Mercedes-Benz India has officially re-entered the luxury MPV segment with the launch of the 2026 V-Class Extra Long Wheelbase (LWB) on March 2, 2026. Priced at an introductory Rs. 1.40 crore (ex-showroom), the V-Class returns after a three-year hiatus with a significantly more premium positioning. Unlike previous iterations, the 2026 model will be locally assembled at the brand’s Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar facility, making it the second major “Make in India” project for the brand this year following the Maybach GLS.
The decision to offer the “Extra Long” configuration exclusively for the Indian market highlights a shift in consumer demand toward “mobile offices” and “private suites.” With a massive 3,430mm wheelbase—the longest of any Mercedes passenger vehicle in the country—the V-Class is no longer just a van; it is a direct competitor to the Toyota Vellfire and Lexus LM.
Design: AMG Line as the Standard
For the 2026 model year, Mercedes has made the AMG Line exterior package standard across the range. This includes a more aggressive front bumper with larger air intakes and a grille adorned with a constellation of three-pointed stars. The SUV-like presence is further enhanced by Multi-beam LED headlamps and a signature LED light strip that encircles the grille.
The vehicle sits on 18-inch dual-tone alloy wheels and features electrically operated sliding doors on both sides. A clever ergonomic touch is the split tailgate design; the rear glass can be opened independently of the large door, allowing users to toss in small items without needing the massive clearance required for the full tailgate.
A Masterclass in Rear-Seat Luxury
The interior is where the V-Class justifies its price tag. Buyers can choose between a four-seat “Executive Lounge” or a six-seat “Business” configuration.
In the four-seat layout, the rear cabin features two individual captain chairs that are functionally identical to those found in the S-Class. These seats offer:
- Triple-zone climate control with dedicated vents for all rows.
- Luxury recline with an integrated ottoman and calf support.
- Thermal management including heating, ventilation, and a hot-stone massage function.
- Individual technology hubs, featuring wireless charging pads and fold-out tables.
A major addition for 2026 is the Airmatic air suspension with adaptive damping, which has been specifically recalibrated for Indian road conditions. This system ensures that the 5.3-meter-long vehicle glides over road imperfections, maintaining a serene environment for the 15-speaker Burmester sound system equipped with Dolby Atmos.
Dual Powertrain Strategy: Petrol and Diesel
For the first time in India, the V-Class is being offered with a choice of two 2.0-litre four-cylinder engines, both mated to the 9G-Tronic automatic transmission:
- V300d (Diesel): Produces 233 bhp and 500 Nm of torque, aimed at high-mileage users and long-distance travel.
- V300 (Petrol): Produces 228 bhp and benefits from a 48V mild-hybrid system that adds an extra 20 bhp for smoother urban acceleration.
Safety is equally prioritized with a 5-star Euro NCAP rating, supported by seven airbags and a comprehensive Level 2 ADAS suite that includes Crosswind Assist—a vital feature for a vehicle of this height. With deliveries starting by the end of March, the V-Class is set to become the preferred choice for India’s corporate elite.
