mercedes-benz v-class - geneva - press release
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Mercedes-Benz V-Class - Geneva - Press ReleaseTRANSCRIPT
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
The new V-Class
The Mercedes among MPVs
Contents Page
Short version
The new V-Class – the Mercedes among MPVs 3
Long version
The innovations of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class
Redefining the MPV 11
Exterior design
Emotional, powerful, dynamic – the restaging of size 14
The model range
Versatile and individual for the most widely ranging requirements 16
Interior design
Sophisticated style and high-class appeal 20
Under the microscope: high-class appeal
"The most spacious car from Mercedes-Benz" 23
Interior
A new dimension of comfort and variability 25
Under the microscope: automatic climate control
Individual feel-good climate 29
New control and display concept
Multifunctional touchpad with gesture control 32
Infotainment programme
Unique selection that caters to every need 35
Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive
Assistance systems on board 39
Press Information
30 January 2014
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 2 Drive system
Efficient driving pleasure: six-cylinder power with four-cylinder fuel consumption
47
Suspension
New benchmark for agility and safety
53
The bodywork and passive safety
High-strength passenger cell and the very latest in restraint systems for optimum occupant protection
57
The descriptions and information in this press kit apply to the international Mercedes-
Benz model range and may vary according to country and specified equipment.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 3 The new V-Class
The Mercedes among MPVs
Stuttgart. With the V-Class Mercedes-Benz redefines the MPV. As the
youngest and largest member of the passenger car family from
Stuttgart, it sets new benchmarks in its segment with its design and
a host of innovations. The new V-Class combines room for up to
eight people and exemplary functionality with the high-class appeal,
comfort, efficient driving pleasure and safety that distinguish the
automobiles bearing the three-pointed star. This makes the
Mercedes among MPVs the perfect vehicle for everyone who
appreciates great spaciousness but does not want to sacrifice style
and comfort.
Whether off on a shopping spree or travelling with the whole family,
heading out for a mountain bike holiday with friends in the Alps or driving
prominent guests to a red carpet event - the new V-Class provides
optimum flexibility when it comes to use of the interior and always cuts an
elegant figure at the same time. With the two equipment lines V-Class and
V-Class AVANTGARDE, an Exterior Sports package and an Interior
Design package for each line, two wheelbases, three body lengths from
4895 to 5370 millimetres, three engines and also many optional extras,
the new MPV can be individualised to suit any taste and requirement. As
a result it meets a wide variety of customer needs and is just as attractive
for families as it is for people who need a variable and spacious interior
for their leisure and sports activities. In addition, it is ideally suited as a
luxurious VIP or hotel shuttle.
"With the new V-Class we are expanding the Mercedes-Benz premium
passenger car range with a saloon for up to eight people", says Dr Dieter
Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management Daimler AG and Head of
Mercedes-Benz Cars Division. "Functionality is a must for an MPV.
Comfort and style are the icing on the cake. The new V-Class combines
both in a way no other vehicle in this segment can offer."
Emotional, dynamic appearance – size in a new guise
Even at first glance the V-Class is unmistakably a member of the
Mercedes-Benz cars family and sets an emotional highlight in its
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Page 4 segment. At the centre of the powerful front is the upright radiator grille
with three-dimensional central star and the progressively designed
headlamps, which for the first time in this segment offer all lighting
functions in LED technology as an optional extra. The sculptured V-
shaped bonnet merges elegantly into the chrome frame of the radiator
grille and the headlamps. The lower air intakes and the radiator grille
feature narrow louvres. In conjunction with the headlamps, which extend
far into the wings, they emphasise the width of the vehicle and underscore
the self-confident appearance of the new V-Class.
The clearly contoured side wall is structured by two elongated, taut lines.
The interplay of concave and convex surfaces conveys a sculptural – and
as such highly sensuous – character. Both lines smoothly continue the
distinctive contour lines of the front bumper and rise slightly as they
continue on towards the rear. The side view thus appears elongated and
signals dynamism.
"The new V-Class demonstrates that an elegant and dynamic appearance
is also possible in size XXL", says Volker Mornhinweg, Head of
Mercedes-Benz Vans. "The V-Class is a versatile, multitalented vehicle
which offers value, efficiency and safety at the highest level. As a result we
are addressing a completely new customer group – among them those
who are in need of a generous amount of space but never wanted to drive
an MPV because style, a sense of well-being and also ride comfort have
so far been lacking in this segment."
Modern style and high-class appeal
The interior redefines the meaning of spaciousness in an MPV. High-
quality materials with a pleasant touch and feel and a harmonious colour
concept, intricate details as well as a progressive and sensuous design
idiom convey outstanding high-class appeal in the segment – and that
hallmark "welcome home" feeling provided by Mercedes-Benz cars. Fine
nappa leather is also available for the seats, steering wheel and shift
lever. This inviting atmosphere is rounded off by subtle ambience lighting
in three colours.
A particular eye catcher is the dynamically styled two-part instrument panel.
The upper and lower sections are separated by a large, three-
dimensional trim element that creates an impression of width and
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Page 5 underscores the high-class appeal. The lower section is sculptural in
design. This emphasises the generous sense of space while also making
lightness tangible. For the first time in this class, a leather-look cockpit
upper section with lavishly finished topstitching is optionally available.
Other highlights include the free-standing central display, the multifunction
steering wheel with 12 function keys and DIRECT SELECT selector lever
(plus steering-wheel shift paddles with automatic transmission) as well as
the innovative touchpad, which allows all telematics functions by means
of with gestures or by entering letters and characters like on a
smartphone. The touchpad is available in conjunction with Audio 20 CD
or COMAND Online. The latest generation of COMAND Online combines
all audio, telephone and navigation functions and additionally offers an
internet browser, the LINGUATRONIC voice control system and
transmission of traffic data in real time. The optional Burmester® surround
sound system with 16 loudspeakers and a bass reflex speaker delivers
the perfect listening experience.
A new dimension of comfort
The V-Class also sets new standards in comfort and variability with a host
of innovations. The Mercedes-Benz MPV is the only vehicle in the
segment to offer optional 4-way lumbar support and active seat ventilation
with reversing fans to ensure a consistent relative humidity at the contact
area with the leather seat for driver and front passenger.
Also unique in this class of vehicles is the enhanced THERMOTRONIC
automatic climate control system, which is available as an optional extra
to replace the standard-fit TEMPMATIC system. It has various ventilation
modes to offer individual climate control. The FOCUS, MEDIUM and
DIFFUSE climate modes have distinct settings for air volume and
distribution. In addition, the THERMOTRONIC system features automatic
pre-entry climate control at the touch of a button on the vehicle key, an
integral demisting sensor and distribution of cooled air to the driver and
front passenger sides, the intensity of which is automatically controlled by
the position of the sun.
Numerous seating and loading configurations
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Page 6 The seating in the rear allows numerous configurations to meet any
requirements. As standard, the MPV is equipped with four individual
luxury seats with armrests in two seat rows. Thanks to improved
technology and operating logic, they can be folded forward intuitively to
afford fast and easy access to the rear. An optional folding table can be
installed between the individual seats in the first row.
As an alternative to the individual seats, a two-passenger bench seat with
two-piece, individually folding backrest, or a three-passenger bench seat
with two-piece seat cushion and three-piece backrest is available for both
rear rows. The outer right-hand seat of the three-seater bench can be
folded forward or taken out separately. The entire bench can be folded up
to create space for large items of luggage, such as sports equipment or
newly purchased furniture for the children's room. For overnight
accommodation in the V-Class, the rearmost row also can be equipped
with a three-passenger bench seat as a comfort berth. Drawers are
located underneath the berth, which can also be used as a second
loading level. Cargo also can be stowed under all other bench seats.
Moreover, all bench seats and the individual seats are fitted with
integrated three-point safety belts.
Very little effort is required to move the individual seats and benches fore
and aft or to position them as vis-à-vis seats in the further optimised seat
rails with quick-release system. They can all be removed as well to create
a loading area tailored to specific needs at any time.
Separately opening rear windscreen and second loading level
For easy loading and unloading, the V-Class features another first in this
segment in the shape of the separately opening rear windscreen
attached to the upper tailgate frame. It can be opened and closed
independently of the tailgate. This makes loading and unloading easier in
two respects: on the one hand, it allows a second loading level; on the
other – particularly in tight parking spaces – there is no need to open the
large tailgate. The corresponding load-compartment organiser is easy to
install and remove. It can bear up to 50 kilograms and has two recesses,
each of which holds a removable and collapsible shopping basket. In the
V-Class AVANTGARDE, the separately opening rear windscreen is a
standard feature.
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Page 7 Another USP for the new V-Class: The tailgate is optionally available as
an EASY-PACK tailgate which can be conveniently opened, closed and
stopped in any position electrically. Even smaller people then have no
difficulty closing the tailgate.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 8 Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive – exemplary safety
A total of eleven innovative driver assistance systems ensure a high level
of driving comfort and an exemplary level of safety. They are based on
modern radar, camera and ultrasound sensors, which were introduced in
the new
E-Class and S-Class under the name "Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive".
The standard equipment includes Crosswind Assist, which stabilizes the
V-Class in strong gusts of crosswind, and ATTENTION ASSIST, which
can warn of inattention and fatigue. Optionally available is Active Park
Assist. It makes parking the new MPV as easy and convenient as parking a
compact car.
Also optionally available are the 360-degree camera, DISTRONIC PLUS
proximity control in conjunction with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST,
Traffic Sign Assist with wrong-way warning, Lane Keeping Assist, Blind
Spot Assist, the LED Intelligent Light System and Adaptive Highbeam
Assist. Most of these assistance systems are available in this segment for
the first time.
The PRE-SAFE® system familiar from the passenger car models is
available as an optional extra to further enhance safety. When an
accident threatens it initiates protective measures to ensure that the belts
and airbags offer optimum protection during a collision.
Top efficiency: six-cylinder performance with four-cylinder fuel
consumption
At market launch the new V-Class comes to the starting line with the
state-of-the-art 2.1-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel engine with two-stage
turbocharging, which has already proven highly successful in many
passenger car model series from the A-Class to the S-Class, and which
has now been further enhanced specifically for the MPV. It is available in
three power output levels: the V 200 generates 100 kW (136 hp) and a
maximum torque of 330 Newton metres. The V 220 CDI mobilises
120 kW (163 hp) and 380 Newton metres. This is an increase of
20 Newton metres in each case over the predecessor – but with fuel
consumption down by around two litres per 100 km. With fuel
consumption of just 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres and CO2 emissions of
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Page 9 149 grams per kilometre, the V 220 CDI occupies an absolute leading
position in the segment.
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Page 10 The top-of-the-line V 250 BlueTEC engine has a power output of 140 kW
(190 hp) and powerful peak torque of 440 Newton metres, plus as much
pulling power and agility as the previous 3-litre V6 turbodiesel engine. At
the same time, the new top-of-the-range mode offers very smooth running
characteristics, and interior noise has been reduced significantly - thanks
among other things to comprehensive insulation - compared with the
preceding six-cylinder model. Fuel consumption is also considerably
lower: at 6.0 litres of diesel fuel per 100 kilometres the four-cylinder
turbodiesel runs on 28 percent less fuel than the six-cylinder while
offering identical performance. Thanks to BlueTEC the top-of-the-range
model is also the first vehicle in the segment to comply with the Euro 6
emissions standard. The V 250 BlueTEC is equipped as standard with the
7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and DIRECT
SELECT shift paddles. The convenient automatic transmission is
available as an optional extra for the V 200 CDI and V 220 CDI models.
New standard of agility and driving pleasure
To enhance personal driving pleasure, the V-Class is the only vehicle in
its segment to offer the AGILITY SELECT function in conjunction with the
automatic transmission. At the push of a button the driver can select from
four driving modes: economical, comfortable, sporty and manual. Engine,
accelerator and transmission response are then adapted accordingly. If
the driver activates the modes "Sport", "Comfort" or "Manual", an
additional output of 10 kW and 40 Newton metres becomes available in
acceleration phases ("over-torque"). As a result the V 250 BlueTEC for
example develops 150 kW and maximum torque of a full 480 Newton
metres.
