A five-star Hotel on Four Wheels

Mercedes-Benz has just released its über-luxurious replacement for the Viano, called the V-class. But the V-Class is no commercial vehicle. It is a large passenger vehicle with a mission: to make everyone inside feel as as comfortable and pampered as possible. Then, Mercedes-Benz has added a raft of safety features so precious cargo is kept out of harm’s way, with convenience features aplenty, to simplify life even more.

The V-class is available in 5 variants:

V 200 CDI Standard	R 695 981  (100 kW / 300Nm)
V 220 CDI Standard	R 726 875  (120 kW / 380Nm)
V 250 BlueTEC	R 782 416  (140kW / 330Nm)
V 220 CDI AVANTGARDE	R 949 175  (120 kW /380Nm)
V 250 BlueTEC AVANTGARDE	R 984 196  (140 kW/ 440Nm)

Aimed not only at families, the V-Class should see some sales on the commercial side as well. The V-Class is the ideal shuttle to a luxury hotel, or company car that regularly has to transport VIP’s. The multiple ways in which the six to eight (removable) seats can be configured, opens a whole host of possibilities. Whether the kids want to draw or eat, or the adults want to get some work done on their laptops, it can be done. Little, removable pop-up tables from which foldable trays sprout, is available for whoever needs a flat surface. If the kids want to watch a movie, they can attach a tablet to the seatbacks in front. And if you thought the inside of the Obamas’ private jet was fancy, you’ve not seen the inside of the V-class. The C-class inspired interior is a joy to behold, whether you go for the entry-level model, or the flagship Avantgarde variant.

In the cavernous boot, there are all kinds of ingenious ways to store stuff. A solid, removable shelf (which forms part of the optional load compartment organizer) is the perfect height for changing a kid’s nappy on the go. The organizer has two recesses that contain collapsible baskets for sports equipment or groceries. This is standard spec in the Avantgarde models. This variant also features a powered, split tailgate to make access to the boot easier.

So, these prices are quite steep, but aren’t all the luxury German cars on the expensive side? Fortunately the entry-level variants come well-equipped too. Some of the highlights include the gorgeous seats. It’s not real leather, but nobody can tell unless they work for Mercedes-Benz. Gorgeous glossy piano black trim is also standard, and so is Agility Select, which allows you to set the drive mode in Economy, Comfort, Sport or Normal. The 7- inch central display, just like in the C-class, is also standard. The absolute must-have, found on all variants, is Park Assist.  Sensors on the V-class measure a potential parallel parking space, and once it has the OK from the driver, will ease its voluminous body into that chosen spot. (This is also found in many other upmarket cars, such as the Opel Adam. Read our review & watch the video.) Then there’s the extensive list of safety features. But we’ll get to that part in a bit.

Our launch route included mostly highways, a small section of dirt road and a few twists. The V-Class is surprisingly dexterous and easy to drive, considering its size. Every V-class is powered by a 2.2 litre diesel engine, which promises to be frugal. I started my route in the V 220 CDI Standard and after a vehicle change, ended it in the V250 Bluetec Avantgarde. The former engine felt eager enough, but bear in mind there were no passengers (and their luggage) in the car. The latter 140 kW V250 is as punchy as Mohammed AIi in his twenties. From an aesthetic perspective, there was not much difference between the Standard V-Tec cabin and the the Avantgarde’s. Standard safety kit includes Electronic Stability Program (ESP®), Emergency Brake Assist (BAS), Acceleration Skid Control (ASR), Anti-lock brakes (ABS) front airbags and head / thorax sidebags, Hill Start Assist, flashing adaptive brake lights, Headlamp Assist, and a tyre pressure loss warning system. Also standard is Crosswind Assist and Attention Assist, which alerts you if ‘it’ senses you’re about to drift off.

So over and above the high-tech spec in the Standard models, the Avantgarde V-Class gets even more, such as the 15 speaker Burmester sound system, which can be had for R10 000 as an option in the other models, and Merc’s COMAND ONLINE system with internet connectivity and satnav. It also gains curtain airbags for rear occupants, heated seats, a leather dashboard, a mirror package, illuminated entrance steps and a rear view camera. The list goes on.

Some of the other optional features available are: A 360° camera, DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist, the LED Intelligent Light System and Adaptive Highbeam Assist.

If you love luxury, are on the road a lot, and need all that extra room, the V-Class is the ultimate way to reach your destination in style. I wouldn’t be surprised if one pops up in the Kardashian driveway soon.

 

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