Mercedes-Benz V-Class Set for Indian Comeback in March 2026
Mercedes-Benz India has officially announced the highly anticipated return of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class MPV to the Indian automotive market. The luxury multi-purpose vehicle is scheduled for relaunch on March 3, 2026, marking a significant comeback after being withdrawn from the market in 2022. This move ends a hiatus of over three years and is poised to significantly bolster Mercedes-Benz India's footprint in the luxury vehicle segment, positioning the V-Class at the premium apex of the brand's product portfolio.
Revamped Design and Structural Options
From a design perspective, the V-Class showcases a clean, boxy silhouette complemented by a sculpted bonnet that seamlessly integrates into a prominent U-shaped front grille. The vehicle's profile is accentuated by a strong shoulder line along its sides, while the rear maintains an upright stance with a large glass area. Wheel designs and bumper styling vary across different variants, offering visual distinction.
Globally, the V-Class is available in two wheelbase configurations: the Long variant measuring 3,200mm and the Extra Long variant at 3,430mm. International markets offer multiple seating layouts, including 8-seat, 7-seat, and a top-tier 6-seat configuration featuring individual captain seats in both the second and third rows. Mercedes-Benz India has yet to confirm which specific wheelbase and seating arrangements will be introduced for the domestic market.
Luxurious Interior and Advanced Features
Stepping inside, the V-Class presents a familiar Mercedes-Benz cabin layout, highlighted by twin 12.3-inch displays—one dedicated to infotainment and the other serving as the digital instrument cluster. The interior is adorned with numerous physical buttons featuring soft-touch surfaces, brushed accents, and neatly integrated controls, collectively contributing to a refined and well-finished ambiance.
Where the V-Class truly excels is in its rear cabin experience. In the fully loaded six-seat configuration, second-row passengers are treated to individual captain seats with an exceptional focus on comfort. These seats offer powered adjustment with massage functions, heating and ventilation capabilities, a reclining backrest paired with an extendable footrest, and built-in storage compartments enhanced by ambient lighting.
Additional premium features include multi-zone climate control, multi-colour ambient lighting, seamless integration with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, luxurious Nappa leather upholstery, and a high-fidelity Burmester sound system, ensuring a first-class travel experience.
Powertrain Specifications and Drivetrain Choices
On the global stage, the V-Class is offered with a 2.0-litre, four-cylinder diesel turbo engine in two distinct configurations. The 220d variant delivers 163 horsepower and 380 Newton-meters of torque, while the more potent 300d variant produces 237 horsepower and 500 Newton-meters of torque. Both engine options are mated to a smooth-shifting 9-speed automatic transmission. The vehicle is available with both rear-wheel drive and all-wheel drive configurations, though Mercedes-Benz India has not yet clarified whether both engine variants will be offered domestically or if the lineup will be limited to a single option.
Globally, Mercedes-Benz also offers an all-electric variant of the V-Class, known as the EQV. Depending on evolving market demand and consumer preferences in India, the company may consider introducing this electric version at a later stage, aligning with the broader industry shift towards electrification.
Expected Pricing and Market Rivals
The new Mercedes-Benz V-Class is anticipated to be priced in the range of ₹1 crore to ₹1.2 crore (ex-showroom). Pre-bookings are expected to commence in the near future, with the MPV likely to be imported into India via the Completely Built Unit (CBU) route. Upon its launch, the V-Class will directly compete with established rivals in the luxury MPV segment, including the Lexus LM, Toyota Vellfire, and the MG M9.
Strategic Implications for the Indian Luxury Market
The reintroduction of the Mercedes-Benz V-Class significantly expands the choices available in India's burgeoning luxury MPV segment, arriving at a time when demand for chauffeur-driven, comfort-oriented vehicles is on a steady rise. This model is expected to attract buyers seeking sophisticated alternatives to traditional premium sedans and SUVs, leveraging its upscale positioning, exceptionally spacious interior, and the strong brand equity associated with Mercedes-Benz.
However, the commercial success of the V-Class in India will largely hinge on its final pricing strategy and the specific variants made available to consumers. Achieving a competitive balance between its extensive feature set and overall cost will be crucial for the V-Class to secure a stable and prominent position among discerning high-end MPV buyers in the Indian market.