Ground-breaking and unrivalled features in this category of vehicles are
also the AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective adjustment of the
damping system to the road conditions, and the latest generation of
ADAPTIVE ESP®, featuring many assistance functions for optimum
driving safety. The light and precise electromechanical power steering
likewise contributes greatly to the well-balanced driving comfort in the
new V-Class.
Standard equipment: extensive and with stylish details
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Page 11 The new Mercedes-Benz MPV occupies the leading position in its
segment thanks to its sporty character and comfortable appointments.
The standard equipment even of the basic V-Class version is very
substantial. It includes Audio 20 USB with free-standing 7-inch central
display, piano-lacquer-look trim, 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel with
12 function keys and sporty DIRECT SELECT selector lever with
steering-wheel gearshift paddles in the case of automatic transmission, a
steering column adjustable for height and tilt, luxury front seats with
thorax/pelvis sidebags, electric parking brake and active arrest for the
rear sliding door.
The V-Class AVANTGARDE design and equipment line features
additional highlights as standard, such as leather seats, leather steering
wheel, ambience lighting, wood-look trim (also in the rear), LED High
Performance headlamps with Intelligent Light System, separately opening
rear windscreen with second loading level, an additional sliding door on
the left, laminated glass windows for additional noise reduction, and the
AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system for even
better agility and ride comfort.
At market launch in late May 2014, the new V-Class will be available as a
long-wheelbase model with a length of 5140 millimetres, a wheelbase of
3200 millimetres and lengthened overhang. It will be available to order
from 6 March 2014. The compact and extra-long variants will follow in due
course.
Exclusive model at launch: V-Class Edition 1
Like every new Mercedes-Benz passenger car model series, the V-Class
will also start out with a limited Edition 1. The distinguishing features of
the 140 kW (190 hp) special model with 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic
transmission include a sports suspension or optionally AGILITY
CONTROL suspension with selective damper control, 19-inch 5-twin-
spoke light-alloy wheels, tinted glass in the rear compartment, marron
nappa leather seats, leather-look dashboard with contrasting topstitching,
and dark anthracite ebony wood-look trim. Ensuring utmost comfort are
active seat ventilation for driver and front passenger, THERMOTRONIC
automatic climate control plus separate semi-automatic TEMPMATIC
system in the rear, COMAND Online, Burmester® surround sound system,
electric sliding doors on the right and left, electric EASY PACK tailgate
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Page 12 with separately opening rear windscreen, and the Parking package with
360-degree camera. COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, Lane Keeping
Assist and Blind Spot Assist plus the PRE-SAFE® system offer exemplary
safety.
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Page 13 Contacts:
Katja Bott, tel. no.: +49 (0)711 17- 8 40 20, [email protected]
Melanie Kouba, tel. no.: +49 (0)711 17- 5 35 58,
Further information about Mercedes-Benz is available online:
www.media.daimler.com and www.mercedes-benz.com
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 14 The innovations of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class
Redefining the MPV
Interior appointments, ride comfort, spaciousness, safety – the V-Class
brings numerous innovations and new equipment options to the segment,
elevating the features offered by an MPV to a completely new level. The
highlights at a glance:
Design and high-class appeal
Distinctive design with characteristic interior and exterior elements
from the Mercedes-Benz passenger car family
Leather-look dashboard with topstitching
Ambient lighting
19-inch two-tone wheels
Burmester® surround sound system with 16 speakers plus a bass
reflex loudspeaker, including front-to-rear voice amplification (in-
car communication)
Infotainment
Audio 20 CD with touchpad, 7-inch central display, Bluetooth®,
USB, AUX-in and SD interface
Latest generation of COMAND Online with touchpad, DVD drive,
8.4-inch central display, navigation with real-time traffic data
transmission
Ride comfort
Highly efficient four-cylinder diesel engine with two-stage
turbocharging
Cuts fuel consumption by more than two litres compared with the
previous model. The top-of-the-range V 250 BlueTEC model with
140 kW (190 hp) develops the same torque and power as the
current V6 turbodiesel.
7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission features steering-
wheel gearshift paddles, cruise control and start-off assist, and
enables fuel-saving, responsive gearshifts.
AGILITY CONTROL suspension with selective damping system
Electric parking brake
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Page 15 Seating comfort
Active seat ventilation for driver and front passenger
EASY-ENTRY system for the third row of seats
Loading convenience
Separately opening rear windscreen
EASY-PACK tailgate (electric)
Intelligent boot/luggage compartment concept with load
compartment organiser
Driver assistance and safety systems
Active Parking Assist
Can detect parking spaces and, with active steering control – with
automatic transmission also with active brake intervention – park
in parallel and end-on spaces and manoeuvre the vehicle out of
parallel parking spaces again.
360-degree camera
Provides a bird's-eye view of the vehicle on the central display,
allowing a realistic all-round view when parking and manoeuvring.
DISTRONIC PLUS
Radar-assisted proximity control in conjunction with COLLISION
PREVENTION ASSIST. Controls speed in a range between 0 and
200 km/h. Provides visual and audible warnings if a rear-end
collision is imminent and can decelerate the vehicle with up to
50 percent of the maximum possible deceleration rate.
DISTRONIC PLUS automatically brakes the vehicle if the traffic
ahead slows, if necessary to a standstill.
All-LED Intelligent Light System
Active light function, cornering lights, dynamic headlamp range
control on country roads and motorways, Intelligent Headlight
Control, automatic illumination of the area surrounding the vehicle
after removing the key ("coming home" function).
Lane Keeping Assist
Warns with steering wheel vibrations at speeds between 60 and
200 km/h when the driver unintentionally crosses lane markings
detected by the system.
Traffic Sign Assist
Detects speed-limit signs and no-overtaking signs and can warn
the driver if it detects no-entry signs (wrong-way warning function).
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Page 16 Crosswind Assist
Assists the driver when the vehicle encounters strong gusts of
crosswind at speeds above 80 km/h by applying the brakes to the
front and rear wheels on the upwind side of the vehicle as needed.
ATTENTION ASSIST
Continuously analyses driving behaviour and steering movements
and warns driver if it detects signs of increasing inattention and
fatigue.
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
Radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake Assist,
which helps to reduce the risk of rear-end collisions.
PRE-SAFE® system
Activates preventive occupant protection measures in critical
situations, for example tensions seat belts, closes windows and
positions the electrically adjustable front passenger's seat.
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Page 17 Exterior design
Emotional, powerful, dynamic – the restaging of size
A power-emphasising front end with an upright radiator grille, a
superior gaze from the headlamps in a design characteristic of the
brand, a sinewy, elongated body reflecting the dynamic interplay of
sculptural surfaces and clearly defined lines – unmistakably, the
new V-Class presents itself as a member of the Mercedes-Benz
passenger car family and embodies the brand-distinguishing design
philosophy of sensuous clarity.
The distinctive design of the front end stresses the affinity to the
Mercedes-Benz saloons and strengthens the brand identity. The upright
radiator grille and the progressive headlamp design are the dominant
features of the MPV's face. The three-dimensional, centrally positioned
star is flanked by sporty twin louvres with inserts in high-grade chrome.
The sculptured
V-shaped bonnet merges elegantly into the chrome frame of the radiator
grille and the headlamps. Its sharply etched contours and the wing-like
shape of the headlamps signal dynamism and passion. The bumper, like
the bonnet, excitingly alternates between convex and concave surfaces
with precisely traced contours. Both the lower air intakes and the radiator
grille do not have diamond-shaped perforations, but narrow louvres in
high-gloss black. In conjunction with the headlamps, which extend far into
the wings, they emphasise the width of the vehicle – and underscore the
self-confident appearance of the new V-Class.
"Sensuous, dynamic contours, intelligently showcased high tech and
exquisite high-class appeal make the V-Class an automotive icon that
blends elegance and functionality to perfection. The new V-Class is a
self-confident statement of modern luxury and embodies our design
philosophy of sensual purity in striking fashion," says Gorden Wagener,
Head of Design at Daimler AG.
All light functions with LED technology
The design idiom of the headlamps deliberately cites the S-Class and so
highlights the claim to leadership of the Mercedes among MPVs. The V-
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Page 18 Class is the first vehicle in the segment which provides all light functions
in LED technology as an optional feature. The all-LED headlamps with
Intelligent Light System make for a visual highlight and at the same time
enhance safety
(see "Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive" section). Their inner workings are
arranged on three levels from top to bottom. At the top are the LED
indicators, which form the brand's hallmark "torch" and span all other
lighting elements like an eyebrow. Underneath, running in a sweeping
line, are the LED daytime driving lamps. Low beam, high beam and
cornering light are arranged on the lower level. All in all, 34 LEDs in each
headlamp give the vehicle an unmistakable appearance and, compared
with conventional systems, offer much improved vision in the dark.
Dynamic, flowing lines
The clearly contoured side wall is structured by two elongated, taut lines.
The interplay of concave and convex surfaces conveys a sculptural and
thus very sensuous character. Both lines smoothly continue the distinctive
contour lines of the front bumper and rise slightly as they continue on
towards the rear. The side view thus appears elongated and signals
dynamism. This impression can be additionally enhanced by an optional
chrome strip along the window line.
The side view is completed by the wraparound tail lamps, which likewise
feature LED technology depending on equipment line. Three vertically
arranged fibre optics produce especially elegant and dynamic looking
indicators, brake lights and tail lamps. The reversing lamp and rear fog
lamp are horizontally arranged below them. They create a visual link with
the defined line above the tailgate release handle and emphasise the
width of the rear end.
Tail lamps, headlamps, doors and bonnet – all detachable body parts are
of high precision and fitted with minimal clearances. This contributes to an
extraordinarily low noise level in the interior because disruptive wind
factors are eliminated. On the other hand, the small clearances together
with the structure lines stretching from the front around to the rear give
the MPV the appearance of a sculpture cast from a single piece.
As standard, depending on equipment line the V-Class rolls on 16-inch
steel wheels or 17-inch 5-spoke light-alloy wheels. Optionally, 17-inch 20-
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Page 19 spoke light-alloy wheels and 18-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels are
available. Optional extra 19-inch 5-twin-spoke light-alloy wheels, painted
black with a high-sheen finish, make for an especially dynamic look.
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Page 20 The model range
Versatile and individual for the most widely ranging requirements
Fascinating versatility is the hallmark of the new V-Class. With the
two equipment lines V-Class and V-Class AVANTGARDE, an Exterior
Sports package and an Interior Design package for each line, two
wheelbases, three body lengths, three engines and many additional
optional extras, the new MPV can be individualised to suit any taste
and requirement. This makes it the perfect offer for different target
groups who appreciate great spaciousness but do not want to
sacrifice style and sportiness. The new
V-Class is just as attractive for families as it is for people who need
a spacious interior for their extensive leisure and sports activities. In
addition, it is ideally suited for commercial use, for example as a
luxurious VIP or hotel shuttle. At market launch the special model
V-Class Edition 1, which will only be on sale in the market launch
year of 2014, will join the line-up.
With its sporty character and stylish, comfortable appointments, the V-
Class creates an emotional highlight in its segment and clearly sets itself
apart from the competition. Even the basic V-Class version features a
comprehensive scope of equipment as standard. It includes
Audio 20 USB with free-standing
7-inch central display, piano-lacquer-look trim, 3-spoke multifunction
steering wheel with twelve buttons and sporty DIRECT SELECT lever
(gearshift paddles for automatic transmission), a steering column
adjustable for height and tilt, LED reading lamp up front, front luxury seats
with thorax/pelvis sidebags, electric parking brake and active arrest for
the rear sliding door.
