By: Dave Abrahams
Stuttgart, Germany - Mercedes-Benz has revealed details of the V-Class AMG Line, an individual, sporty package for the newly released V-Class MPV.
Well, sporty looking, anyway; the package includes new front and rear aprons, distinctive side sills, an additional spoiler lip and 19 inch alloys over uprated brakes and lowered suspension - but there's no mention of engine upgrades.
The front end features prominent air inlets, diamond-pattern mesh and chromed trim, while side sills, diffuser-style rear apron and deeper rear spoiler make the van visually longer and sleeker.
The calliper on the 430mm brakes sport Mercedes-Benz lettering, and the sport suspension rides 15mm lower than standard on stiffer springs and tauter damping. Frequency-dependent variable damping is available as an option.
Inside, there's a black headliner, faux-fibre trim with air vents in silver chrome, a bigger centre console with a built-in five litre cooler compartment, USB connections, an SD card slot, a 220-volt and a 12-volt socket, 'thermo'-cupholders that keep hot drinks hot and cold drinks cold (each with its own LED lighting!) and brushed-aluminium sports pedals.
FIRST AMG-LINE PACKAGE FOR A VAN
The options list includes a 1900mm x 1120mm two-piece panoramic glass roof, dedicated rear aircon and an iPad holder in the back of each front seat.
This is the first time an AMG Line package has been made for an MPV, and it'll be available in Europe for all V-Class engine variants and body lengths.
No decision has been made yet, says Mercedes-Benz SA, as to whether the AMG Line package will be made available for the South African V-Class line-up.
According to Volker Mornhinweg, head of Mercedes-Benz vans, the extended range of styling and luxury options for the new V-Class was sparked by the positive reaction to the 'Concept V-ision e' study shown at the Geneva motor show in March, and from individual orders.
"The majority of customers order their V-Class with a variety of exclusive luxury extras," he explained, "which confirms that the V-Class has redefined the old Viano as a super-versatile, luxury passenger car for eight people."
The V-Class AMG-Line package buys into that customer mindset, he says, addressing target groups who are looking for more individuality and emotional appeal than is usually found in an MPV.