Previously called the Viano, Mercedes-Benz has now unveiled its replacement, called the V-Class. In true Benz tradition – even though it is a van – it is loaded with luxury and safety equipment. Standard equipment will include Attention Assist and Crosswind Assist. The latter especially is of significant importance for a boxy MPV.
Options include a 360-degree camera, active parking assistance systems and the 7G-tronic Plus automatic transmission.
Powering the new V-Class will be Mercedes-Benz’s OM 651 turbodiesel engine that has already done duty in almost all of Mercedes-Benz’s passenger cars, from the A-Class to the S-Class. This 2,1-litre engine will be available in three different outputs: 100 kW/330 N.m, 120 kW/380 N.m and 140 kW/440 N.m.
Dr Dieter Zetsche, chairman of the board of management of Daimler AG, is so confident in the new V-Class that he had the following to say: “With the new V-Class, we are expanding the Mercedes-Benz premium passenger car range with a saloon for up to eight people”. He continued: “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.”
The V-Class will be available in several configurations. This will be for the interior, wheelbase and trim levels. These options will include an Avantgarde trim level, an Exterior Sports package, two wheelbases and three body lengths.
Luxury features include active seat ventilation for the front passengers as well as the driver. The interior design clearly took its inspiration from the new C-Class, which includes a multimedia screen and the necessary control buttons situated comfortably below the screen and within easy reach for the driver.
A spokesperson for Mercedes-Benz South Africa confirmed that the V-Class will be launched locally in the third quarter of this year. MBSA will confirm which model derivatives will become available.
