This is the third-generation V-Class, whose highlights, according to Mercedes-Benz, are a new grille, bumper and lighting designs. Inside, the current-generation MBUX system now has a customisable design and improved performance. Elsewhere, there are upgraded safety and assistance systems including Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Emergency Stop Assist and Active Steering Assist.
Design and interior
Outside, the influence of Mercedes ICE and EV car models is obvious in the V-Class’s updated styling, with the grille design of our Premium AMG Line spec test car looking like that fitted to the current E-Class. However, if you go for the range-topping Exclusive, it gets a more traditional looking Mercedes family grille. There are also new front headlights, and a more aggressive front airdam. From the back of this V-Class, the facelift updates are less obvious and are limited to different badging and lights.
The V-Class might be based on a van dating back to 2014, but the biggest change for the updated version must be the fitment of a curvy new dashboard, with the MBUX displays on top. There is a 12.3in screen perched behind the steering wheel, which stretches to the middle, and encompasses the digital instruments and media display. This looks and feels like the same system fitted to previous-generation Mercedes models, as it still has the central touch controller – but works just as well. In fact, were it not for the clunk of the doors, the high-set driving position, and the size of the windscreen, we could have been fooled into thinking we were driving a conventional Mercedes car, although the faux carbon trim with the Premium AMG grade looks a bit naff!
Move to the back, and there are five configurable rear seats, with impressive levels of leg and headroom. Talking of the movable rear seats, we found them quite fiddly and heavy to move – but you can have one row facing backwards, as was demonstrated in our test car. Our V-Class test car also had beige leather trim, which adds to the premium feel. The boot now totals 1,410 litres and can be extended by moving or removing the rear seats.
Performance and drive
Under the bonnet, the new V-Class is available with the choice of two diesel engines – the 220d and the 300d that we had. However, probably of most interest to fleet drivers is the EQV all-electric version.
The 300d is a 239hp, 2.0-litre diesel engine, but the performance figures aren’t what this V-Class is about. Company car drivers are going to be keener to know the 37% BIK charge, 197g/km emissions, and up to 47.1mpg.
Right from the off, the diesel engine is smooth and tractable, although it does feel like it’s working hard against this Mercedes’s 2,145kg weight! 0-62mph acceleration is completed in 7.9 seconds, but it feels slower. This a refined and comfortable way to cover big miles – but the 19in alloy wheels and van underpinnings, mean the V-Class isn’t as smooth to drive as a current E-Class, for example.
Still, despite the weight and proportions, the V-Class impresses with reasonably accurate steering. And whilst the height and length will put you off driving this Mercedes hard, grip is good, and the handling is reasonably accurate. And despite its size, it’s very easy to manoeuvre.
Considering how easy the Mercedes V-Class is to drive, and the space, quality, and car-like feel to the interior, it’s not a surprise that the V-Class is so popular with premium taxi operators, and families. It is not quite perfect though, as the diesel can lose refinement under load, the ride still can’t quite match a big Mercedes saloon, and it is very expensive to buy.
Positive: Car-like interior, interior practicality, easy to drive, handles well
Negative: Engine can get unrefined under load, driving position is still van-like, heavy seats hinder manoeuvrability, doesn’t ride as well as a Mercedes saloon.
Standard equipment: LED headlights and taillights, 17in alloy wheels, 12.9in infotainment screen, 10.5in driver display, wireless App-Connect, front and rear parking sensors, reversing camera, autonomous emergency braking with pedestrian and cyclist monitoring, front cross traffic assist, side assist, rear traffic alert and exit warning system, lane keep assist.
Engines: Diesel: 163hp 2.0, 239hp 2.0
Equipment grades: Premium, Premium with AMG Line Package, Exclusive
Transmission: Nine-speed automatic
| Model | Mercedes-Benz V300d Long Premium AMG Line |
| P11D | £83,005 |
| Residual value | 28.3% |
| Depreciation | £62,795 |
| Fuel | £6,725 |
| Service, maintenance and repair | £3,143 |
| Cost per mile | 121.10p |
| Fuel consumption | 47.9mpg |
| CO2 (BIK%) | 196g/km (37%) |
| BIK 20/40% a month | £513/£1,026 |
| Luggage capacity | 1,410 litres |
| Engine size/power | 1,950cc/239hp |
| Score | 7/10 |
