Mercedes V-Class | There is nothing better for the segment, top finishings and it is also all-whe...
The Stuttgart designers have given the V-Class a facelift with a series of targeted measures in keeping with the design language of the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car models. The redesigned front end, characterised by the new bumper lines with distinctive air intake and the new diamond structure of the radiator grille, makes the new V-Class appear even wider and more imposing. In the interior, the facelifted V-Class features new air vents in a sporty turbine look and a new dial in the instrument cluster. The range includes a total of six different upholstery types in light and dark shades, including Lugano leather and nappa leather. Also as a result of the facelift, rear passengers will benefit from increased comfort, comparable to that offered by the S-Class, thanks to the optional luxury seats for the first row, which include a reclining function, back massage and climate control. As part of the facelift, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class receives the OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine, available in three power outputs: the V 220 d with 120 kW (163 hp) and 380 Nm of torque, the V 250 d with 140 kW (190 hp) and 440 Nm of torque and the V 300 d, which sets a new record in its class, with 176 kW (239 hp) and 500 Nm of torque. When accelerating, the V 300 d can temporarily rely on an additional 30 Nm (Overtorque), which are added to the 500 Nm of the basic torque. The V 300 d accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in a maximum of 7.9 seconds. The maximum speed reached is 220 km/h. The new engine generation is even more efficient and offers further improved noise and vibration comfort. The interior of the vehicle is pleasantly quiet, while annoying vibrations have been reduced to a minimum. The most innovative features of the new engine generation include the combination of an aluminum crankcase and steel pistons, the combustion process based on stepped combustion chambers, and sliding surfaces with NANOSLIDE technology, which reduces internal friction. The effectiveness of these solutions is evident, for example, in the fuel savings of around 13 percent in the new V 250 d compared to its predecessor.
The facelifted V-Class can also be equipped with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission for the first time. This particularly comfortable and efficient automatic transmission with torque converter replaces the 7G. By selecting the ‘Comfort’ and ‘Sport’ driving programs using the DYNAMIC SELECT switch, the driver can change the gearshift dynamics, or he can change gear in ‘Manual’ mode using the DIRECT SELECT paddles on the steering wheel.
All engines in the new V-Class are combined with rear-wheel drive as standard, with 4MATIC permanent all-wheel drive available as an option, allowing the vehicle to move with ease on any terrain. Even with all-wheel drive, the vehicle height remains less than two meters, allowing the Mercedes-Benz MPV to retain its qualities of adaptability to everyday use and to move easily inside conventional garages, multi-storey car parks, underground garages and car washes.
Five years ago, the V-Class redefined safety standards in its segment with Crosswind Assist, which helps the driver to keep the vehicle on course even in strong gusts of crosswind, and the ATTENTION ASSIST driver fatigue detection system. This leadership is now being consolidated with the facelift.
Active Brake Assist, now available for the first time, is able to detect a possible risk of collision with a vehicle in front. In such a case, the system first issues a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver reacts, the system generates braking pressure appropriate to the situation. If, on the other hand, the driver does not react, the system remains active to support any sudden avoidance manoeuvres or braking. In city traffic, Active Brake Assist is also able to react to stationary obstacles or pedestrians crossing the road.
Another new safety feature is High Beam Assist Plus. In high beam mode, this system supports the driver with continuously optimised illumination of the road. In the presence of vehicles travelling ahead or coming from the opposite direction, the LEDs in the high beam modules are partially switched off, each generating a U-shaped light beam. The other areas of the road remain illuminated by the high beam (partial high beam).