Mercedes-Benz V-class Elite launched at Rs 1.1 crore

Mercedes-Benz has launched a new top-spec variant of its V-class luxury people mover, dubbed Elite at Rs 1.1 crore (ex-showroom, India). Based on the V-class facelift that was introduced in international markets earlier this year, the Elite variant is available in the long-wheelbase (5,140mm) and six-seater form only.

Styling changes on the Elite include a new front bumper with a larger air dam and chrome highlights, tweaked LED headlights, a revised front grille and a new design for the 16-inch alloy wheels. The interior remains largely unchanged, though it does get new dashboard trim, turbine-style AC vents from newer Mercedes models and a larger display for the infotainment system. 

The second row of seats are power adjustable - they can be reclined up to 49 degrees - and come with ventilation and massage functions, along with a adjustable leg rest.

As for the features, the Elite gets Nappa leather upholstery, dual-zone automatic climate control, ambient lighting, a folding and movable centre table at the rear, a 360-degree parking camera and arear window that opens for easier access to the boot. Standard safety kit includes six airbags, ABS with EBD, attention assist and active parking assist.

The Elite gets Mercedes’ newer BS6-compliant OM654 2.0-litre, four-cylinder, turbo-diesel engine that produces 163hp and 380Nm of torque, while being BS6-compliant. The figures are identical to the older OM651 engine that powers the existing Expression and Exclusive variants. The V-class Elite also gets a 9-speed torque-converter automatic gearbox in place of the 7-speed unit on the other two variants.   

Mercedes-Benz India launched the V-class here in January 2019 at Rs 68.40 lakh in two variants - these two trims are based on the pre-facelift model and will continue to be on sale. The entry-level Expression variant is based on the extra-long wheelbase (5,370mm) and is available as a seven-seater only. Meanwhile, the Exclusive has a shorter wheelbase (5,140mm) and is a six-seater only.

In terms of its rivals, the Mercedes-Benz V-class as a whole will compete with the upcoming Toyota Vellfire MPV. 

Mercedes claims that sales of the V-class have exceeded expectation, with the brand having registered figures in the triple digits.

Also see:

2019 Mercedes-Benz V 220d review, test drive

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