Mercedes-Benz V-Class review

This is where the V-Class strengths undoubtedly lie. The driver is treated to the full Benz experience, which is dominated by a pair of 12.3in screens seamlessly stitched together to create a panoramic high-resolution power centre.

There's a touchpad and additional physical shortcut buttons to navigate the comprehensive MBUX infotainment package – complete with Android Auto, Apple CarPlay, 'Hey Mercedes' voice assistant and AI-based adaptability – including a dedicated set of climate controls. Nothing to complain about there.

Meanwhile a heated steering wheel, wireless charging, keyless entry, and a mind-boggling 64 ambient lighting colour options have been added in the most recent refresh, as well as dual sliding doors on either side, which now come as standard.

Ah yes, is it as delightful in the back?

As standard the V-Class comes with seven-seats, with two individual seats – either side of a sliding, height adjustable multipurpose console compete with folding table – in the middle row, and three seats across the back. Or you can have the back rows facing each other, if you your passengers prefer.

If you’ve a real knack for reproducing, the centre console can be swapped for an extra seat at no cost, making this a full eight-seater. The seats themselves can be rearranged into whatever form you wish, though a word of warning: when changing the config, be prepared to put your back into it. While changing the layout is simple in theory, the seats are heavy and unwieldy. Throw a towel in there to mop up the sweat you'll work up in the process.

Additionally there’s the Luxury six-seat package, which introduces massage and reclining function with footrest, individual climate controls, and lobs the rearmost middle seat in the bin.

Is there any leftover room for luggage?

With all three rows of seats you’re still looking at an impressive 1,030 litres of boot space in the standard ‘Long’ version, or 1,410 litres in the Extra Long, almost four times the amount you’d find in regular VW Golf.

Remove all the rear seats (if you can be bothered) and you’re looking at a simply monstrous 4,630 litres and 5,010 litres respectively, adding yet another string to the MPV’s bow. Remind us why SUVs are so popular?

Just watch out for the unwieldy bootlid, which requires you to leave about a metre of space behind you when parking if you want to get in there. Not a problem that’s exclusive to the V-Class, but still.

However, all versions of the V-Class here in the UK do get a handy Easter egg in the form of the split tailgate, with the rear window swinging open independently of the bootlid by pressing the button under the rear wiper. Useful.