Mercedes-Benz reveals updated V-Class MPV range
BY ROBBIE WALLIS | 1st Feb 2019
MERCEDES-BENZ Vans has ripped the covers off its updated V-Class people mover, the first update for the model since it went on sale in 2015 as a replacement for the Viano.
Due in Australia in the third quarter of this year, the new V-Class ushers in refreshed styling, new engine choices and additional safety equipment to help keep the whole family safe.
The new V-Class scores an updated look with a redesigned front bumper that gives the front fascia a wider look, while the AMG Line trim package is now available for the V-Class exterior that includes a diamond radiator grille chrome pins.
Four new paint colours will be available in the new V-Class, as will four fresh alloy wheel designs.
Mercedes has swapped out the V-Class’ old 2.2-litre turbo-diesel engine for the newer OM654 2.0-litre unit, while the brand’s nine-speed 9G-Tronic automatic transmission will also be available for the first time.
In addition to reducing emissions, noise and vibration, the new engine reduces fuel emissions by more than 10 per cent in the V250d.
Power figures have only been disclosed for the top-spec V300d, which has been confirmed to pump out 176kW/500Nm, while combined fuel consumption is pegged at 5.9-6.3 litres per 100km.
The OM654 engine is also used in the updated C-Class, where it produces 143kW/400Nm – a possible tune for the V250d grade.
In the future, the brand also has plans to release an all-electric version of the V-Class, which could come to Australia as the first mass-market emissions-free people mover.
At the Geneva motor show in March, it will show off a near-production Concept EQV to give fans a peek at what an electric V-Class may look like.
Benz already has experience in the electrified space with the eVito and soon-to-be-release eSprinter, and the V-Class will follow, however a timeframe for release has not yet been specified.
Mercedes has also freshened up the V-Class’ interior with new trim elements, redesigned air vents and the addition of the ‘tartufo’ leather colour.
Luxury seats borrowed from the S-Class will be optionally available, which offer full reclining, back massage and heating/cooling functionality.
Additional advanced safety equipment will also be offered on the refreshed V-Class, including autonomous emergency braking (advanced braking assist in Mercedes speak) and highbeam assist plus, which allows drivers to permanently have the high beams switched on, with the car automatically dipping the beams when required.
More details on the new V-Class will be revealed closer to its arrival in Australia in the third quarter.
The V-Class finished 2018 as the best-selling premium people mover in Australia with 569 units, however its only competition in the segment came from its Marco Polo and Valente stablemates.
Overall the Kia Carnival was 2018’s most popular people mover with 6610 units sold, followed by the Honda Odyssey (1895).
