New Mercedes V-Class and electric EQV facelifts revealed

There are new versions of the Mercedes V-Class and EQV people carriers coming in 2024, with both models pushing further upmarket with more luxury and additional tech. The update comes as part of a resurgence in the MPV sector, with cars such as the Volkswagen Multivan and ID. Buzz, the electric Maxus Mifa 9 and recently-revealed Lexus LM providing competition.

Mercedes is moving its entire model range upmarket, and the V-Class and EQV are part of that strategy. These models, while being based on the same bodyshell as the Vito medium-sized van, already do a convincing job as luxury transport and VIP shuttles, but Mercedes is bringing them up to date by adding twin 12.3-inch displays and its latest MBUX infotainment software.

Safety kit has been upgraded, with standard kit including attention assist, auto main beam headlights, rain-sensing wipers, adaptive cruise control with active distance management, active brake assist with a cross-traffic function, blind-spot detection, active lane keeping, speed limit detection and a park assist package.

New trim levels have also been added to the V-Class, with Style, Avantgarde and Exclusive specs now offered, although Mercedes has yet to confirm if all three will be coming to the UK. All versions feature a leather-trimmed steering wheel, rear air-conditioning, comfort seats and smartphone integration. Move to Avantgarde trim, and you get climate control, wireless phone charging, sat-nav with live traffic info and Multibeam LED headlights. The top-spec Exclusive model adds sports suspension, a memory driver's seat, tinted windows and electrically-operated sliding side doors.

Mercedes V-Class Marco Polo camper

As well as updates for the MPV models, the Marco Polo campervan will also benefit from the same revisions. But in addition, Mercedes will offer what it calls the Mercedes-Benz Advanced Control Interface (MBAC). This unit allows owners to control assorted functions either via the 12.3-inch touchscreen or via a dedicated smartphone app. When parked, the Marco Polo's lighting, audio, fridge and air suspension can all be adjusted, while the system also monitors functions such as the secondary 12-volt battery, the levels of fresh and waste water in the tanks, and can be used to raise and lower the dormer roof.

Visually the new V-Class and EQV line-ups get a larger grille up front, but overall the one-box MPV body remains unchanged. Speaking at the unveiling of the new MPVs, Klaus Rehkugler, Head of Sales & Marketing at Mercedes Vans said: "We want to offer the most desirable vans and services and play a pioneering role in e-mobility – from MPVs to motor homes and commercial vans. Our new midsize van models are another step towards achieving this goal. The more mature luxury positioning of the EQV and V-Class will enable us to increase our focus on high-margin regions and sectors."

The revised V-Class, EQV and Marco Polo models will hit showrooms in 2024.

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