The V-Class AVANTGARDE equipment line features additional highlights
as standard, such as leather seats, leather steering wheel, ambient
lighting, wood-look trim (also in the rear), all-LED headlamps with
Intelligent Light System, separately opening rear windscreen with second
loading level, an additional sliding door on the left, laminated glass
windows for additional noise reduction, and AGILITY CONTROL
suspension with selective damping system for even better agility and ride
comfort.
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Page 21
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Page 22 Made-to-measure individualisation
Five non-metallic and seven metallic paint finishes are available as
standard for both equipment lines. Colours range from arctic white, jupiter
red or navy blue to brilliant silver metallic, cavansite blue metallic or
obsidian black metallic. For further individualisation, for each equipment
line Mercedes-Benz has put together an Interior Design package and an
Exterior Sports package.
Interior Design package Exterior Sports package
V-C
lass
Luxury seats in Lugano leather 17-inch light-alloy wheels
Optional: 18- or 19-inch light-
alloy wheels
Wave-look trim 17-inch braking system
Steering wheel and gearshift
lever in nappa leather
Brake callipers with
Mercedes-Benz lettering
Sports pedals in brushed
aluminium
Sports suspension or AGILITY
CONTROL suspension
V-C
lass
AV
AN
TG
AR
DE
Luxury seats in nappa leather
and leather-covered armrests
in door panels
18-inch light-alloy wheels
Optional: 19-inch light-alloy
wheels
Wood-look ebony trim (also in
the rear)
Brake callipers with
Mercedes-Benz lettering
Leather-look dashboard with
topstitching
Sports suspension with
17-inch braking system
Sports pedals in brushed
aluminium
Chrome-look trim strip on front
bumper
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Page 23 In addition, there are many optional extras available for still more
individual comfort and driving pleasure. For instance, sliding doors and
tailgate can be operated electrically if desired. Also, driver's and front
passenger's seats are electrically adjustable and will be available as
swivelling seats as well (50° outwards and 180° inwards). To configure
the passenger compartment as required, a folding and sliding table and
different seating variants with almost unlimited seating configurations are
available to choose from – from individual seats (as standard) to two- and
three-passenger bench seats and even a sleeper.
To enhance personal driving pleasure, the V-Class is the only vehicle in
its segment to offer the AGILITY SELECT function. The driver is able to
choose between four transmission modes at the push of a button:
economical, comfortable, sporty and manual. Engine, accelerator and
transmission response are then adapted accordingly.
Three engines and three body lengths
The V-Class and V-Class AVANTGARDE are powered by a 2.1-litre four-
cylinder turbodiesel of the latest generation, featuring two-stage
turbocharging. It is available in three power output levels: as V 200 CDI
with 100 kW (136 hp), V 220 CDI with 120 kW (163 hp) and
V 250 BlueTEC with 140 kW (190 hp). Owing to two-stage turbocharging
and numerous other measures, (see "The drive system" section) the
V 250 BlueTEC with a peak torque of 440 Newton metres has as much
pulling power and agility as the predecessor's six-cylinder diesel – but
much lower consumption.
Both equipment lines will be available in three body lengths: with a short
wheelbase of 3200 millimetres and short rear overhang of 800 millimetres
or long overhang of 1045 millimetres, as well as with a long wheelbase of
3430 millimetres and a long rear overhang of 1045 millimetres. The
standard vehicle height is 1.88 metres, allowing the V-Class to be driven
into normal-sized multi-storey car parks.
The new V-Class can be ordered starting in March 2014. The market
launch will take place at the end of May in Germany and the European
launch will be in June 2014. Despite a new design, new technologies and
considerably increased equipment levels, the base prices compared with
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 24 the previous model will be only moderately adjusted and will remain within
an attractive range within the segment.
Exclusive model at launch: V-Class Edition 1
Like every new Mercedes-Benz passenger car model series, the V-Class
will also start out with a limited Edition 1. The features of the 140 kW
(190 hp) special model with 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission
include a sports suspension or, alternatively, AGILITY CONTROL
suspension with selective damping system, 19-inch 5-twin-spoke light-
alloy wheels, tinted windows in the rear, marron nappa leather seats,
leather-look dashboard with topstitching, velour floor mats with
"Mercedes-Benz" label, dark anthracite wood-look ebony trim, and a high-
quality "Edition 1" badge on interior trim and wings. Ensuring utmost
comfort are the active seat ventilation for driver and front passenger,
THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control plus separate TEMPMATIC
semi-automatic climate control in the rear, COMAND Online, the
Burmester® surround sound system, electric sliding doors on the right and
left, the electric EASY-PACK tailgate with separately opening rear
windscreen and the Parking package with 360-degree camera.
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST, Lane Keeping Assist and Blind Spot
Assist plus the PRE-SAFE® system offer exemplary safety.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 25 Interior design
Sophisticated style and high-class appeal
A progressively dynamic design idiom full of lightness and
elegance, coupled with exquisitely finished high-grade materials –
an unmistakable passenger-car styling for the new Mercedes-Benz
V-Class. With this the Stuttgart-based premium brand elevates
quality and aesthetic appeal to a new level in this vehicle class. The
V-Class is a confident statement of an independent lifestyle.
As in all current Mercedes-Benz passenger cars, the V-Class interior
provides an inviting feel-good ambience. It follows the new design idiom,
which embodies sensuous clarity. The typical contrasting interplay of
organic surfaces and clear lines, along with high-quality materials in warm
and cool colour tones, conveys an exceptional sense of harmony and
serves to underline the high-class feel of the vehicle. The car offers a
perfect synthesis of function and emotion. This sophisticated finesse is
rounded off by discreet ambient lighting in three colours.
Curved cockpit for a generous sense of space full of lightness
One of the most eye-catching features is the cockpit. For the front
passengers, it is like sitting in a typical Mercedes passenger car. The
dynamically shaped dashboard is based on a two-section design with the
emphasis firmly on width, allowing different surface structures. The upper
and lower sections are made of hard-wearing soft-touch materials. For
the first time in this class, a leather-look cockpit upper section with
lavishly finished topstitching is optionally available.
The upper and lower sections are separated by a large, three-
dimensional trim element that creates a sense of width and conveys high-
class appeal. It is available in a high-gloss piano-lacquer look, a matt
anthracite wave-look trim, high-gloss dark brown wood-look ash trim or
high-gloss dark anthracite wood-look ebony trim. The lower section is
sculptural in design. This emphasises the generous sense of space while
also making lightness tangible.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 26 Free-standing central display and central control panel with
touchpad
This high-quality impression is reinforced by the free-standing central
display. The standard equipment for the new V-Class includes a 17.8-
centimetre display with a high-gloss black frame. An all-glass 21.3-
centimetre display with bonded glass and a frame in galvanised silver
shadow is available as an option. This new and particularly elegant
looking display provides an even more detailed and high-contrast image.
There is another new feature located below the central display: the
central control panel that features in Mercedes passenger cars with a
Controller (rotary pushbutton) and, for the first time, a multifunctional
touchpad (see "New operating and display concept" section). The size,
design and ergonomics of the central control panel were adapted
specifically for the V-Class. It blends harmoniously into the dynamic lines
of the dashboard, further emphasising the sporty shape and lightness of
the cockpit.
Multifunction steering wheel as standard
Another sporty, elegant touch is provided by the circular nozzles that are
a hallmark feature of Mercedes-Benz passenger cars. Their design is
inspired by aviation. All four ventilation outlets are galvanised in silver
shadow, creating a metallic surface impression with "cool touch" effect –
and an exciting contrast with the warm wood or leather look.
The standard equipment for the V-Class also includes a 3-spoke
multifunction steering wheel with twelve buttons and a DIRECT SELECT
lever plus DIRECT SELECT gearshift paddles if an automatic
transmission is specified. The steering wheel is adjustable for height and
tilt, improving ergonomic posture and allowing a relaxed seating position.
A leather-look upper section of the dashboard with lavishly finished
topstitching is an additional option.
Individualisation through light, materials and colours
In the AVANTGARDE equipment line the three-dimensional design of the
dashboard trim is echoed on the sliding doors and the side wall. This
creates a feeling of security and further emphasises the spacious interior
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 27 setting. From front to rear, the interior appears to be cast from a single
mould. In the rear, discreet ambient lighting below the trim on the side
walls and the sliding door ensures a pleasant, cosy light. As soon as the
doors are opened, the LED fibre optics are activated and offer a
"welcome home" effect. In addition to this, the ambient lighting is
activated and deactivated with the exterior lighting, is dimmable in five
stages and has three colour shades for creating an individual lighting
mood: neutral (white), solar (amber) and polar (ice blue). The ambient
lighting is an exclusive standard item of equipment on board the V-Class
AVANTGARDE. The convenient overhead control panel likewise
exclusively features LEDs as standard: an interior light with fibre-optic
cable and reading lamps for the driver and front passenger.
An exclusive choice of materials and colours for the seat covers also
provides great scope for individualisation. As is the case for all Mercedes-
Benz passenger car models, optional interior design packages are
available. In standard specification the newly developed luxury seats in
the V-Class are covered with black or crystal grey Santiago fabric, and in
the V-Class AVANTGARDE with Lugano leather in black, crystal grey or
silk beige. In the AVANTGARDE variant, the Interior Design package also
offers nappa leather in black, silk beige and marron.
Likewise new is the sporty seat upholstery layout, allowing an expressive
two-tone concept for the fabric seats, thus further emphasising the feeling
of lightness throughout the entire interior. With leather upholstery,
topstitching in a contrasting colour lends the seats a degree of aesthetic
appeal that is unparalleled in this segment – for example marron nappa
leather with silk beige topstitching. Exclusive topstitching can also be
found on the upper section of the dashboard, the armrests and the centre
section of the side panelling, emphasising the high-value appeal of the
entire vehicle interior.
The perfectly coordinated concept, comprising contrasting shapes,
materials and colours, creates an exclusive interior with high-class appeal
and underlines the premium claim of the V-Class. The overall impression
is a unique combination of hallmark Mercedes elegance with a high-
quality feel and sophisticated, sporty lightness.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 28 Under the microscope: high-class appeal
"The most spacious car from Mercedes-Benz"
Compared with its predecessor, the new V-Class offers a vastly
enhanced interior in every respect. Kai Sieber, Head of Design
Mercedes-Benz Vans and Trucks, and Hartmut Sinkwitz, Head of
Interior Design
Mercedes-Benz Cars, explain the design philosophy and the
requirements on the Mercedes-Benz V-Class.
Mr Sieber, why revolution rather than evolution?
Kai Sieber: When designing and developing the new V-Class, it was a
case of coming up with something completely new rather than
upgrading a functional interior after the fact. We wanted to give our MPV
real passenger-car character. And in every respect: high-class appeal,
material and colour concept, operating and display concept, seating and
climate comfort – in short, everything that makes the interior of a
Mercedes passenger car stand out.
Hartmut Sinkwitz: Mercedes-Benz Design stands for "sensuous clarity".
This means that our design showcases high tech, in other words the
state-of-the-art, and also arouses emotions. We want to give our
customers an emotional home. The interior of a Mercedes must take into
account the striving for a sense of well-being, security and enjoyment. We
have therefore greatly enhanced the quality of the interior in all our model
series in recent years.
Kai Sieber: With the V-Class we are now also bringing state-of-the-art
design and high-class appeal to the Mercedes model series for large
families – thereby setting a new standard in this segment. We create a
feeling of well-being and a level of comfort on a par with Mercedes
passenger cars – without forsaking the traditional functionality and
variability of an MPV.
What makes the V-Class a true Mercedes?
Hartmut Sinkwitz: The cockpit alone has absolute passenger-car
character. One particular Mercedes hallmark is the overall concept
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 29 consisting of sculptural forms, the emotional contrast of sensuality and
clarity, and the intelligent use of space. Rounded forms flow into clean
lines like organic waves. High-quality materials and colours in warm and
cool tones blend harmoniously. This design idiom allows the V-Class to
convey a refined and pleasantly generous sense of space – without
appearing oversized or huge. On the contrary: it conveys a feeling of
freedom and independence. The V-Class is a stylish saloon for discerning
families and individualists. Or, in other words: the most spacious
Mercedes-Benz passenger car.
