Mercedes-Benz V-Class [2019]

The V-Class isn’t the company’s first attempt in the MPV space. It all began in 1999 when it launched the MB, followed by the R-Class, which was launched in 2011. However, due to the mere demand for MPVs back then, both the vehicles were unsuccessful in terms of sales numbers.

But the market has evolved now, for MPVs are selling in good numbers. So, with an absurdly high price, Mercedes-Benz V-Class has finally set its foot in the Indian market. Can this luxury van make a cut in the Indian market, or is it just another flop from the Germans? Let’s take a look.

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Exterior

First things first, the V-Class is actually a humongous MPV. It is boxy and almost looks like a rectangular box on wheels. Despite that, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class new model turns heads. The dual-slat grille, massive three-pointed star logo, and chunky headlamps add to the overall appeal. In profile, it is slab-sided, and the 17-inch wheels lack any flair whatsoever.

Variants

The Mercedes-Benz V-Class variants, namely, are Expression ELWB, Exclusive LWB, Elite, Marco Polo Horizon, and Marco Polo. The mid-spec Exclusive LWB variant gets a 7.0-inch COMAND touchscreen unit from Mercedes-Benz, analogue dials similar to the C-Class, heated and cooled seats, two USB ports at the front, and an optional 15-speaker Burmester audio system.

Interior

For something that costs as much as Mercedes-Benz V-Class on-road price, it does feel a bit under-equipped, especially in the lower-spec variants. However, Mercedes-Benz has made sure the seats are nothing short of thrones, at least in the Marco Polo variants.

Having tested the Exclusive LWB variant, it gets a dual-tone dashboard layout, with a black finish on the top and beige finish on the lower half of the dashboard. The wooden inlay separating both sits in the middle. The 7.0-inch touchscreen is mounted in the center, with the controls mounted on the lower half.

The main talking point for the interior is the second and third row, which is as versatile as it gets. The seats are adjustable with numerous possibilities. You can also flip the second-row so that it faces the third-row passengers if you want to make the V-Class an office on wheels. The doors are electrically operated, which can be opened and closed with the press of a button.

Engine Specifications & Performance

The 2020 V-Class comes with two diesel engines. The entry-level variants are powered with a 2.2-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, good for 160bhp and 380Nm of torque. It comes mated to a 7-speed automatic transmission as standard.

Higher-variants starting from the Elite variant itself feature a 2.0-litre four-cylinder diesel engine, which produces 161bhp and 380Nm of torque. This engine is mated to a 9-speed torque converter automatic gearbox.