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At a glance
The new V-Class: the most important facts
Four years ago, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class set benchmarks in the MPV segment with its design, its high-quality feel, its comfort and its safety and assistance systems and has since enjoyed a successful international career. The facelift builds upon these core values and thus improves the attractiveness of the biggest member of the Stuttgart-based brand's range of passenger vehicles. The compact Marco Polo and Marco Polo HORIZON campers and leisure vans also benefit from the full scope of the innovations implemented on the V-Class. What's more, Mercedes-Benz Vans is taking the next step in this segment and will soon be offering a fully-electric MPV.

Design and comfort

• New presence and an impression of breadth thanks to newly designed bumper with striking cooling air intake and diamond structure of the radiator grille
• The AMG Line features a new diamond radiator grille with chrome pins which both make for a still more sporty appearance
• Two new paint colours as well as four new light-alloy wheel designs will also be available
• There's a new-look interior thanks to newly designed air vents in sporty turbine look and the new "tartufo" leather colour
• Optimal luxury seats in the rear of the new exclusive edition enhance the range of seats in the MPV and pamper occupants with berth function, back massage and climate control

Driving dynamics and efficiency

• The four-cylinder OM 654 diesel with reduced emission and consumption values and further improved noise and vibration characteristics is being used for the first time in the V-Class
• New top engine in the V 300 d with 176 kW (239 hp) and 500 Nm torque delivers the best values in the MPV segment (combined fuel consumption 6.3-5.9 l/100 km – 44.9mpg-47.9mpg, combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1. In the acceleration phase, the V 300 d can briefly deliver an additional 30 Nm of torque ("overtorque")
• For the first time in the V-Class, the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission will be available to increase shifting comfort and fuel efficiency

Safety and assistance systems

• The multifaceted range of safety and assistance systems will become more comprehensive with the facelift
• Available for the first time, Active Brake Assist can, depending on the situation, reduce the severity of a collision with a vehicle in front, stationary obstacles and pedestrians crossing the vehicle's path (in urban traffic) or it can even prevent them from occurring altogether
• New Highbeam Assist Plus makes it possible to drive with the main-beam headlamps permanently active and only switches to dipped-beam mode when required

The future is electric

• Mercedes-Benz Vans will soon be the first premium manufacturer to offer a fully-electric MPV
• Consistent expansion of the eDrive@VANs strategy to also include model series for private use
• Near-series study „Concept EQV“ celebrates its premiere at the Geneva International Motor Show in 2019

Short version
The new V-Class: the successful model just got even more attractive
In 2015, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class UK premiere saw a completely new approach to design, value appeal, comfort and safety being introduced into the MPV segment. The concept went on to be a true success: a sales record in 2018 with some 64,000 units, one of the youngest buyer groups at Mercedes-Benz and successful launches in other markets, especially in Asia. At the start of 2019, India was the latest V-Class market to be added to the equation. And the facelift will now make for a refreshing feel to the already successful model. Focal points include a re-styled and striking front-end design, as well as the introduction of the OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine generation – with the V 300 d reaching the new top value of 176 kW (239 hp) (combined fuel consumption 44.9mpg-47.9mpg, combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1. Plus, the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission is available for the first time, while safety and assistance systems, among them Active Brake Assist, have been brought up to the latest technological level. The new V-Class can be ordered in Europe from March 2019. Prices in Germany start from 36,990 euros (including 19 percent VAT). Furthermore, Mercedes-Benz Vans is continuing to evolve its eDrive@VANs electrification strategy and will soon be offering a fully-electric MPV.

New design and even greater comfort
The style and value appeal of the V-Class leads the way in the MPV segment. The V-Class designers in Stuttgart have used a series of targeted measures to give the MPV a new look which follows the design idiom of the current Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. The new V-Class has a broader appearance and an even stronger visual presence thanks to its new front end. This comes courtesy of a new bumper design with striking cooling air inlets and a new diamond structure in the radiator grille. The Mercedes star is positioned centrally in the radiator grille and framed by two slats in silver. The personalisation concept with the Sport line, and new to the UK, the Exclusive line, while the AMG Line will become visually more powerful: it features a new diamond radiator grille with chrome pins and thus delivers a sporty note.

New paint colours such as graphite grey metallic expand the spectrum of the well-received black/white tones. With the new colour hyacinth red metallic, the new V-Class also optionally makes an especially emotive statement. At the same time, the two new light-alloy wheel designs ensure a powerful and avantgarde appearance. They include 18-inch light-alloy wheels in tremolite grey with a high-sheen finish and 5-spoke design. At the upper end of the new wheels portfolio are black-painted 19-inch 10-spoke light-alloy wheels with a high-sheen finish.

In the interior, too, the designers have been busy, transposing the interior design philosophy of the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car models into the new V-Class. The interior of the new V-Class follows the trend of modernity and clarity. In line with the facelift, the V-Class facelift presents itself with new air vents in a sportier turbine look as well as new dials in the instrument cluster. Thanks to the reduced design, drivers can orientate themselves much more simply. The new upholstery and equipment colour tartufo nappa leather makes a modern and elegant statement. With Lugano leather and nappa leather (nappa leather comes as standard), each are available in black and silk beige. The trim elements in ebony wood, carbon fibre and brushed aluminium looks remain.