Was the V-Class developed by car designers?
Kai Sieber: We assembled a team of designers from the passenger car
and van sectors and worked together to develop perceptions of the ideal
for both vehicles, explore extremes and then find a way of getting these
ideas into series production. The V-Class therefore has much in common
with current and new Mercedes cars, but also much that sets it apart. By
way of example, the new touchpad is designed differently for the V-Class.
Likewise, the shape and design of the dashboard, as well as the material
and colour concept, are adapted to suit the particular character of the V-
Class.
Hartmut Sinkwitz: On the other hand, the design of the round dials, the
air vents and the free-standing central display are already familiar
features seen in many Mercedes passenger car model series. And the
operating logic and switches have been adopted from the S-Class to
meet the highest standards. The aim was to develop an interior design
that while making the V-Class recognisable as a member of the Mercedes
passenger car family has its own unique character. I am confident that it
will be very well received by our customers.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 30 Interior
A new dimension of comfort and variability
Featuring numerous innovations such as active seat ventilation with
reversing fans, the separately opening rear window and a second
loading level, the V-Class sets new standards in its segment in terms
of comfort and variability. The interior concept meets the individual
requirements of the different target groups. Be it for family,
business or leisure – the
V-Class offers a uniquely wide range of options and independence
when using an MPV.
The seats were developed with the focus on cosy comfort and intuitive
control. High-grade materials and a new seat structure with optimised
lateral support ensure an exceptionally comfortable sitting position in all
seats – even on longer trips. The seat cover materials are exceptionally
hard-wearing. For the first time in this segment, the driver and front
passenger get 4-way lumbar support, which provides additional back
relief. It is easily controlled at the push of a button. There is also the
option of power-adjustable front seats. In addition, swivelling seats will be
available for driver and front passenger, which will even be adjustable for
height. For convenient entry and exit they can be swivelled outward by
50 degrees, and for access to the passenger compartment or for
communication with the back seat passengers they can be rotated
inwards by 180 degrees.
Active seat ventilation for driver and front passenger
Another USP in terms of comfort is the active seat ventilation with
reversing fans for the driver and front passenger, introduced as a world-
first in the
S-Class. The direction of the fan rotation and thus of the air flow through
the seat structure can be reversed. At the start of the ventilation process,
cooler ambient air can thus be drawn into the seat cushions. This can
make the process of cooling the surface temperature of an overheated
seat much faster than in previous systems. After four minutes the fans are
automatically switched to blower mode. This reduces draughts, thus
ensuring occupant comfort over the longer term. Two fans in the seat
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 31 cushion and two in the backrest, together with the perforated leather,
ensure an even relative
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 32 humidity at the contact point between passenger and seat. The intensity
of ventilation can be adjusted to individual needs in three stages. Active
seat ventilation is available as an optional extra in combination with
leather upholstery.
Climate control – individual and intelligent
The enhanced and uprated THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control,
available as an option in addition to the standard-fit TEMPMATIC system,
likewise ensures individual comfort and well-being. It sets new standards
in terms of the automatic mode's ability to adapt to individual passenger
requirements.
For the first time in this vehicle segment, three different ventilation modes
with different air flow and distribution characteristics are available for
personal climate control: FOCUS, MEDIUM and DIFFUSE. A further new
feature is the 2-quadrant solar sensor for automatic adjustment of the
interior temperature. It monitors solar irradiation and, when the sunshine
becomes more intense, the blower speed and temperature are adjusted
automatically in the affected quadrant – either on the driver's side or the
front-passenger's side. This improves thermal comfort as and when
required, especially in stop-and-go traffic.
Further outstanding features of the new THERMOTRONIC automatic
climate control include automatic pre-entry climate control at the push of a
button on the vehicle key, the integrated demisting sensor and automatic
air recirculation via GPS, for example upon entering a tunnel.
THERMOTRONIC is configured as front and rear automatic climate
control for three zones and is operated using the air conditioning control
panel or the Controller.
Virtually unlimited seating configurations and a flexible
boot/luggage compartment
The seating in the rear allows virtually unlimited configurations for
practically any requirement. Never has space been so versatile as in the
new V-Class. As standard, the MPV is equipped with four individual
luxury seats with armrests in two seat rows. Thanks to enhanced
technology and operating logic, they can
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 33 be folded forward intuitively to afford fast and easy access to the rear. As
an optional extra, between the individual seats in the first row a folding
table can be fitted – featuring two 34 cm x 43 cm scratch-resistant table
tops and two cup holders.
As an alternative to the individual seats, for the first row a two-passenger
bench seat with two-piece, individually folding backrest is available, or a
three-passenger bench seat with two-piece seat cushion and three-piece
backrest. The outer right seat of the three-seat bench can be folded
forward or removed separately, and the entire bench folds to create
space for large pieces of luggage. This bench also is optionally available
for the second seat row. For overnight accommodation in the V-Class, the
rearmost row also can be equipped with a three-passenger bench seat as
a luxury sleeper. It has a
one-piece backrest that can be folded to the rear to create a bed
measuring 2.03 x 1.35 metres or 1.93 x 1.35 metres (depending on the
length of the
V-Class body). Underneath the sleeper, which also can be used as a
second loading deck, there are drawers. Cargo also can be stowed under
all other bench seats. Moreover, all bench seats and the individual seats
are fitted with integrated three-point safety belts.
Very little effort is required to push the individual seats and benches (they
can be positioned as vis-à-vis seats) forwards and backwards in the
further optimised seat rails with quick-release system. In addition, they
are all removable so that a load area can be created to suit requirements
at any time.
Easy loading thanks to separately opening rear windscreen
For easy loading and unloading, the V-Class features a first in the MPV
segment in the shape of the separately opening rear windscreen attached
to the upper tailgate frame. It can be opened and closed independently of
the tailgate. This makes loading and unloading easier in two respects: on
the one hand, it creates a second loading deck, for the weekly family
groceries run, for example; on the other hand, particularly in tight parking
spaces, there is no need to open the large tailgate.
The corresponding load-compartment organiser is easy to install and
remove. It is covered in hard-wearing dilour carpet and has two recesses,
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 34 each of which contains a removable, folding shopping basket. The load
compartment
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 35 organiser weighs around 18 kilograms and can be loaded with up to
50 kilograms. The loading height beneath it is 445 millimetres. In the V-
Class AVANTGARDE the separately opening rear windscreen with load-
compartment organiser is a standard feature.
Another USP for the new V-Class: The tailgate is optionally available as
an EASY-PACK tailgate which can be conveniently opened, closed and
stopped in any position electrically. Even smaller people then have no
difficulty closing the tailgate. To avoid the risk of damage, the EASY-
PACK tailgate features automatic obstacle detection and an individually
adjustable opening limiter. It is opened and closed either by a button on
the vehicle key or by means of the release handle on the tailgate.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 36 Under the microscope: automatic climate control
Individual feel-good climate
With the enhanced THERMOTRONIC automatic climate control the
new
V-Class offers incomparable thermal comfort. Be it unbearable heat
or freezing cold – the air conditioning system will prepare the
vehicle if you wish and let you put the exterior temperatures out of
mind as soon as you get in. While you are on the go, the system
adjusts to the personal needs and wishes of the occupants – with
individually set climate modes, automatic ventilation control based on
the intensity of the sun, and automatic air recirculation.
Consequently, it sets new standards for the adaptability of automatic
operation.
The optionally available THERMOTRONIC is based on the climate control
concept of the new S-Class and thus on state-of-the-art engineering. This
applies in particular to the precise regulation, the performance and the air
quality. Even before you get in, the V-Class can be warmed or cooled to a
comfortable temperature. Pressing a button on the vehicle key suffices to
initiate pre-entry climate control in the summer. The windows are
automatically closed and cold air is blown into the air ducts. The cooling
output has been greatly improved over the previous automatic climate
control.
In winter the V-Class driver can programme their departure time by
means of the remote control of the auxiliary heater, likewise an available
optional extra. Depending on outdoor temperature and battery state of
charge, the electronics compute the optimum starting time for the
auxiliary heater, which has an additional switch-over valve in its heater
circuits. During auxiliary heater operation this valve activates the small
heater circuit solely to heat the interior. This way the passenger
compartment is warmed more quickly and more intensely. In heater
booster mode, the two heater circuits for the interior and the engine are
combined through intelligent control of the solenoid valve.
Three climate modes for individual comfort and well-being
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 37 For personal climate control, the V-Class is the first vehicle in this
segment to offer three different ventilation modes: FOCUS, MEDIUM and
DIFFUSE. They differ with regard to air flow and distribution
characteristics. DIFFUSE is configured to minimise air flow and ensure
that air is not aimed directly at the occupants. By preference the air flows
out of the defroster vents and footwell openings. FOCUS, on the other
hand, works with very high air flow, with the air coming exclusively out of
the ventilation nozzles and aimed very directly at the occupants. MEDIUM
ensures balanced, uniform climate control with medium airflows, which
are again emitted from the ventilation nozzles. THERMOTRONIC is
operated using the air conditioning control panel or the Controller and, if
Audio 20 CD or COMAND Online are specified, via the touchpad.
The climate modes at a glance
DIFFUSE MEDIUM FOCUS
Co
oli
ng
mo
de
Uniform climate
control with low air
flow rates: first,
cooling by means of
ventilation nozzles,
then distribution of
additional air via
defroster vents.
Direct climate
control around
body/head with
medium air flow:
cooling solely by
means of ventilation
nozzles.
Very direct climate
control around body/
head with high
air flow: cooling solely
by means of
ventilation nozzles.
He
ati
ng
mo
de
Indirect heating via
footwell:
only small amounts
of warm air from the
defroster vents and
side air vents; no
flow of warm air to
head area.
Uniform warm-up of
interior:
first, heating
especially of the
footwell, with
medium amounts of
warm air via the
defroster, side and
centre air vents,
then air flow to
footwell.
Body-focused heating:
heating of footwell,
with warm air via the
defroster, side and
centre air vents.
Automatic air flow adjustment based on the position of the sun
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 38 A further new feature unique in the MPV segment is the 2-quadrant solar
sensor for automatic adjustment of the interior temperature. It monitors
solar irradiation and, if it intensifies, the blower speed and temperature
are adjusted automatically in the affected quadrant. If the sun is more
intense on the
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 39 driver's side, for example, the air conditioning increases the airflow on this
side only. The selected climate style is retained on the front-passenger
side. This improves thermal comfort as and when required, especially in
stop-and-go traffic.
Demisting sensor and automatic air recirculation
In addition, the V-Class features a demisting sensor; like the solar sensor
it is integrated in the overhead control panel. The demisting sensor
constantly checks the humidity. As soon as there is a risk of the
windscreen or side windows misting up, fresh air is fed in automatically
and the air distribution is adjusted accordingly. This provides for a clear
view, which benefits safety.
The Mercedes-Benz MPV also sets new standards in regard to air quality
in the interior, thanks to intelligent control. When for example the
windscreen is being cleaned, THERMOTRONIC switches to recirculated
air automatically to minimise odours and pollutants entering the
passenger compartment.
THERMOTRONIC is configured as front and rear automatic climate
control for three zones. If a rear system additionally is specified, the rear-
seat passengers can enjoy individual climate comfort. Temperature and
air flow can be adjusted specifically for the passenger compartment by
means of the additional overhead control panel on the B-pillar. Air
distribution takes place automatically depending on the setting of the front
system and the operating mode. In heating mode the air is directed to the
footwell and the roof, while in cooling mode it is directed to the roof only.
The air conditioning in the rear can also be controlled by the driver, via
the central display.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 40 New control and display concept
Multifunctional touchpad with gesture control
The Mercedes-Benz V-Class sees the arrival of the very latest
control and display concept in this segment. The major innovation is
the multifunctional touchpad on the dashboard. Like a smartphone,
it can be controlled using gestures or by inputting letters and
numbers. In addition to this, operating and display elements that
have already been used successfully in numerous Mercedes-Benz
passenger car model series are being introduced for the first time in
this segment, including COMAND Online with COMAND Controller
(rotary pushbutton), the DIRECT SELECT lever on the steering
wheel, the central display and the colour display in the instrument
cluster.
