At the very first glance the attempt of the German brand to stick, to the extent that the proportions of the body permit, close to the design of more conventional proposals becomes perfectly understandable. The excessively vertical surfaces of the front portion are now part of the past which has not to do solely with the looks of the V-Class but mainly with the protection it must  provide in a possible collision with a pedestrian. Moreover, the light fixtures remind us of the S-Class but the sequel can support any form of kinship with the equally impressive in size and features saloon.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Speaking of size, the V-Class is available in three versions. In three sizes to be exact, starting from a length of 4.895 meters and reaching 5.37 meters. Respectively, its motion of the German van is taken care of by a diesel engine with a capacity of 2.1 liters, which is available in three versions regarding their power. So, the V200 CDI delivers 136 horsepower and 330 Nm of torque, the V220 CDI reaches 163 hp and 380 Nm of torque while the V250 BlueTEC (with its specifications of EU6) produces 190 horsepower and 440 Nm of torque. With the exception of V250 BlueTec, where the automatic transmission is a 7G-TRONIC PLUS and is icluded to the standard equipment, other versions of the V-Class feature a six-speed manual gearbox.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Leaving the technical specifications of the V-Class aside, our attention turns to the fully equipped interior. A long list of comfort and security applications remind us that this Mercedes-Benz has nothing to envy from the other proposals of the brand. In the contrary, the accessibility offered by sliding the rear doors, the ability to accommodate up to eight passengers and almost inexhaustible spaces are traits that are rarely met in a premium car. The curvilinear surfaces in the cabin are in stark contrast to the strict geometric shapes that you see on the outside of the car. The choice of earthy colors further enhance the overall sense of familiarity while the comfort equipment includes, among others, the latest generation of Command Online with a color screen of 8.4 inch, a multi-controller with the touch pad, the air conditioning system that can be activated remotely and a high fidelity Burmester audio system with 16 loudspeakers.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class

Mercedes-Benz V-Class interior

The equally advanced security applications ensure your maximum protection. Among them is the active Cruise Control with the possibility of full immobilisation (DISTRONIC PLUS), the system preventing collisions with the vehicle ahead (COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST) and the familiar ATTENTION ASSIST, which recognizes signs of driver fatigue by constantly observing their maneuvers.

By +Nikos Kontorigas