The Mercedes-Benz V-Class has made a comeback in the Indian luxury MPV segment, launching with a starting price of Rs 1.40 crore to compete directly against the Toyota Vellfire and the Lexus LM. When it comes to size, the V-Class dominates in length and wheelbase, stretching 245mm longer than the Lexus LM and offering a massive 430mm wheelbase advantage over both of its Japanese competitors. However, it does sit slightly lower in overall height compared to both the Toyota and the Lexus.
Under the hood, the Mercedes-Benz stands out as the only luxury MPV in this lineup to offer a diesel option, alongside a 2.0-litre mild-hybrid petrol engine. Both engines are paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission sending power to the rear wheels. In contrast, the Vellfire and Lexus LM exclusively utilize 2.5-litre strong-hybrid petrol powertrains mated to e-CVTs. While the Lexus LM utilizes an all-wheel-drive setup with dual electric motors, the Toyota Vellfire directs its power to the front wheels.
On the exterior, all three models feature comprehensive LED lighting, though their executions differ. The V-Class sports wraparound LED tail-lights and is the only one to include roof rails, but it misses out on front fog lamps and rides on slightly smaller 18-inch wheels. The Japanese rivals both feature connected LED tail-light bars and sit on 19-inch rims, with the Lexus LM further distinguishing itself by offering powered side steps.
Inside the cabin, each MPV delivers a premium experience anchored by 12.3-inch driver displays. The V-Class uniquely offers third-row seat ventilation, a highly desirable comfort feature, but falls short in a few technological aspects compared to its rivals. It lacks the rear entertainment screens, head-up display, powered sunblinds, and sunroofs that are available on the Vellfire and the feature-heavy Lexus LM. The Lexus also stands out by offering a highly customizable 4-seat configuration alongside its 7-seat version, whereas the V-Class offers 4-seat and 6-seat layouts, and the Vellfire strictly seats seven.
Safety and driving technology are strong points across the board, with all three MPVs packing Level-2 ADAS, 360-degree cameras, adaptive cruise control, front and rear parking sensors, and all-wheel disc brakes. The V-Class slightly edges out the others in passive safety by including seven airbags instead of six, while the Lexus LM gives the driver more control with a broader selection of driving modes.
Pricing ultimately separates the three luxury haulers. The Toyota Vellfire is the most accessible option, starting at Rs 1.20 crore, making it a strong value proposition considering its extensive feature list. The Mercedes-Benz V-Class commands a premium, starting at Rs 1.40 crore, which appeals heavily to buyers needing generous cabin dimensions and four-seater space. The Lexus LM sits firmly at the top of the price bracket, ranging from Rs 2.19 crore to Rs 2.69 crore, reflecting its position as the most equipment-rich MPV in the comparison. The V-Class remains largely the same as 2019 and Lexus feels more opulent and Vellfire with similar standards of quality, also looks like a bargain luxury never seen before, a reason why it is sold out throughout the year.