As part of the facelift, rear passengers can enjoy an especially comfortable space. The luxury seats for the first row of seats are a real treat and, just like in the S-Class, they offer a fully reclining function, back massage and climatisation (standard with the Exclusive line).

New engine, new transmission – powerful and efficient
In line with the facelift, the Mercedes-Benz V-Class will be equipped with the four-cylinder OM 654 diesel engine. With the new best values in its segment – the V 300 d with 176 kW (239 hp) and 500 Nm torque (combined fuel consumption 6.3-5.9 l/100 km (44.9mpg-47.9mpg), combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1.

In the acceleration phase, the V 300 d can briefly deliver an additional 30 Nm of torque ("overtorque") in addition to its 500 Nm of torque. The V 300 d accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. It can reach a top speed of 137.5 mph.

The new engine generation is even more efficient and clean and offers further improved noise and vibration characteristics. It is pleasantly quiet inside the vehicle and annoying vibrations have been reduced.

Among the innovative characteristics of the new engine generation are the combination of an aluminium housing and steel pistons, the stepped recess combustion process and NANOSLIDE® cylinder wall coating for reducing friction within the engine. How efficient these measures are can be seen on the basis of the fuel savings of up to 13 percent.

The majority of components relevant to reducing emission are directly installed on the engine. The integrated technological approach comprising a new stepped recess combustion process, dynamic multiway exhaust gas recirculation and close-coupled exhaust gas aftertreatment facilitates low consumption with low emissions. Thanks to the near-engine, insulated position of the components, the exhaust-gas aftertreatment system enjoys low heat loss and advantageous working conditions. The measures include:

• High and low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation including cooling
• A diesel oxidation catalytic converter (DOC) reduces the carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and unburnt hydrocarbons (HC)
• A particle filter with SCR catalytic converter functionality (sDPF)
• An SCR catalytic converter (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for reducing nitrous oxides. Plus, ammonia is mixed into the exhaust gas upstream of the sDPF in the form of AdBlue®
• An additional Selective Catalytic Reduction catalytic converter (SCR) with ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) in the exhaust gas duct

The facelift will also see the V-Class optionally equipped with the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission for the first time. The particularly comfortable and efficient converter automatic transmission replaces the 7G-TRONIC and is available as standard in the UK. The driver can use the DYNAMIC SELECT switch to select the drive programs "Comfort" and "Sport" and thus influence the shifting behaviour. Alternatively, "M" mode allows the driver to shift manually using the DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift paddles.

All engine variants of the new V-Class are equipped as standard with rear-wheel drive.

New V-Class, even safer
With the standard feature Crosswind Assist, the driver receives support in keeping the V-Class on track even in the case of heavy crosswinds. Meanwhile, ATTENTION ASSIST which was introduced in the V-Class four years ago put the V-Class in a league of its own for safety standards in its segment. And the facelift model continues to build on this position.

In this respect, the new Active Brake Assist can now detect the risk of a collision with a vehicle driving in front and initially initiates a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver reacts, Active Brake Assist increases the brake pressure to suit the requirements of the situation. If the driver fails to react, the system initiates autonomous braking. In urban traffic the Active Brake Assist also reacts to stationary obstacles or pedestrians crossing. In this way, accidents can be avoided or, at the very least, the consequences thereof reduced.

Another new safety feature is Highbeam Assist Plus (standard in the UK) which is available for the first time in the V-Class. In main-beam mode, Highbeam Assist Plus allows the driver to enjoy a permanent, broad illumination of the roadway without dazzling other road users. In the event of vehicles in front or oncoming traffic, the LEDs of the main-beam module are partially deactivated and thus create a U-shaped cut-out in the cone of light. The remaining areas of the roadway continue to be illuminated with the main-beam headlamps (partial main beam).

Facelift also for Mercedes-Benz campers and leisure vehicles
Be it in terms of style or value appeal, performance and efficiency or safety, the Marco Polo family based on the V-Class will also benefit from the entire scope of the first facelift to the Mercedes-Benz MPV at the same time as the base model. The compact Marco Polo and Marco Polo HORIZON campers and leisure vehicles also feature the new front-end design, the new paint colours and light-alloy wheels, as well as the new air vents and upholsteries. They are joined by the new diesel engine with a new peak of 176 kW (239 hp) (combined fuel consumption is 41.6mpg-46.3mpg, combined CO2 emissions 180-160 g/km)1 as well as Active Brake Assist and Highbeam Assist Plus.

Expansion of the eDrive@VANs strategy
In the MPV segment, Mercedes-Benz Vans will soon be taking the next step and will be the first premium manufacturer to offer a fully-electric model. Thus Mercedes-Benz Vans will consistently expand its comprehensive eDrive@VANs strategy. With the eVito already available and the eSprinter due for market launch in the second half of 2019, the range of fully-electric vehicles will then be extended to include a model series for private use. 

Mercedes-Benz Vans will provide an initial outlook on the electric future of its MPV at the Geneva International Motor Show with the near-series study „Concept EQV“, which will celebrate its premiere there.

