Showing no let-up in the pace of its 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 the brand's 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 the 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 claimed 10-80 per cent charging time of about 40 minutes.
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.
