IAB Report - 2014 Mercedes-Benz V Class unveiled

01/02/2014 - 12:57 | Mercedes V Class, Mercedes-Benz | Anjan Ravi

Mercedes-Benz announced the V Class van on January 30th. While interior images of the van have already been released last year, the exterior design and specifications were something we were looking forward to.

A successor to the popular Viano van, the V Class will also plug the void of the unsuccessful R Class. And it certainly has the looks to be taken seriously thanks to those S Class inspired headlights and sporty (if we may call it so) bumpers. The van is being marketed to families, people with "active hobbies" and shuttle bus operators.

The V Class is powered by a 2.1-liter four-cylinder diesel engine with power displacements of 136 hp, 170 hp and 190 hp. The engine is paired to a 7-speed dual-clutch transmission.

The highly customizable V Class is available in short or long wheelbase (3,200 mm or 3,430 mm) versions. Three different lengths ranging from 4,895mm to 5,370mm can also be specified.

Inside, features such as the Crosswind Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST come standard. A 360-degree camera, active parking assistance systems and fingertip controlled media system and LED mood lighting are some of the optional features.

Order books for the V Class open in Germany on March 6, 2014 with the market launch scheduled for late May. The V Class will be manufactured at Mercedes's facility in Vitoria, Spain. Prices start at EUR 42,900 (INR 36.25 lakhs) and the van will be sold through passenger car and commercial vehicle dealerships.