THERE IS a lot to love about the Mercedes-Benz V-Class 300d.
My colleagues referred to it as a ‘Moving Hotel’ thanks to its upgraded new drivetrain refinement, it offers class-leading performance, combined with good efficiency.
I had a pleasure to test this unit as we made our way to the Nedbank Golf Challenge 40th iteration at Sun City, last weekend.
If there’s one thing about this German made, one cannot get enough of it- yes it’s in a class of its own, stru!
I adored what is called Serenite Grey colour, as the interior comes with its seven big Nappa black leather seats, impressive levels of practicality as well as comfort practicality.it
As we made our way into the Sun City, say after 2pm, on Saturday, the oohs and aahs reverberated from onlookers. Yes, all those Beemers and et al you can take a hike, I said it.
The V-Class 300d is certainly the most luxurious vans you will encounter on the market and the demand keeps on growing. Getting behind the wheel feels just as luxurious as getting in its backseats, making luxury and comfort for all 7 passengers a main priority.
Still on interior, it boast state-of-the-art MBUX system, including a 10.25-inch touchscreen, Bluetooth, Smartphone integration for Apple CarPlay and Android Auto, ambient lightning, voice amplifier and temperature controlled Cup Holders, amongst top features included.
I managed to average 10.9l/100km considering we had to drive from my home village to Rusteburg- after a relative unveiling of tombstones.
Those who travel between Koster and Rusteburg should be regular visitors to mechanics or have extended their credit limits with their local spare garages- potholes that side of the world are a disaster, a mess and eye-sore. I‘m running out of superlatives to describe the sad state of road infrastructure that side. Sies to the municipality and Gvt of Bokone Bophirima.
Fortunately, as tough as it was, I managed to negotiate my way, although the tyres took a serious beating as a result.
I guess that is why it’s being labelled a ‘moving hotel’ as it boast 9G- Tronic automatic transmission improves shift and comfort and fuel efficiency and the hill start assist all came in handy considering what I went through in Koster.
The V300d has 4-cylinder turbodiesel, power/Torque of 176 kW/500 Nm, transmission of 9-speed automatic, fuel economy standing at 8.8 L/100 km and load space of 542 litres.
Safety is paramount in all Mercedes Benz brands, therefore the Active Distance Assist DISTRONIC system (makes driving easier by adjusting the distance to vehicles ahead) and hold function- prevents the vehicle from rolling when the brake pedal is pressed only lightly or partially, and Anti Theft Protect pack (it helps secure the vehicle by triggering a visual and acoustic alarm if it detects theft and tow away detection), all of these are some of added elements to the comfort associated with it.
Notably, it also boast gigantic Panoramic Sliding roof, touch pad (helps with ease of operation of the vehicle), parking pack with 360 degrees camera, climatised rear seats and center console refrigerator (3.2 litre refrigerator beneath the console).
Look, the sooner you own one, you’ll experience all the luxury and accessories fitted in this ‘beau’.
This big bus- so they say- is big enough to be classified as “Mercedesness” to make it feel worth a premium.
Be it work, fun or family outings- the three-pointed star badge V300d has it all. How different is it from the 250d, we await the verdict?
Oh, as a result, I managed to crack a few business deals from Golfers, whom some promised to offer tickets for next year’s edition. Not that they can’t afford one but yaaah!
All V-Class vehicles come with a standard 5 year/100 000 kilometre manufacturer’s warranty. In addition, they offer customers the option to purchase a PremiumDrive Plan.
After-sales service interval 25,000 km Standard Warranty 5yr.
Retailing starts from R1, 677.790
Verdict
Performance 1-10 (9)
Fuel 1-10 (6)
Image SLM (‘Moving hotel’ V300d has it all, ask those who attended the Nedbank Golf Challenge recently in Sun City they’ll agree in unison).
