When the Mercedes-Benz V-Class first went on sale in India in 2019, it introduced the idea of a high-end MPV wearing a three-pointed star. While it offered generous space and comfort, its execution still felt closer to a well-appointed van than a bespoke luxury product. The 2026 iteration signals a clear departure from that template. Mercedes-Benz has reworked the V-Class with sharper positioning, richer materials and a more comprehensive equipment list, effectively pushing it into a different bracket altogether.
In India, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class is offered exclusively in its Extra Long Wheelbase variant. At 5,370 mm in length with a 3,430 mm wheelbase, the vehicle’s footprint is substantial, yet the design manages to avoid any commercial-van connotations. The AMG Line exterior package is standard, bringing a star-pattern grille, sculpted bumpers, AMG detailing and 18-inch alloy wheels. A full-width LED light strip and adaptive LED headlamps add a contemporary signature. The latter uses 84 individually controlled LEDs per unit to modulate the beam pattern according to traffic conditions, a feature that is particularly useful for night-time highway driving.
Practical features like electric sliding doors, split tailgate, and generous luggage space make the V-Class ideal for families and executives
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Special Arrangement
Under the bonnet, Mercedes-Benz now offers both petrol and diesel options, for the V-Class in India — a first for the model. The V300 petrol uses a 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbocharged engine producing 170 kW (228 bhp), augmented by a 15 kW (20 bhp) mild-hybrid system. The diesel V300d employs a 2.0-litre unit delivering 174 kW (233 bhp). Both engines are paired with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. While outright acceleration is not the primary focus in this segment, the outputs ensure relaxed cruising capability and sufficient reserve power for overtaking duties, even when the cabin is fully occupied.
A standout engineering upgrade is the availability of AIRMATIC air suspension on both powertrains, making India the first global market to receive this configuration. The system continuously adjusts damping characteristics and maintains a constant ride height, lowering slightly at higher speeds to improve stability. Considering the varied nature of Indian roads, the inclusion of air suspension significantly enhances ride comfort and composure, particularly over uneven surfaces.
The 2026 Mercedes-Benz V-Class in India showcases its sleek AMG Line exterior and full-length LED light strip
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Special Arrangement
Inside, the transformation of the V-Class is most striking. The six-seat layout defines the experience, with two individual captain seats in the second row forming the centrepiece, equipped with three-stage ventilation, massage functions, calf support, wireless charging and fold-out cup holders. The third row, often an afterthought in large vehicles, receives ventilated seats as standard — a segment-first feature — along with ISOFIX child-seat mounts and dedicated USB charging points. This ensures parity of comfort across all passenger positions.
Mercedes-Benz also allows customers to tailor the seating layout with three configurations. The first being a proper three row set up, the second option removes the third row completely and pushes the second row all the way back on the floor-mounted rails to create an executive lounge, while the third configuration gets the second and third row seats to face each other for a business lounge set up.
AIRMATIC air suspension ensures a composed ride over uneven roads, enhancing comfort for all passengers
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Special Arrangement
The front seats are electrically adjustable and ventilated, with cushion length adjustment to improve long-distance comfort. Materials and finish levels are a noticeable step up from the previous model. Lugano leather upholstery, available in beige or black, combines with 64-colour ambient lighting to create a cabin environment that feels deliberately premium rather than functional. The Burmester surround sound system, rated at 640 watts with 15 speakers and Dolby Atmos capability, delivers a high-quality audio experience that complements the V-Class’s role as a mobile lounge.
Comfort features extend beyond seating and sound. Automatic climate control, heat-insulating green-tinted glass and integrated sun blinds enhance privacy and temperature management. The Comfort programmes synchronise lighting, audio and climate settings into curated modes designed to reduce fatigue on long journeys. These may appear ancillary features on paper, in practice they make a tangible difference to passenger well-being, reinforcing the V-Class’s identity as a premium mobile lounge.
AIRMATIC air suspension ensures a composed ride over uneven roads, enhancing comfort for all passengers
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Special Arrangement
Technology and safety are comprehensively addressed in the V-Class. The vehicle is equipped with seven airbags, including window airbags extending from the A to D pillars. Driver assistance systems include Active Distance Assist, Active Lane Keeping Assist, Blind Spot Assist with Rear Cross Traffic Alert and Attention Assist with driver monitoring. A 360-degree camera system, supported by 12 ultrasonic sensors and Active Parking Assist, helps mitigate the challenges posed by its size in urban environments.
Practicality remains a core strength of the V-Class proposition. Electric sliding doors on both sides facilitate convenient entry and exit, particularly in tight parking spaces. The electrically operated split tailgate enhances loading flexibility. Even with all six seats in place, luggage space remains generous, reinforcing its suitability for airport runs, intercity transfers and extended family travel.
Inside, the six-seat cabin features ventilated massaging captain seats and 64-colour ambient lighting for premium comfort
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Special Arrangement
The intended clientele for the V-Class is clear. Business owners who prefer to conduct calls and meetings on the move, celebrities seeking discreet yet comfortable transport, and high-net-worth families in need of a spacious second vehicle will find the V-Class aligned with their requirements. Unlike large SUVs that prioritise height and visual dominance, the V-Class focuses on interior volume and occupant comfort. For families accustomed to travelling together — often with staff or pets —it delivers genuine practicality without compromising on style or the prestige of the Mercedes-Benz brand.
The fact that Mercedes-Benz has initiated local production further underscores its commitment to this segment. It also allows for sharper pricing, which is perhaps the most significant part of the overall equation. At an introductory price of INR 1.40 crore, the V-Class occupies a compelling position in the market. It undercuts the Lexus LM 350h — currently priced at close to INR 2.5 crore in India — by a substantial margin. In doing so, it presents a persuasive alternative for buyers seeking a full-size luxury MPV with established badge value, strong equipment levels and a clearly defined identity as a refined family and executive vehicle.
Price: INR 1.40 crore
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Published – March 05, 2026 10:47 am IST
