Driven: Mercedes-Benz V-Class V300d
Seeing customers flock towards a van, maybe an unlikely thing to see. But sometimes we do want to have access to a comfortable space, especially when it comes to long road trips or events that require transporting larger groups of people. Last year we got to spend some time with the premium Mercedes-Benz V300d and trust us when say it might be one of the most luxurious vans to ever brace the market.
Tweaked engine
The V300d gets fitted with a four-cylinder 2.0-litre turbodiesel engine which produces 176kW and 500Nm of torque. It reaches a top speed of 220km/h and goes from 0 to 100km/h in 7.9 seconds. Moving this big van on the road is effortless, with the large amounts of torque certainly coming in handy. The V300d gets paired with a 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission, which is a first for the V-Class range and is certainly a well-rounded update.
Slight exterior changes
The exterior of the V300d looks as premium as one would expect. Every part of its design is well-crafted, making it one of the best-looking vans you will ever see. The V300d does carry over the same exterior finishes seen with the AVANTGARDE and AMG line. The outside of the V300d may look in many ways like its previous generation but subtle features like its slightly revised grille does make it stand out a bit more than its previous model. In terms of wheels the V300d rides on 19-inch alloy wheels, which come available in a 10 spoke light alloy.
First-class interior
The inside of the V300d’s is built for pure luxury. It is premium in every aspect and stepping inside it certainly makes one feel like a celebrity. The V300d offers plenty of space and comfort. It comes standard with individual adjustable seats and can seat up to 7 people at a time. The V300d does follow the new design language of Mercedes and features its state-of-the-art MBUX system. This of course includes a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto. The rear passengers get a foldable table, a heated or cooled cupholder, air-conditioning and are pure bliss.
Safety features
In terms of safety, the V300d will come with a Driver Assist package that features PRE-SAFE, Lane Keeping Assist, and Blind Spot Assist, and Active Brake Assist. Besides the standard Driver and Co-Driver airbags, there will be Thorax Airbags for the driver and co-driver as well as front window airbags from pillar A-B which come standard. Additional Window airbags that extend from the A-D pillar can be ordered as an option.
Verdict
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class V300d is certainly the most luxurious vans you will encounter on the market. Although its segment may be small, Mercedes has clearly not held back anything in terms of design. Trying to fault the V300d may be a hard task and that is simply because it’s not just passenger-focused but driver-focused too. Getting behind the wheel feels just as luxurious as getting in its backseats, making luxury and comfort for all 7 passengers a main priority in the V300d.
Pricing
Mercedes-Benz V-Class V300d R1 440 203