The newly designed operating and display concept is easy and intuitive to
use. The operating logic and various switches have been adopted from
the new
S-Class and thus meet the highest standards in terms of user-friendliness
and ergonomics. These include the elegant rocker switches on the air
conditioning control panel, the pull/push switch modules for the power
windows in the door panels and the rotary light switch.
Innovative touchpad with new recognition technology
The touchpad newly developed by Mercedes-Benz is available for
vehicles equipped with Audio 20 CD or COMAND Online. It is located
together with the central control panel and the COMAND Controller below
the central display on the dashboard. The touch-sensitive area, made of
scratch-resistant plastic in high-gloss black with a silver shadow real
metal surround, blends stylishly into the interior design concept and has
the look of a high-quality tablet PC. All telematics functions can be
controlled intuitively using gestures or by handwriting. The touchpad
therefore offers an additional input option over and above the COMAND
Controller and LINGUATRONIC voice-operated control.
The multitouch sensor system recognises one- and two-finger gestures
such as scrolling, swiping or zooming and spreading the fingers or
bringing them together. To prevent incorrect entries and increase
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 41 operating reliability, the Mercedes-Benz engineers have developed a new
recognition technology that
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 42 evaluates the sensor signal three-dimensionally. Particular importance
was attached to the correct identification of speed when developing the
gesture recognition. The V-Class driver can therefore use slow or fast
gestures, which lead to different but also reliable movements of the
cursor.
Furthermore, users can input letters, symbols and numbers in their
natural handwriting thanks to the character recognition feature. The
touchpad recognises the characters and uses them automatically - for
navigation destinations, for example. This speeds up input and generates
considerable additional benefits. There is another advantage: the new
telematics operating concept with touchpad allows a reduction in the
number of buttons in the head unit, making for a tidier appearance.
Ease of operation is also enhanced by three touch-sensitive buttons
behind the 65 x 45 millimetre touchpad, which can be used to call up key
functions quickly and directly: the "Back" function, the "Favourites" menu
and the audio quick menu. The user receives clear haptic feedback when
using the touchpad or the buttons. To make the system easier to use at
night, both the symbols and the borders of the touchpad are illuminated
indirectly.
Neat and tidy command centre: instrument cluster and multifunction
colour display
The instrument cluster consists of two large, analogue round dials, each
with a small bar graph. The multifunction colour display for the on-board
computer information is located between the two round dials and displays
control and warning messages, especially those from the numerous driver
assistance systems such as DISTRONIC PLUS, Traffic Sign Assist and
Lane Keeping Assist. There are also convenience displays, the trip
computer and messages about operating statuses. With the pushbuttons
on the standard-fit 3-spoke multifunction steering wheel, the settings on
the colour display can be changed without drivers having to take their
hands off the steering wheel.
Central display: high resolution and colour
The information from the telematics system is shown on a high-resolution
central display. As in numerous new Mercedes-Benz passenger car
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Page 43 models, it is free-standing and located above the central ventilation
outlets and the air conditioning control panel.
Two display variants are available, depending on equipment: in
combination with Audio 20 USB and Audio 20 CD, the monitor measures
17.8 centimetres diagonally. The frame is finished in high-gloss black. A
21.3-centimetre display with high-brilliance resolution is installed in
combination with COMAND Online. In this case, the frame is galvanised
in silver shadow. This display is equipped with a special, bonded glass
cover. The anti-glare mineral glass is directly joined to the surface of the
TFT display using an optical adhesive and a lamination process, thus
ensuring that no air or dust can get between the display and the glass.
This enhanced technology virtually eliminates optical distortions and
reflections. As a result, images are particularly detailed and high in
contrast.
In addition to manual brightness setting via the COMAND Online menu,
both displays have a light sensor for automatic brightness control. As well
as displaying telematics functions, the screen available in combination
with COMAND Online can display photos and allows manual scrolling
similar to a slide show. New display forms also allow easy operation when
listening to music. The CoverFlow function, for instance, sorts the cover
images of the stored music albums in carousel-like form so that V-Class
drivers can easily scroll through their music collection. This collection may
be very large, as there are 10.8 gigabytes of memory available for
compressed audio files (mp3, wma, aac).
Greatest convenience is afforded by the Music Search function, which
enables drivers and passengers to search the hard disc, SD memory
cards, USB sticks, CDs and DVDs for specific music tracks and artists.
The search can be by various criteria, for instance album, music category
or composer. If a name needs to be entered, the software will also
tolerate spelling mistakes. The driver is therefore able to devote full
attention to the traffic. There is another advantage: the passengers are
able to search all connected media and devices simultaneously.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 44 Infotainment programme
Unique selection that caters to every need
The new V-Class comes with a choice of three infotainment
systems, offering a bespoke state-of-the-art solution for all budgets
and requirements. At the top of the range are the optional COMAND
Online fully integrated multimedia system and the Burmester®
surround sound system. With these, the V-Class raises the bar in its
segment in terms of navigation, internet use and listening pleasure.
The latest generation of COMAND Online has fast 80-gigabyte hard-disc
navigation, a DVD player, internet access and numerous additional
functions. It features an improved photo-realistic map display, relaying of
traffic data in real time, useful apps and an additional Bluetooth® profile
allowing internet access using an iPhone®, for example. It is operated with
the innovative touchpad, the COMAND Controller or LINGUATRONIC
voice-operated control.
Real-time traffic reports and easy internet use
In conjunction with COMAND Online the latest traffic information is
transmitted to the vehicle in real time by Mercedes-Benz Live Traffic
Information. Thanks to a special communications module, which ensures
permanent connectivity to the cloud, the driver of the V-Class receives
early information about problems such as tailbacks, increased traffic
volumes or other possible delays along the route, allowing them to adjust
their route planning in good time. The COMAND navigation system can
show the beginning and length of a tailback on a map to within
100 metres of the exact position and compute an improved dynamic route
with shorter travel times. The potential loss of time is taken into account
automatically in real time for the arrival time displayed by the COMAND
Online navigation.
Internet access via COMAND Online provides substantial added benefit:
customers can either browse freely when the vehicle is stationary or call
up a Mercedes-Benz app with pages that load extremely quickly and are
also easy to use while driving. The integrated apps include Google™
Local Search and weather as well as the option of downloading a route
previously configured on the PC using Google™ Maps and sent to the
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 45 vehicle. Apps for Google™ Street View and Google™ Panoramio also are
available. With Street View, places all over the world can be viewed from
a 360-degree perspective and at street level. Panoramio provides access
to millions of photos taken at places around the globe by other users and
made available by them. Street View and Panoramio enable users to
gather comprehensive information about destinations and points of
interest before the journey begins. With the News app, news from politics,
business and technology can be obtained online in the vehicle. The news
is displayed in a way that makes it particularly easy to read. Additional
apps such as stock market news tickers or parking space finders can be
activated by the Mercedes Online Shop (www.shop.mercedes-benz.com).
3-D view and LINGUATRONIC for audio, telephone and navigation
The 3-D view with three-dimensional city models makes it easier to find
one's bearings in unfamiliar city centres. The dynamic route guidance
function
HD-Traffic with real-time traffic information helps drivers steer clear of
tailbacks in good time. Convenient for frequent travellers who often visit
certain regions: driven routes can be recorded and retraced again later.
Moreover, special personal destinations can be saved or imported via
SD card, and four alternate routes can be displayed on the navigation
map, one of them a particularly economical variation.
Mercedes-Benz customers in Europe receive the latest map updates for
their COMAND Online system free of charge for three years: authorised
Mercedes-Benz dealers will upload updates for navigation data in
39 European countries into the navigation system as part of a visit to the
dealership. In Europe, as an optional extra COMAND Online also
comprises Speed Limit Assist, which receives its information for traffic
sign recognition via a camera and the navigation database.
Also on board if COMAND Online is specified is the LINGUATRONIC
voice-operated control system for audio, telephone and navigation. The
new "one shot" input function for the navigation system is particularly
convenient, allowing the place and road to be spoken directly after one
another. This function is currently available in seven languages and
significantly enhances ease of operation. With COMAND Online and
LINGUATRONIC, music can also be easily searched for using voice
control. The system first asks in which category it should conduct the
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Page 46 search (artist, title, year). The category is selected by saying it or by
saying the row number of the relevant category which appears on the
screen. This is then followed by further questions about title, artist or
album. As additional option a 6-disc DVD changer is available.
Audio 20 USB and Audio 20 CD
There are two further audio systems to choose from in the shape of
Audio 20 USB (standard) and Audio 20 CD (optional). Standard features
of the entry-level Audio 20 USB radio include a twin tuner for interference-
free reception and a universal interface for Bluetooth®, USB, AUX-in and
SD cards. It allows mobile audio devices such as MP3 players or iPods®
to be connected to the vehicle's telematics architecture.
There is a host of Bluetooth® functions as well: the mobile phone's
directory can now be automatically transferred en bloc when connected,
and wireless music reproduction is possible from Bluetooth®-capable
devices. Text messages can also be shown, or emails read, on the
central display; audio formats can be displayed, and even pictures viewed
using Picture Viewer. The settings for the air conditioning system are also
displayed on the telematics screen (when in use), as is the fuel
consumption over the past 15 minutes.
The Audio 20 CD system also has an MP3-capable CD player. Thanks to
the "Cover Art" function, the covers of the music albums currently being
played are shown if their data are stored in the audio file. An upper line in
the Audio 20 CD's menu navigation makes orientation easier and can be
operated via the touchpad or the controller.
As an option, Audio 20 CD can be combined with the Burmester®
surround sound system, Convenience Telephony in the centre console
and digital radio (DAB). For the navigation system there is also an
optional pre-installation package with GPS receiver, interlinked satellite
navigation and aerials. The navigation software and the map data record
are on an SD card which likewise is available as an optional extra. If no
card is inserted, the GPS receiver can be used to support local
Mercedes-Benz Apps services.
The optional navigation system can be operated by controller, touchpad
or voice input. Navigation information always is displayed in full-screen
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 47 format. Its advantages over aftermarket solutions include integrated
operation via the central controls of the new V-Class, voice output via the
vehicle's loudspeakers, display on the Audio 20 screen, and updates and
enhancements via an internet portal.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 48 Burmester® surround sound system for an exceptional listening
experience
The optional Burmester® surround sound system offers music lovers an
acoustic experience that is unparalleled in the MPV segment. Optimised
for the vehicle, this sound system features 16 high-performance speakers
including a bass reflex loudspeaker and a 10-channel DSP amplifier with
a total output of 640 watts for first-class "Feelgood Sound".
The listening experience can be enhanced even further if desired. The
surround function generates a virtual surround sound from a mono or
stereo music signal to maximise the spatial effect. Genuine 5.1 multi-
channel sources also can be reproduced. The Front/All/Rear function
enables selectively optimising the sound for the two front seats, the rear
seats, or for all seats. Thanks to highly advanced vehicle noise
compensation (VNC) the sound quality is maintained despite driving
noise, thus ensuring the best possible listening pleasure at all times – on
the motorway or in city traffic. The systematic use of analogue crossovers
in the medium and high frequency ranges ensures an extraordinarily
expressive natural and spatial sound.
In combination with COMAND Online it is possible for the Burmester®
surround sound system to support in-car communication: if need be, to
improve communication a microphone in the overhead control panel
transmits the conversations of the driver and front passenger to the rear
loudspeakers so that the passengers sitting farther away also can hear
them.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 49 Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive
Assistance systems on board
The new V-Class features a comprehensive array of comfort and
safety features, including numerous innovative driver assistance
systems based on state-of-the-art radar, camera and ultrasound
sensors, first introduced under the name "Mercedes-Benz Intelligent
Drive" in the new E-Class and S-Class. They minimise the risk of
hazards such as strong crosswind gusts, blind spots or insufficient
following distance. The new MPV is even as easy to park as a
compact car. The intelligently networked assistance systems
enhance both comfort and safety.
