The Olympic village in Munich, home of the 1972 Olympic Games was the venue recently for the launch of the new Mercedes-Benz multi-purpose V-class; a model that will enter their range here early next year.

Known previously as the Viano, the new V-Class has had a thorough makeover the effect of which has been to give it a vastly more distinctive and more stylish exterior appearance, improved interior spaciousness, a host of technical and safety enhancements, plus a number of high-class features that raise it beyond the purely practical and into the realm of luxury one normally associates with mainstream Mercedes-Benz models.

It is expected that the new V-Class will appeal to an even wider cross-section of owners than might have been the case when its predecessor was launched. High on the list will be large families with pets and paraphernalia that need to be transported. Another target will be that growing band of adventurers and outward-bound types who head out of our cities at weekends and whose recreational pursuits are filled surf boarding, sailing, hang gliding and mountain scaling. Another interested market will be made up of hotels, school bus and bed and breakfast owners, shuttle service operators, health and remedial service providers and the occasional business person whose need is for an office space that is truly mobile.
 
As standard, the vehicle is equipped with four individual luxury seats (with armrests) that can be folded forward intuitively to allow easy access. All rear seats can be fully removed to optimize space. Options include a scratch-resistant folding table and a seat arrangement that allows for comfortable overnight sleeping.

The model range comprises three 2-litre, 4-cylinder TDI engine versions (V200 CDI, V220 CDI and V250 BlueTEC in automatic transmission only) plus a choice of three body lengths; Compact, Long and Extra Long. Though exact prices and model details will not be known until closer to launch date, Mercedes-Benz sales manager in Ireland, Ciaran Allen said that a figure tagged closely to the current version could be anticipated, probably around €50,000.

“Despite its improved design, enhanced specifications and numerous technical advancements, we expect to introduce the new V-Class at prices no more than modestly above current levels” he said.