Mercedes-Benz V-Class pricing versus Volkswagen Caravelle

Although the V-Class is way, way more expensive than the Volkswagen Caravelle, we thought we'd compare them to find out which model is better value.

Ané Albertse

17 Feb 2025 · 17:27Buying a Car4 min read

The Mercedes-Benz V-Class V300d Exclusive stands out as SA's priciest luxury people mover, while the Volkswagen Caravelle 2.0BiTDI Highline 4Motion, an evergreen favourite, also has many plus points.

So, do you have to spend R2 267 768 on a V-Class, if a Caravelle (R1 564 100), albeit not as swanky, will give you more or less the same comfort, fuel economy, features, and power? (That's an R703 688 price difference - you could buy a brand new Audi A3 sedan for that money!)

Let's have a quick look at what's on offer.

1. Mercedes-Benz V-Class V300d Exclusive

The V-Class has 'VIP' written all over it.

When we drove the V-Class on launch, we were impressed by how well such a large van could make its way through heavy traffic, as if it were much smaller, and it won't break the bank when it comes to fuel usage (not that the owner has financial problems!) It is the ultimate VIP van, with an almost endless list of features, and if you can go the whole hog with those luxury seats, you'll have the most opulent van available.

(We compared the running costs of the V-Class vs the Caravelle and Toyota Quantum here.)

Engine and Performance

Engine: 2.0-litre turbocharged diesel
Power: 174kW
Torque: 500Nm at 1600-2400 r/min
Transmission: 9-speed automatic
Acceleration: 0-100 km/h in 7.8 seconds
Top Speed: 220 km/h

Fuel Economy and Emissions (according to Mercedes-Benz)

Average Fuel Economy: 7.0 L/100km
Fuel Tank Capacity: 70 litres
CO2 Emissions: 177 g/km
Fuel Range: 1000 km

Whatever configuration you choose, passengers will be ensconced in opulence.

Features and Amenities

Standard Equipment: Full packages including Aerodynamics Package, Smartphone Integration, Winter Package, Mirror Package, Anti-Theft Package, and an Easy-Pack Tailgate Package.
Interior: Features include a sliding panoramic sunroof, Nappa leather, Burmester sound system, MBUX multimedia system (with an assistant), wireless charging, heated steering wheel, digital rear-view mirror, climate control, headlamp assist, climatised seats for driver and front, passenger, folding table, electrically adjustable seats for driver and front passenger, black roof liner.
Safety: Equipment includes 7 airbags and advanced safety features like lane-keeping assistance and autonomous stopping, which form part of the Traffic Assist Package. A Parking Package with a 360-degree camera and tyre pressure monitor is also standard.
Price: R2 267 768

Customisation and Extras

Optional luxury seats are available at R95 805 each, and a selection of metallic paint options at R9 755.

No-cost options include:

- Stowage net on driver and/or passenger's seat backrest
- Individual seat in 2nd row left
- Individual seat in 2nd row right
- Tartufo Nappa leather
- Leather Nappe silk beige
- Rear seat climate control, 2nd seat row
- Individual armrests, 2nd row
- Wood-look trim, open pore
- Light alloy wheels, 10-spoke design.

Check out the full list of V-Class specs and pricing here

The V-Class' elongated dual screens with its integrated MBUX assistant ensure great connectivity and user-friendliness.

2. Volkswagen Caravelle 2.0BiTDI 146kW Highline 4Motion

A white and bronze Caravelle parked on green grass.

The Caravelle is not new, but it's a proven recipe.

The Caravelle T6.1 Variant was introduced a while ago, but we feel it has aged well. Considering what the V-Class costs, the Caravelle is like pocket change in comparison (in a rich man's world)!

The Caravelle is also chock full of convenience equipment, and in its two-tone paint job, it exudes trendiness.

We recommend that you read our updated 2022 VW Caravelle Review here, and if you want to learn more about its onboard features and what they entail, read this test drive article here.