cylinder diesel or a 2.1-litre BlueTec hybrid. The former will produce 161bhp and 380Nm of torque while the hybrid will deliver 188bhp and 440Nm of torque. Mercedes has claimed better performance and efficiency figures than the existing engine line-up, which was one of the main grouses for the Viano.
Mercedes-Benz had announced that it plans to eventually bring its entire AMG range. Also it is going to display the M-Guard at the 2014 Delhi Auto Expo. This shows that that the German manufacturer now considers India as a feasible market for its performance (read AMG) and offbeat (read Guard range) cars, the ones which aren’t so ‘regular’. In such a situation, it only seems logical for the German manufacturer to additionally bring this V-Class to India for those looking for a spacious, luxurious utility vehicle, with a touch of class.
