Showing no let-up in the pace of their new model introductions, Mercedes-Benz has announced the arrival here of its latest V-Class and all-electric EQV equivalent – two ‘luxuriously appointed’ people carriers arriving to replace models that have been a feature of their offering in Ireland for some years.
Described as ‘exceedingly classy’, the new V-Class and EQV are reinterpreted in a new design with additional comfort equipment mated to intelligent tech, a current generation MBUX infotainment system, digital networking and advanced safety and driver assistance systems.
Popular in Europe and Asian markets, the typical V-Class and EQV customer profile ranges from families and leisure enthusiasts to VIPs and corporate clients – high profile users that include hotels, airports, events and private businesses.
Numerous customisation options are offered with several attractive equipment lines. The V Class is available in ‘Avantgarde’ and ‘Avantgarde AMG’ lines plus a top-end ‘Exclusive’ version. In the EQV, an ‘Avantgarde’ line is offered.
A new look exterior design characterised by a striking radiator grille, new alloy wheels, four new paint colours, and a new cockpit layout give them an unmistakable appearance. Other features include interior ambient lighting, smartphone wireless charging, dimmed cabin lighting, and ‘Hey Mercedes’ voice assistance.
Powering V-Class is a proven and efficient diesel engine available in two performance levels: 140 kW (190 hp) and 174 kW (237 hp) WLTP.
The fully electric EQV model comes complete with 90kWh battery, with a peak output of 150 kW (204 hp), continuous output of 70 kW (95 hp), and a range of up to 277-365 kilometres WLTP. It supports AC home or public station charging with up to 11 kW, as well as direct current charging (DC) at fast charging stations with up to 110 kW as standard, and a 10-80% charging time of circa 40mins.
Both units offer customers what Mercedes-Benz commercial vehicles sales manager, Fergus Conheady calls: “a discreet and understated level of luxury appropriate to the needs of a reserved and discerning customer base for whom ‘low-key’ is always and ever the overriding consideration”.
Prices for the V-Class – first units of which are due to arrive here in May – begin from €132,460 (V 250d with ‘Avantgarde’ pack and automatic transmission). The EQV is scheduled to arrive in August with prices to be confirmed at that time.