Short version
Mercedes-Benz management on the new V-Class
"With the introduction of the V-Class five years ago, we showed that a stylish and dynamic presence is also possible in XXL format. In doing so, we were able to convince families, leisure adventurers and business customers alike – from Europe right across to Asia. Proof of this can be found in the 209,000 or so V-Class units that have been sold since its market launch as well as in the fact that the vehicle has one of the youngest buyer groups across Mercedes-Benz. At the beginning of 2019, we'll be continuing this success story. With the facelift, we're building on the strengths of our MPV in a targeted manner. And we'll soon also make the next big statement in this segment by expanding our portfolio with a fully electric MPV."
Wilfried Porth, Member of the Daimler AG Board of Management for Human Resources and Director of Labour Relations at Mercedes-Benz Vans

"With targeted adjustments, we've given the V-Class a new look. On the outside, it has greater presence thanks to the new front design and on the inside, it makes a statement of sensual purity." Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Daimler AG

"In line with the facelift, the V-Class will receive the Mercedes-Benz OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine. This is an especially efficient and clean unit. The new V-Class is even more dynamic with its new top engine, the V 300 d. It's truly the benchmark in the segment."3
Dr Ulf Zillig, Head of Development at Mercedes-Benz Vans

Long version
The MPV from Mercedes-Benz: a look back in time
In 2014, Mercedes-Benz became the benchmark in the MPV sector with the V-Class bringing together elegance and functionality in a single package. Since then, it has gone on to appeal to a diverse range of target groups. Since its premiere in 2014 around 209,000 V-Classes have been sold, and last year the V-Class achieved a sales record, with some 64,000 units sold. Contributing factors to its success are continuous improvements and updates to the product, including the addition of new variants and equipment options. The Mercedes-Benz MPV has also seen its worldwide popularity becoming more established over the course of the past five years – including in the big Asian markets like Japan and China.

Four customer groups in focus
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class combines a dynamic and elegant appearance with its XXL format. The biggest member of the Stuttgart-based passenger car family brings together space for up to eight people and an intelligent load space concept with the value appeal and comfort traditionally associated with cars from the brand with the three-pointed star. And thus, the vehicle appeals to a broad spectrum of customer groups:

• Families with two or more children who place value on an active family life, leisure time and a good work-life balance
• People who place importance on active leisure activities and the need for a vehicle to transport the most varied types of sports and outdoor equipment
• Providers of luxurious VIP and hotel shuttle vehicles, who wish to offer their guests a comfortable journey
• Business owners who need their vehicle both for private use and for work purposes, and for whom the V-Class also serves as their calling card

Success thanks to the right basic concept and constant expansion of the product offering
Since its market launch in 2014, the V-Class has enjoyed a successful history. In total around 209,000 vehicles have been sold so far. Last year some 64,000 units were sold – a new best. From January to December sales were up by 7.7 percent. The MPV was particularly sought-after among customers in Germany and China; the biggest increase on the previous year was achieved in China.

Besides its well-suited basic concept the continual and targeted expansion of the product portfolio has contributed to the success of the V-Class. Customers also benefited from a growing number of possibilities to personalise their Mercedes MPV:

• Since 2016, the V-Class has featured the biggest panoramic roof in this segment, plus the range also saw the introduction of the AMG Line and further comfort-enhancing equipment such as the centre console with integrated coolbox and temperature-controlled cup holders
• Equally available since 2016 are Mercedes me connect services. With these, customers can use their smartphone, tablet or PC to connect with their V-Class at any time, provided they have an internet connection. Services the customer can use include the Mercedes-Benz emergency call system, accident and maintenance management or the real-time traffic service

The V-Class as a part of the "Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global" strategy
Since its launch in 2014, it isn't just the European market which the V-Class has conquered. From November 2015 onwards, the vehicle has also been available on the Japanese and Middle Eastern markets. In the spring of 2016, it was introduced in China – tailored to the desires and requirements of the Chinese customers. Hong Kong followed in 2018. And the internationalisation doesn't stop there: in January 2019, the V-Class was also launched in India for the first time, too.

The V-Class is thus an important building block in the global "Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global" growth strategy. In line with the "Mercedes-Benz Vans goes global" strategy, Mercedes-Benz Vans has three main approaches: market strategies for global expansion, product strategies for continual development and differentiation of the product portfolio, as well as the future-oriented initiative adVANce, as part of which the development and commercialisation are combined on the basis of customer-friendly, comprehensive transport and mobility solutions.

The V-Class is produced in Vitoria. The Mercedes-Benz plant in Vitoria is the international Centre of Competence for Mercedes-Benz Vans vehicles of the mid segment.

Long version
The new V-Class: new design and even greater comfort
Style and value appeal of the Mercedes-Benz MPV are ground-breaking in the segment – and a major contributing factor to its success to date. By means of a series of targeted adjustments, the designers in Stuttgart have now given the V-Class a new look as part of its facelift. The model finds design inspiration from the current Mercedes-Benz passenger car model series – for example with: an even more present front design as well as new colours and materials. A further highlight of the new V-Class comes in the form of the luxury seats in the rear which offer a special spa-like experience.

