There is a new focus from Mercedes-Benz Vans with the European launch of the updated V-Class and Vito vans, this shift is specifically aimed at meeting the different wishes and needs of private and commercial customers.

Marinus Venter, General Manager of Product & Marketing, Mercedes-Benz Vans SA, says: “We are delighted with the latest versions of our V-Class and Vito models, representing another step forward in our commitment to enhancing luxury in private life and elevating premium character in business. These new editions exemplify our dedication to innovation, design and quality.”

Desirable 

“We want to offer the most desirable vans and services – from MPVs to motor homes and commercial vans and our new midsize van models are another step towards achieving this goal. The more mature luxury positioning of the EQV and V-Class and the sharpened premium character of the eVito and Vito will enable us to increase our focus on high-margin regions and industries,” says Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales & Marketing Mercedes-Benz Vans.

Although launched in Europe, it is likely the new (petrol/diesel) versions will be available locally only in 18 months time.

Almost no other series in the Mercedes-Benz portfolio is so differentiated and has such a diverse customer base as the medium-sized vans and the spectrum ranges from families and leisure enthusiasts to VIPs and business people.

Four variants

The V-Class is available in four variants – as an entry-level variant, in the Style and Avantgarde lines and the Exclusive luxury version. There are also optional design packages such as the AMG Line and the Night package.

The series includes the Vito in the Tourer, panel van and Mixto variants. These are aimed at tradespeople – from craftsmen to fleet customers. The Vito models can be tailored to individual needs with the equipment lines Base, Pro and Select.

New van, new look! The front end has been revamped and gains a new radiator grille and bumper and, depending on variant, the grille is surrounded by an LED light band.

The adaptive Multibeam LED headlights are available either as standard or as an option depending on the equipment line. At the back, the contour of the rear LED lights is darkened and V?Class also gets a new chrome trim strip with Mercedes-Benz lettering at the rear.

Digital Cockpit

Characterised by digitisation, the cockpit is dominated by a redesigned instrument panle and two 12,3-inch widescreen displays. The Vito is equipped with a 10,25-inch central display and a new instrument cluster with a 5,5-inch colour display.

Other new convenience features, some of which are optional, include the Keyless start function, heated steering wheel and new, dimmed rear lighting for driving at night.

Access is improved on the V-Class with the addition of a second sliding door and, for the first time, the electric Easy-Pack tailgate is available for the Vito Tourer and Mixto.

Upgraded safety

Safety systems have also been upgraded and, for example, Active Brake Assist now includes the intersection function and can also warn of vertically crossing or oncoming vehicles and dangerous overtaking manoeuvres and intervene to brake in an emergency and provide support when turning.

Standard fare includes:

  • V-Class: Attention Assist, Headlamp Assist including rain sensor, Active Distance Assist Distronic, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and Park Package.
  • Vito: Attention Assist, Headlight Assist including rain sensor, cruise control, Active Brake Assist with cross-traffic function, Blind Spot Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Intelligent Speed Assist and reversing camera.

Mercedes-Benz Vans has upgraded the standard equipment and the Style V-Class offers a leather steering wheel, the mirror package, the Tempmatic air-conditioning system in the rear, the smartphone integration package and a comfort seat for the front passenger.

Lumbar support for front seats

With the Avantgarde line this upgrades to  Thermotronic air-conditioning, wireless smartphone charging, front seats with 4-way lumbar support and adjustable seat cushion depth, adaptive Multibeam LED headlights, navigation, Live Traffic Information and 17?inch alloy wheels.

The V?Class Exclusive takes this further with sports suspension, a Nappa leather steering wheel, an electrically adjustable driver's seat including memory function, tinted windows in the rear, electrically operated sliding doors and the electric Easy-Pack tailgate as well 19-inch alloy wheels.

Colin Windell - proudly CHANGECARS