Mercedes-Benz has officially launched its luxury minivan with seating for seven passengers, targeting the growing executive transport market in Brazil. This vehicle is intended for a diverse audience, ranging from executive directors of large corporations to artists, transport companies seeking to offer a superior experience, and high-net-worth families.
The model, produced in Vitória, Spain, will be available through importation and will have two configurations. Both versions use the same engine, the M254 gasoline engine, which operates with a mild hybrid system and a 48-volt lithium-ion battery. This mechanical unit generates 231 horsepower and 37.7 kgfm of torque, coupled with the 9G-Tronic transmission, an adapted gearbox from the family used in the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter automatic.
The Mercedes-Benz Classe V 300 is already available for pre-sale, with the first deliveries scheduled for November, and units are already reserved. The manufacturer offers a four-year warranty without mileage restrictions, in addition to various maintenance package options.
In the competitive landscape, the Classe V faces models such as the DENZA D9, priced at R$ 750 thousand; the Kia Carnival, priced at R$ 684,990; and the Zeekr 009, which ranges between R$ 600 thousand and R$ 700 thousand.
In the driver's cabin, the vehicle is equipped with the widescreen cockpit, which combines the instrument panel and the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system into a single large screen. Other features include wireless charging and smartphone mirroring, a touchpad, and a Burmester 3D sound system. Additionally, the model features heating for both the front seats and the steering wheel.
Built on the Vito platform (a model that has circulated in Brazil), the Classe V accommodates seven people, distributed across two seats in the front and two rear rows. However, the differences between the versions are notable. Both maintain the seating configuration (two in the front and two rows behind, with the first having individual seats). In the Avantgarde version, it is possible to easily remove and reposition the seats, allowing them to face the third row of three seats, which optimizes the environment for meetings or conversations.
In the Elegance version, the two central seats offer a higher level of comfort, including climate control, footrests, and inductive charging. However, due to the complexity of the wiring and the features of these seats, changing their position requires intervention at a dealership, and the manufacturer has not disclosed costs or deadlines for this service.
Although the vehicle is extremely well-equipped and presents attractive features, such as ambient lighting with 64 colors, the most negative aspect pointed out was the absence of an internal refrigerator, a standard feature in the competitor DENZA D9 and a significant differentiator. When questioned, the manufacturer admitted the lack but stated that it is already working with suppliers to incorporate this feature. Furthermore, the inclusion of an internal screen or TV is being studied, which would be ideal for the high-income family audience.
The Classe V also offers a trunk with a capacity of 1,410 liters, accessible from both the rear window and the full opening of the lid, which is electric and button-controlled. The sliding side doors have automatic operation when the handle is pulled, and they can be closed with a button on the pillar.
During a practical test conducted with two other journalists, the Classe V demonstrated good performance in several aspects. Despite having a length of 5.37 meters, it moves with good agility, aided by the parking package with a 360-degree camera, which simplifies maneuvers. The digital interior rearview mirror also deserves mention, despite causing a slight initial visual distortion, which is easily overcome. The engine performs well, and the manufacturer claims an acceleration time from 0 to 100 km/h in 9.6 seconds.
In summary, it is a model positioned at the top of its category due to its high price. However, the lack of a factory refrigerator is an area for improvement, especially considering the ideal empty space between the front seats, and the absence of a dedicated rear screen is also noted.