By Khulekani Dumisa

It is no secret that South Africans are not fans of MPVs. One large MPV seems to be defying the trend and selling in large numbers, and that is none other than the Mercedes-Benz V-Class. The V-Class has been updated to turn on the magic even more for Mercedes-Benz, and recently we spent time with the V250d.

Exterior

It’s true to say that the “updates” are not easy to see to the untrained eye as Mercedes-Benz has stuck to the tried and tested formula. The stand out exterior feature is the revamped bumper with striking cooling air inlets and a new diamond structure in the radiator grille. This makes the vehicle appear wider and sportier. Adding to the refreshed appearance of the V-Class are the new light-alloy wheel designs.

Interior

Inside, Mercedes-Benz keeps things interesting and fresh by adding new air vents in a sportier turbine design and refreshed upholstery, and equipment colours. Keeping with the modern theme, a new trim element in twin-stripe look is used in the instrument and paneling. Perhaps the most notable addition to the interior are optionally available luxury seats with reclining and back massage functions as well as air conditioning. VIPs will find the V-Class most compelling because of the inclusion of these seats. A missed opportunity is the infotainment as it is starting to show its age a bit. That said, the practicality will win you over. Passengers have ample shoulder and legroom. Getting in and out is easy, and you get plenty boot space.

Safety

The V-Class now offers a number of active and passive safety features including Crosswind Assist, Attention Assist, and newly added Active Brake Assist, and Highbeam Assist Plus. We got the opportunity to test the latter two systems in an over 2,000 km trip to the Eastern Cape from Gauteng, and we were impressed. Active Brake Assist is able to detect the risk of a collision with a vehicle driving in front and initially initiates a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver reacts, Active Brake Assist increases the brake pressure to suit the requirements of the situation. If the driver fails to react, the system initiates autonomous braking. This came in handy in long stretches of highway as we left the task of braking to the car. Since the car also had cruise control, the system acted as adaptive cruise control really, braking, and picking up speed as and when needed. The system is not only useful on the highway but in urban traffic, Active Brake Assist also reacts to stationary obstacles or pedestrians crossing. In respect of the Highbeam Assist Plus system, we were able to enjoy a permanent, broad illumination of the roadway without dazzling other road users. In the event of vehicles in front or oncoming traffic, the system allows the LEDs of the main-beam module to partially deactivated and thus create a U-shaped cut-out in the cone of light. The remaining areas of the roadway continue to be illuminated with the main-beam headlamps (partial main beam).

Drive

The V250d is powered by the proven four-cylinder OM 651 turbodiesel engine with 140 kW of power and 440 Nm of torque. It moves the V-Class effortlessly. This is evident at take-off, when overtaking and when the vehicles is full of passengers and luggage. You are never left wanting for power. The ride quality is also good with limited exterior noise making its way inside the cabin. This engine is also fuel efficient. We averaged just 8,2l/100 km during our 7-day stay with the V-Class.

Price

The Mercedes-Benz V250d is priced from R1,027,686.