By Khulekani Dumisa

Introduced in 2014, the V-Class has attracted good numbers for Mercedes-Benz being virtually the only luxurious MPV on offer in the market. The updated V-Class launched locally in late 2019 with minor tweaks to ensure that Mercedes-Benz maintains its lead in this arena. Enthusiasts were disappointed that the range-topping V300d was not to be offered locally at the time. This has changed and the beast of the “big daddy” of the line-up is here.

Power

The new Mercedes-Benz V300d gets its power from a new four cylinder OM 654 diesel engine and makes 176 kW of power and 500 Nm. The V300d is able to release an additional 30 Nm of torque in addition to the 500 Nm on offer, allowing it to accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in just 7,9 seconds. The top speed is pegged at 220 km/h. The engine is paired with the new 9G tronic transmission which is credited for having shorter gear changes and aiding fuel efficiency.

We drove the V300d in Spain and there’s a noticeable power difference between it and the V250d. Surprisingly the difference does not feel so vast at high speeds. The difference is most noticeable at take-off and when overtaking, both which can be done quite quickly in the V300d. Once you get going on the highway, things feel relatively the same, and this includes acceleration at high speeds. The difference will come when you have full loads in your car or a trailer. The V300d will really make light of the load with its added oomph.

Trim levels

The V300d is available in Avantgarde, AMG (which are carried over from the V250d) and Exclusive line. The Exclusive line comes standard with options such as the panoramic sunroof, rear climatised seats and centre console with a built-in drinks cooler.

Additionally, the Night Package is available exclusively for the V 300d. The Night Package comes in combination with the AMG line. The trim elements include black exterior mirrors in obsidian lack, black anodised beltline trim and AMG front bumper with black trim.

Interior

The interior benefits from a number of trim and equipment updates. Importantly, the V-Class range gains the MBUX (“hey Mercedes”) artificial intelligent user interface. This means drivers can use intelligible commands to direct their vehicle to perform certain tasks. The system includes a 10.25 inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, and Mercedes-Benz hard-disk navigation.

A 16 speaker Burmester sound system also comes standard on all V300d models.

Safety features

The V-Class comes packed with active and passive safety features such as Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot Assist and Active Brake Assist and optional window airbags that extend from the A-D pillars.

Pricing

The new Mercedes-Benz V300d is priced as follows:

Mercedes-Benz V300d Avantgarde                                       R1,425,023

Mercedes-Benz V300d Avantgarde with AMG Line          R1,500,003

Mercedes-Benz V300d Exclusive                                           R1,627,250