New front design with high recognition value
Thanks to its new front end, the new V-Class has a broader appearance and an even stronger visual presence. This comes courtesy of a new bumper design with striking cooling air inlets and a new diamond structure in the radiator grille. The Mercedes star is positioned centrally in the radiator grille and framed by two slats in silver. In this way, the new V-Class presents itself as a member of the current generation of the Mercedes-Benz passenger car family. The personalisation concept with the attractive Sport line and Exclusive line (new to the UK) continue to exist, while the AMG Line will become visually more powerful: besides the familiar bumper with AMG bodystyling, it now features a new diamond radiator grille with chrome pins. The AMG Line thus instantaneously demonstrates its sportiness and dynamism.

On the sides, the design of the new V-Class remains unchanged compared with the predecessor. It is made up of two drawn and taut lines. Concave and convex surfaces interplay with one another, forming a sculpted and sensual character. Both lines continue the prominent contours of the new front bumper, and rise gently towards the rear. Accordingly, the side view appears stretched and

continues the dynamism of the new front design. An optional chrome trim strip on the window line further emphasises this impression. A harmonious conclusion is formed by the proven, attractively styled rear lamps featuring LED technology. Standard in the UK, the rear end design is further highlighted by means of a chrome trim element on the lower edge of the rear window.

New paint colours and light-alloy wheels
The new V-Class now has two new paint colours to show off. While graphite grey metallic expands the palette of black and white tones, the hyacinth red metallic so popular in the Mercedes-Benz passenger car range makes for a highly emotive highlight.

The light-alloy wheels available for the MPV have also been given a restyling as part of the facelift. The following are available with the new V-Class: a black-painted and high-sheen finish 19-inch light-alloy wheel with 10-spoke design as well as two 18-inch light-alloy wheels with either a 5-twin-spoke design in tremolite grey and with a high-sheen finish or a 5-spoke design in black with a high-sheen finish. The design of this light-alloy wheel is not just striking and avantgarde, it is also especially aerodynamic and thus serves to reduce the cd value of the V-Class even further.

Interior in new colours and materials
The interior of the new V-Class follows the trend of modernity and clarity. In line with the facelift, the V-Class facelift presents itself with new air vents in a more sporty turbine look familiar from the A-Class as well as new dials in the instrument cluster. Thanks to the reduced design, drivers can orientate themselves much more simply. The new upholstery and equipment colour tartufo nappa leather, as familiar from the E-Class and G-Class models, now also makes a modern and elegant statement in the new V-Class. With Lugano leather and nappa leather (standard in the UK), each available in black and silk beige, a total of three different upholsteries in light and dark colours is available. Modern and elegant can also be used to describe the new trim element in twin-stripe look which is used on the instrument panel and in the side trim elements. The trim elements in the piano lacquer, ebony wood, carbon fibre and brushed aluminium looks remain.

Luxury seats are a new, comfortable highlight
Comfort oblige in the MPV segment. To date, the V-Class has impressed passengers with such comforts as the biggest panoramic sliding roof in the segment, a broad centre console with integrated coolbox and LED-illuminated temperature-controlled cup holders or discreet ambient lighting with three colours and five dimming levels available. And with the new V-Class, passengers in the first rear row of seats can now also enjoy a further optional highlight. As in the S-Class, optionally available luxury seats (standard in Exclusive edition) with fully reclining function, back massage and climatisation now also pamper vehicle occupants. Passengers can choose from three different massage intensities and three climatisation stages. A journey in the new V-Class as a VIP shuttle thus feels more like a spa treatment after a stressful flight or business meeting.

Variable and simple loading and unloading of the new V-Class is made possible by means of a separately opening rear window, load space divider and the electric EASY-PACK tailgate – a true gain in comfort, be it for use as a shuttle, for a trip to the supermarket with the family or when transporting bulky sports equipment (standard in the UK).

Almost unlimited seating configurations and flexible luggage space
The seating in the rear of the new V-Class continues to allow a multitude of configuration options for the most varied of requirements. As standard, the MPV comes with four individual comfort seats in two seat rows which comes with 2 luxury seats. Sport and AMG line vehicles come as standard with the eight seat option and a seven seat version featuring a folding table is available optionally. The Exlcusive edition features only six seats.

Long version
The new V-Class: new engine, new transmission
With the four-cylinder OM 654 engine and the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission now being available for the first time, the new V-Class doesn't just feature visual modifications. The new V-Class delivers even more dynamic driving than the previous model and, in the V 300 d model with the top engine output variant of 176 kW (239 hp), it stands at the top of the podium in the MPV segment (combined fuel consumption 6.3-5.9 l/100 km, (44.9mpg – 47.9mpg) combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1 What's more, thanks to the new engine generation, it is also more efficient and clean than before, offering an improved level of noise and vibration comfort.

Even more driving dynamism thanks to new diesel engine generation
As part of the facelift, the new V-Class can be equipped with the four-cylinder engine from the OM 654 family, which offers two-litre displacement in output stages including the following:

• The V 300 d with 176 kW (239 hp) and 500 Nm torque; this represents a new top value in the segment
  (combined fuel consumption (44.9mpg – 47.9mpg) combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1

In the acceleration phase, the V 300 d can briefly deliver an additional 30 Nm of torque ("overtorque") in addition to its 500 Nm of torque. The V 300 d accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 7.9 seconds. It can reach a top speed of 137mph.

