Mercedes-Benz V-Class Returns to India: Launch Date, Features, Powertrain, and What to Expect

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Mercedes-Benz V-Class: Mercedes-Benz is officially bringing back its luxury MPV to the Indian market, confirming the launch of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class on March 3, 2026. Previously sold in India between 2019 and 2022, the V-Class is making a comeback at a time when demand for chauffeur-driven luxury vehicles is rising rapidly. With premium MPVs gaining popularity among business leaders, celebrities, and political figures, Mercedes-Benz is aiming to reclaim its space in this growing segment.

Why Mercedes-Benz Is Reintroducing the V-Class

Luxury MPVs have emerged as a strong alternative to traditional luxury sedans and SUVs in India. Buyers increasingly prioritise comfort, space, and rear-seat luxury over sporty performance.

Key reasons behind the comeback:

  • Growing demand for chauffeur-driven luxury vehicles
  • Strong sales performance of rivals like the Toyota Vellfire
  • Rising preference for private, lounge-like travel experiences
  • Opportunity to offer the only diesel-powered luxury MPV in the segment

Mercedes-Benz positions the V-Class as a “private suite on wheels,” focusing on understated luxury rather than flamboyant styling.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class Exterior Design: Subtle, Premium, and Purposeful

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The Mercedes-Benz retains its familiar MPV silhouette but receives subtle styling upgrades that align it with Mercedes’ current design language.

Exterior highlights include:

  • Updated Mercedes-Benz grille with chrome accents
  • Sculpted bonnet for a more premium front profile
  • Revised LED headlamp clusters with signature DRLs
  • Sliding doors for easy rear-seat access
  • Diamond-cut alloy wheels (trim-dependent)
  • Large rear glass area with vertical tail lamps

The overall design remains slab-sided and elegant, prioritising interior space and visibility over aggressive styling.

Mercedes-Benz V-Class Interior: Rear-Seat Luxury Takes Priority

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Inside, the V-Class is designed around passenger comfort, especially for rear occupants. While the dashboard layout isn’t the brand’s newest all-screen design, it still feels premium and functional.

Interior highlights:

  • Twin 12.3-inch digital displays for infotainment and instrumentation
  • Physical buttons and rotary controls for ease of use
  • Premium materials and soft-touch surfaces throughout the cabin
  • Ambient lighting for a lounge-like atmosphere

Rear-seat experience (top-spec variants):

  • Individual captain seats for second-row passengers
  • Electric seat adjustment with massage function
  • Ventilated and heated seating
  • Reclining backrests with extendable footrests
  • Fold-out tables, cup holders, and dedicated storage
  • Multiple USB-C charging points and climate control zones

Depending on the variant, the V-Class can be configured as:

  • 6-seater (luxury-focused)
  • 7-seater
  • 8-seater

Mercedes-Benz V-Class Powertrain: Diesel-Only Strategy for India

One of the biggest differentiators of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class in India is its diesel powertrain, making it unique among luxury MPVs currently on sale.

Expected powertrain details:

  • 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbo-diesel engine
  • Power output expected between 158hp and 190hp
  • Peak torque ranging from 380Nm to 440Nm
  • 9-speed automatic transmission (9G-TRONIC)
  • Rear-wheel-drive configuration

While international markets offer multiple engine tunes and AWD options, Mercedes-Benz has yet to confirm the final India-spec setup.

An all-electric version, the EQV, is available globally but is unlikely to be introduced in India at this stage.

Safety and Technology

Mercedes-Benz is expected to equip the V-Class with a comprehensive suite of safety features, befitting its premium positioning.

Expected safety features:

  • Multiple airbags
  • Automatic emergency braking
  • Crosswind assist
  • Tyre pressure monitoring system
  • Electronic stability control
  • Advanced driver assistance features (variant-dependent)

Pricing and Rivals in India

The Mercedes-Benz is expected to be priced between ₹1 crore and ₹1.5 crore (ex-showroom), depending on variant and seating configuration. It is likely to be imported as a CBU (Completely Built Unit), which explains the premium pricing.

Key rivals:

  • Toyota Vellfire
  • Lexus LM
  • MG M9 (electric)

Unlike its competitors, the V-Class will stand out by offering a diesel engine and Mercedes-Benz’s signature restrained luxury.

What’s Next: VLE and VLS on the Horizon

The V-Class launch could pave the way for even more luxurious MPVs from Mercedes-Benz in India.

Future possibilities:

  • VLS: A more opulent ICE luxury MPV
  • VLE: A fully electric luxury MPV
  • Expected global debut in 2027, with India launch to follow

Final Thoughts

The return of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class marks a strategic move by the German automaker to capitalise on India’s growing appetite for luxury MPVs. With its focus on rear-seat comfort, diesel efficiency, and understated elegance, the V-Class offers a compelling alternative to hybrid and electric rivals. If priced competitively and offered in the right configuration, it could once again become the go-to luxury people mover for India’s elite.

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