The new MPV is equipped as standard with Crosswind Assist and
ATTENTION ASSIST, which can warn of inattention and fatigue. As
optional extras, nine further assistance systems are available – from
Active Parking Assist, COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST and Traffic
Sign Assist with wrong-way warning function, to Adaptive Highbeam
Assist and the all-LED Intelligent Light System. Most of these assistance
systems are available for the first time in this segment.
Safely on course: Crosswind Assist
With a relatively large and long side area compared with passenger car
models, the new V-Class is more susceptible to the effects of strong
gusts of wind. Especially when travelling on main roads or motorways –
for example, when overtaking a truck or crossing a bridge – danger lurks
when a gust of wind catches the vehicle from the side and results in
sudden track displacement. To protect the up to eight occupants from
such effects, the V-Class, as sole vehicle in the segment, features
Crosswind Assist as standard. This is able to reduce the effects of wind
and keep the MPV right on track.
If the system, by way of the sensors of the Electronic Stability Program
ESP®, diagnoses a need for controlling action, the driver is assisted by
applying the brakes to the front and rear wheels on the upwind side of the
vehicle. This creates a yaw moment that reduces the effects of the
crosswind on the MPV. Crosswind Assist is active at speeds of 80 km/h
and higher on straight sections and in gentle bends. But the driver always
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Page 50 remains in command: if he or she makes pronounced or rapid steering
movements, Crosswind Assist automatically fades into the background.
The system filters out weak crosswind signals, only coming into action
when a certain threshold has been exceeded. Constant, persisting
crosswind also is ignored because studies have shown that this situation
has less of an effect on comfort and the feeling of safety and is intuitively
compensated by the driver.
Warns of fatigue and inattention: ATTENTION ASSIST
Especially on long journeys or when driving at night without stopping for
breaks, the risk of falling asleep momentarily (microsleep) increases. The
standard-fit ATTENTION ASSIST can detect signs of fatigue or
inattention in a V-Class driver in good time and signal the driver to take a
break. To do this, the system continuously analyses the driver's behaviour
based on more than 70 metrics. The chief metrics are time of day,
duration of journey and speed, steering movements, vehicle longitudinal
and lateral acceleration, yaw rate, and the actions of drivers when they
operate the radio, direction indicators or the multifunction steering wheel.
In the ATTENTION ASSIST menu on the multifunction display of the
instrument cluster a five-stage bar graph visualises the driver's current
attention level. It also indicates the time elapsed since the last break and
whether the system is inactive, for example, on the basis of vehicle
speeds above or below certain thresholds.
If the attention level is low, an audible signal sounds and a coffee cup
symbol advises the driver to take a break. At the same time, COMAND
Online offers to search for a service area. ATTENTION ASSIST is active
at speeds between 60 and 200 km/h and can be adjusted for sensitivity or
switched off using the "Assistance" menu of the instrument cluster. If the
setting "Sensitive" is selected, the system warns the driver even earlier.
Parking made easy: Active Parking Assist
The V-Class makes parking an MPV an easy and stress-free affair. Active
Parking Assist makes both searching for parking spaces and parking in
parallel and end-on spaces easier. If desired it will also handle the
steering and – in conjunction with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS automatic
transmission – the braking work. What's more, the system also can help
manoeuvre the vehicle out of parallel parking spaces with automatic
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Page 51 steering and (if automatic transmission is specified) brake intervention,
assuming the vehicle was parked there automatically previously. Active
Parking Assist thus supports the driver in difficult situations and helps
avoid typical minor damage. This system makes the V-Class unique in its
segment.
Employing two ultrasonic sensors in the front bumper, Active Parking
Assist searches for suitable parking spaces. Up to a vehicle speed of
30 km/h, with a "P" and a direction arrow in the multifunction display of the
instrument cluster the system indicates that it has found a large enough
space. If the driver engages reverse and confirms the parking offer,
Active Parking Assist performs the steering manoeuvre all by itself up to a
speed of 7 km/h, also performing braking when an automatic transmission
is installed. The driver only operates the accelerator. After a maximum of
seven moves the parking operation is complete. At all times the option
exists to intervene in the process and correct the parking manoeuvre.
Everything in sight, everything under control: the 360-degree
camera
The 360-degree camera is another USP for the V-Class in its segment. It
can be set to switch on automatically when reverse gear is engaged. Four
networked short-range cameras are used to provide a bird's-eye view of
the vehicle on the central display, allowing a realistic all-round view when
parking and manoeuvring. Consequently, even obstacles located below
the window line of the V-Class and outside the driver's range of vision can
be detected. This helps when approaching kerbs, for example.
One camera is mounted centrally at the front end in the radiator grille,
plus there is one camera in each of the exterior mirrors and a further
camera in the tailgate handle. The virtual viewpoint calculated based on
the camera images covers an area of around 3 metres ahead of and
behind the vehicle and 2.5 metres on either side of the vehicle. The
display can show various views in addition to the bird's-eye view,
including PARKTRONIC information, additional guide lines and steering
lines to make manoeuvring easier, and the vehicle's range of movement
when the driver turns the steering wheel. If a trailer coupling is fitted,
there is also a special view available when reverse gear is engaged to
make it easier to manoeuvre the ball head up to the drawbar.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 52 The 360-degree camera can be activated by engaging reverse, by
pushing a button, or via the menu of COMAND Online or Audio 20 CD.
The views change automatically, for example when the driver switches
between forward and reverse gear, and additionally can be individually
selected. Images are displayed up to a speed of up to 30 km/h. Should
Active Parking Assist not be in use, the electronic parking aid
PARKTRONIC monitors the front and rear areas during manoeuvring and
warns the driver if it detects the danger of a collision. It is active up to a
speed of 18 km/h.
Alternatively, for the V-Class the Parking package also is available in
combination with a reversing camera which switches on automatically
when reverse gear is engaged. It shows the driver the area behind the
vehicle on the central display and superimposes the PARKTRONIC
information on the vehicle contour. The reversing camera also provides a
view that makes it easier to manoeuvre the ball head up to the drawbar if
a trailer is used.
For an even better all-round view: Blind Spot Assist
Vehicles located in the blind spot easily can be overlooked when a driver
changes lanes in town or overtakes on highways and motorways. With
the radar-based Blind Spot Assist the new V-Class supports the driver in
such situations by providing audible and visual warnings. The system
uses two short-range sensors in the rear bumper. The warning zone
(blind spot) starts near the B-pillar and extends around 3.50 metres to
either side of the V-Class and 3 metres beyond the back of the vehicle.
Detected vehicles which are in the process of overtaking or which change
lanes from two lanes away to the adjacent lane are displayed when they
enter the warning zone.
The warning is provided by a triangular indicator in the exterior mirrors
which lights up red. If the driver nonetheless sets the direction indicator
for a lane change, the red triangle flashes and an additional audible
warning is triggered. The system is activated when the speed reaches
30 km/h.
Prevention of rear-end collisions: COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 53 The V-Class offers a further new feature in the MPV segment in the
shape of a radar-based collision warning system with adaptive Brake
Assist, which reduces the risk of rear-end collisions. COLLISION
PREVENTION ASSIST uses a radar sensor positioned behind the front
bumper. It is active in a speed range between 7 km/h and 200 km/h. At a
speed of up to 70 km/h the sensor system also warns of a stationary
obstacle in the direction of travel.
If there is a risk of a collision with moving or stopping vehicles,
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST gives the driver a visual and audible
warning. The assistance system supports the most precise possible brake
application, calculating the braking power required to avert the collision in
the best-case scenario. At the same time, the remaining distance is
optimally used so that following drivers have a better chance of avoiding a
rear-end collision themselves. Braking is initiated at the moment the driver
of the V-Class clearly presses the brake pedal. The braking pressure is
re-adjusted if the situation changes. If the driver clearly reduces the
braking effort or accelerates, the braking pressure is reduced. If the gap
to moving and stopping vehicles decreases, the braking pressure is
increased further. When the PRE-SAFE® system is fitted, COLLISION
PREVENTION ASSIST is one of the parameters governing the activation
of the preventive safety systems, for example the reversible belt
tensioners.
The safest by a distance: DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control
The DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control system in conjunction with
COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST marks the debut of a radar-based
assistance system in the MPV segment which makes the driver's job
easier and also helps to prevent rear-end collisions. The system,
activated with the cruise control lever, controls the speed at the level
preselected by the driver between 0 and 200 km/h when the lane is clear.
If the radar sensor system detects a slower-moving vehicle ahead, or a
vehicle that cuts into one's own lane, DISTRONIC PLUS reduces the
speed and follows the vehicle in front, maintaining the pre-programmed
desired distance. Adaptive cruise control accelerates the V-Class back up
to the desired speed when the driver moves into a clear lane or when the
vehicle in front increases its speed and the driver follows it while
maintaining the desired distance.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 54 The radar sensors enable the system to detect the threat of a rear-end
collision. It warns the driver visually and audibly and computes the
braking pressure which adaptive Brake Assist must develop to bring the
V-Class to a stop in good time. This brake boosting effect is available as
soon as the driver steps on the brake pedal, and helps to avoid a rear-
end accident or at least reduce the speed of impact.
DISTRONIC PLUS can decelerate the V-Class at up to 5 m/s² and, if
necessary, bring it to a full stop. The system sets the car into motion
again when the driver either actuates the cruise control lever or briefly
presses the accelerator. As DISTRONIC PLUS is a convenience system
that only brakes the vehicle with moderate deceleration and also only
accelerates the vehicle to a limited extent, the driver receives a visual and
audible warning and is prompted to intervene if greater deceleration is
required. If the driver applies the brakes following this prompt, BAS Pro
adaptive brake assist intervenes to assist the driver.
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Page 55 Helps to prevent unnoticed lane changes: Lane Keeping Assist
Distractions, inattention or fatigue can lead to unnoticed lane changes, for
example on long holiday journeys. The camera-based Lane Keeping
Assist can detect this and warn the driver of the new V-Class by causing
the steering wheel to vibrate in pulses as a tactile warning for the driver.
To this end, the system evaluates the images provided by a camera
positioned behind the windscreen. Lane markings are detected based on
differences in contrast. Based on these data and on registered driver
activity, Lane Keeping Assist determines whether the vehicle is leaving its
lane intentionally or unintentionally. If the driver presses the turn indicator,
accelerates heavily or cuts a tight bend, for example, intervention may be
suppressed from the outset. The system is active at speeds between 60
and 200 km/h and can be switched on and off with a button.
Wrong-way warning function to assist the driver: Traffic Sign Assist
Another system Mercedes-Benz uses to help prevent accidents is the
Traffic Sign Assist in the new V-Class, available in conjunction with
COMAND Online. The system detects speed-limit signs and no-
overtaking signs and can warn the driver if it detects no-entry signs. To do
this, the camera inside the windscreen monitors the road signs, including
those on overhead gantries or at road works. The image data are
compared with the navigation system information and can be displayed
both in the instrument cluster and on the COMAND display map view.
This relieves stress on the driver of the V-Class especially on long
journeys with frequently changing speed limits, at road works or in
unfamiliar cities, and effectively assists them to observe traffic
regulations.
If the camera does not detect any speed-limit signs or if a speed limit no
longer applies, the legally allowed maximum speed based on the
navigation data is displayed. No-overtaking zones and the signs
cancelling them are also registered and displayed. If a no-entry sign is
detected, the system's wrong-way warning function gives the driver a
visual and audible warning – an effective way of helping to reduce serious
accidents caused by "wrong-way drivers".