OM 654: less consumption and further-developed noise and vibration comfort
In line with the facelift, the V-Class will receive the OM 654 four-cylinder diesel engine. This is the first time that the stepped recess combustion process will be used in the Mercedes-Benz MPV. Its name refers to the shape of the combustion pocket in the piston. The weight of the new four-cylinder diesel engine was able to be reduced by 17 percent in comparison with the predecessor. The displacement is now just two litres instead of the previous 2.15 litres and the cylinder spacing is now shorter at 90 mm compared to 94 mm previously.

In comparison to the previous model, the new engine consumes less fuel, this saving is up to 13 percent2. This comes thanks to the airflow guidance at the intake and exhaust sides as well as the implementation of fourth-generation common-rail injection with pressures of up to 2500 bar. Above all, the internal friction was able to be reduced by 25 percent. This was achieved by means of:

• Flat steel pistons with innovative stepped recesses and a long connecting rod
• NANOSLIDE® coating of the cylinder walls
• Offset of the crank assembly
• Reduction of the displacement
• A comprehensive range of measures, e.g. in camshaft operation

Additionally, the new engine delivers further improved noise and vibration comfort. It is pleasantly quiet inside the vehicle and annoying vibrations have been reduced.

Exhaust emissions: Euro 6d-TEMP norm
The OM 654 has been manufactured such that it fulfils the future emissions regulations (RDE – Real Driving Emissions) and the Euro 6d-TEMP norm. The majority of components relevant to effectively reducing emissions are directly installed on the engine. The integrated technological approach comprising a new stepped recess combustion process, dynamic multiway exhaust gas recirculation and close-coupled exhaust gas aftertreatment facilitates low consumption with low emissions. Thanks to the near-engine, insulated position of the components, the exhaust-gas aftertreatment system enjoys low heat loss and advantageous working conditions. The measures include:

• High and low-pressure exhaust gas recirculation including cooling
• A diesel oxidation catalytic converter (DOC) reduces the carbon monoxide (CO) emissions and unburnt hydrocarbons (HC)
• A particle filter with SCR catalytic converter functionality (sDPF)
• An SCR catalytic converter (Selective Catalytic Reduction) for reducing nitrous oxides. Plus, ammonia is mixed into the exhaust gas upstream of the sDPF in the form of AdBlue®
• An additional Selective Catalytic Reduction catalytic converter (SCR) with ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) in the exhaust gas duct

The new 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission – comfortable and efficient
Suited to the new engine generation, the new V-Class will, for the first time, feature the 9G-TRONIC automatic transmission. The particularly comfortable and efficient converter automatic transmission replaces the 7G-TRONIC and is available as standard in the V 300 d (combined fuel consumption (44.9mpg-47.9mpg) combined CO2 emissions 165-154 g/km)1. The driver can use the DYNAMIC SELECT switch to select the drive programs "Comfort" and "Sport" and thus influence the shifting behaviour. Alternatively, "M" mode allows the driver to shift manually using the DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift paddles.

Above all, the 9G-TRONIC stands out thanks to its lower weight and the reduced amount of installation space which it requires. It features a patented gear set concept with four planetary gear sets and six shift elements. Nine gears make possible an especially broad ratio spread which starts at 9.15. The torque converter's high operating efficiency of 92 percent is in part due to the needs-based supply of oil by means of a highly efficient vane pump and electrical auxiliary pump. Exemplary drive comfort is ensured by the twin-turbine torsional damper with centrifugal pendulum and the torque converter lock-up clutch with return spring. An innovative component comes in the form of the transmission's main shaft featuring three deep-drilled holes.

At a glance: extract from the engine range of the new V-Class

Three chassis variants for the most varied of requirements
The new V-Class continues to be available in three different chassis versions. Their characteristics range from relaxed comfort to sporty dynamism:

• The AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system combines agility with very high levels of driving comfort (standard in the UK)

Long version
The new V-Class: even safer
Journeys are best enjoyed when they come accompanied with a calming sense of feeling safe. With Crosswind Assist and ATTENTION ASSIST among the standard equipment, five years ago the V-Class redefined safety standards in this segment. And the facelift takes this position a step further with the new Active Brake Assist and Highbeam Assist Plus systems.

New V-Class now brakes to a standstill if a collision threatens
For the first time ever, the V-Class can be ordered with Active Brake Assist (comes as standard in the UK). Active Brake Assist detects when there is a risk of collision with a vehicle travelling in front and initially emits a visual and acoustic warning. If the driver reacts, Active Brake Assist increases the brake pressure to suit the requirements of the situation. If there is no reaction, the system initiates an autonomous application of the brakes. In urban traffic the Active Brake Assist also reacts to stationary obstacles or pedestrians crossing. It thus makes a definitive contribution towards avoiding accidents or, at the very least, reducing their severity. Active Brake Assist is available both as an individual item of optional equipment and as part of Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC or the Driving Assistance Package.

Equally new in the V-Class: Highbeam Assist Plus (standard in the UK). In main-beam mode, Highbeam Assist Plus allows the driver to enjoy a permanent, broad illumination of the roadway without dazzling other road users. In the event of vehicles in front or oncoming traffic, the LEDs of the main-beam module are partially deactivated and thus create a U-shaped cut-out in the cone of light. The remaining areas of the roadway continue to be illuminated with the main-beam headlamps (partial main beam).

