Mercedes-Benz’s commercial vehicles division has lifted the veil off of the all-new 2014 V-Class, a mid-size van that slots between the compact Citan and the full-size Sprinter vans. The All-New V-Class combines room for up to eight people and exemplary functionality with the high-class appeal, comfort, efficient driving pleasure, and safety that distinguish the automobiles bearing the three-pointed star.
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| Mercedes-Benz V-Class |
With the two equipment lines V-Class and V-Class AVANTGARDE, an Exterior Sports package and an Interior Design package for each line, two wheelbases, three body lengths from 4895 to 5370 millimetres, three engines and also many optional extras, the MPV can be individualised to suit any taste and requirement. Depending on the model, features will include a 360-degree camera, DISTRONIC PLUS proximity control and Collision Prevention Assist, Traffic Sign Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Monitoring and adaptive high-beam lights.
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| Less boxy and more curvacious |
Design
The front end features an upright radiator grille with a three-dimensional, centrally positioned Mercedes star. The sculptured V-shaped bonnet merges elegantly into the chrome frame of the radiator grille and the S-Class influenced headlamps. The bumper, like the bonnet, excitingly alternates between convex and concave surfaces with precisely traced curves. The all-new Mercedes V-Class is the first MPV in the segment which provides all light functions in LED technology as an optional feature. The interplay of concave and convex lines at the side conveys a sculptural look. Both lines smoothly continue the distinctive contour lines of the front bumper and rise slightly as they continue on towards the rear. The side view is completed by the wraparound tail lamps, which feature LED technology. The tail lamps feature three vertically arranged fibre optics, which produce elegant and dynamic looking indicators and brake lights.
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| Large central display |
Performance
The all-new Mercedes-Benz V-Class offers an ultramodern turbo diesel with three power output levels. The 2.1-litre four-cylinder with common-rail direct injection is available with an output of 100 kW (136 hp), 120 kW (163 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp) while torque ranges between 330Nm to 380Nm. Paired with the power unit is a smooth six-speed manual transmission or the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift paddles. The front wheels of the V-Class are guided by a McPherson suspension with elaborately mounted lower wishbones. Independent suspension with semi-trailing arms is used on the rear axle. As a result, the all-new Mercedes V-Class not only is extremely precise in its handling, calculable and safe to drive.
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| Spacious interior with numerous seat layout options |
Interior
A progressively dynamic design idiom full of lightness and elegance, coupled with exquisitely finished high-grade materials – an unmistakable passenger-car styling for the all-new Mercedes-Benz V-Class. One of the most eye-catching features is the cockpit. For the front passengers, it is like sitting in a typical Mercedes passenger car. The dynamically shaped dashboard is based on a two-section design with the emphasis firmly on width, allowing different surface structures. The upper and lower sections are made of hard-wearing soft-touch materials. This high-quality impression is reinforced by the free-standing central display.
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| Dynamic cockpit |
The driver grips a 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel with twelve buttons. From front to rear, the interior appears to be cast from a single mould. In the rear, discreet ambient lighting below the trim on the side walls and the sliding door ensures a pleasant, cosy light. There’s room for up to eight people inside, depending on configuration and model grade. The entry model will get four individual “luxury seats” in the rear, each with arm rests, while two- and three-passenger bench seats can also be ordered. While the V-Class is no commercial load-carrier, all of the rear seats can be removed to make room for oversized cargo if needed.
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| Entertainment on the move |
Verdict
The all-new Mercedes V-Class is a great choice for everyone who appreciates great spaciousness but does not want to sacrifice style and comfort. Whether off on a shopping spree or travelling with the whole family, heading out for a holiday or driving prominent guests to a hotel or event, the all-new Mercedes-Benz V-Class provides optimum flexibility when it comes to use of the interior. With some calling it the S-Class of the MPVs there is plenty of luxury add-ons one can opt for to make this classy van even more luxurious.
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| Simple and classy rear |
A cargo-hauling variant of the V-Class with welded-in rear windows, steel wheels, and black plastic bumpers is expected to go on sale before the end of the year. Likely called Vito, it will feature a considerably less upscale cockpit and retail for significantly less.