Restyled Mercedes V-Class Is More Efficient And Luxurious Than Ever

Mercedes’ latest V-Class has been redesigned as a more efficient and better equipped version of its former self. Changes include a new front bumper, new radiator grille, new exterior paints, redesigned air vents for the cabin and a more efficient engine range, among other things.

Order books are set to open in Europe starting with March 2019, and pricing in Germany kicks off at 36,990 euros ($42,347). Pricing for other markets has yet to be disclosed.

A more handsome exterior

According to the German automaker, this updated V-Class has a broader appearance and more visual presence thanks to its new front end design. Noticeable is the new bumper with its cooling air intakes, as well as the new diamond structure in the radiator grille. Customers who opt for the AMG Line version will even get chrome pins in the grille.

Other changes to the exterior include the new paint colors, such as graphite grey metallic or hyacinth red metallic, but also two new alloy wheel designs, one measuring 18-inches and the other 19-inches, the latter featuring a 10-spoke aesthetic with a high-sheen finish.

Meanwhile, the interior features new air vents with a sportier turbine look, as well as new instrument cluster dials. There is also a new color for the upholstery (Tartufo nappa leather), while Lugano leather and nappa leather (standard) are each available in black and silk beige.

As for passengers in the rear, they can enjoy luxurious accommodations, much like you would in an S-Class, with seats that offer a fully reclining function, back massage and climatisation – standard on the Exclusive line.

A more efficient powertrain

This year, you’ll be able to purchase a V-Class with a new four-cylinder OM 654 diesel engine in V 300d spec. It produces 239 PS (236 HP) and 500 Nm (368 lb-ft) of torque, and can even deliver an additional 30 Nm (22 lb-ft) under acceleration. In a straight line, the V 300d can get you from zero to 100 km/h (62 mph) in 7.9 seconds. The top speed is 137.5 mph (221 km/h).

Helping you get there is a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is said to increase shifting comfort and fuel efficiency, to go with the already improved noise and vibration characteristics of the new engine.

Safer than your average van

Getting behind the wheel of a new V-Class should be pretty safe, seen as how you benefit from features like the standard Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist, new Active Brake Assist and Highbeam Assist Plus (standard in the UK).

The latter is available for the first time in a V-Class, and allows the driver to “enjoy a permanent, broad illumination of the roadway without dazzling other road users.”

This facelift also applies to Mercedes-Benz campers and leisure vehicles, like the compact Marco Polo and Marco Polo Horizon. Going forward, interested parties will want to keep an eye out during this year’s Geneva Motor Show in March, where Mercedes-Benz Vans will provide an initial outlook on the electric future of its MPV with a study dubbed ‘Concept EQV’.