The New Mercedes-Benz V300d is A Hotel on Wheels
By Prashirwin Naidu
If you’d asked me a while back about owning a “bus on wheels,” I probably would’ve laughed. Many of them are boxy, bland, and boring. But when I laid eyes on the new Mercedes-Benz V-Class, I was gobsmacked.
The way it commands attention is on a whole new level. I always thought sports cars turned heads, turns out, a luxury van can too.
The Mercedes-Benz V300d Exclusive sits at the very top of the V-Class range, offering a travel experience that feels more like a first-class lounge than a family van.
From the bold three-pointed star standing upright on the bonnet to the illuminated grille and impeccably crafted interior, it’s a rolling showcase of prestige.
Inside, it genuinely feels premium. Crème-coloured leather seats swivel and fold to your liking, there’s a pop-up table for work or snacks, and a huge panoramic sunroof brightens up the cabin.
The seats are heated, ventilated, and as an optional extra, even offer a massage function. Add in dual screens for infotainment and driver display, 64-colour ambient lighting, wireless charging, and a heated steering wheel and suddenly you’re in the lap of Mercedes luxury.
With seating for six, an electric tailgate, and ample space, the V-Class proves itself versatile, whether for family life or executive travel.
During my stint driving around Joburg, even the simplest moments felt like little adventures. One evening, I took it to The Pantry in the heart of Rosebank, known for its fantastic food and cool vibe.
With my partner-in-crime, Jess. We tucked into burgers and sipped bubble-gum milkshakes in the glow of the van’s ambient lighting, and it felt like we were road-tripping without leaving the city.
Behind the wheel, the V300d is surprisingly delightful. It handles its size and weight with confidence, gliding smoothly over bumps thanks to Agility Control suspension.
The 2.0-litre four-cylinder turbodiesel is quiet yet potent, pushing out 174 kW and 500 Nm, paired with a slick-shifting 9G-Tronic transmission.
Fuel consumption is on the heavier side, I averaged around 12L/100 km, but with Sport mode at your fingertips, it’s hard not to resist giving it some extra power now and then.
Mercedes-Benz has also packed in a full suite of advanced safety technology, including adaptive cruise control, blind spot assist, lane keeping assist, a 360° camera with a 3D surround view, trailer manoeuvring assist, and a comprehensive anti-theft package.
Of course, there are also multiple airbags, rain-sensing lights, and all the clever driver aids you’d expect at this level.
Starting from R2,254,000, the V300d Exclusive is for those who want to splurge. It suits families who love road-tripping in style, entrepreneurs who are always on the move, or anyone who wants to travel with maximum comfort and style.
The Mercedes-Benz V300d Exclusive redefines what a luxury MPV can be. Elegant, refined, and practical, it’s indulgent yet functional—an actual hotel on wheels. I quite enjoyed every kilometre spent with this stunning steed, go V-Class! © Higher Education Media