The V-Class has long been a favourite among families and elite businesses, known for its spaciousness, comfort, and versatility. Previous models have set high standards, and the updated 2024 iteration of the flagship Exclusive model aims to elevate that benchmark even further.
What does it look like?
The exterior of the new V-Class V300d Exclusive showcases a fresh and recognisable design with a rather large radiator grille, elegantly framed by adaptive Multibeam-LED headlights that enhance both visibility and style.Buying used? Read: Mercedes-Benz V-Class vs Toyota Quantum vs VW Caravelle (2023)
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Inside the flagship V-Class
Stepping inside the V-Class is akin to entering a luxurious lounge. The cabin is meticulously crafted with high-end materials, featuring a beautifully designed instrument panel that houses two 12.3-inch widescreen displays on an open-pore wooden backdrop. The steering wheel and its satellite buttons are a step up from the multi-spoke units found in cars like the current-generation C-Class. An ambient lighting system offers 64 colour options, allowing passengers to set the perfect mood for any journey.
Buying used? Read our VW Kombi Roadtrip Review (2021)
The standard configuration comfortably accommodates six passengers, with seats that can be turned around to create a lounge-style environment. For those seeking even more indulgence, an optional luxury seating package includes reclining captain seats with heating, cooling, and massage functionalities, ensuring that these passengers feel like true VIPs.
If you're just carpooling, the second row has individual captain seats as standard, with solid and classy-looking airline trays against the front seats that can be used for drawing or, when there are adults seated, for working on a laptop. Both sliding doors can be opened or closed by pushing a button in the B-pillar or on the centre console up front.
You can choose whether you want a three-seater 'comfort bunk' in the second row (it still has three individual seats) or the two 'normal' captain chairs at no extra cost. Nappa leather seats are standard, and you can choose between black, silk beige and 'Tartufo'. You also don't have to feel like you're slumming it if you opt for the standard captain seats, they too can recline and feature ISOfix points.
Driving the New V-Class
The V300d is powered by a meaty 2.0-litre, 4-cylinder turbodiesel engine that produces an impressive 174kW and 500Nm of torque. This engine balances efficiency and performance, making it suitable for inner-city slicking and lengthy road trips. It also sprints from 0 to 100 km/h in only 7.8 seconds.
Merc's 'Agility Control suspension system enhances ride comfort by adapting to varying road conditions. It ensures a smooth driving experience regardless of the road's general condition, and you only feel the car's significant heft under hard braking.
Additionally, the van's small turning circle makes getting in and out of tight spaces surprisingly easy for such a large vehicle. When we were having coffee at Haute Cabrière in Franschhoek with many cars in the parking lot, we manoeuvred right out of there in no time. Driving back to Camps Bay in the afternoon, we flitted through traffic like we were in an A-Class hatchback!
Our white V-Class Exclusive with different-coloured models behind it - note the wheels!
The Exclusive model is fitted with every conceivable driving aid and safety assistant as standard. I nearly had a heart-attack when the system detected two pedestrians on the side of the road and abruptly stopped. When we reversed into our parking, it also sensed an obstacle which wasn't really in the way and still slammed on the brakes, but if this is disconcerting to you, you can switch it off or make it less sensitive. The MBUX interior assistant also pipes up occasionally to ask if it can assist you when you have a normal conversation with your co-pilot.
Fuel consumption figures are commendable for its class, with combined consumption rates ranging from approximately 8.8 to 9 litres per 100 kilometres (on our launch route), including both highway and city driving.
Pricing
The starting price for the new V-Class V300d Exclusive is R2 267 000. This price reflects the high-quality materials used throughout and the extensive suite of standard features that come with this luxury van.
Check out the full list of specifications and pricing here.
I looked at the price list and the only optional extras are the aforementioned luxury seats in row two that cost R95 805 each!
Should the brand have lowered the eye-watering price to allow people to specify to their desires? Not everyone wants semi-autonomous features like adaptive cruise control, lane-keeping assistance, or a heated steering wheel, and time will tell how many local consumers will bite.
Verdict
The V-Class is not just about transporting people; it embodies a lifestyle choice. Whether shuttling important clients to meetings or embarking on luxurious family adventures, the V300d Exclusive promises to deliver an unparalleled experience on the road with cosseted passengers on board.
