Mercedes-Benz reveals business-focused V-Class lineup
Barely two months after teasing the van market with the new design of its V-Class lineup, Mercedes-Benz officially unveils the entire roster that includes the EQV, V-Class, V-Class Marco Polo, eVito, and Vito. All models sport a new look and get additional comfort equipment and new driver assistance systems.
“We want to offer the most desirable vans and services and play a pioneering role in e-mobility – from MPVs to motor homes and commercial vans. Our new midsize van models are another step towards achieving this goal. The more mature luxury positioning of the EQV and V-Class and the sharpened premium character of the eVito and Vito will enable us to increase our focus on high-margin regions and industries,” said Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz Vans.
Customers will notice the new front design characterized by a new grille, which differs in implementation depending on the model. The top-line V-Class Exclusive gets a status-defining, upright Mercedes star on the hood for the first time, while the EQV, V-Class, and V-Class Marco Polo are surrounded by an LED light band. Multibeam LED headlamps are available as standard or as an option depending on the equipment line.
All models receive redesigned LED taillights with shaded contours. The EQV, V-Class, and V‑Class Marco Polo models get a new chrome trim strip with Mercedes-Benz lettering to distinguish them from the rest. The lineup has a new selection of light-alloy wheels in 17-, 18- and 19-inch sizes and five new paint colors.
Step inside and notice updated touches by Mercedes-Benz to take the passenger experience to the next level. The cockpit has been completely redesigned, from the instrument panel (with a touchscreen), air vents, and steering wheels (with capacitive hands-off recognition). New to the lineup is a 12.3-inch widescreen display (EQV, V-Class, and V-Class Marco Polo only) and a 10.25-inch display (Vito and eVito).
The new center console supports wireless charging as an optional feature and a keyless start function. The V-Class Marco Polo offers 64-color ambient lighting, while the V-Class and EQV get a sliding door on the left-hand side of the vehicle as standard. Buyers of the Vito Tourer, Mixto, and the eVito Tourer have the option to get the electric EASY-PACK tailgate.
All Mercedes-Benz midsize vans get the current generation of the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) infotainment system. Access is via the central display, the touch control panels on the steering wheel, or via the dialogue and learning language assistant "Hey Mercedes." It brings increased computing power, additional electro-specific functions, and parking support features that are shown on the central display.
Driver assist systems will vary depending on the variant. The V-Class, EQV, and V-Class Marco Polo get Attention Assist, Headlamp Assist including rain sensor, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist, and Park Package. The Vito and eVito have Attention Assist, Headlight Assist including rain sensor, cruise control, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist, and reversing camera.
Mercedes-Benz makes the new driving assistance package optional. This new safety suite has Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC with route-based speed adjustment and extended automatic restarting in traffic jams, Active Steering Assist, and Active Speed Limit Assist.
A new parking package is also available. It comes with a 360-degree that provides 360-degree visualization of camera-assisted parking using 3D images, Active Parking Assist, Rear Cross Traffic Alert, Pedestrian Emergency Braking, and Drive-Away Assist. It also includes a trailer maneuvering assistant in combination with a trailer hitch and automatic transmission.
By 2026, Mercedes-Benz will introduce a modular and scalable Van Electric Architecture or VAN.EA, which will help the marque increase sales of its electric vans to more than 50% by 2030. Currently, all models in the lineup have an electrified version. If you are wondering what the top seller is, it is the eVito.
Can this new lineup of the V-Class upstage the Alphard, Staria, and Super Grandia in the local market? We cannot wait to see that battle one Mercedes-Benz PH brings in the new model.