Mercedes-Benz V-Class review

It’s the Mercedes-Benz V-Class, otherwise known as the firm’s people mover based on the Vito van. It's actually been on the roads in this third-generation guise for a decade now, so you'll likely be familiar with Merc's uber-plush MPV already. Of course, it’s been through a series of updates since then, most recently in 2024.

So what's changed?

The biggest change to the exterior is at the front, where it gets a new grille design, while there are also new LED head- and tail-lights and more colours. Subtle indeed, but the tweaks keep it looking fresh, if it’s that business-like image you’re after. If you want a slightly different aesthetic, the AMG Line trim adds more sportiness.

Inside it gets an uplift too, with two new 12.3-inch widescreen displays, complete with Merc’s latest MBUX infotainment system. There’s also additional luxuries including standard fit heated steering wheel and seats, electric sliding doors and tailgate, wireless charging, and 64 colour ambient lighting. Sixty-four!

How big is it?

Big. In the UK the standard ‘Long’ V-Class measures in over five metres, and the ‘Extra Long’ adds another 23cm to that, totalling 5.37m. It also measures 1.88m high and 2.25m wide including the mirrors, so it’s a big old beast to hustle around. And the Vito van dynamics don’t do it any favours either. 

At time of writing you’ve the choice of two diesels, the V220d and V300d, both of which get a 2.0-litre turbo diesel outputting 161bhp and 234bhp respectively (and the latter of which is just fine). A 2.0-litre mild hybrid petrol version is apparently on the way, but if it’s combustion power you’re after, that’s your lot for now.

There’s also the EQV, which is based on the V-Class but powered by electric motors and batteries instead. Click these blue words to find out more.

Can we talk about the cabin now?

Ah, yes. Forget about the van-like driving dynamics, it’s in here that the V-Class really shines. You get seven individual seats as standard (which can be configured to suit your taste), with a height adjustable console complete with cupholders and folding tables in the middlemost row. Don’t need the console? Swap it for an extra seat at no cost, making this a full eight-seater, the ultimate people ferrier.

Alternatively there’s the luxury six-seat package, which introduces even more armchair-like seats to the middle row complete with massage and reclining functions, climate control and more. If you’ve got cash to burn and you’re looking to travel in style, it’s an ultra-discreet mode of paparazzi-escape for celebs and Very Important Folks. Less conspicuous than the Rolls, albeit not quite as fancy.

Sounds expensive...

Sure, the V-Class ain't cheap. Prices start from just over £74.5k and top out above £90k. Which, when compared to rivals, doesn’t sound any better.

These include the Ford Tourneo Custom (similar people mover based on van underpinnings) and Volkswagen Multivan (which gets car-like driving dynamics and a similarly versatile cabin). Lexus says its incoming LM, the V-Class’s most premium-esque rival, will start around £90k. Ouch.

We’re also seeing the comeback of the MPV in electric guise, through the likes of the Volkswagen ID.Buzz (now available in extended seven-seat guise) and Volvo EM90 (complete with full Scandinavian chic vibe). Plenty to consider, then.

The Mercedes V-Class has long been the class leader of uber-plush MPVs, but this third-gen version is getting old and it's a pity the facelift didn’t introduce more sweeping changes. It feels ready for a full reboot, partly because it's van-like handling feels dated against more dynamic opposition.

Still, it looks the part and your passengers will enjoy it more than you will... which is kinda the point: this is an ultra-luxurious vehicle to be carted around in.

But there are better all-round MPVs out there, and they’ll cost a heck of a lot less too.