An overview of further safety and assistance systems
Further safety and assistance systems in the new Mercedes-Benz MPV include:

• Driving Assistance Package with Blind Spot Assist, Lane Keeping Assist, Active Brake Assist and the preventive occupant protection system PRE-SAFE®
• Active Parking Assist with reversing camera and Active Parking Assist with 360° camera - make searching for a parking space easier, and also manoeuvring into and out of end-on and parallel parking spaces
• Traffic Sign Assist points out signposted speed restrictions as well as no-entry and no-overtaking restrictions detected by the system

More Sports for the Tourer
Stuttgart/Paris. The new Mercedes-Benz B-Class puts the emphasis on sport with the Sports Tourer. It looks more dynamic than its predecessor and is more agile on the road while offering greater comfort. Its avant-garde interior makes for a unique feeling of space with the distinctive design of the instrument panel. One of the special features is a basic volume, which drops away towards the occupants and has cutouts in the area of the driver and front passenger. The intuitive user interface of the adaptive MBUX multimedia system is ground-breaking. Its strengths include brilliant graphics, "Hey Mercedes" voice control, a standard touch screen and functions such as MBUX Augmented Reality. When it comes to active safety, state-of-the-art driving assistance systems make the B-Class one of the segment leaders with functions carried over from the S-Class. In addition, the interior is now more spacious, while the engines are more efficient and cleaner. The eight-speed dual-clutch transmission makes its debut. Start of sales for the new B-Class is 3 December 2018, with delivery due to begin in February 2019.

"More practical than ever, more chic than ever," is how Britta Seeger, Member of the Board of Management of Daimler AG, responsible for Mercedes-Benz Cars Sales, characterises the new B-Class. "In our portfolio of compacts, it's the perfect vehicle for the whole family. And MBUX – the new Mercedes-Benz User Experience – provides also the B-Class with an all-new customer experience with functions that were previously the reserve of the luxury class."

"The latest derivative of the new generation of compact cars from Mercedes-Benz, the B-Class writes a further punchy chapter in the success story of the dynamic Mercedes-Benz Sports Tourer," says Gorden Wagener, Chief Design Officer of Daimler AG. "With its emotional yet purist design, the new B-Class blends seamlessly into the design language of Sensual Purity."

The designers' brief was to make the new B-Class stand out visually from the world of minivans. That brief was accepted and executed, with the long wheelbase (2729 mm) with short overhangs, slightly lowered roof line and larger, 16- to 19-inch wheels making for dynamic proportions. The relatively squat, progressive front end with flowing transition from bonnet to A-pillar and on to the windscreen, along with the muscular shoulder of the body, underlines the sporty overall look.

The same is true of the low-profile headlamps, the inside of which is already high-grade, detailed and precisely designed on the basic model with H7 headlamps and LED daytime running lights. When ordered with LED headlamps or higher, the B-Class comes with its own daytime running light signature in the form of a double torch. The optional MULTIBEAM LED headlamps have an especially sporty look. They allow fast, electronically controlled adjustment of the headlamps to suit the current traffic conditions. This feature from the luxury class, which made its debut in the compact segment in the new A-Class, now produces striking looks and added safety also in the new B-Class.

At the back, the width of the vehicle is accentuated by two-part lamps, reflectors integrated in the bumper and a distinctive black bumper bottom section with diffuser look and chrome trim strip. The large roof spoiler, along with high-gloss black spoilers at the sides of the rear window, makes for improved aerodynamics while ensuring a sporty appearance.

The cd value of the new B-Class starts at 0.24 (predecessor: 0.25). The lower roof line further contributes to a best-in-class airflow due to the smaller end face of the car. In addition, the aerodynamics engineers have reduced the wind noise thanks to extensive detail work. The benefits: a high level of alertness as well as the ability to engage in a relaxed conversation.

The improved seat geometry and lower belt line make for an even more generous feeling of space than in the previous model. The driver sits 90 millimetres higher than in an A-Class, thus enjoying an especially good all-round view – also thanks to optimised cross-sections of the roof pillars, which obscure less of the surroundings.

Interior design: revolution, the second
The interior of the B-Class is as avant-garde as the much-praised revolutionary interior architecture of the new A-Class, yet distinctive: while the instrument panel of the sister model is split into two horizontal basic bodies, that of the B-Class has a single basic volume, which drops away towards the occupants and has cutouts in the area of the driver and front passenger. The cutout in front of the driver houses the fully free-standing display unit, which comes in three different versions: with two 7-inch displays (17.78 cm), with one 7- and one 10.25-inch display (26 cm) and, in the Widescreen version, with two 10.25-inch displays. A head-up display is optionally available.

The five round air vents feature a high-grade turbine look with finely styled air ducts, inspired by the world of aviation. In the Style equipment line, the vent surround is colour-accentuated in the depth of the vent geometry to give the impression of an afterburner. The centre console with touch-based control and input system comes with a black panel look similar to the E-Class. The ambience lighting with 64 colours and ten colour worlds, a unique selling point in this segment, allows individual adjustments, even to suit the mood.