More light, more sight: All-LED Intelligent Light System
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Page 56 The new V-Class is the only model in the segment offering all-LED
headlamps, which combine the fascinating daylight-like colour effect of
LED technology with great functionality and energy efficiency. The light
system, with a total of 34 LEDs, combines the proven Intelligent Light
System with the Adaptive Highbeam Assist, resulting in an entirely new
level of support at night-time. At 10,000 hours, the average life of an LED
is around five times longer than that of a xenon bulb. Since LED
headlamps come closest to the colour of daylight, they accommodate the
way the human eye sees. The driver thus benefits from appreciably
greater brightness on the road at night. All headlamp functions of the
Intelligent Light System feature energy-efficient LED technology. They
adapt the light distribution to the given driving situation, thereby making
an important contribution to safe driving.
Dynamic headlamp range control for country roads distributes the light of
the low-beam headlamps so that the left-hand edge of the road also is
well illuminated. The main function of the fog lamp is to distribute the light
more broadly so as to better illuminate the periphery. The left-hand LED
headlamp pivots outwards by eight degrees and simultaneously lowers its
light cone. The new light function is automatically activated as soon as
the rear fog lamp is switched on. At speeds above 100 km/h the
enhanced fog light function is automatically switched off again. Activation
of the new motorway mode takes place automatically. When driving
straight ahead at speeds of 110 km/h and above, the setting of the
headlamp on the inside of the lane additionally changes at 130 km/h at
the latest, to illuminate the roadway over a distance of around
120 metres.
The active light function operates with both the low-beam and main-beam
functions. Its electronic control unit uses current information about the
steering angle, yaw rate and road speed. The LED modules follow the
driver's steering wheel movements and can pivot sideways by as much as
15 degrees in a split second whenever the V-Class enters a bend. Mainly
sharper bends are then illuminated much better.
If the main headlamps are on, the integrated cornering light is also
switched on automatically when the driver actuates the direction
indicators or turns the steering wheel. The maximum speed for activation is
40 km/h.
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Page 57 Infinitely adjustable headlamp range: Adaptive Highbeam Assist
Adaptive Highbeam Assist automatically adjusts the headlamp range to
the distance of preceding or approaching vehicles. In every situation the
driver thus automatically has the best possible available light. The course
of the road, pedestrians or danger spots can be detected still better and
earlier.
The technology is based on a camera, located on the inside of the
windscreen, which monitors the traffic situation in front of the car, detects
other vehicles and computes the distance to them. The range of the
variable-control LED headlamps is then set based on these findings and
adapted continuously depending on the distance to the vehicle in front or
the oncoming traffic, ensuring that the light cone of the headlamps ends
before the vehicles. The range of the low-beam headlamps thus can vary
between 65 and 300 metres, without dazzling other drivers. Adaptive
Highbeam Assist additionally takes into account the steering angle in
order to dim the headlamps on tight bends. If the road ahead is clear, the
system performs a gradual transition to high-beam mode.
Adaptive Highbeam Assist is ready to respond at speeds above 30 km/h,
and operates autonomously once the driver has moved the rotary light
switch to "Auto" position and selected "High Beam" using the
multifunction stalk on the steering column.
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Page 58 Drive system
Efficient driving pleasure: six-cylinder power with four-cylinder fuel consumption
Clean, economical, torquey: The new V-Class offers an ultramodern
turbodiesel with three power output levels. The 2.1-litre four-cylinder
with common-rail direct injection is available with an output of
100 kW (136 hp), 120 kW (163 hp) and 140 kW (190 hp). The power
plant, internally designated OM 651, has proven itself in almost all
car models of the brand from the A-Class to the S-Class. It has been
further developed specifically for use in the V-Class. The focus of
these efforts was to combine the effortlessly superior performance
of a six-cylinder engine with the exemplary efficiency of a four-
cylinder. As a result, the top-of-the-range model V 250 BlueTEC has
a torque curve and power delivery on a par with the current 3-litre
V6 turbodiesel, but consumes up to 28 percent less fuel and, thanks
to BlueTEC, complies with the Euro 6 emissions standard.
Mercedes-Benz achieves this through numerous measures such as fourth-
generation common-rail injection, a switchable water pump, an on-
demand oil pump and two-stage turbocharging. For the variants with 7G-
TRONIC PLUS automatic transmission the ECO start/stop function also is
a standard feature. Common characteristics of all three four-cylinder units
are the durable cast iron engine block, the weight-optimised high-strength
aluminium cylinder head, two overhead camshafts, the low-friction valve
train with cam followers, and four valves per cylinder.
Lower consumption, better torque
Two-stage turbocharging ensures responsive start-off ability and high
peak power. The compact module for the two-stage turbocharging
consists of a small high-pressure (HP) turbocharger and a large low-
pressure (LP) turbocharger. These are connected in series, and each has
a turbine and a compressor driven by this turbine. This means that the
optimum charge pressure can already be built up at low engine speeds.
The most important advantage of this concept is the improved cylinder
charge and the resultant high torque at low engine speeds. The
V 200 CDI has 330 Newton metres to offer, while the V 220 CDI mobilises
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Page 59 380 Newton metres – 20 Newton metres more in each case in
comparison to the predecessor. On the other hand, the combined NEDC
consumption of the V 200 CDI is reduced by twelve percent to 6.1 litres
per 100 kilometres. Running on 5.7 litres per 100 kilometres which
represents an 18 percent reduction in fuel consumption, accompanied by
emissions of 149 grams of CO2 per kilometre, the V 220 CDI occupies an
outstanding position in its vehicle class. On the road the complex
turbocharger control makes itself noticeable through harmonious driving
characteristics, a continuous torque curve, spontaneous throttle response
and appreciably better performance.
Top variant V 250 BlueTEC with 440 Newton metres of torque
The engine of the top-of-the-range V 250 BlueTEC impresses with
powerful torque up to a maximum of 440 Newton metres. This is the
same figure as for the 3-litre V6 diesel in the predecessor model. Fuel
consumption, on the other hand, stands at 6.0 litres of diesel per
100 kilometres, or 28 percent less than the six-cylinder engine, despite
comparable performance. If the driver activates "Sport", "Comfort" or
"Manual" transmission mode with the AGILITY SELECT switch, the
characteristics of the accelerator pedal change so that the engine
responds more quickly to the throttle and the maximum torque rises to
480 Newton metres ("overtorque").
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 60 The engine range of the new V-Class at a glance
Model V 200 CDI V 220 CDI V 250
BlueTEC
Number of
cylinders/arrangement
4 in-line 4 in-line 4 in-line
Displacement (cc) 2143 2143 2143
Rated output (kW/hp at rpm) 100/136
at 3800
120/163
at 3800
140/190
at 3800
Rated torque (Nm at rpm) 330 at
1.200–
2.400
380 at
1.400–
2.400
440 at
1.400–
2.400
Emission category Euro 5/III Euro 5/III Euro 6/I
Combined fuel consumption
from (l/100 km)
6.1 (5.8) 5.7 (5.7) – ( 6.0)
Combined CO2 emissions from
(g/km)
159 (152) 149 (149) – (157)
Acceleration 0–100 km/h (s) 13.8 (12.8) 11.8 (10.8) – (9.1)
Top speed (km/h) 183 (181) 194 (195) – ( 206)
The figures for automatic transmission are stated in brackets.
Comfortable and economical: ECO Gear 6-speed manual
transmission
To transmit the power to the rear wheels, the V 200 CDI and V 220 CDI
models are fitted as standard with the ECO Gear 6-speed manual
transmission. It makes an essential contribution to the moderate fuel
consumption and the dynamics of the V-Class. Its outstanding feature is
the particularly large gear
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 61
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 62 ratio spread, with a short first gear and a long sixth gear with moderate
rpm level. This design makes allowance for typical situations such as
moving off on slopes with a horse or boat trailer in tow as well as long-
distance journeys on motorways.
Superbly comfortable: 7G-TRONIC PLUS
The top-of-the-range model V 250 BlueTEC is equipped as standard with
the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission with DIRECT SELECT lever and
DIRECT SELECT steering wheel gearshift paddles. The automatic
transmission is available as an optional extra for the V 200 CDI and
V 220 CDI models. Owing to its seven gears, the automatic can adjust the
engine speed even more precisely to suit the driver's intentions. More
pulling power is available for flat-out acceleration, while during relaxed
cruising the engine speed is reduced to an economical level. And since
the changes in engine speed while shifting are smaller, gear changes are
even less perceptible and more comfortable.
The features of the latest version of the 7G-TRONIC PLUS to emerge
include a new torque converter with reduced slip, an ECO shift mode with
a wider ratio spread, and an auxiliary oil pump to maintain the operating
pressure when the ECO start/stop function is activated. Low-friction
components in conjunction with low-friction oil help to reduce the
operating pressure. Another benefit to comfort: with the DIRECT SELECT
lever on the steering column, drivers can set the transmission positions
"P", "N", "R" and "D" with a light tap without taking their hands off the
steering wheel.
ECO start/stop function with direct-start
The ECO start/stop function, a standard feature with the 7G-TRONIC
PLUS automatic transmission, operates with starter-supported direct-
start. This means that when the engine is switched off, the attitude of the
crankshaft is registered by a new crankshaft sensor so that the engine
control unit knows the positions of the individual pistons. On restarting, it
can then select the cylinder that is in the most suitable position for first
ignition. This ensures that the engine starts up immediately.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 63 Even more economical with BlueEFFICIENCY package
The ECO start/stop function is a part of the BlueEFFICIENCY package,
which is standard equipment in all versions featuring the 7G-TRONIC
PLUS automatic transmission and is optionally available for all variants
with 6-speed manual transmission. It also comprises the on-demand fuel
pump control as well as complete engine compartment and underbody
panelling, which ensures turbulence-free air flow underneath the vehicle
body.
Long maintenance intervals are also conducive to the sustainability and
economy of the V-Class. The standard-fit ASSYST service interval
indicator flexibly computes the oil change intervals depending on vehicle
use. Intervals for all engines extend to up to 40,000 km (alternatively two
years). Depending on the strain on the vehicle and the driving style, larger
kilometre intervals also are possible.
Individual driving experience with AGILITY SELECT
As an option in combination with the 7G-TRONIC PLUS transmission,
Mercedes-Benz offers the AGILITY SELECT system, which permits
individualising the driving experience. Four transmission modes vary the
throttle response and shift points of the automatic transmission: "ECO"
(E), "Comfort" (C), "Sport" (S) and "Manual" (M). No other manufacturer in
this vehicle segment offers such an extensive choice.
"Comfort" automatically is activated when the engine is started and
includes a comfort-emphasising, harmonious accelerator characteristic.
The ECO start/stop function is activated. In "ECO" mode the 7G-TRONIC
PLUS changes gears at particularly low revs. At the same time the output
of the air conditioner, the heated rear windscreen and the seat heating is
reduced. When the vehicle is stopped at a traffic light or in a tailback, the
ECO start/stop function goes into action.
When the driver switches to "Sport" mode the characteristic of the
accelerator pedal is changed to make the engine respond more quickly to
the throttle. The automatic transmission makes use of the entire engine
speed range to change gears, and shifts faster. The ECO start/stop
function continues to be active.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 64 In "Manual" mode the automatic transmission can be operated by hand
using the gearshift paddles on the steering wheel. This appreciably
shortens the shift times compared with the Comfort and ECO modes. The
ECO start/stop function is deactivated, but can be activated manually.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 65 Suspension
New benchmark for agility and safety
The V-Class raises the bar in the MPV segment in terms of ride
comfort and handling safety. Ground-breaking and unrivalled
features in this category of vehicles are the AGILITY CONTROL
suspension, with selective adjustment of the damping system to the
road conditions, and the latest generation of ADAPTIVE ESP®, with
many assistance functions. The light and precise electromechanical
power steering likewise contributes greatly to the balanced driving
sensation in the new V-Class.
The front wheels of the V-Class are guided by a McPherson suspension
with elaborately mounted lower wishbones. This enabled the Mercedes-
Benz developers to minimise the longitudinal and lateral movement of the
axle and ensure precise handling in all situations. A further feature of the
front suspension is a stabiliser that effectively limits body roll also during
fast cornering. The carefully dampened front axle carrier effectively
neutralises engine and transmission influences on the front axle and so
improves road roar and tyre vibration characteristics.
