What It’s Like to Drive the Mercedes-Benz Minivan that Costs as Much as an S-Class
The Mercedes-Benz V300d Exclusive is a ritzy ride that raises questions about the future of luxury vehicles. With a price tag equivalent to around $125,000, it’s a minivan that costs as much as a Mercedes-Benz S500 4Matic sedan in the U.S.
Mercedes-Benz is serious about making passenger vans luxury vehicles, and the V300d Exclusive is a step in that direction. The V-Class range has been face-lifted and upgraded, with a bold new grille, redesigned interior, and improved digital capability and connectivity.
The V300d Exclusive is the flagship model, offering luxurious features like Nappa leather upholstery, power-heated and cooled front seats, and a 16-speaker Burmester surround-sound system. It also boasts a 2.0-liter turbodiesel four-cylinder engine that produces 233 hp and 368 lb-ft of torque.
Driving Experience
Despite its size, the V300d Exclusive is a remarkably fluid and satisfying drive. It steers nicely, stops well, and handles fast corners with ease. The powertrain is also noteworthy, with the diesel engine providing ample torque and the nine-speed automatic transmission doing a great job of keeping the engine in its sweet spot.
However, the V300d Exclusive is not without its drawbacks. The work van DNA occasionally shows through the luxury veneer, with some noise and rattle issues noticeable during testing.
Conclusion
The Mercedes-Benz V300d Exclusive is a luxurious minivan that offers a unique driving experience. While its price tag may be steep, it’s a sign of Mercedes-Benz’s commitment to making passenger vans luxury vehicles. With the upcoming launch of the VAN.EA-based electric model in 2026, the future of luxury minivans looks bright.