The seats offer a flatter and, therefore, more comfortable seating position as well as a larger adjustment range, which also increases the maximum headroom. There is also more space in the width: at 1456 millimetres (plus 33 mm), the front elbow width now has the dimensions of a mid-range vehicle.

ENERGIZING seat kinetics: supports changes of posture
With seat climate control and multicontour seats with massage function, the new B-Class is available with optional extras that were previously reserved for vehicles from much higher segments. This opens the way to even better seating comfort.

The new ENERGIZING seat kinetics is particularly good for the back. It can support orthopaedically beneficial changes of posture by regularly making minute adjustments to the angle of the seat cushion and backrest. The innovation is available for the front seats in combination with all-electric seat adjustment with memory function.

Variable rear seats and optimised luggage compartment layout
The interior has been fine-tuned in many places: the improved entry aperture to the centre tunnel in the rear makes for a more accessible middle seat. The rear seat backrest comes as standard with a 40:20:40 split. Depending on version, from mid-2019 it will be possible for the rear seats to be moved by 14 centimetres and for the backrest to be folded into a steeper position to vary the capacity of the luggage compartment behind the rear seats between 455 and 705 litres. Although the capacity is roughly the same as in the previous model, the luggage compartment can be more efficiently used thanks to the improvements.

With the rear seat folded down and luggage loaded to the roof, the luggage compartment, which is flat thanks to the adjustable load compartment floor, can accommodate up to 1540 litres behind the front seats. A folding backrest of the front passenger seat (optional extra, expected to be available from mid-2019) makes for an even longer loading length.

An EASY-PACK tailgate is optionally available. It can be conveniently opened or closed automatically at the press of a button, even by means of a foot movement in combination with optional HANDS-FREE ACCESS.

MBUX – Mercedes-Benz User Experience: unique experience
What goes for A also goes for B: the new B-Class is the second car model after the A-Class to feature the MBUX (Mercedes-Benz User Experience) multimedia system, which ushered in a new era with Mercedes me Connectivity. Its ability to learn thanks to Artificial Intelligence makes the system unique. MBUX is customisable and adapts to the user. It thus creates an emotional link between vehicle, driver and passengers.

Its other strengths include touch screen control as standard as well as, depending on equipment, a high-resolution Widescreen cockpit, navigation display with Augmented Reality technology plus intelligent voice control with natural speech recognition, which is activated by saying "Hey Mercedes". The touch screen is part of the integrated MBUX touch control concept – a trio consisting of touch screen, touchpad on the centre console (optional) and touch controls on the steering wheel.

MBUX is a revolution of the user experience in the car. Emotively appealing showcasing features underline the comprehensibility of the control structure and thrill through brilliant 3-D maximum-resolution graphics which are rendered, i.e. calculated and displayed, in real time. A head-up display is also available.

New and improved Mercedes me connect services were launched with the new MBUX infotainment generation. These include navigation functions based on Car-to-X communication and Vehicle Tracking, which makes it easier to find the parked vehicle, as well as a notification function in the event of the parked vehicle being bumped or towed away.

The Mercedes me collection of apps can be placed as an icon on the screen in a user-friendly way, and can be freely sorted on the homepage like all other main applications. In addition, online content, such as current petrol station prices, can optionally be displayed. Online updating is a simple way of allowing new content to be made available in MBUX.

The new B-Class is already set up for private car sharing: Mercedes me allows the new compact car to be shared with friends and family members. Operation is simple and secure using the Mercedes me Car Sharing app.

The new Mercedes me connect services On-Street Prediction, Real-Time Information and Off-Street Information can save Mercedes-Benz drivers valuable time and reduce their stress levels while at the same time cutting their fuel consumption and emissions when searching for a parking space. The real-time information is based, among other things, on Mercedes-Benz vehicles that have just left a parking space or driven past potential parking spaces.

Intelligent Drive: functions from the S-Class
The new B-Class comes with driving assistance systems with cooperative driver support, thus providing one of the highest levels of active safety in this segment with functions from the S‑Class. For the first time, the B-Class is able to drive semi-autonomously in certain situations. To do so, it employs improved camera and radar systems to anticipate the traffic up to 500 metres ahead while using map and navigation data for assistance functions. For example, Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC as part of the Driving Assistance package is able to support the driver in many route-specific situations, predictively and conveniently adjusting the speed, e.g. when approaching bends, junctions or roundabouts. Also on board are Active Emergency Stop Assist and intuitively understandable Active Lane Change Assist.

The new B-Class comes as standard with extended Active Brake Assist, which can help mitigate the severity of rear-end collisions with slower-moving, stopping or stationary vehicles ahead – and now even with crossing pedestrians or cyclists – or prevent them altogether.

The new B-Class, too, was developed and tested at the new Vehicle Safety Technology Centre (TFS). The design of the vehicle structures with regard to geometry, material thickness, joining technique and material quality incorporates findings from real-world accidents. Many bodyshell components are made of high-strength and ultra-high-strength steel to obtain high strength with lowest possible weight, because the core of the safety design of the body is the highly stable passenger cell.