Independent suspension with semi-trailing arms is used on the rear axle.
The transmission of lateral and longitudinal forces is effectively separated
so that handling precision and ride comfort are further enhanced. As at
the front, an anti-roll bar of large dimensions effectively limits body roll of
the MPV.
As a result, the V-Class not only is extremely precise in its handling,
calculable and safe to drive. It also gets top marks for ride comfort and
noise level. As an optional extra, Mercedes-Benz offers a sports
suspension with sporty-taut dampers and springs, a reinforced stabiliser
up front, and a body lowered by 15 millimetres.
AGILITY CONTROL suspension with variable damping as standard
As an exclusive feature in the MPV segment, the V-Class AVANTGARDE
has an AGILITY CONTROL suspension with frequency-dependent
variable damping as standard. During normal driving with little excitation
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 66 of the shock absorbers, the damping forces are automatically reduced,
with tangible effects
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 67 on the road roar and tyre vibration characteristics – but no sacrifices in
terms of handling safety. At higher shock absorber excitation levels, for
example during dynamic cornering or evasive manoeuvres, the maximum
damping force is activated to effectively stabilise the vehicle.
Speed-dependent electromechanical power steering
The new V-Class is equipped as standard with a speed-dependent
electromechanical power steering system. The electric motor which
provides the power assistance is located directly on the steering gear.
During manoeuvring and at low speed, the steering mobilises maximum
steering assistance, slowly reducing it as the speed increases so as to
improve driving stability. This makes for absolutely easy operation during
manoeuvring and exemplary straight-line stability at higher speeds, as
required. When returning the steering to straight-ahead position after
cornering, the so-called active axle return reduces the driver's steering
effort.
In addition, the electromechanical assistance has substantial fuel-saving
potential since energy only is required when the steering wheel is turned.
The electromechanical power steering also is an essential prerequisite for
the optional Active Parking Assist (see "Mercedes-Benz Intelligent Drive"
section). Via the interface with the assistance system it actively supports
autonomous entering and leaving of parking spaces though selective
steering intervention. The driver only has to operate the accelerator and
brake pedal. At speeds of 10 km/h and higher this interface automatically
is deactivated.
A further benefit to comfort: the steering detects vibrations as caused, for
example, by tyre imbalance, and is able to compensate them for the most
part. Moreover, the system detects a constant holding moment applied by
the driver to the steering wheel on account of crosswind or because the
road surface slopes to one side. Driving straight ahead, as long as the
driver keeps his hands on the steering wheel the steering system actively
reduces the applied retaining force. The assistance is deactivated as
soon as the driver takes his hands off the steering wheel.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 68 Efficient brakes, numerous ESP® assistance functions
Large brake discs at the front and rear provide the technical basis for safe
and reliable deceleration in all driving situations. At the front, vented disc
brakes with a diameter of 300 millimetres are used – 330 millimetres on
the V 250 BlueTEC and if the Exterior Sports package is specified. The
diameter of the solid rear discs is a uniform 300 millimetres.
With anti-lock brake system, acceleration skid control, BAS brake assist
and the latest generation of ADAPTIVE ESP® all featuring as standard,
the V-Class is also exemplary in terms of its driving safety systems.
ADAPTIVE ESP® has been extended to incorporate important new
functions such as Brake Disc Wipe and Electronic Brake Prefill.
The Brake Disc Wipe function serves in wet conditions to wipe the water
film off the brake discs automatically with regular brief brake pulses so
that the brakes always can operate with full efficiency. The finely
modulated brake pulses are not noticed by the driver. This automatic
brake drying function is always activated after a certain period of
windscreen wiper operation. When the accelerator is suddenly and
quickly released, the Electronic Brake Prefill function automatically
applies the brake pads lightly in order to reduce the clearance between
brake pad and brake disc in advance. If full brake application is then
initiated, valuable milliseconds have been won since the friction surfaces
of pads and disc already are in contact and immediately make effective
deceleration possible. This function, too, provides an advantage in terms
of stopping distance which perhaps can help avoid an accident or reduce
the accident severity.
Moving off comfortably on slopes
ADAPTIVE ESP® also incorporates the Hill-Start Assist as standard. It
ensures that the process of moving off on uphill gradients can be carried
out very comfortably. Brake pressure is maintained briefly after releasing
the brake pedal. This enables stress-free transfer of the foot from the
brake pedal to the accelerator without allowing the vehicle to roll
backwards. The start-off assist is active on gradients of about four
percent and more. When moving off on level ground, downhill, or if the
emergency brake is engaged, it is not activated.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 69 Another optional system function is the automatic activation of the
emergency stop signal: The ESP® control system is able to detect a
critical braking situation and sends a signal via the CAN data bus to the
central electronics, which in turn cause the brake lights to flash and, if
necessary, switch on the hazard warning lamps when the vehicle is
standing still.
Support in critical cornering situations
Mercedes-Benz also has developed a control logic for ADAPTIVE ESP®
which provides even better support to the driver in critical cornering
situations. The likewise optional ESP® Trailer Stabilisation feature, which
is activated if the
V-Class is equipped with a trailer coupling, detects dangerous oscillating
movements of the trailer and restabilises it automatically by sending
precisely measured brake pulses to the front wheels of the towing vehicle.
In case of emergency, the system applies the brakes to reduce the car's
speed automatically while reducing the engine torque until the trailer is
stabilised by the brake pulses. Trailer stabilisation is active at speeds of
65 km/h and higher and cannot be switched off.
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 70 The bodywork and passive safety
High-strength passenger cell and the very latest in restraint systems for optimum occupant protection
The new V-Class affords high levels of spaciousness and safety.
Three body lengths, six airbags and PRE-SAFE® preventive occupant
protection make the Mercedes-Benz model an exception among the
MPVs. The body structure was designed so that in a collision the
forces of the impact are distributed over a large area and the
protecting passenger cell remains intact.
With three body lengths and two wheelbases the new V-Class provides
the basis for the maximum in terms of individualisation options to comply
with the individual requirements of the different target groups. At market
launch the long V-Class will roll to the dealerships. The compact and
extra-long variants will follow in due course.
V-Class long version: length 5140 mm, wheelbase 3200 mm,
extended overhang
V-Class compact version: length 4895 mm, wheelbase 3200 mm
V-Class extra-long version: length 5370 mm, wheelbase
3430 mm,
extended overhang
An advantage shared by all variants is their good suitability for everyday
use. With a standard overall height of 1.88 metres, the V-Class can be
driven into all normal-sized garages, multi-storey car parks, underground
car parks and car washes.
High-strength body structure for exemplary occupant protection
The basis for the excellent passenger protection in an accident is the
intelligently designed body with large deformation zones at the front and
rear. They absorb the impact forces of a collision over a large area so that
the passenger cell, made of high-strength steel alloys, remains intact. The
substructure consists of a frame with four longitudinal members and four
cross members which in a crash effectively ensure the distribution of the
Daimler Communications, 70546 Stuttgart/Germany
Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 71 impact forces. The construction also underscores the excellent torsional
rigidity of the new V-Class.
In addition, the front end meets the high requirements pertaining to
pedestrian protection. Owing to the larger deformation space between the
bonnet and the components underneath, the loads that possibly will occur
in an accident are reduced.
Lightweight design solutions with a high stability factor
To cut vehicle weight, all doors and the tailgate are designed as
lightweight steel components with a monocoque design. Pinpoint
reinforcements help improve the crash safety of the MPV in spite of the
weight-optimised construction.
As standard the V-Class has a sliding door on the right side of the
vehicle.
A second sliding door on the left side is standard-fit if the AVANTGARDE
equipment line is specified. The complex 3-rail guide system of the sliding
doors is evidence of the great effort put into design and manufacture.
While the upper guide rail precisely locates the door, the middle and
bottom rails additionally have a supporting function. Spring-mounted
guide wedges with integrated buffers ensure particularly comfortable and
smooth closing. Additional seals at the top and in the area of the B-pillars
prevent annoying wind noises. Special aeroacoustic seals also are
employed for the tailgate to improve acoustic comfort.
Restraint systems: six airbags as standard
With six standard-fitted airbags for driver and front passenger, the new V-
Class offers a still more comprehensive array of passive safety features
than the previous model. The airbags, which can deploy very rapidly in
the event of an accident, include:
two adaptive airbags for the driver and front passenger that can be
triggered in two different stages depending on the severity of
impact
two thorax/pelvis sidebags in the front-seat backrests
two window airbags for the driver and front passenger
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 72 As an optional extra, larger window airbags are available which extend
over three seat rows from A-pillar to D-pillar.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 73 Driver and front-passenger seats are additionally fitted with a height-
adjustable 3-point safety belt, belt tensioner and belt-force limiter as well
as seat-belt reminder and 4-way head restraint. The rear seats also afford
a high level of safety. All rear seats have integrated 3-point safety belts
with belt-force limiter and 4-way head restraints.
Anticipatory occupant protection with PRE-SAFE®
Occupant protection in the V-Class begins before an accident occurs. As
optional extra the PRE-SAFE® system familiar from the passenger car
models is available for the MPV. When an accident threatens it initiates
protective measures so that the belts and airbags can develop the best
possible protective effect during the collision. A comparable technology is
not offered by any other manufacture in this vehicle segment.
PRE-SAFE® is modelled on nature: In the same way as living beings
react reflexively and seek cover in the face of danger, by way of
precaution the Mercedes system activates protective measures to
prepare the occupants and vehicle for the impending collision. Early
accident detection is possible because PRE-SAFE® is an intelligent
synergy of active and passive safety: It is linked to Brake Assist and the
Electronic Stability Program ESP®, whose sensors detect potentially
critical driving situations and send the relevant information to the
electronic control units.
In addition, the system uses the information provided by the short-range
radar sensors of the optional DISTRONIC PLUS adaptive cruise control
system in conjunction with COLLISION PREVENTION ASSIST to tension
the front seat belts at the very last moment before an unavoidable
collision, thus reducing the forces exerted on the driver and front
passenger during the crash. The
PRE-SAFE® function is literally the "ultima ratio" of preventive occupant
protection, since the accident occurs around 200 milliseconds later.
Preventive occupant protection is activated in the event of emergency
braking or high lateral acceleration – heavy understeer or oversteer, for
example, or fast, sudden movements of the steering wheel by the driver.
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Mercedes-Benz – A Daimler Brand
Page 74
PRE-SAFE® during emergency
or panic stops
PRE-SAFE® when high lateral
acceleration is registered*
Driver and front-passenger seat
belts are tensioned by means of
electric motors.
The side windows at the front and
rear can be closed.
The power front-passenger seat**
is moved backwards or forwards
into a better position from an
accident standpoint, while the
cushion angle and backrest
inclination are also optimised.
*In addition to the emergency-braking measures
**Optional
PRE-SAFE® protective measures are reversible: if the accident is averted,
the preventive tension of the seat belts is released automatically, and the
occupants are able to reset the positions of the seats. The preventive
occupant protection system is then ready for action again.
Safety precautions also after the accident
If a crash does occur despite all countermeasures, and the belt
tensioners and the airbags are triggered, the airbag control unit sends a
corresponding message to the CAN data bus of the V-Class. The
connected control units then autonomously carry out a series of
measures designed to protect the occupants and, if possible, assist
rescuers. The measures include:
Conspicuous illumination of the vehicle with activation of the
hazard warning lamps and the interior emergency illumination to
make it easier to find the vehicle
Emergency door unlocking to provide the possibility of escaping
from the vehicle
Lowering of the side windows to allow the airbag gases to escape
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Page 75 Shutdown of the auxiliary heater and fuel pump to reduce the
danger
of a fire
Switching off the interior blower
Activating the air recirculation function so that smoke possibly
developing in the engine compartment will not be blown into the
interior