The Mercedes-Benz V-Class is back on sale in India after a 4 year hiatus. Launched at ₹1.4 crore lakh, ex-showroom, the luxury MPV comes in long-wheelbase guise. This generation was unveiled in 2023 globally. Unlike its earlier positioning primarily as a premium people mover, the updated version is being introduced with higher equipment levels, revised styling and expanded powertrain options. It will be brought in as a fully imported model.
In terms of dimensions, the V-Class measures over 5.3 metres in length and has a wheelbase exceeding 3.4 metres. These proportions are central to its layout, as the extended wheelbase directly translates into greater cabin space. The exterior design includes the AMG Line package as standard, which brings a sportier front bumper design, a larger grille with chrome detailing, LED headlamps and redesigned 18-inch alloy wheels. The side profile remains upright and practical, with large glass areas and powered sliding rear doors for easier ingress and egress, especially in tight parking spaces. At the rear, updated LED tail-lamps and a revised bumper complete the changes.
Inside, the V-Class focuses heavily on space and seating flexibility. It can be configured in multiple layouts depending on the variant, including four-seat and six-seat configurations in some markets. The second row may feature individual captain seats with electric adjustment. Depending on specification, these seats can include heating, ventilation, massage functions and extendable leg supports. The third row is designed to accommodate adults, with adequate headroom and legroom made possible by the long-wheelbase platform.
The cabin includes leather upholstery, soft-touch surfaces and metallic trim elements. Ambient lighting is integrated into the dashboard and door panels. Climate control is multi-zone, allowing separate temperature settings for front and rear passengers. Large windows and a relatively flat floor contribute to a more open cabin layout.
The dashboard layout incorporates two 12.3-inch widescreen digital displays placed side by side. One functions as the instrument cluster, while the other manages infotainment and vehicle settings. The system supports wireless smartphone connectivity, navigation, voice commands and wireless charging. Multiple USB ports are distributed across rows to support passenger device charging. A premium 15-speaker Burmester audio system is also available. Other features include powered sliding rear doors, sun blinds, coat hooks, powered and ventilated front seats. But the real meat of the matter is at the back where you can choose between a four-seater or a six-seater. The first configuration features two pairs of seats facing each other, with the forward-facing chairs offering the highest level of comfort, including extendable leg rests, heating, cooling, and massage functions. For those prioritizing practicality, a six-seat layout is also available, which uses forward-facing individual captain chairs. The second row gets heating, ventilation and massaging functions, and the third row gets ventilation.
Under the hood, the V-Class offers several engine options globally, but Indian buyers get to choose between a petrol and diesel engine. The V 300d uses a 2-litre turbo-diesel engine, generating around 234bhp and 500 Nm of torque. The V 300 is powered by a 2-litre turbo-petrol mill producing 228bhp (+18bhp from an e-motor) and 370Nm of torque. All variants use the 9G-TRONIC torque converter.
One of the key mechanical features available on higher trims is AIRMATIC air suspension. This system automatically adjusts damping characteristics based on road conditions and vehicle load. It can improve ride isolation over uneven surfaces and maintain better stability at highway speeds. The system also allows slight adjustments in ride height in certain modes.
Safety equipment includes multiple airbags, electronic stability control and a full suite of driver assistance systems (Level 2). These include adaptive cruise control, active braking assist, lane-keeping assist, blind-spot monitoring, traffic sign recognition and a 360-degree camera system. These features are intended to support both urban and highway driving conditions.
In the Indian market, the V-Class will compete directly with other luxury MPVs such as the Lexus LM, Toyota Vellfire and MG MG.
Overall, the updated V-Class offers a large cabin, configurable seating, multiple powertrain options and a comprehensive safety package. Its positioning places it among the most expensive MPVs available in India, targeting buyers who require high passenger capacity along with premium equipment levels.