Driver and front passenger are provided with three-point seat belts with pyrotechnic belt tensioners and belt force limitation. In combination with the PRE-SAFE® system (optional extra), the front seats are additionally equipped with electrically reversible belt reel tensioners. Both of the outer rear seats are fitted with a seat belt with reel tensioner and belt force limiter. The new B-Class comes as standard with airbags for driver and front passenger, kneebag for driver and windowbags and sidebags (combined thorax/pelvis bag). Rear sidebags are optionally available.

Double powertrain debut: new powerful two-litre diesel is Euro 6d compliant, new eight-speed dual-clutch transmission
Compared to its predecessor, the new B-Class is in all cases powered by new, efficient engines, all of which comply with the Euro 6d-TEMP limits. Making its debut is a transverse-mounted version of the OM 654 two-litre diesel with 110 kW and 140 kW, aluminium crankcase and stepped-bowl combustion process. Thanks to extended exhaust aftertreatment with an additional underfloor SCR catalyst, the B-Class with the OM 654q is the first compact model from Mercedes-Benz to be certified in accordance with the Euro 6d standard, which will become mandatory for new models only on 1.1.2020. The large diesel represents an addition to the four-cylinder diesel (OM 608) already known from the A-Class with 1.5-litre displacement, up to 85 kW and up to 260 Nm.

Also available are two four-cylinder petrol engines of the M 282 series with 1.33-litre displacement and 100 kW/120 kW. Innovations include cylinder management (in combination with 7G-DCT transmission), delta shape of the cylinder head and particle filter.

The new B-Class is initially available exclusively with dual-clutch transmissions. New here is the eight-speed 8G-DCT, which is used in combination with the larger diesel engine. Other new engines will follow, as will models with 4MATIC all-wheel drive. A 43-litre tank is installed as standard, while a 51-litre tank is optionally available, depending on the engine.

The following five engine variants will be available at the launch of the B-Class[1]:

• B 180 (100kW/136 hp, 200 Nm); with 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (combined fuel consumption 5.6-5.4 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 128-124 g/km)
• B 200 (120kW/163 hp, 250 Nm); with 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (combined fuel consumption 5.6-5.4 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 129-124 g/km)

• B 180 d with 7G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (85kW/116 hp), 260 Nm; combined fuel consumption 4.4-4.1 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 115-109 g/km)
• B 200 d with 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (110kW/150 hp), 320 Nm; combined fuel consumption 5.4-4.2 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 119-112 g/km)
• B 220 d with 8G-DCT dual-clutch transmission (140kW/190 hp), 400 Nm; combined fuel consumption 4.5-4.4 l/100 km, combined CO2 emissions 119-116 g/km).

The new OM 654q diesel engine: lighter, more powerful, cleaner
The transverse-mounted version of the latest premium diesel engine family makes its debut in the new B-Class. Despite its lower displacement – just under two litres - the around 16 percent lighter new diesel engine with 140 kW (190 hp) puts out 10 kW more than the previous engine. On the inside, the OM 654q offers efficiency-enhancing technological highlights such as steel pistons with stepped bowls in an aluminium block. The cylinder liners are coated using the further-improved NANOSLIDE® process.

With a cylinder spacing of just 90 mm instead of 94 mm, the new engine is more compact than its predecessor while allowing the exhaust aftertreatment components to be installed directly on the engine, where the exhaust temperature is higher, making for more efficient aftertreatment. Thanks to further improved exhaust aftertreatment, the powerful four-cylinder from the modern OM 654 engine family already meets the Stage 2 RDE (Real Driving Emissions) standard coming into force from 2020, and is certified to Euro 6d. Even in demanding driving situations and under challenging environmental conditions, the B-Class remains within all the emissions limits.

This is achieved by additional selective catalytic reduction (SCR) with an ammonia slip catalyst (ASC) in the exhaust system of the B-Class. This allows a more generous dose of the reduction agent AdBlue, as any surpluses can be reduced and converted in the second SCR. These surpluses (amonia slip) particularly occur during fast temperature changes in the exhaust tract, e.g. when moving from city traffic to the motorway.

Suspension: agile and comfortable
At least as agile as its predecessor while even more comfortable – that was the development brief handed to the suspension specialists for the new B-Class. Depending on the version, several options are available for the basic configuration, including a lowered comfort suspension and a suspension with active adaptive damping, which lets the driver control the damper tuning while driving using DYNAMIC SELECT. The system uses an electronic valve, the control of which additionally analyses the driving state and optimises the damping rate individually for each wheel.

In all versions of the new B-Class, the front wheels feature McPherson struts and forged-aluminium wishbones, to which are attached cast-aluminium steering knuckles. This makes the unsprung mass as low as possible in the interests of road-holding and comfort.

At the rear, the models with the entry-level engine variants come with a twist-beam rear axle in the basic configuration. In combination with the more powerful engine variants or if the customer opts for one of the optional suspension systems, use is made of a sophisticated four-link rear axle, which is made extensively of aluminium to reduce the unsprung mass. The three wishbones and one trailing arm on each of the rear wheels are mounted on a subframe, which is isolated from the bodyshell by rubber bushings to reduce the transfer of vibration and noise from suspension to body. Single-tube shock absorbers and separate coil springs are used for both the four-link and the twist-beam rear axle.